Study Journalism in the US

Being one of the most creative and vibrant industries, Journalism and mass communication is a student magnet. Many of the top American organisations are hunting for Journalism skills, and the demand for the supporting course is now at its peak, whether domestically or internationally.

While considering the vibrance, free-spirited and intellectual nature of the new-gen, journalism has shaped itself while creating more opportunities in the journalism industry.

Nearly 1400 colleges and universities offer journalism and mass communication programs out of which, more than 100 programs are available for international students welcoming diversity. With most of them being world-renowned journalistic institutions, the United States is reconsidered to be a well-reputed destination to study journalism.

Adding to the information, The United States, is considered to be at the number one position in the list of best countries to study abroad. With such a remarkable evaluation, The United States has become the epitome of journalistic education for students in and across borders.

Choosing the best from the best could be daunting and that’s why here is a list of the top 4 American universities for every Journalism aspirant.

1. Arizona State University – Phoenix, Arizona This widely renowned university offers multiple programs in the field of journalism such as undergraduate, Graduate and doctoral degrees. Arizona State University is recognised for its state-of-the-art Walter Cronkite School of Journalism, where the students are prepared for practical knowledge applications, given on-field exposure and much more.

2. University of California, Berkeley – Berkeley, California The UC School of Journalism is recognised as one of the prime institutions for journalistic studies. The team of educators are some of the well-renowned professionals focusing on investigative reporting and digital media. This university also offers an environment that is not just ideal but required for every journalism aspirant, which is diverse and creative. This ensures a thriving future in media journalism.

3. Columbia University – New York, New York Columbia University, being one of the most aspiring journalism institutions, made its space on the list. With real-time, professional and well-renowned reporters, editors, filmmakers and digital media specialists teaching the classes, CU has become a desire for millions of journalism students. The students at this university brag about the advantage of being in the media capital, which is New York City which brings a lot of industry exposure to the students.

4. The CUNY Graduate School of Journalism – New York, New York The CUNY Graduate School of Journalism has recently gained a lot of public appreciation because of its quality education system. The university offers multiple programs in digital journalism, data reporting, and multimedia storytelling. This university, being located in New York, is often marked on the students’ list of dream colleges and universities.

In addition to this list, there are the top 8 universities in America for Journalism and mass communication.

The Cost of Journalism programs vary based on the institution. Here is an average financial breakdown that one must know.

Some of the best journalism institutions may range between $10,085 to $37,521, carrying an average net price of $20,885 along with a median of $20,785, which does not include room and board (Niche, 2021). The acceptance rate could range from 4% to 78% with an Average of 26%.

For the colleges and Universities that come with more pocket-friendly financial requirements. On the other hand, the out-of-state fees are nearly $13,287 with a median of $14,006.

Also, many colleges and universities offer online programs that could be even more affordable.

International Students

Journalism and Mass communication is not just about going to places with a mic. Journalism brings a wide range of opportunities to the aspirants as multiple-interest subjects come under this umbrella. Here are the most common subjects that one should expect in a journalism course.

• Print & Media studies

• Advertising

• Media Laws

• Communication Studies

• Editing

• English studies

• Environment studies

• Creative writing

• Reporting and Writing

• Photojournalism

• Research & Ethics

In the year 2023, there were nearly 50,000 jobs for News Analysts, Reporters, and Journalists in the US. This considerate number does not include many other job opportunities that can be grabbed by a journalism degree holder. The US, being a first-world country with media being a vital part of its democracy, is an ideal destination for journalism enthusiasts as it brings excellent job opportunities.

From writing for an advertising firm to reporting in a media house, journalism aspirants can select from a wide landscape of working opportunities that are present in the US.

Journalism degree holders have multiple doors open to them when it comes to choosing their profession. Each job role has a different payroll that keeps on increasing based on multiple factors such as years of experience. Here is what the salary of different jobs in journalism looks like.

The US, being one of the top education destinations, is gaining popularity amongst journalism aspirants. This nation holds ample potential that the students can use to polish their skills and build their successful careers. If you are a journalism enthusiast, the US is just the place for you. With multiple job opportunities and an excellent salary bar, this nation must be marked on your checklist.

_{*Sources: https://www.internationalstudent.com/study-journalism/top-us-journalism-schools/ https://www.bls.gov/ooh/media-and-communication/reporters-correspondents-and-broadcast-news-analysts.htm
https://www.indeed.com/career/journalist/salaries
https://www.salary.com/research/salary/posting/creative-writer-salary#:~:text=United%20States%20is-,%2463%2C124,-.%20While%20Salary.com
The International Student Website}

Surbhi Bhatia is a Senior Counsellor – Canada/USA at IDP Education, based in Patiala, Punjab, India. She has been with IDP for three years, joining as a Senior Counsellor in 2022.

With nearly a decade of experience in the overseas education sector, Surbhi has earned multiple certifications and trainings, including the prestigious USA certification. Her expertise covers guiding students from initial counselling to course and institution selection, as well as navigating the complexities of the visa application process.