CJA membership is limited to individuals who are currently or have previously been employed by the editorial departments of Chicago area news outlets — including daily or weekly newspapers, syndicates, magazines, recognized digital news services, regional radio and television stations — for at least one year or more, or are students or recent graduates of journalism schools at accredited colleges and universities. All applications require the approval of our Board of Directors.

Why should you apply for journalism membership?

Membership Benefits

• Early sign-up and FREE access to CJA’s annual, premier programming.

• Exclusive access to member-only opportunities, such as meetings/networking events, resume review, pitch workshops, nominations for CJA’s prestigious awards and more.

• Opportunity to obtain journalism training certificates through our lauded MasterJourno Class (when offered).

• Ability to network with Chicago’s top reporters, editors and media professionals at CJA’s signature events, furthering our mission of providing comradeship among area journalists.

• Extend a helping hand to the next generation of journalists through career day sessions with Illinois high schools and middle schools.

• Represent Chicago history, as we are one of the city’s oldest organizations of journalists.

Become a member today!

Interested in joining our respected organization? Email your CV/resume to chicagocja@gmail.com, and our Board of Directors will review at our next Board meeting.

Once you are accepted, please pay the appropriate membership fee here.