Illinois State University United States

Journalism (B.A.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Journalism (B.A.) at Illinois State University is designed for aspiring storytellers navigating the dynamic 21st-century media landscape. You will develop essential skills to gather, verify, and disseminate news across diverse platforms, from digital and broadcast to print and social media. This undergraduate degree equips you with the critical thinking and practical abilities needed to thrive in a field where accuracy, speed, and adaptability are paramount. You will learn to craft compelling narratives and understand the ethical considerations inherent in modern journalism.

This full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Arts degree is studied over four years, integrating foundational communication theory with hands-on experience. You will engage with core journalism courses, explore professional applications through electives, and gain practical experience with award-winning campus media outlets like TV-10 and The Vidette. Your curriculum includes senior-level theory and practice, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of journalistic principles. You will graduate prepared for diverse roles in newsrooms, media organisations, and digital content creation, possessing a robust portfolio and a strong professional network.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Journalism program provides a comprehensive foundation in journalistic principles and practices. Students will engage with core communication courses, general education requirements, and electives to develop critical thinking and writing skills. The curriculum progresses through foundational and advanced coursework, including professional applications and theory electives, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the media landscape.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

ENG 101
COM 110
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course
University-wide elective

2 First Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

ENG 101
COM 110
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (15-16 credit hours)

COM 111
COM 161
General Education course
General Education course
Foreign language course 111-level or University-wide elective

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (15-16 credit hours)

COM 180
Foreign language course 112-level or University-wide elective
General Education course
IDEAS course or University-wide elective
University-wide elective

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

COM 165
COM 167
Professional Applications elective
B.S. - SMT or B.A. language
University-wide elective

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

COM 297
Senior level Professional Applications elective
Senior level Professional Applications elective
Senior level University-wide elective
AMALI course or University-wide elective

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

COM 361
300-level Professional Applications elective
Senior level Professional Theory elective
Senior level University-wide elective
Senior level University-wide elective

8 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

COM 374
Senior level Professional Applications elective
300-level Professional Theory elective
Senior level University-wide elective
Senior level University-wide elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Aerospace ManufacturingAerospace Research & AcademiaAirport Infrastructure & Aviation SecurityAlternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityCommercial AviationDigital Media & Online PublishingMusic & Performing ArtsReal Estate & Property LawTax & Financial LawTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

ESPN

FOX Corporation

Screen Actors Guild–American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA)

Warner Media

Why Study Journalism (B.A.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Illinois State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Journalism (B.A.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours a week during terms and full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit. Off-campus work requires university approval after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you'll need to meet specific English test requirements, including a Duolingo overall score of 105 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5. Ensure you achieve the necessary scores in all sections for your chosen test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue various roles such as reporter, editor, content creator, digital media specialist, and communications manager.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Journalism (B.A.) at Illinois State University focuses on essential skills such as news gathering and ethical considerations in journalism. You'll receive hands-on experience through campus media outlets and a curriculum that integrates communication theory and practical applications.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Journalism (B.A.) program accepts students in January, June, and August. Make sure to apply by the deadlines for your desired intake month.
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