Cost & earnings at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
This Bachelor’s degree in Journalism with a focus on Investigative Journalism trains students in rigorous reporting, verification, and storytelling across print, broadcast and digital platforms. It suits students who want to pursue in-depth public-interest reporting, combining technical skills in data and multimedia with ethical and legal foundations.
The programme combines core journalism skills with specialised investigative methods. Coursework typically covers news writing and reporting, multimedia storytelling, feature writing, editing and newsroom practices, media law and ethics, and research methods for journalists. Investigative-specific modules focus on data journalism, public records and freedom of information, source development and protection, long-form investigative techniques, and advanced interviewing.
Students also gain practical technical skills in digital reporting: data analysis and visualisation tools, audio and video production, content management systems, and social media verification. The curriculum usually culminates in a capstone or practicum where students complete a sustained investigative project under faculty supervision, and there are credit-bearing internships or placements to develop professional experience.
Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Typical admissions criteria include academic transcripts showing successful secondary study, a personal statement outlining interest in journalism and investigative work, and a writing sample or portfolio demonstrating reporting, writing or multimedia skills. Some applicants may be invited to an interview.
Saint Mary’s often considers records of extracurricular involvement, leadership, and community engagement alongside academic qualifications. Mature applicants or those transferring from other colleges should supply college transcripts; practical experience in media, internships or relevant volunteer work strengthens an application. Standardised test requirements may be optional or considered on a case-by-case basis—check the university’s admissions guidance for details.
Graduates are prepared for a range of roles across journalism and related fields. Common career paths include reporter or correspondent for local, regional and national media; investigative reporter for newspapers, magazines, broadcast outlets or online newsrooms; data journalist or visual journalist; editor or fact-checker; and producer for radio or television investigations. Skills gained are also applicable to roles in nonprofit and advocacy organisations, public affairs and communications, documentary production, research organisations, and law or policy analysis.
Work experience through internships, the capstone project and portfolio development are central to employability; many graduates find entry roles in local newsrooms before moving into specialised investigative teams, long-form reporting outlets, or data-driven journalism units.
Saint Mary’s offers a liberal-arts foundation combined with practical, hands-on journalism training in a small-campus environment where students benefit from close faculty mentorship. The university emphasises ethical practice and community engagement, aligning well with the public-interest focus of investigative journalism.
Students have access to opportunities for experiential learning through internships with local and regional media outlets, guided capstone projects, and training in contemporary digital tools. Small class sizes enable personalised feedback on reporting and investigative techniques, and the university’s connections in the Twin Cities media market and surrounding region help students secure professional placements. The programme’s balance of technical skills, ethical grounding and real-world experience is designed to prepare graduates to pursue serious, accountable investigative work in a changing media landscape.
Shortlist scholarships and plan your application — free guidance from our advisors.