Cost & earnings at Benedictine University What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
This Bachelor's in Journalism with a focus on Investigative Journalism at Benedictine University equips students with reporting, research and storytelling skills needed to pursue accountability reporting across print, broadcast and digital platforms. It suits students who want rigorous training in ethics, data and source development and who prefer a hands-on, small-college learning environment with opportunities for newsroom practice and internships.
The programme combines core journalism studies with specialised investigative techniques. You will study fundamentals such as news writing, reporting, multimedia storytelling and media law alongside courses that focus on investigative practice: advanced interviewing, public records and open‑records requests, data journalism and visualisation, computer-assisted reporting, long-form narrative and collaborative investigative projects.
Typical entry assumes a secondary school qualification recognised by Benedictine University and evidence of readiness for college-level work. Applicants are usually expected to demonstrate good written and verbal communication skills through transcripts, a personal statement, and writing samples or a portfolio. Admissions may consider grades/GPA, letters of recommendation, and relevant extracurricular activities such as student media, community reporting or volunteer work.
Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; credits for introductory communications or journalism courses may be accepted. International applicants must meet university English proficiency standards. Prospective students with related experience but non‑traditional backgrounds are encouraged to contact admissions to discuss portfolio review and entry pathways.
Graduates are prepared for careers in investigative and accountability journalism across local, regional and national outlets, as well as in digital newsrooms. Typical roles include investigative reporter, data journalist, investigative producer, multimedia reporter, and fact-checker. Skills developed in the programme also transfer to allied fields such as communications and public affairs, nonprofit research and advocacy, documentary production, legal research support, and roles in government transparency and compliance organisations.
Through practicum placements and internships, students build professional contacts in newsrooms and media organisations, helping launch careers in both traditional news organisations and emerging digital investigative outlets.
Benedictine University offers a personalised learning environment with small class sizes and direct faculty mentoring; journalism students benefit from hands-on coursework that emphasises ethical reporting and practical newsroom skills. The programme integrates classroom instruction with applied experience—student-run media, multimedia labs and supervised internships provide real-world practice.
The university’s location and alumni networks create opportunities for internships and partnerships with nearby newsrooms and civic organisations, while faculty with professional journalism backgrounds guide students through investigative methods and career preparation. The curriculum’s combination of data skills, legal knowledge and storytelling is designed to prepare graduates to produce impactful, accountable journalism in a changing media landscape.
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