University of Iowa

What you'll study

This undergraduate pathway combines core journalism studies with specialised training in investigative methods. You will study foundational courses in reporting and writing, media law and ethics, multimedia storytelling, and journalism history, alongside investigative-focused modules covering public records research, data journalism, long-form narrative techniques, source development and advanced interviewing.

• Core reporting and writing: beat reporting, feature and enterprise reporting, deadline workflow and news editing.
• Investigative methods: public records and FOIA requests, document and court records analysis, cultivating confidential sources.
• Data and verification: introductory and intermediate data journalism, spreadsheets and basic coding for reporters, data visualisation and verification tools.
• Multimedia production: audio and video storytelling, podcasting, multimedia packages and digital-first publishing.
• Law and ethics: media law, freedom of information, libel and privacy, and ethical decision-making in investigative work.
• Capstone and practicum: an investigative reporting capstone or long-form project, and opportunities to work with student media and community news partners.

The programme emphasises experiential learning: students frequently publish in The Daily Iowan and other student media, produce investigative series for broadcast and online platforms, and complete internships with regional and national news organisations. Electives and cross-disciplinary work with statistics, computer science, criminal justice or public policy are commonly taken to strengthen investigative capabilities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical entry requirements include a strong academic record, evidence of writing and analytical skills, and submission of a portfolio or writing samples demonstrating reporting, feature writing or multimedia work. Admissions may consider coursework in English, social studies and mathematics; experience in student media or community news organisations is an advantage.

Some students enter the School of Journalism and Mass Communication directly from high school, while others transfer from other University of Iowa programmes. Prospective students should check the School's admissions information for any additional requirements such as interviews, statements of purpose or minimum grade expectations. Non-native English speakers will need to demonstrate proficiency in English according to university standards.

Career prospects

Graduates with investigative training work across a wide range of news and non-profit media environments. Common career paths include:

• Investigative reporter or enterprise reporter at local, regional or national newspapers and digital outlets
• Data journalist or visualisation specialist in newsrooms and research organisations
• Investigative producer or researcher for broadcast and podcast teams
• Reporter for public radio and television, or multimedia investigative units
• Roles in nonprofit and watchdog organisations, transparency and accountability centres, and investigative NGOs
• Research, communications or investigations positions in government oversight bodies, law firms and corporate compliance teams

The programme equips graduates with practical skills valued by employers: source development, records analysis, multimedia production, data handling and legal/ethical judgement. Many alumni advance into specialised investigative desks, editorial leadership, or further study such as postgraduate journalism, law or public policy.

Why study at University of Iowa

The University of Iowa’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication offers a well-established curriculum with a strong emphasis on hands-on, experiential training. Students benefit from active student media — including the university’s student newspaper and broadcast outlets — which provide regular publishing opportunities and real-world newsroom experience.

Faculty combine academic expertise with professional newsroom backgrounds, and the school maintains industry connections that support internships and collaborative investigative projects. Facilities include multimedia production suites and data-lab resources to support modern investigative techniques. Located in Iowa City, the programme also offers proximity to state and regional institutions for reporting and public-records work that are integral to investigative learning.