University of Delaware

What you'll study

The programme combines core journalism training with specialised courses and practicum opportunities in investigative reporting. Core modules typically cover news writing and editing, multimedia storytelling, journalism ethics and media law, and reporting across platforms. Investigative-focused modules emphasise long-form reporting, source development, Freedom of Information and public records, investigative interviewing techniques, and watchdog journalism.

• Reporting and News Writing: accuracy, attribution, beat reporting and deadline-driven newsgathering.
• Investigative Techniques: developing tips, cultivating confidential sources, long-term project planning and narrative construction.
• Data and Computer-Assisted Reporting: data collection, cleaning, analysis, basic statistics, visualisation and scraping public records.
• Media Law and Ethics: libel, privacy, public records law, newsroom decision-making and ethical dilemmas in investigative work.
• Multimedia and Digital Tools: audio and video production, podcasting, interactive storytelling and tools for presenting investigative findings online.
• Research Methods: archival research, FOIA/state-records requests, court and government document analysis.
• Capstone/Practicum and Internships: semester-long investigative projects, contributions to student media and placements with regional newsrooms, non-profit news organisations or public-interest groups.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Delaware follows the institution's undergraduate process; applicants are expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong writing skills through high-school grades, a portfolio or writing samples, and letters of recommendation that speak to academic readiness and journalistic interest.

Standard considerations include academic record, personal statement and extracurricular engagement (such as school newspapers, media clubs or community reporting). International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Some students enter the journalism major directly; others may apply to join the major after completing introductory communication or journalism foundation courses.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers in investigative and watchdog journalism across print, broadcast, online and nonprofit sectors. Typical career pathways include investigative reporter, data journalist, multimedia reporter, features and long-form writer, documentary producer, fact-checker, and researcher for public-interest organisations. Many students also move into related fields such as communications, public affairs, investigative roles in NGOs, policy research or legal and compliance research where strong investigative and reporting skills are valued.

Practical experience gained through internships and student media often leads to entry-level positions at regional news outlets, public radio and television stations, investigative non-profits, or digital newsrooms. Alumni with additional study or experience may advance to senior investigative roles, editorial leadership or specialised data-investigative positions.

Why study at University of Delaware

The University of Delaware offers a curriculum that balances classroom instruction with hands-on reporting opportunities. Students benefit from access to campus media outlets and multimedia labs, mentorship from faculty with professional journalism experience, and structured internships that connect students with newsrooms in nearby metropolitan areas.

The programme emphasises ethical, accountable reporting and provides training in contemporary tools used by investigative journalists, including data analysis and digital storytelling. Small seminar-style classes for advanced investigative work, opportunities for multi-semester projects, and a network of alumni and regional media partners support students who want to build the portfolio and practical experience required for investigative careers.