American University United States

Journalism (BA)

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 BA Journalism at American University equips you to navigate the dynamic world of media, focusing on essential skills in writing, reporting, and digital media. You will explore critical areas such as communication law, journalism ethics, and quantitative methods for journalists, preparing you to tackle complex issues like race, ethnic, and community reporting. This undergraduate degree is ideal for aspiring storytellers and truth-seekers who are passionate about informing the public and understanding how news media shapes history and society. You will gain a robust foundation in journalistic principles and practices from a leading institution.

This full-time, on-campus program spans four years, immersing you in a curriculum that balances core journalism requirements with specialized tracks in Broadcast Journalism or Media Studies, alongside elective options in areas like feature writing, sports journalism, and data-driven journalism. You will engage in hands-on learning, potentially including internships and a significant capstone project, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities. Upon graduation, you will possess a comprehensive portfolio and the advanced reporting and multimedia skills necessary for diverse career paths in journalism and communications.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in Journalism program provides a comprehensive foundation in media, writing, and quantitative methods. Students will delve into core journalistic principles, explore professional tracks like broadcast journalism, and engage with specialized electives covering topics from feature writing to race and ethnic reporting. The curriculum also includes essential courses in communication law and ethics, alongside a selection of media studies and related requirements in history and economics, culminating in a capstone project.

1 Core (9 credit hours)

Understanding Media
Writing for Communication
Quantitative Methods for Journalists

2 Professional Track (12 credit hours)

3 Broadcast Journalism

Digital Skills
Reporting
Digital Audio and Podcast Production
Advanced Broadcast Production

4 Journalism

Digital Skills
Reporting
Advanced Reporting

5 Electives (3 credit hours)

Feature Article Writing
Sports Writing and Reporting
Opinion Writing
Race, Ethnic, and Community Reporting

6 Media Studies (12 credit hours)

7 Required

Communication Law
Journalism Ethics

8 Electives

How the News Media Shape History
Dissident Media: Voices from the Underground
Contemporary Media in a Global Society
Raking the Muck
Race, Gender and Sexuality in the Media
Sports Journalism
Decisive Moments in Communication
Digital Media and Culture
Children, Youth, and Digital Culture
The Fundamentals of News Design
Foreign Policy and the Press
Broadcast and Multimedia Journalism Management
Politics and the Media
Censorship and Media

9 Communication Electives (6 credit hours)

10 Capstone (3 credit hours)

Journalism Capstone

11 Related Requirements

12 United States History

History of American Popular Culture
American Encounters: 1492-1865
U.S. History since 1865
African American History: to 1877
African American History: 1877 to Present
Ethnicity in America
Social Forces that Shaped America
Women in America to 1850
Women in America since 1850
The West in Crisis, 1900-1945
Oliver Stone’s America

13 Economics

Macroeconomics
The Global Majority
Microeconomics

14 Outside Minor or Second Major

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 241,080.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,000.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Washington Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

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

Common Graduate Roles

Animation & Visual EffectsCorporate & Commercial LawCriminal LawEvent Promotion & ManagementIntellectual Property LawInternational & Human Rights LawLegal Aid & Public Interest LawSports & AthleticsTalent & Artist ManagementTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Actors' Equity Association

Why Study Journalism (BA) at American University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at American 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 (BA) at American University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. On-campus work doesn't require a separate permit, while off-campus work needs university approval after your first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English tests, you can submit scores from Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE, meeting the specified requirements in each category. Ensure you achieve the minimum scores to qualify for the program.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Career opportunities include positions like Reporter, Editor, Broadcast Journalist, Multimedia Specialist, and Communications Officer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The BA Journalism at American University focuses on essential skills in writing and reporting. You'll also explore topics like communication law and journalism ethics, providing a strong foundation for your career in media.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA Journalism program has two intake months: January and August. You can choose to start your studies either at the beginning of the year or mid-year.
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