Journalism Pepperdine University

Overview

The Journalism programme at Pepperdine University provides a rigorous academic foundation for students aspiring to become ethical storytellers in a rapidly evolving media landscape. This degree combines traditional reporting fundamentals with modern technological training to ensure graduates can engage diverse audiences across multiple digital and broadcast platforms.

Students are immersed in the core principles of accurate fact-gathering, media law, and ethical content distribution. The curriculum is designed to foster effective communication and collaboration under strict deadlines, reflecting the real-world pressures of the news industry. Small class sizes allow for personalised mentorship from faculty members who possess extensive professional backgrounds.

A unique feature of the course is the requirement for an outside concentration.

Why Journalism at Pepperdine University?

The institution is consistently recognised as one of the top-ranked universities in California and the United States. Located in Malibu, the campus provides a 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring that learners receive dedicated support. The university emphasises a liberal arts approach that integrates intellectual growth with character development within a supportive Christian community.

Students gain immediate access to professional-grade facilities and media outlets from their first day on campus. Pepperdine Graphic Media allows students to produce digital news, newspapers, and magazines, while NewsWaves offers experience in live television and streaming news. These platforms function as real-world laboratories where students operate cameras, design layouts, and report live from the scene.

The programme also benefits from its proximity to Los Angeles, a global media hub. This location facilitates high-level internship opportunities at major international news organisations. Furthermore, with 80% of students participating in international programmes, the university encourages a global perspective that is essential for modern investigative reporting and storytelling.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 71860 per year
• National fee: USD 71860 per year
• Local fee: USD 71860 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Journalism
• Writing
• Editing
• Reporting
• Research
• Video
• Law
• Ethics
• Digital News
• Newspaper
• Magazine
• Live Television
• Streaming News

Careers with Journalism

Graduates from this programme are highly successful, with 91% of the class of 2024 being settled in professional roles or further study within six months of finishing their degree. The curriculum prepares students for diverse roles in newsrooms, digital media agencies, and broadcasting corporations. Many alumni secure positions in major metropolitan areas, including Los Angeles and other global cities.

Common career paths include roles as reporters, news editors, broadcast producers, and digital content creators. The skills gained in research and ethical communication also allow graduates to transition into fields such as public relations, organisational communication, and multimedia design. The university's extensive network of over 120,000 alumni provides a strong foundation for career mentorship and professional growth.