The Program in Journalism at Princeton
Princeton University’s popular journalism seminars draw on the world’s most distinguished journalists as faculty. They guide students as they explore nonfiction storytelling and produce deep, serious journalism in both traditional and emerging media.
Courses offered by the program take an integrative approach across disciplines and divisions, understanding journalism as an exemplar of the liberal arts: deeply rooted in the humanities but concerned with public policy, national security, data analysis, technology, social and political science, and business and economics.
Small seminars maximize personal interaction with faculty and include opportunities to engage with experts in and outside of the classroom – including workshops with leaders in the field and excursions to newsrooms. In the summer, the program offers an innovative field-reporting seminar in Greece and helps support student internship opportunities in the field.
The program highlights journalism’s function as a public service and raises awareness about the critical role of reliable reporting in an informed democracy. Led by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Eliza Griswold, the program draws on the expertise of its dynamic visiting professors and accomplished Ferris Professors in Residence. Iconic seminars including “The Literature of Fact,” and “Creative Nonfiction,” inspired by renowned author John McPhee, are on offer alongside courses exploring innovations within journalism.
Students pursuing the undergraduate minor in journalism learn the practice of reporting and verification and the art of crafting compelling nonfiction narratives in a variety of media. They learn to write clear and dynamic prose and to communicate complex ideas.
Journalism students have gone on to work for The New York Times, The Washington Post, The New Yorker, National Public Radio, and other local, national, and international media organizations. Some enjoy successful careers as nonfiction authors, others use the critical thinking skills learned and refined in the program’s intensive seminars to inform and broaden their work in other disciplines.
Princeton’s journalism courses were inaugurated in 1957 by a bequest from former New York Herald journalist Edwin F. Ferris. Gifts from other generous alumni and their families have expanded the program’s offerings.
Explore program courses, news, and academic opportunities on our website, and contact program staff with any questions.
