Southern Methodist University

What you'll study

This programme combines core journalism skills with specialised investigative techniques. Students take foundational courses in reporting, news writing and multimedia storytelling before moving into advanced modules that emphasise long‑form inquiry, public‑records research and data analysis.

• Core reporting and writing: News Reporting I & II, Feature Writing, Interviewing and Source Development.
• Investigative methods: Investigative Reporting, Public Records and Freedom of Information practices, Source protection and ethics.
• Data and verification: Data Journalism, Quantitative Methods for Reporters, Fact‑checking and verification techniques.
• Multimedia production: Audio and video reporting, Visual storytelling, Multimedia editing and publishing.
• Law and ethics: Media Law, Journalism Ethics, privacy and defamation issues relevant to investigative work.
• Practical experience: Lab courses, a reporting practicum, newsroom internships and a capstone investigative project or portfolio.

Entry requirements

Admission to Southern Methodist University is competitive and based on a holistic review of secondary school records, recommendations and application materials submitted through the university's application process. Prospective journalism majors should demonstrate strong writing ability and an interest in civic and public‑affairs reporting.

• High school diploma or equivalent and completion of college preparatory coursework, including English and social studies.
• Evidence of writing and reporting potential: this may include a writing sample, portfolio of published or school journalism work, or a short investigative assignment.
• Standardised tests are considered according to the university's current policy; applicants should check the admissions site for the latest guidance.
• Recommendations and a personal statement that convey motivation for investigative journalism and ethical responsibility in reporting.
• Transfer students must submit college transcripts; relevant coursework in communications, statistics or digital media is helpful.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in newsroom and non‑profit investigative units, broadcast and digital media, and roles that require rigorous research and storytelling. The programme emphasises employable skills sought by modern news organisations.

• Investigative reporter or correspondent at regional and national news outlets.
• Data journalist, visual journalist or multimedia producer for online and broadcast platforms.
• Researcher, fact‑checker or editor specialising in long‑form and accountability reporting.
• Positions in nonprofit investigative organisations, public‑interest newsrooms, or watchdog groups.
• Communications, policy analysis or public affairs roles that value investigative research and clear public communication.

Why study at Southern Methodist University

SMU’s Meadows School of the Arts offers journalism students personalised instruction, practical newsroom training and direct access to a major metropolitan media market. The university’s location in Dallas provides ready internship and reporting opportunities with regional newspapers, television stations and digital outlets.

• Experienced faculty and mentors: Instructors include practising journalists and scholars who teach investigative practices, media law and data techniques.
• Hands‑on facilities: Students work in multimedia labs, radio and video studios and newsroom simulation courses that mirror professional workflows.
• Internships and industry links: Strong connections with Dallas newsrooms and national outlets help students secure internships and professional placements.
• Capstone and portfolio focus: The programme culminates in a substantial investigative project or portfolio that demonstrates readiness for professional reporting.