Eastern Washington University

What you'll study

The programme blends core journalism fundamentals with specialised investigative techniques. Early modules cover news writing, multimedia storytelling, reporting fundamentals, media law and ethics, and visual communication. Intermediate and advanced modules focus on investigative methods: public-records and Freedom of Information practices, source development, data journalism and database management, long-form narrative reporting, and advanced interviewing.

• News Reporting and Writing — concise, accurate daily journalism for print and online platforms.
• Multimedia Production — audio/video reporting, editing and publishing for digital audiences.
• Media Law & Ethics — libel, privacy, access to records and ethical decision-making in investigations.
• Data Journalism — using spreadsheets, basic SQL and data visualisation to find patterns and tell evidence-based stories.
• Investigative Techniques — planning long investigations, cultivating confidential sources, verifying complex documents.
• Capstone/Independent Project — a sustained reporting project or series that demonstrates investigative skills and multimedia delivery.

Practical learning is emphasised through work in student media, newsroom simulations and required internships with local or regional news organisations. Coursework typically integrates collaborative projects, portfolio development and ethical reflections.

Entry requirements

Admission is at the undergraduate level and normally requires a high school diploma or recognised secondary qualification. Typical admissions expectations include a competitive high-school record and completion of standard academic subjects. Applicants may be asked to submit a writing sample or portfolio demonstrating reporting or journalistic potential. International students must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements. Transfer students with community college credit are considered and can apply prior learning toward degree requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for careers in investigative and accountability journalism across a range of platforms. Common roles include investigative reporter, data journalist, investigative producer for broadcast or digital outlets, enterprise/feature reporter, fact-checker, editor and news researcher. Alumni also work in specialised investigative units at regional and national news organisations, nonprofit investigative newsrooms, public-interest organisations, and in communications roles where investigative, research and A-to-Z story production skills are valued. The programme also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study in journalism, law or public policy.

Why study at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a hands-on learning environment with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty experienced in professional journalism. Students benefit from practical opportunities in campus media and local newsrooms, enabling them to build a reporting portfolio and professional contacts. The university's location near a mid-sized urban centre provides access to regional stories and internship placements, while coursework emphasises ethical practice, public-records access and data skills that are central to contemporary investigative work. The programme's capstone and internship elements ensure graduates leave with real reporting experience and a body of work employers recognise.