Bachelor in Journalism

Illinois State University (ISU), founded in 1857 and located in Normal, is a comprehensive public university with a long tradition of teacher education and broad academic offerings across 252 programs. Serving roughly 20,878 students, including an international cohort of about 1,000, ISU combines strong undergraduate teaching with expanded graduate and professional programs in education, business, health sciences, arts and applied disciplines.

ISU emphasizes career-ready learning, small class sizes and strong faculty mentorship. Programs integrate experiential learning through internships, community partnerships and applied research, helping students build professional portfolios and practical experience. The university’s commitment to student success is reflected in advising services, career centers and active employer engagement that support transitions into regional and national job markets.

Campus life in Normal offers a welcoming college-town atmosphere with cultural events, clubs and practical support for international students, from orientation to career counseling. ISU’s location in central Illinois combines affordable living with access to metropolitan centers for internships and networking. For international applicants seeking a supportive, student-centered campus with a balance of academic breadth and applied opportunities, Illinois State provides a stable, professionally oriented environment to develop skills and begin a global career.

The Bachelor in Journalism at Illinois State University is a 4-year degree for students who want to tell stories and report news. It teaches students how to write, edit, and produce news for print, online, and broadcast media.

The program covers subjects like reporting, writing, and photography. Students will learn how to research and interview sources, and how to write engaging news stories. They will also get to work on real news projects and publish their work in the university's newspaper or website.

After graduating, students can work as News Reporters, Editors, or Broadcast Journalists. They can work for companies like CNN, The New York Times, or NPR, and help them tell important stories to the public.