Belhaven University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational journalism skills with specialised investigative techniques. Across the degree you will study news writing and reporting, media law and ethics, investigative methods, data journalism, multimedia storytelling, and feature writing. Typical modules and experiences include:

• News Reporting and Writing – beats, source development, and concise clear copy for print and online.
• Media Law & Ethics – libel, privacy, open-records laws, and ethical decision-making in investigative work.
• Investigative Techniques – long-form reporting, records requests, interviewing techniques for sensitive stories, and case-building.
• Data Journalism – data collection, cleaning, analysis, and visualisation to support investigative narratives.
• Multimedia Production – audio and video skills for documentary segments, podcasts, and online packages.
• Feature and Longform Writing – structuring extended narratives and developing thematic threads.
• Newsgathering Practicum / Internship – placement with local or regional news outlets, nonprofits, or government transparency organisations.
• Senior Capstone / Investigative Project – an independently researched, faculty-mentored investigation culminating in a publishable multimedia package.

Coursework emphasises hands-on reporting, ethical reflection informed by Belhaven’s Christian liberal arts mission, and portfolio development suitable for entry into professional newsrooms.

Entry requirements

Applicants to the bachelor’s programme are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical admission criteria include:

• A completed secondary school transcript demonstrating academic readiness.
• A personal statement outlining interest in journalism and investigative reporting.
• A portfolio or short writing sample (news story, feature, or investigative piece) where available.
• Letters of recommendation, often from teachers or mentors familiar with the applicant’s writing and critical thinking.
• For some applicants, an interview or journalistic skills assessment may be requested.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or previous study in English.

Specific GPA thresholds and course prerequisites (such as English or humanities coursework) are set by the admissions office and may vary; prospective students should consult Belhaven’s admissions guidance for personalised advice.

Career prospects

Graduates with a focus in investigative journalism enter a range of roles across news media, nonprofit organisations, government agencies, and private-sector communications. Common careers include:

• Investigative reporter or correspondent at local, regional or national news organisations.
• Data journalist or researcher, specialising in analysis for investigative projects.
• Multimedia journalist producing video, audio and online investigative packages.
• Fact-checker, research editor, or verification specialist.
• Investigative producer for broadcast or digital platforms.
• Communications or research roles with nonprofits, watchdog organisations, or advocacy groups.
• Further study or professional pathways including graduate programmes in journalism, law, public policy, or related fields.

The programme emphasises practical experience and portfolio building to help graduates transition into newsroom internships and entry-level reporting positions.

Why study at Belhaven University

Belhaven offers a small-college environment where students receive close mentorship from faculty with professional experience in journalism and communications. The university’s approach blends technical training—writing, data and multimedia—with a values-based emphasis on ethics and public service. Students benefit from small class sizes, opportunities for internships in the Jackson metropolitan area and the broader region, and supervised practicum and capstone projects designed to produce publishable investigative work. If you want a programme that pairs rigorous reporting skills with ethical reflection and one-on-one faculty support, Belhaven’s investigative journalism pathway offers a focused, practice-oriented route into the field.