Journalism and the Trail to Eagle
Journalism is an elective merit badge. It is not required for any rank, but it can count as one of the 8 elective badges a scout needs for Eagle, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges. Elective badges are also where most scouts discover hobbies and careers, so choose ones you are genuinely curious about. Browse the complete merit badge list to compare options.
Journalism Merit Badge Requirements
Summary of the 5 main requirements for Journalism. Always confirm the exact wording with your counselor or the current official BSA requirements.
- 1
Explain what freedom of the press means.
- 2
Discuss the differences between a hard news story and a feature story.
- 3
Write TWO of the following: a hard news article, a feature article, an editorial, or a personal opinion column.
- 4
Interview a journalist and learn about the profession.
- 5
Find out about three career opportunities in journalism.
Merit badge names and emblems are trademarks of Scouting America (Boy Scouts of America). Eagle Compass is an independent tool and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Scouting America. Requirements are summarized for planning purposes; the official requirements are authoritative.
How to Earn the Journalism Merit Badge
1. Get a blue card and a counselor
Ask your Scoutmaster for approval to start Journalism, then find a registered merit badge counselor for it through your troop or council.
2. Plan around the setting
Journalism is usually earned on your own with a counselor. Schedule regular check-ins with your counselor so partial progress does not stall.
3. Budget the time
Expect about a month for a moderate badge like this one. Working with a partner or at a merit badge clinic can shorten it.
4. Track every requirement
Keep notes as you complete each item so your counselor can sign off without re-doing work. Eagle Compass tracks all 5 Journalism requirements for you.
Journalism Merit Badge FAQ
Is the Journalism merit badge required for Eagle Scout?
No. Journalism is an elective merit badge. It can count as one of the 8 elective badges needed for Eagle Scout, alongside the 13 Eagle-required badges.
How long does the Journalism merit badge take?
Most scouts finish Journalism in about a month, depending on counselor availability and how the requirements are scheduled.
Where do scouts usually earn the Journalism merit badge?
Journalism is most often earned on your own with a counselor. Any registered merit badge counselor for Journalism can sign off requirements.
How many requirements does the Journalism merit badge have?
Journalism has 5 main requirements, for 5 items in total.
