Picture yourself at the heart of breaking news, armed with a pen and camera, ready to unravel stories that captivate the world. If you’re an aspiring journalist, your journey begins with journalism in the USA.
Dive into the exciting world of compelling narratives, uncovering truths, and shaping the future of news. Let’s explore the thrilling realm of journalism education in the United States, where your dreams take flight.
1. Why Study Journalism in the USA?
The United States is a global leader in journalism education, and its universities offer some of the best programmes in the world. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider journalism colleges in the USA:
- Prestigious Universities: Harvard, Columbia, and Stanford offer top-notch journalism programmes.
- Cultural Diversity: US universities provide a rich, multicultural learning environment.
- Practical Learning: US journalism programmes focus on hands-on experience and internships.
- Robust Job Market: The USA offers promising journalism career opportunities in traditional and new media.
2. Best Journalism Universities in the USA
The United States is home to many of the world’s top journalism schools, making it a popular study-abroad destination for international students. These institutes offer a variety of programmes, including bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and PhDs.
They also offer a variety of specializations, such as broadcast journalism, print journalism, and digital journalism.
Here are some of the journalism colleges in the USA for international students:
| QS World Ranking 2022 | University | Fee | Journalism Programmes |
| 3 | Stanford University | M.S. in Data Journalism: $113,022 M.A. in Journalism: $68,588 Ph.D. in Communication: $68,588 | 2 PG |
| 19 | Columbia University | M.S. in Journalism: $75,348 M.S. in Data Journalism: $113,022 M.A. in Journalism: $68,588 Ph.D. in Communications: $68,588 | 2 PG 1 PhD |
| 30 | Northwestern University | M.S. in Journalism: $71,328 M.S. in Journalism and Computer Science: $78,492 | 1 UG 1 PG |
| 32 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | B.A. in Media Studies (CA residents): $9,646 B.A. in Media Studies (non-residents): $39,041.52 M.J. in Journalism: $63,798 | 1 PG |
| 42 | New York University (NYU) | B.A. in Journalism: $63,798 M.A. in Journalism: $63,798 | 1 UG 1 PG |
| 67 | University of Texas, Austin | B.J. in Journalism (TX residents): $9,646 B.J. in Journalism (non-residents): $39,041.52 M.A. in Journalism (TX residents): $12,251 M.A. in Journalism (non-residents): $25,577 | 1 UG 1 PG |
| 75 | University of Wisconsin-Madison | B.A. in Journalism (WI residents): $10,720 B.A. in Journalism (non-residents): $37,550 M.A. in Journalism (WI residents): $12,527 M.A. in Journalism (non-residents): $30,819 | 2 UG 1 PG |
| 100 | University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill | B.A. in Media and Journalism (NC residents): $8,989 B.A. in Media and Journalism (non-residents): $37,550 M.A. in Media and Communication (NC residents): $12,527 M.A. in Media and Communication (non-residents): $30,819 | 1 PG |
| 112 | Boston University | B.S. in Journalism: $63,798M.S. in Journalism: $63,798 | 2 PG |
| 112 | University of Southern California | B.A. in Journalism: $62,892M.S. in Journalism: $62,892 | 1 UG 3 PG 1 PhD |
| 120 | The Ohio State University | B.A. in Journalism (OH residents): $11,518 B.A. in Journalism (non-residents): $34,064 M.A. in Communication (OH residents): $13,590 M.A. in Communication (non-residents): $36,136 | 1 PhD |
| 157 | Michigan State University | B.A. in Journalism (MI residents): $15,555 B.A. in Journalism (non-residents): $40,406 M.A. in Journalism (MI residents): $18,858 per year or $785 per credit hour M.A. in Journalism (non-residents): $37,056 per year or $1,544 per credit hour | 1 UG 1 PG |
3. Eligibility Criteria for Journalism Courses in the USA
Here is some data about the eligibility criteria, documents required, and application process for journalism courses in the USA.
| Level of Journalism Course | Minimum GPA | Work Experience or Portfolio | English Language Test |
| Bachelor’s degree | 3.0 on 4.0 scale | Not required | IELTS: 6.5 to 7.0 TOEFL: 80 to 100 PTE: 58 to 65 |
| Master’s degree | 3.0 on 4.0 scale | Required by some universities | IELTS: 6.5 to 7.0 TOEFL: 80 to 100 PTE: 58 to 65 |
| Doctoral degree | 3.5 on 4.0 scale | Required by all universities | IELTS: 6.5 to 7.0 TOEFL: 80 to 100 PTE: 58 to 65 |
4. Documents Required to Study Journalism Courses in the USA
When applying for journalism courses in the USA, you’ll need to submit several documents with your online application:
- Transcripts and diplomas from your prior educational institutions.
- Standardized test scores like SAT, ACT, GRE, or GMAT, depending on your programme level.
