Publishing
Useful degrees for entering into publishing include English, Modern Languages, History and Media Studies. However, the type of company you join will require you to meet certain other criteria, for example, a specialist publisher may look for a science graduate for "New Scientist", or if you wanted to work for "NME" magazine you would need a sound knowledge of the music industry. Picture Researchers tend to have a background in a related area and are graduates in Fine Art, History of Art or Media Studies.

Since publishing is competitive to break into, it is a good idea to get your foot in the door through work experience, as it will provide you with a good way into the industry and also demonstrate your genuine interest to any potential employers. A short postgraduate course in publishing is another way of making sure you stand out from other applicants. Secretarial skills, such as touch typing and basic spreadsheet knowledge, will give you a head start as an Editorial Assistant. A familiarity with Quark and other desk top publishing programmes may also help, as will any experience on Apple Macs, as most publishers use these rather than PCs.

Journalism
Graduates of any discipline can enter the profession, with those pursuing roles in specialist areas likely to benefit from having studied a related subject (eg. economics for business journalism). Employers will also expect candidates to have a high level of English, with a good pass at GCSE as a minimum. There are also a number of post-graduate qualifications that can make a significant difference to an applicant’s chances of success, although they do tend to be fiercely competitive and incredibly expensive.As well as specialist academic courses, work experience, whether organised independently or as part of a course, is another means of setting yourself apart from the crowd and giving a clear indication of your interest in and commitment to a career in journalism. This can also help you to establish a healthy portfolio of work to discuss at interview and form a network of contacts through which you might learn about job opportunities

Ask local newspapers and publications for work experience and advice, especially since a temporary placement could turn into full time employment if you are in the right place at the right time.