Southern Arkansas University

What you'll study

The programme combines core journalism fundamentals with specialist investigative skills. You will study reporting and writing, media law and ethics, multimedia journalism, and long-form narrative techniques. Specialist modules cover data journalism, public records and freedom of information, source protection and interviewing techniques, and investigative research methods. Practical components include computer-assisted reporting, documentary production, and a sustained investigative project or capstone that requires original research and public-interest reporting.

• Introduction to News Writing and Reporting
• Media Law and Ethics (including FOI and access to information)
• Data Journalism and Computer-Assisted Reporting
• Investigative Research Methods and Techniques
• Multimedia Storytelling: audio, video and online
• Feature and Long-form Narrative Journalism
• Visualisation and Infographics for Journalists
• Practicum or Internship with local/regional media
• Capstone Investigative Project

Structure

The degree typically spans three to four years of full-time study. Early years emphasise foundational skills and general education; later years concentrate on investigative methods and applied projects. Assessment blends practical work, portfolios, written assignments and a final sustained investigation or portfolio.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally need a completed secondary school qualification (such as A-levels, International Baccalaureate or an equivalent secondary diploma) demonstrating strong written and verbal communication skills. Typical entry will include satisfactory grades in humanities or social-science subjects, but not necessarily a specific subject requirement. Mature students and applicants with relevant vocational experience in media can be considered through alternative entry routes.

Most programmes expect applicants to submit a short writing sample or portfolio showing news-writing or multimedia work, and to demonstrate digital literacy. Additional requirements can include an admissions interview or statement of purpose outlining interest in investigative journalism. International applicants must meet English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are equipped for roles in newsrooms, digital media and organisations that require strong investigative and communication skills. Common career paths include investigative reporter, local or regional newsroom reporter, data journalist, multimedia producer, editor, and documentary researcher. Skills gained are also applicable to non-profit and public-interest organisations, communications roles in government and advocacy groups, compliance and research roles, and freelance investigative journalism.

Hands-on training and internships help build a portfolio and professional contacts with local and regional media outlets, which support graduates entering entry-level reporting jobs or progressing into specialist investigative roles.

Why study at Southern Arkansas University

Southern Arkansas University offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and direct access to faculty who bring professional journalism experience to teaching. The university’s communication and media facilities support hands-on learning in reporting, audio and video production, and digital storytelling. Students have opportunities to build practical portfolios through coursework, campus media and placements with regional news organisations.

The programme emphasises community-focused reporting and provides routes to real-world experience via practicums and internship partnerships. For students seeking investigative journalism training in a regional setting, Southern Arkansas University combines practical skill development, ethical and legal instruction, and mentorship aimed at preparing graduates for accountable, evidence-based reporting careers.