University of Mississippi

What you'll study

The programme is delivered through the Meek School of Journalism and New Media and emphasises practical, project-based learning in investigative reporting. Core study areas include news reporting and writing, investigative techniques, media law and ethics, data journalism, multimedia production, and long-form narrative storytelling.

Typical modules and subjects

• Foundations of News Reporting and Writing
• Investigative Reporting and Methods (FOIA, records requests, source development)
• Media Law and Ethics
• Data Journalism and Visualisation (spreadsheets, databases, data cleaning)
• Multimedia Storytelling (audio, video and web publishing)
• Beat Reporting and Public Affairs
• Feature and Long-form Writing
• Research Methods and Quantitative Analysis for Journalists
• Capstone Investigative Project

Structure and practical work

Students complete a mix of lecture courses, lab-based classes and newsroom-style projects. Practical learning is reinforced through contributions to student media outlets, supervised investigative projects, and a required internship with a newsroom, public-interest organisation, or relevant media partner. The degree typically culminates in a capstone investigation where students produce a multi-platform reporting project under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants must hold a high-school diploma or equivalent and meet the University of Mississippi's general admissions standards. Successful applicants typically demonstrate strong writing skills and an interest in journalism through a written sample or portfolio.

• Academic preparation: college-preparatory coursework in English, social studies and related subjects is recommended.
• Application materials: personal statement, writing sample(s) or portfolio, and standard application documentation.
• Additional considerations: letters of recommendation and documented extracurricular experience (student media, internships, community reporting) strengthen an application. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and samples of journalistic work.

Standardised test submission policies follow the university’s current admissions guidance; applicants should consult the admissions office for current practice. Admission to specialised journalism tracks may require departmental review.

Career prospects

Graduates with an investigative journalism focus are prepared for roles that demand rigorous reporting, data handling and ethical judgement. Typical career paths include:

• Investigative reporter or correspondent at local, regional or national news organisations
• Data journalist or visualisation specialist
• Feature writer and long-form reporter
• Producers for audio or video investigative series, including podcasts and documentaries
• Researcher or reporter for non-profit investigative organisations and watchdog groups
• Communications, public affairs or compliance roles where investigative and research skills are valued

Alumni commonly move into newsroom jobs, work with investigative non-profits, pursue graduate study in journalism or law, or join multimedia documentary teams. Hands-on practicum and internship opportunities help build a professional portfolio and employer contacts.

Why study at University of Mississippi

The Meek School of Journalism and New Media offers a hands-on curriculum with access to student-run media outlets, multimedia labs and newsroom-style courses that mirror professional practice. Faculty include experienced reporters and scholars who supervise investigative projects and provide mentorship.

• Practical training: students can work with campus newspapers, radio and digital platforms to publish investigative work.
• Regional networks: the school’s connections with news organisations across the region provide internship and employment pathways.
• Facilities and resources: access to data-lab tools, multimedia production equipment and legal guidance support investigative coursework.
• Capstone and mentorship: sustained capstone investigations and faculty supervision help students develop publishable work and a professional portfolio.

These elements combine to prepare graduates to pursue careers that require deep reporting, ethical decision-making and the technical skills to tell complex stories across platforms.