Troy University

What you'll study

The programme combines core journalism and mass communication courses with specialised classes in investigative techniques. You will study foundational subjects such as news writing and reporting, media law and ethics, multimedia storytelling, and editing, alongside investigative-focused modules including computer-assisted reporting/data journalism, source development and verification, long-form feature and narrative techniques, and beat investigation methods.

• Core journalism skills: reporting and writing for print, online and broadcast; interviewing; AP style; newsroom workflows.
• Investigative methods: records and public-data research, freedom of information processes, data scraping and analysis, investigative interviewing, and building long-term projects.
• Digital and multimedia tools: data visualisation basics, audio and video production for documentaries, multimedia storytelling and social distribution strategies.
• Law and ethics: libel and defamation, privacy, newsroom ethics, and legal protections for newsgathering.
• Practical experience: newsroom practicum, internships with media organisations, and a capstone investigative project or portfolio demonstrating original reporting.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification or equivalent. Admissions consider academic record, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement that outlines interest in journalism and investigative work. Many programmes also request a brief writing sample or portfolio that demonstrates reporting, research or storytelling ability. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Mature applicants with relevant work experience or a demonstrable interest in journalism are encouraged to apply.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in traditional and emerging newsrooms as investigative reporters, data journalists, feature writers, documentary producers and multimedia storytellers. Other common paths include roles in editorial and fact-checking, non-profit investigative journalism organisations, public records and research analyst positions, communications and public affairs, and further study in journalism, law or public policy. The practical skills developed—research, interviewing, data handling and ethical judgement—are also valuable in roles across government oversight, compliance and independent investigative consultancies.

Why study at Troy University

Troy University offers a focused, practice-based approach to journalism education with small classes that allow close mentoring from faculty who combine academic expertise with professional newsroom experience. Students gain hands-on training through campus media outlets, practicum courses and internships with regional media partners, enabling them to build a professional portfolio before graduation. The curriculum emphasises ethical reporting, community impact and the technical skills needed for contemporary investigative work, making it a strong choice for students who want both classroom instruction and real-world reporting experience.