Journalism

Discover the dynamic world of journalism through Indiana University's comprehensive undergraduate program. Designed to equip students with essential skills in reporting, editing, multimedia storytelling, and ethical decision-making, this degree prepares graduates for diverse careers in the ever-evolving media landscape. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework in journalism principles, communication theories, and digital media tools, enabling students to craft compelling stories for print, broadcast, and online platforms. Students gain practical experience through internships, newsroom simulations, and collaborations with real-world media organizations, fostering a deep understanding of the industry's demands and ethical standards. The program emphasizes critical thinking, accuracy, and responsible reporting, encouraging students to analyze complex issues and present balanced narratives. Faculty experts with extensive industry backgrounds mentor students and guide projects that develop technical proficiency in editing, videography, podcasting, and data journalism. Indiana University's location in Bloomington offers unique opportunities to engage with diverse communities and emerging media outlets, enriching the educational experience. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for careers in journalism, public relations, media production, and communication consulting, or for pursuing advanced studies in journalism or related fields. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant academic community, students thrive in an environment that fosters innovation, creativity, and ethical responsibility. Join Indiana University's journalism program to hone your storytelling skills, understand media's role in society, and make a meaningful impact through responsible journalism.

A total of 30 credit hours, each sequence with specific requirements. A special arrangement with the Department of Information and Library Science allows a 12 credit minor in that school.

Political Journalism Sequence (30 cr.)

• J500 Introduction to Mass Media Research (3 cr.)
• J501 Public Affairs Reporting (3 cr.)
• J502 Quantitative Research Methods (3 cr.)
• J510 Media and Society Seminar (3 cr.)
• J571 Media Theory (3 cr.)
• J572 The Press and the Constitution (3 cr.)
• J660 Public Opinion (3 cr.)
• J673 Government and Media (3 cr.)
• J700 Thesis or Specialized Reporting Project (3 cr.)
• plus a journalism elective (3 cr.)

Global Journalism Sequence (30 cr.)

• J500 Introduction to Mass Media Research (3 cr.)
• J502 Quantitative Research Methods (3 cr.)
• J510 Media and Society Seminar (3 cr.)
• J518 International Media Experiences (4 cr.)
• J530 Issues in New Communication Technology (3 cr.)
• J560 Topics Colloquium: Media and International Affairs (3 cr.)
• J560 Topics Colloquium: Foreign News Coverage (3 cr.)
• J614 Communication and National Development (3 cr.)
• J700 Thesis or Specialized Reporting Project (3 cr.)
• plus a journalism elective (3 cr.)

Health and Science Journalism Sequence (30 cr.)

• J501 Public Affairs Reporting (3 cr.)
• J502 Quantitative Research Methods (3 cr.)
• J510 Media and Society Seminar (3 cr.)
• J520 Seminar in Visual Communication (3 cr.)
   
  • or J563 Computerized Publication Design I (3 cr.)
  • or J565 Computerized Publication Design II (3 cr.)
  • or J560 Topics Colloquium: Informational Graphics (3 cr.)
• J554 Science Writing (3 cr.)
• J560 Topics Colloquium: Health Reporting (3 cr.)
• J572 The Press and the Constitution (3 cr.)
• J592 Media Internship with Media Outlets Suggested (3 cr.)
• J700 Thesis or Specialized Reporting Project (3 cr.)
• plus a journalism elective (3 cr.)

Digital News Journalism Sequence (30 cr.)

• J505 Intensive Reporting, Writing, and Editing Workshop (3 cr.)
• J510 Media and Society Seminar (3 cr.)
• J516 Digital Journalism Practicum I (6 cr.)
• J565 Computerized Publication Design II (6 cr.)
• J700 Specialized Reporting Project (Capstone) (3 cr.)
• plus 9 additional journalism credits (9 cr.)

(The course requirements listed for the Digital News Journalism Track are tentative. New graduate students in the Digital New Journalism sequence must enroll in J505 and J510 during late summer, befoe the fall semester. Both of these courses count toward the 30 credit hours required for the Digital News Journalism Sequence.)

Requirements

• The application fee is $55 for domestic students and $65 for international students. The fee must be paid via credit card. Applications are not reviewed until the fee is paid.
• Bachelor’s degree or international equivalent
• At least a B (3.0) average in the major over the last two years of an undergraduate program, or professional equivalency.
• GRE scores from within the past 5 years.
• Statement of purpose: Tell us about your academic and career direction and goals.
• Three letters of recommendation: Requests for references should be sent through the online application.
• Paper TOEFL score greater than 600, computer-based TOEFL score greater than 250, or Internet-based TOEFL score greater than 100 for international students
• An academic writing sample
• A curriculum vita

Scholarships

• Merit-based Graduate Assistantships
• Global Education
• Need-based scholarships

The Indiana University Bloomington offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Arts in Journalism designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the media industry. The program emphasizes foundational skills in reporting, writing, editing, and multimedia storytelling, ensuring graduates are proficient across various platforms including print, broadcast, and digital media. Students have the opportunity to develop critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills necessary for responsible journalism. The curriculum includes coursework in news writing, media law, ethics, photojournalism, and digital media production. Additionally, students can choose specialized electives such as sports journalism, political reporting, or new media, allowing for tailored career preparation. The university provides state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including dedicated newsroom labs, editing suites, and access to industry-standard software. Hands-on learning is a core component, with opportunities for internship placements, student media involvement, and community engagement projects. Faculty members are experienced professionals and academics actively involved in the media industry, providing mentorship and networking opportunities. The program also encourages international perspective and diversity, preparing students to report on complex issues in a globalized world. Partnerships with local and national media outlets facilitate real-world experience. Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers as reporters, editors, public relations specialists, digital media analysts, and broadcasters. Overall, Indiana University Bloomington’s Journalism program aims to cultivate versatile, ethical, and innovative journalism professionals equipped to meet the challenges of the modern media landscape.