College Scholarships for Journalism (2025 - 2026) Majors

Scholarships for Journalism Majors

Many scholarships and fellowships are available for students pursuing degrees in journalism, communications, broadcast media, or digital storytelling. These awards are offered by universities, media companies, and professional organizations to support the next generation of reporters, editors, and content creators. Most journalism scholarships consider academic achievement, leadership experience, writing ability, and portfolio quality as key selection factors.

National Press Club Scholarship for Journalism Diversity

The National Press Club Scholarship for Journalism Diversity supports minority students committed to pursuing careers in news and media. Applicants must:

• Be enrolled as undergraduate journalism or communications majors.
• Maintain a GPA of at least 3.0.
• Demonstrate financial need and submit original journalism samples.

Winners receive up to $5,000 annually, renewable for three years, along with mentorship and access to professional networking opportunities within the National Press Club community.

Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) Scholarships

The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) offers numerous scholarships for students interested in print, broadcast, or digital journalism. Applicants must typically:

• Be student members of SPJ or enrolled in a journalism-related program.
• Maintain a strong academic record.
• Submit writing samples, multimedia projects, or published work.

Awards typically range from $1,000 to $5,000 and recognize students who demonstrate both journalistic excellence and ethical commitment to the field.

Scholarships for Women in Journalism

Several organizations sponsor scholarships that promote women’s leadership in journalism and media. Notable examples include:

• Joan Shorenstein Fellowship: Supports women pursuing careers in political journalism and public affairs reporting.
• JEA Future Journalism Teacher Scholarship: For women preparing to teach journalism at the secondary or collegiate level.
• AWSM (Association for Women in Sports Media) Scholarship: Funds women pursuing careers in sports journalism, with paid internships at leading outlets.

These scholarships advance diversity and help women build successful careers across media platforms.

Hearst Journalism Fellowship Program

The Hearst Journalism Fellowship is a post-graduate program offering paid professional experience at top newspapers, digital publications, and multimedia outlets. Applicants must:

• Be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
• Hold a degree in journalism, communications, or a related field.
• Submit a portfolio demonstrating journalistic ability and curiosity.

The fellowship provides structured training, mentorship from editors, and competitive compensation — serving as a strong bridge to full-time journalism careers.

Scholarships for High School Students Interested in Journalism

High school students aspiring to study journalism in college can apply for early scholarships such as:

• JEA National High School Journalist of the Year: Honors outstanding student journalists who demonstrate excellence in reporting, writing, and editing.
• Al Neuharth Free Spirit and Journalism Conference Scholarship: Provides funding for high school seniors who exhibit passion for journalism and freedom of the press.

These scholarships help young storytellers gain early exposure to journalism education and professional mentorship.

RTDNF Journalism Scholarships

The Radio Television Digital News Foundation (RTDNF) offers multiple scholarships for students pursuing careers in broadcast and digital media. Key opportunities include:

• Carole Simpson Scholarship: For minority students studying broadcast journalism.
• Ed Bradley Scholarship: Recognizes exceptional achievement in television or radio reporting.
• Loreen Arbus Scholarship: Supports students with disabilities pursuing journalism careers.

RTDNF awards typically range from $1,000 to $10,000 and emphasize ethics, innovation, and commitment to accurate reporting.

Corporate-Sponsored Journalism Scholarships

Major media and technology companies also invest in journalism education by offering scholarships and internships. Examples include:

• CNN Diversity Journalism Scholarship: Promotes newsroom diversity and funds minority students pursuing broadcast or digital journalism.
• New York Times Scholarship: Supports students with strong writing portfolios and financial need.
• Dow Jones News Fund Internships: Paid internship and training programs for aspiring business, data, and digital journalists, often paired with scholarships.

These awards often include mentorship, newsroom experience, and access to professional development resources.

University-Specific Scholarships for Journalism Majors

Many universities offer competitive scholarships to attract top journalism students. Leading examples include:

• University of Missouri School of Journalism Scholarships: Numerous awards for undergraduate and graduate students based on merit, need, and portfolio strength.
• Columbia Journalism School Fellowships: Funding for graduate students specializing in investigative journalism, documentary production, or digital media.
• Northwestern University Medill School Scholarships: Merit-based funding for students at one of the nation’s top journalism programs.

Students should check with their college’s journalism or communications department for department-specific scholarships and fellowships.

Myth: Only Students at Elite Universities Can Earn Journalism Scholarships

Fact: Prestigious schools like Columbia and Northwestern offer high-value journalism scholarships, but many regional universities, local news organizations, and community colleges also provide funding. Students can find meaningful support from state press associations, nonprofit journalism groups, and local media foundations — often with less competition.

How to Apply for Journalism Scholarships Successfully

Applying for journalism scholarships requires organization, creativity, and a strong sense of purpose. To stand out:

• Build a Professional Portfolio: Include published articles, broadcast reels, podcasts, or multimedia projects that showcase your reporting skills.
• Write a Compelling Personal Statement: Describe your passion for journalism, storytelling goals, and career aspirations.
• Leverage Professional Associations: Explore opportunities through SPJ, RTDNF, NABJ, and state press associations.
• Meet Every Deadline: Submit complete applications, including recommendations and transcripts, well before the cutoff date.

Applying for multiple awards — even smaller or regional ones — increases your chances of securing funding for your journalism education and building early professional recognition.