Best Online Bachelor’s in Journalism Programs

In the following section, we delve into typical admission requirements for journalism programs. These requirements are typically the same for on-campus and online bachelor’s in journalism programs. In addition to the materials listed below, some schools may ask certain applicants to complete an interview.

All journalism programs require prospective students to fill out a college application. These forms usually collect contact information and background information. Many schools accept the Common App, which can make applying to multiple colleges easier. Nevertheless, make sure to check if your school requires its own application.

Some journalism schools require prospective students to submit ACT or SAT scores. These tests provide colleges with a seemingly objective metric to distinguish between students. However, in recent years, some studies have questioned the fairness of these exams. As a result, more and more schools are becoming test-optional.

Most journalism programs ask applicants to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation. For first-year students coming straight from high school, former teachers should write these letters. Try to ask teachers who taught a class in which you did well. Make sure to ask them months in advance to give them time to write a good letter and meet deadlines.

Programs typically require prospective students to write personal essays. In addition to the standard Common App essay, journalism schools may ask you to write an essay on why you are drawn to journalism and why you want to enroll in a journalism program.

All schools require official transcripts of all prior education for admission. If you have previous college experience, you may be able to earn transfer credits. You can usually earn 60 credits for an associate degree earned at a community college. The bachelor’s programs with the most generous policies usually accept up to 90 transfer credits.

Program cost should be among the most important factors when deciding to pursue a bachelor’s in journalism. According to U.S. News & World Report, the average bachelor’s degree in journalism costs $47,000-$63,000. Keep in mind that some online programs allow students to pay in-state tuition no matter where they live. Furthermore, distance learners can save on costs like room and board and transportation.

If you are choosing an online program, investigate whether the program delivers coursework synchronously or asynchronously. Synchronous programs include live online courses, while asynchronous programs do not. Additionally, consider whether you want to enroll full time or part time. If you want to graduate in less time, you can enroll in accelerated programs.

Even when choosing an online program, it can make sense to choose a program close to you. You may want to take advantage of local schools’ in-state tuition rates. Furthermore, if you have to complete on-campus residencies or requirements, you may want to choose a school within driving distance.

You should only enroll at schools that hold regional accreditation. This third-party evaluation system, overseen by the U.S. Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation, ensures the quality of schools and programs. You cannot receive federal financial aid if you do not attend a regionally accredited school. Employers usually also look for job candidates who attended accredited schools.

The best online bachelor’s in journalism programs offer student services like mentorships, tutoring, internship opportunities, and alumni networking opportunities. Student services are particularly important for online students, who must navigate academics, financial aid, and other complex processes without the support of an in-person community. Distance learners are far more likely to succeed with strong support from their schools.

Yes. While the value of each degree is subjective, a bachelor’s in journalism can help you succeed in a competitive field. Graduates with a bachelor’s in journalism can also earn higher salaries in multiple growing fields.

While the narrative surrounding journalism states that the field is shrinking, many adjacent careers are actually growing. Between 2023 and 2033, the BLS projects 9% job growth for writers and authors, 11% job growth for public relations specialists, and 12% job growth for technical writers.

A bachelor’s in journalism program can help learners gain the skills they need for each of these positions.

These bachelor’s degree-holders can pursue careers in journalism, reporting, public relations, and technical writing. They can work for major tech companies, small town newspapers, and corporate giants. In each of these fields, graduates can ultimately earn stable salaries in fields with solid growth potential.

Graduates can also opt to continue their education, pursuing graduate degrees in fields like journalism and strategic or media communications. Pursuing additional education may lead to higher salary potential and better chances at editorial and managerial careers.

It depends on the field. Between 2023 and 2033, the BLS projects a 3% job decline for reporters, journalists, and news analysts. During the same decade, the BLS projects higher growth rates for writers and authors (5%), public relations specialists (6%), and technical writers (4%).

While journalism can often be a competitive field, graduates with significant skills can still thrive. If you are finding it difficult to enter the field, a master’s degree in journalism or a related field may help you break down the doors.

You may earn a median annual salary of about $50,000-$75,000 if you earn a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Technical writing is a particularly lucrative path for graduates, as professionals in this field earned a median annual salary of $80,050 in 2023.

Meanwhile, reporters, journalists, and news analysts earned a median annual salary of $57,500. The best-paid reporters and journalists often have significant experience in the field and work in information services rather than at newspapers.

The highest-paying job with a bachelor’s in journalism is likely technical writing. According to the BLS, these professionals make a median annual salary of $80,050 in 2023.

The most lucrative field for bachelor’s degree-holders in journalism is likely public relations. Entry-level public relations specialists earn a median annual salary of $66,750. However, with experience and potentially additional education, specialists may ultimately become public relations managers, who earn a median annual salary of $130,480, according to the BLS.