- Scores from English language proficiency assessments like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.
- Recommendation letters from instructors, professors, or supervisors.
- A Statement of Purpose or personal essay explaining your goals.
- A resume or curriculum vitae highlighting your background.
- A portfolio of your journalistic work (optional but recommended for some programmes).
- Payment of the application fee, which varies by university and programme.
5. Application Process to Apply at Journalism Universities in the USA
Here’s a simplified and improved version of the application process for journalism courses in the USA:
- Research and shortlist suitable universities and programmes.
- Check application deadlines and requirements.
- Register for standardized tests (SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, PTE).
- Gather necessary documents: transcripts, certificates, test scores, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, resume, portfolio, etc.
- Complete online applications and pay fees.
- Await admission decisions.
- Confirm your spot with an enrollment deposit.
- Follow university and embassy instructions for an F-1 student visa.
- Arrange travel and accommodation.
- Attend your university’s orientation and start your journalism course.
6. Cost of Studying Journalism in the USA
The expenses for students pursuing a doctoral degree in journalism and mass communication in the USA typically range from $1,000 to $20,000 annually. The total cost depends on factors such as the specific course structure, choice of university, and the duration of the programme.
To help cover these costs, students have options like applying for scholarships, seeking research grants, or taking on teaching assistantships to support themselves financially.
7. Scholarships
The USA is an expensive country to study in, but there are many opportunities for funding from both government and private institutions. Here are some scholarships that journalism students in the USA can apply for:
| Scholarships | Awarded By | Awarded to | Benefits |
| Hubert Humphrey Fellowships for International Students, USA | Government Bodies | Mid Career and Young Professionals | Variable Amount |
| Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarships | Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation | Indian Citizens | 100,000 USD |
| Lady Meherbai D Tata Education Trust Scholarships | Tata Trust | Indian women students | 8365 USD |
| The Fulbright-Nehru Master’s Fellowships | United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF) | Indian students | Variable Amount |
| Broker Fish International student scholarship | Broker Fish | Meritorious International Students | 1000 USD, Health Insurance. |
| Global Scholars Award | Boston University | International Students | Up to 5000 USD per year |
| American Association of University Women in US | American Association of University Women | International Women Students | 18000 USD |
| SheBegan International Scholarship for Women | – | International Women Students | 28000 USD |
| Young Professionals Programme | World Bank Group | International Students | Amount Varies |
8. Career Opportunities After Journalism in the USA
The journalism job market is evolving fast. Over the next decade, there will be a 12% drop in reporters and correspondents, a 3% decrease in editors, and a 6% decline in photography jobs, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
This change is due to shifting reader preferences, with online news platforms set to grow by 5%. A significant 62% of adults now rely on social media and online sources for news.
In the evolving field of journalism, acquiring new media skills and specializing in areas like science, technology, economics, or politics is becoming increasingly important. Journalism Vs Mass Communication programmes can offer students a unique focus on providing accurate and objective reporting on current events.
The work landscape is changing too, with expanded opportunities for freelancers. Despite these shifts, approximately 44,700 journalists continue to shape and deliver news in the United States, remaining pivotal players in the dynamic media landscape.
8.1. Jobs and Salaries
| Job Role | Annual Average Salary (in USD) |
| Journalist | 49,339 |
| Editor | 65,502 |
| Photojournalist | 34,174 |
| Proofreader | 39,140 |
| News Reporter | 56,177 |
| Blogger | 32,800 |
| Sports Writer | 41,951 |
| Investigative Journalist | 58,928 |
| Broadcast Journalist | 43,640 |
| News Producer | 46,489 |
| Staff Writer | 49,500 |
| News Editor | 68,051 |
| Copywriter | 60,296 |
| Content Manager | 66,857 |
| Communications Manager | 69,808 |
FAQs
1. How long is a journalism degree in the USA?
A journalism degree in the USA typically takes four years to complete. However, some students may choose to complete their degree in five years or more, especially if they are double majoring or pursuing a minor.
2. What are the best cities for journalism careers in the USA?
The top 5 cities for journalism careers in the USA are typically major metropolitan areas with thriving media markets:
- New York City, NY
- Washington, DC
- Los Angeles, CA
- Chicago, IL
- San Francisco, CA
3. Which universities offer online journalism programmes in the USA?
Among the top online journalism courses in the USA, notable institutions include:
- University of Maryland, College Park
- Arizona State University
- Indiana University Bloomington
- Boston University
- New York University
4. What is the average salary for journalists in the USA?
In 2023, the average salary for journalists in the USA is $49,339. can differ depending on factors like years of experience, geographic location, and various other considerations.
5. Are there any notable investigative journalism programmes in the USA?
Prestigious investigative journalism programmes in the USA include:
- Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism
- The Graduate School of Journalism at the University of California, Berkeley
- Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications
- The Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute at New York University
- Philip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland, College Park
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I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further