Overview

The Literary Journalism programme at University of California, Irvine (UCI) is designed for students who wish to master the art of nonfiction prose that adopts the techniques of fine fiction. This unique major provides a rigorous foundation in reporting and narrative writing while grounding students in the essential history and theory of the genre. By blending creative artistry with journalistic ethics, the curriculum prepares graduates to produce high-quality literature that transcends daily news reporting.

Why Literary Journalism at University of California, Irvine (UCI)?

The programme stands out by treating nonfiction as a distinct branch of literature, moving beyond traditional applied journalism. Students benefit from a structured environment where they take three intensive writing seminars, allowing them to build a professional portfolio of work before graduation. The curriculum is highly versatile, covering diverse subject areas such as science, politics, travel, sports, and popular culture. Additionally, the School of Humanities encourages global perspectives through the Education Abroad Programme, enhancing the academic experience.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 56682 per year
National fee: USD 56682 per year
Local fee: USD 19080 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum requires 12 courses focused on reporting, writing workshops, and literary analysis. Students must complete core requirements at the Irvine campus to ensure a consistent foundation in the craft. Modules may include:

Literary Journalism
Reporting for Literary Journalism
Advanced Reporting
Multicultural American Literature
Shakespeare
Young Adult Fiction
Literary Studies
Craft of Poetry
Craft of Fiction

Students also engage in the Literary Journalism Core Writing Workshop multiple times to refine their narrative skills across different topics and formats.

Careers with Literary Journalism

Graduates of the Literary Journalism programme are well-equipped for roles that demand analytical thinking and imaginative storytelling. The degree serves as excellent preparation for graduate studies in journalism or professional careers in various sectors. Common career paths for alumni include:

Journalism and News Media
Public Relations and Communications
Technical Writing
Marketing and Management
Education
Business and Public Service

The skills gained in independent research and clear expression also provide a strong foundation for students intending to pursue further training in law or government.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Reporting for Literary Journalism

Reporting

Multicultural American Literature

Studies in the History, Theory, and Ethics of Literary Journalism

Society, Law, and Literature

Multicultural Topics in Literatures in English

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Irvine, United States

Disciplines

Journalism View 513 other Bachelors in Journalism in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must receive a 3.0 GPA (3.4 for non-California residents) or higher in the 15 required “a-g” subject courses, with no grade lower than a C.

UCI will not consider SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. After enrollment, exams may be used for class placement or some graduation requirements.

Personal Insight Questions (your personal insight questions should be exactly that – personal. This is your opportunity to tell us about yourself, what matters to you, your hopes, ambitions, life experiences, and inspirations. Key points about the personal insight questions include: freshman applicants choose four out of eight questions to answer, each response is limited to a maximum of 350 words. We encourage you to take your time. Be open, be reflective, and be honest. Your personal insight questions provide context for the rest of your application.)

English proficiency requirements

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Out-of-State

56682 USD / year

≈ 56682 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

19080 USD / year

≈ 19080 USD / year

Living costs

Irvine

United States

1560 - 2585 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Literary Journalism.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Irvine

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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