Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The programme combines core journalism skills with specialised investigative methods. Early coursework builds foundations in newswriting, reporting, multimedia storytelling and journalism ethics. Core investigative courses cover source cultivation, records and public‑records law, interviewing techniques, FOIA/state equivalent requests, and long‑form narrative structure.

• Introductory modules: newswriting and reporting, media law and ethics, multimedia production.
• Investigative methods: investigative reporting practicum, advanced reporting techniques, data journalism and visualisation, long‑form narrative reporting.
• Supporting skills: statistics and research methods, database management, computer‑assisted reporting, documentary/audio storytelling.
• Practicum and capstone: sustained investigative projects produced for student media or community partners, often involving cross‑platform presentation and editorial review.
• Electives and cross‑discipline options: courses in political science, law, public affairs, computer science or criminology to strengthen subject‑matter expertise for investigations.

Students are encouraged to take experiential courses that place them in student newsrooms or internships. Training emphasises verification, safety and ethical considerations when working with vulnerable sources and sensitive data.

Entry requirements

Applicants should present a strong secondary‑school record and demonstrate commitment to journalism through a personal statement and a portfolio of work when available (published clips, longform pieces, multimedia projects or investigative coursework). Admissions typically consider academic preparation in writing and social sciences; prospective students will benefit from coursework in English, civics/government and mathematics (for data skills).

• Application materials: standard undergraduate application, personal statement, résumé, transcripts, and optional test scores if submitted.
• Portfolio: recommended but not always required — samples of reporting, feature writing, audio pieces, or multimedia storytelling strengthen applications.
• Additional consideration: letters of recommendation and evidence of extracurricular journalism experience (school newspaper, radio, internships) are advantageous.

Career prospects

Graduates with an investigative journalism focus move into a broad range of roles in newsrooms, non‑profit media, government and the private sector. Common career paths include:

• Investigative reporter or correspondent for local, regional and national news organisations
• Data journalist or computer‑assisted reporting specialist
• Long‑form/narrative journalist and magazine writer
• Investigative producer for audio and video documentary outlets
• Researcher or analyst for watchdog organisations, public‑interest NGOs and policy institutes
• Communications specialist focusing on transparency, accountability and public records

Graduates also pursue further study in journalism, public policy, law or related fields where investigative skills are valued. Internship experience and portfolio work from practicum courses are key to securing entry roles in competitive newsrooms.

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington combines a strong journalism curriculum with extensive hands‑on opportunities and access to a vibrant campus media ecosystem. Students can gain real newsroom experience through the university’s student news organisations and through internships in nearby Indianapolis and regional news markets. The programme’s emphasis on practical training, data skills and ethical reporting prepares students to pursue complex investigative projects.

The university’s liberal arts environment supports interdisciplinary study, so students can pair journalism training with courses in law, public affairs, data science or other areas to deepen subject expertise. Faculty include experienced reporters and scholars who mentor students on investigative projects, and the alumni network and industry partnerships help graduates transition into professional roles.