Those in the journalism industry have a particularly tough task: they need to deliver news and information without being swayed by misinformation and personal bias.
Most journalists earn their degrees in journalism or a related field like communications. If you're a busy adult, you may want to consider earning your degree online.
Keep reading to discover some of the top online journalism schools in the United States.
Best Online Journalism Schools
There are several colleges and universities in the United States that offer online journalism degrees. Below, we've listed our top picks in alphabetical order.
1. Colorado State University
Colorado State University (CSU) is a public research university in Fort Collins. It offers an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in journalism and communication.
The program requires 120 credits and includes classes such as:
- Analyzing Data in Journalism and Media
- Media Ethics and Issues
- Multiculturalism and the Media
- Online Storytelling and Audience Engagement
An internship is required to complete the degree but can be done through an organization of your choice. Students also have the opportunity to pair their degrees with a variety of minors.
2. Drake University
Drake University is a public university in Des Moines, IA. It offers an online Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communication.
Online students have the choice of two concentrations: digital communication and public relations. Courses in this major include:
- Communications Law & Ethics
- Digital Media Strategies
- Financial Fundamentals for Communication Professionals
- Mass Media in a Global Society
Courses take six weeks each and are all asynchronous, meaning that you complete your coursework on your time. 120 total credits are required.
3. PennState World Campus
PennState World Campus is the online branch of Pennsylvania State University. It offers multiple programs, including a BA in digital journalism and media.
This is a 120-credit program that includes courses such as:
- Digital Media Metrics
- News Media Ethics
- Photography for the Mass Media
- Principles of Multimedia Journalism
Students have the option to customize their degrees by choosing electives in telecommunications, visual media, and media management.
4. Regent University
Regent University is a private Christian university in Virginia Beach, VA. It offers a bachelor's and master's degree for journalism students.
Students can earn their BA in communication studies with a concentration in journalism. This is a 120-credit program that includes courses like:
- American Government and Politics
- Personal and Professional Editing
- Principles of Journalism
- Writing for Strategic Communication
An online Master of Arts in journalism is also available. This is a 33-credit program that includes courses such as:
- Community, Citizen, and Civic Journalism
- Feature Writing and Specialty Reporting
- Media Research and Analysis
- Story, Popular Culture, and Worldview
The master's program takes two years to complete and must be concluded with either a directed project or thesis.
5. Southern Illinois University
Southern Illinois University is a public research university in Carbondale in southwestern Illinois. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in journalism.
Students can choose from one of five specializations:
- advertising
- journalism and mass communications
- news-editorial
- photojournalism
- sports media
The program requires 120 total credits. Nine credits are from journalism core courses, and 39 are focused specifically in the student's area of specialization.
6. University of Florida
The University of Florida is a public research university in Gainesville, a city in north-central Florida. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in journalism with a concentration in sports and media.
This is a multi-disciplinary program that teaches students about the communications side of the team sports industry. It includes courses such as:
- Broadcast Writing Bootcamp
- Fundamentals of Sports Production
- Multimedia Reporting
- Sports Media Law and Ethics
This program requires 120 credits and takes two years to complete. Students conclude their program with a sports capstone and portfolio final project.
7. University of New Mexico
The University of New Mexico is a public research university that offers an online Bachelor of Arts in journalism and mass communication.
The major itself requires 48 credits. Available courses include:
- Introduction to Strategic Communication
- Media Ethics and Law
- Persuasive Communication
- Writing and Editing for Multimedia Journalism
This is an accelerated online program, and courses are offered in eight-week blocks. The university also accepts a high number of transfer credits for transfer students.
8. Wilmington University
Wilmington University is a private university in Delaware. It offers an online Bachelor of Science in communication with a concentration in digital journalism.
This program trains students to efficiently and ethically deliver information to a target audience. It includes courses like:
- Advanced Reporting
- Managing Crisis Communications
- Media and Society
- Writing and Reporting for the News Media
Students who complete this program will also earn an undergraduate certificate in technical communication.
FAQs About Online Journalism Schools
Find the answers to frequently asked questions about online journalism schools.
How Long Does an Online Journalism Degree Program Take?
The length of your journalism degree program will depend on what level of degree you're seeking.
Bachelor's degrees typically take four years, while master's take two. PhDs can vary in length but usually take several years.
Can I Earn a Journalism Degree Fully Online?
Many colleges and universities, including those listed above, offer journalism degrees fully online. Others are mostly online with an in-person internship required.
What Can I Do with a Degree in Journalism?
A journalism degree can open doors to a number of career paths, such as that of a content producer, marketing specialist, communications officer, and, of course, journalist.
Find the Best Online Journalism Schools
Many excellent colleges and universities in the U.S. offer online journalism degrees. Check out the ones above to start your career journey today.
