Ohio Wesleyan University

What you'll study

The investigative journalism pathway combines core journalism skills with deep training in research methods, data analysis and reporting ethics. Coursework balances hands-on reporting practicum with classes in media law, multimedia production and investigative techniques.

• Core reporting and writing: news reporting, feature writing, interviewing, and editorial practice that build strong storytelling and source-handling skills.
• Investigative methods: long-form reporting, public-records research, document analysis, FOIA and freedom of information processes, and case-building techniques.
• Data and digital skills: data journalism, basic statistics for reporters, digital verification, and multimedia production (audio, video and web publishing).
• Law and ethics: media law, libel and defamation basics, newsroom ethics, and ethical decision-making in investigative projects.
• Research seminars and electives: courses in political science, sociology, criminal justice or environmental studies to provide subject-matter depth for beat reporting.
• Capstone and practicum: an investigative capstone project or a semester-long practicum with campus media, paired with faculty supervision and peer review.
• Internship opportunities: placements with local and regional news organisations, nonprofits and investigative units to gain real-world reporting experience.

Entry requirements

Admission to Ohio Wesleyan University is determined by the university's undergraduate admissions process; students can declare journalism as a major or pathway typically after matriculation. Prospective students should present a strong secondary-school record with evidence of academic curiosity and written communication skills.

• Academic background: a completed secondary-school diploma or equivalent with competitive grades in English and social-science subjects is expected.
• Portfolio or samples: applicants are encouraged to submit writing samples, school newspaper work, blogs, or multimedia pieces to demonstrate reporting and storytelling ability.
• Recommendations: at least one academic reference that can speak to the applicant's writing, research potential or intellectual engagement is recommended.
• Additional considerations: demonstrated interest in public affairs, civic engagement or investigative work—through extracurriculars, volunteering or independent projects—strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates with investigative journalism training pursue a range of careers across newsrooms, public-interest organisations and related fields. The programme emphasises practical skills and ethical practice that employers value.

• Investigative reporter or staff journalist at local, regional or national news outlets
• Data journalist, multimedia producer or fact-checker in digital newsrooms
• Editor, newsroom project manager or investigative producer
• Researcher or communications specialist for non-profits, watchdog groups and public policy organisations
• Legal, civic or advocacy roles that require research, documentation and clear public communication
• Graduate study in journalism, public policy, law or related fields

Why study at Ohio Wesleyan University

Ohio Wesleyan combines a liberal arts education with personalised faculty mentorship and opportunities for applied learning—features well suited to investigative journalism training. Small class sizes enable close supervision of reporting projects and ongoing feedback.

• Hands-on experience: students can work with campus media, undertake practicum placements and complete internship experiences with regional newsrooms and organisations.
• Interdisciplinary approach: access to courses across the humanities and social sciences helps reporters develop subject-matter expertise for investigative beats.
• Faculty mentorship: experienced faculty guide students through research methods, ethical dilemmas and capstone investigations.
• Professional preparation: training emphasises legal awareness, data-literacy and multimedia skills that match contemporary newsroom needs.
• Network and location: proximity to regional media markets and alumni networks provides internship and career-entry opportunities.