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Journalism Courses in USA- Things worth noting

Updated on 26 June, 2023

Shivangi Mishra

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

There is a sizable demand for journalism courses in the USA, more so for the exciting future prospects in the field. Journalism covers several aspects of the news broadcast, entertainment and other industries, including anchoring, reporting, editing, management, production, and more. Media, mass communication and journalism are some of the biggest industries today in the USA. 

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Why pursue a course from the USA? 

  • Numerous reputed universities with globally recognized degrees. 
  • Thriving media and journalism industry with great job opportunities. 
  • Opportunities for internships and hands-on learning. 
  • The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates an increase in jobs for journalists and reporters by 12% between 2018 and 2028. Those with master’s degrees can earn $17,000 higher per annum than their bachelor’s counterparts. 

Levels of Study

There are varying journalism courses in USA admission requirements with courses at both bachelors and masters levels. The former usually requires four years (BS or BA) while the latter usually takes 1-2 years. 

Top Journalism Courses in USA Universities

Here are the top universities for the subject, along with an idea of the approximate journalism courses in USA fees. 

University NameQS World University Ranking 2022 (Communication & Media Studies)Course Approximate Fees 
University of Southern California2BA Journalism, MS Journalism and more $63,468 (12-18 units for two semesters)
University of Texas at Austin4Journalism- Lower Division and Upper Division Courses $90,742
Stanford University6Master’s Program in Journalism $57,693 
University of Pennsylvania7MOOC: English for Journalism or Journalistic Writing, Minor$56,212
University of Wisconsin-Madison8Undergraduate and Graduate Courses in Mass Communication$39,354
Michigan State University9BA, MA and PhD in Journalism$43,522
New York University9MA in Journalism$58,168
University of California Berkeley11Undergraduate Journalism Minor, Master’s of Journalism$31,026
University of Michigan- Ann Arbor 14Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Screen Studies$55,334
Northwestern University16Bachelor of Science in Journalism, Master of Science in Journalism$62,391

Eligibility for the course/ Who can take up this course 

The journalism courses in USA eligibility requirements vary across institutions. Some of the general journalism courses in USA requirements include the following: 

  • English language proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL). 
  • Academic transcripts. 
  • Scores in standardized tests (SAT/PTE/GRE).
  • 10+2 with physics and mathematics for bachelor’s courses and bachelors degree with at least 65-75% or B+ as the grade for masters programs. 
  • SOP, proof of funds, work samples if needed, health insurance documents, and personal essays. 
  • Letters of Recommendation. 

Specializations 

Some specializations include broadcast (television, radio), print (magazines, newspapers), digital/online, and photojournalism. 

Subjects You Study 

Some of the common journalism courses in USA subjects include the following: 

  • Media law
  • Digital storytelling
  • Documentary journalism
  • Ethics
  • Journalism history
  • Writing, editing, and reporting 
  • Journalism design and graphics
  • Broadcast journalism
  • Enterprise journalism
  • Political journalism
  • Sports journalism
  • Mass communication 
  • Science and environmental journalism 

Job prospects & Expected remuneration 

Journalism always offers exciting future career prospects in the USA. Some of the top job positions include the following: 

  • Reporter
  • Technical Writer
  • Author
  • Correspondent
  • Editor
  • Commentator
  • Blogger
  • Photojournalist
  • Broadcast News Anchor
  • Radio Commentator 
  • Public Relations Specialist
  • Communications/Journalism Professor 

Here are some job roles with their average salaries: 

  • Journalist- $50,000 
  • Video Producer- $60,000
  • Communications Manager- $68,000 
  • News Anchor- $72,000 
  • Editor- $63,000 
  • News Reporter- $43,000 

Leading Universities in the USA

Loma Linda UniversityFlorida Polytechnic UniversityNorwich University
Boise State UniversityLubbock Christian UniversityTemple University USA
University of Nebraska KearneyJacksonville State UniversitySt. Edward’s University

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I study journalism in the USA?

Yes, you can study journalism in the USA, for the reputed universities teaching the course in the country, along with its excellent future career prospects. Journalism ensures a fulfilling career with ample growth opportunities. 


 

Is the USA good for journalism?

The USA is one of the top countries to study journalism, and is home to several reputed universities for the subject. It is also home to a thriving media and communications industry, with ample opportunities for graduates. 

 

 

 


 

Shivangi Mishra

Sr. Content Editor

She is an experienced writer and journalist who has extensively covered the education sector in India and Abroad. Now helping Indian aspirants realise their foreign education dream by providing them with relevant content and information through upGrad Abroad. Amateur traveller, loves to read Architectural Digest!

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