Kent State University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational journalism education with specialised investigative techniques. You will take core modules in news writing and reporting, multimedia storytelling, media law and ethics, and editing. Investigative-specific modules typically include computer-assisted reporting/data journalism, public records and freedom of information, long-form narrative reporting, source development and verification, and advanced interviewing techniques.

Coursework balances classroom instruction with practical labs and production: students work on real stories through the student newspaper, campus television and web platforms, and on supervised reporting projects. The degree usually includes a capstone investigative project or series and an internship component with news organisations, non‑profit investigative outlets or multimedia production teams.

• Core reporting and writing
• Media law, ethics and accountability
• Data journalism and computer-assisted reporting
• Investigative methods and public records research
• Multimedia production and digital storytelling
• Editing, fact-checking and newsroom workflow
• Capstone investigative project and practicum/internship

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high-school secondary school qualification appropriate for entry to US universities (for example a high‑school diploma) and demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills. Admissions typically consider overall academic achievement, a portfolio or samples of journalistic or creative writing, and a personal statement describing interest in investigative reporting.

International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Mature applicants or those with relevant professional experience in media, non‑profit or community reporting are encouraged to apply and may be asked for work samples or references. Specific course prerequisites may include prior coursework in English or communications; check the university’s admissions pages for programme-specific guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates with investigative journalism training pursue roles across news organisations, public interest media and beyond. Common career paths include investigative reporter, data journalist, long‑form feature writer, editor, fact‑checker, and producer for broadcast or documentary teams. Alumni also move into watchdog non‑profits, policy research, regulatory bodies, communications roles in government or NGOs, and freelance investigative reporting.

The programme’s emphasis on data skills and multimedia production also opens opportunities in data‑driven storytelling, audience development and digital content strategy for newsrooms and organisations that value evidence‑based communications.

Why study at Kent State University

Kent State’s School of Media and Journalism offers a hands‑on curriculum with access to student media outlets—such as the campus newspaper and television and web production facilities—which let students practise investigative reporting in real newsroom settings. Faculty bring professional experience in investigative and data journalism, and the school maintains relationships with regional newsrooms and national outlets to support internships and professional placements.

The university’s location in the Cleveland–Akron region provides proximity to major news markets, public records sources and community organisations, which benefits reporting projects and career networking. Kent State emphasises experiential learning, mentorship and a portfolio‑centred approach that helps graduates demonstrate practical skills to employers in journalism and related fields.