Lewis University

What you'll study

This programme combines general education, core journalism courses and specialist investigative modules. You will learn reporting fundamentals and then build skills in research methods, data analysis and long‑form storytelling tailored to accountability journalism.

• Core journalism skills: news reporting and writing, interviewing techniques, feature and narrative writing, multimedia production (audio, video and web).
• Investigative modules: investigative reporting methods, public records and freedom of information (FOI) research, source protection and security, undercover and ethics in investigative work.
• Data and verification: data journalism and visualisation, basic statistics for reporters, fact‑checking and digital verification techniques.
• Law and ethics: media law, libel and privacy, journalism ethics with attention to public‑interest decision making.
• Practical experience: newsroom practicum, internship with local or regional media organisations, and a capstone investigative project that requires original reporting and multimedia presentation.
• Electives and cross‑training: courses in computer-assisted reporting, public policy, urban studies, and audio/video production to support multimedia investigations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high‑school diploma or equivalent. Admissions normally consider the overall academic record, strength of senior‑year coursework and the quality of written work. Typical supporting materials include a personal statement, writing samples or a reporting portfolio and one or more academic or professional references.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved institutional alternatives. Transfer applicants are assessed on college transcripts and any completed journalism coursework; prior practical experience or internships are viewed favourably.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in newsrooms and related fields where investigative skills are valued. Careers commonly pursued include:

• Investigative reporter or beat reporter for local, regional and national newspapers, magazines and online outlets
• Data journalist or visualisation specialist working on enterprise projects
• Broadcast investigative producer for radio or television
• Researcher, fact‑checker or editorial analyst in news organisations
• Investigative roles at non‑profit journalism organisations and watchdog groups
• Communications, public affairs or research roles in government oversight bodies, NGOs and advocacy organisations where investigative and research skills are needed

Why study at Lewis University

Lewis University offers a focused, career‑oriented journalism education with small class sizes and faculty who bring professional reporting experience into the classroom. The campus’s proximity to the Chicago media market provides access to internships and newsroom collaborations, while the curriculum emphasises ethical, public‑interest reporting and hands‑on production skills.

Students benefit from practical training through practicum courses, internship placements with local media and community organisations, and a capstone investigative project that gives real‑world reporting experience required by employers in the field.