Why should I study journalism?

Our culture and the world of media are changing rapidly, and the need for ethical, creative storytellers is greater than it's ever been. At Bethel, you'll have the unique opportunity to infuse your creative craft with a commitment to seeking truth and telling stories that matter. You'll learn from the top minds in the industry and gain cutting-edge multimedia skills, all within a supportive Christ-centered learning environment.

What can I do with this degree?

Employers appreciate Bethel journalism graduates for their ability to present solid stories in a variety of formats. Our graduates are reporters and editors at community newspapers across the Midwest, including:

• Iowa Press Citizen
• Stillwater Gazette
• Owatonna People’s Press
• Austin Daily Herald
• Isanti County News
• Pope Country Tribune

Journalism alums also work in:

• Magazine publishing
• Book publishing
• Public relations
• Web-based communications
• Law and politics
• Corporate communications
• International photography

Our graduates go to top-ranked graduate schools in journalism, law, film studies, and other fields, studying at schools like:

• University of California at Berkeley
• New York University Film Studies Program
• Phillip Merrill College of Journalism at the University of Maryland
• Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University
• George Washington University Law School
• University of Minnesota School of Journalism and Mass Communication

What skills will I develop?

In our classes and labs, students receive solid training in journalistic reporting, writing, editing, photography and design. Nearly half of Bethel’s journalism majors double-major or add a minor to widen their skillsets and make themselves more attractive to employers.

For example, a student majoring in pre-medicine and journalism can decide, at 22, whether to be a health reporter or go to med school. She would be positioned well for both. Popular, complementary programs include graphic design, marketing, media production, or reconciliation studies.

You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.

What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?

From the first reporting class to the most advanced seminar, you’ll hear from professional journalists and get real-life journalistic experience by reporting on important issues and submitting your stories for publication.

Benefit from hands-on learning through journalism assignments

Students build their portfolios with writing, photo, and video clips by working for The Clarion, Bethel’s award-winning student newsmagazine and website. Opportunities also exist to write, shoot images and video, or execute social media for campus offices.

The Royal Report is another outlet for journalism students to explore writing, photography, and video content. The Medium site features students' story assignments and captivating images. The Royal Report YouTube channel features short vignettes and stories that provide a deeper look into the people and issues at Bethel.

Partner with the Johnson Center for Journalism and Communication

The Johnson Center brings some of the world’s finest journalists to campus to teach and inspire our students with special one-on-one workshops on topics such as international journalism, using social media, and reporting on religion, sports, and business. The Center also provides funding for classroom enhancements and conference travel for students.

Study Off Campus

• Textura J-Term social justice reporting trips to Kenya, Guatemala, Taiwan, India, Ethiopia, and Nepal—our previous trip to Guatemala resulted in a national award-winning student-curated magazine
• NYCJ Semester at King's College John McCandlish Phillips Journalism Institute
• Washington, D.C., at the Washington Journalism Center

Gain real-world experience through internships

We help students land media internships with local news or nonprofit organizations, including:

• St. Paul Pioneer Press
• Minnesota Public Radio
• Guthrie Theater
• Press Publications
• The Asian-American Press
• Thomson Reuters
• Rapid City Journal
• Shakopee Valley News
• Playbill (New York)
• salon.com
• West Side Spirit (New York)
• The Children’s Museum
• Christians for Biblical Equality

Journalism majors can apply for a Johnson Center-sponsored summer internship with a major daily news organization such as the Minneapolis Star Tribune, the St. Paul Pioneer Press, or the Kansas City Star.

Recent News

The Beginning of a Beautiful Partnership

January 19, 2023 | 10:45 a.m.

Upcoming Events

JUNE 20 2023

CANCELLED - Digital Storytelling

Student publication leaders will explore digital storytelling as they prepare to work on their student newspapers, news magazines, literary magazines, yearbooks, and broadcasts.

Literature changed who I was, allowed me to look at the world in a new way, to become a more curious person. Faith-learning integration at Bethel helped prepare me to link my faith with my work.

Amy Williams '07
Current job: Major Gifts Officer at Ecumen

We had numerous opportunities to practice journalism in classroom and professional settings, and we didn't just learn it as a craft. We studied the role of journalism as an institution, which I find very beneficial in today's media environment.

Jared Nelson '16
Current job: Communications Manager, PrepHoops.com

For me, journalism meant becoming a reporter, but God brought me into ministry. I quickly learned that good writing transcends vocation. Creative storytelling is key anywhere. Studying journalism helped me find my voice and bring good writing to any calling.

Monique Kleinhuizen '08 GS'16
Current job: Communications Strategist at Bethel University