University of Michigan–Flint

What you'll study

The programme combines core journalism skills with specialised investigative techniques. You will learn reporting and writing for multiple platforms, source development, interviewing, and long-form narrative; the curriculum emphasises hands-on practice in newsroom settings and real-world reporting projects.

• Foundations: news writing and reporting, multimedia storytelling, broadcast basics and digital journalism principles.
• Investigative methods: public records and Freedom of Information processes, court and legislative reporting, data-gathering and verification techniques.
• Data and visualisation: introductory data analysis for journalists, spreadsheets, databases, and creating data-driven graphics and interactive stories.
• Legal and ethical frameworks: media law, libel and privacy, ethics in investigative reporting and newsroom decision-making.
• Special topics: environmental and health investigations, business and financial reporting, corruption and public accountability, and community-focused investigative projects.
• Practicum and capstone: newsroom practicum or internship with local media, a supervised investigative project or thesis that demonstrates the ability to plan, research and produce a sustained piece of reporting.
• Complementary skills: photojournalism, podcast and audio production, social media strategy and audience engagement.

Coursework is typically a mix of classroom seminars, lab-based production classes and fieldwork. Students are encouraged to pursue internships with local news organisations and to collaborate with community partners on reporting projects.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high-school diploma or equivalent. Typical expectations include a solid academic record and demonstration of writing ability. Many applicants submit a writing sample or portfolio of published or classroom work; a short personal statement describing interest in investigative journalism strengthens an application.

Specific admission pathways include first-year admission, transfer from community colleges or internal transfers from other majors. Mature students and those with relevant professional experience are considered; English language proficiency testing may be required for non-native speakers. Check the university's admissions office for exact GPA, prerequisite coursework and transfer credit policies.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in a variety of media and information roles. Typical job destinations include:

• Investigative reporter or correspondent at local, regional or national newspapers, magazines and online outlets.
• Data journalist or visual journalist creating evidence-based stories and interactives.
• Editor, producer or newsroom project manager overseeing in-depth reporting projects.
• Non-profit investigative organisations, watchdog groups and investigative centres.
• Communications, research and public affairs roles in government, NGOs and corporate settings where investigative skills and clear public communication are valued.
• Freelance investigative journalism, documentary production and long-form narrative reporting.

Skills gained in the programme—source development, records research, data handling and ethical decision-making—are transferable to roles in fact-checking, legal support research, and policy analysis.

Why study at University of Michigan–Flint

University of Michigan–Flint provides an intimate, urban learning environment with strong ties to the Flint and greater Detroit media ecosystems, giving students ready access to community stories, local institutions and internship placements. The programme emphasises experiential learning through campus newsrooms, practicum placements and community-engaged reporting projects that address pressing local issues.

Students benefit from faculty with professional journalism experience, small class sizes that allow close mentoring, and resources across the University of Michigan system for research and special collections. The campus location supports reporting on urban policy, public health, environment and civic affairs, offering a distinctive laboratory for investigative journalism focused on community impact.