Interested in journalism, storytelling, media, or public affairs? The Local Journalism program combines a hands-on journalism internship with Northfield’s independent radio station, KYMN, with a fast-paced introduction to the key components of journalism, including reporting, interviewing, writing, editing, and ethics.
Students will gain experience through both classroom instruction and professional assignments while exploring the changing media landscape, the important role of local media outlets, and the many evolving career pathways available in journalism and media.
Through their work with KYMN, students will have the opportunity to apply their developing skills in a professional setting while learning from experienced journalists, editors, faculty, and media professionals. Students will complete the experience with a portfolio of published work that demonstrates their growth and developing proficiency as journalists.
Application Deadline: October 20, 2026 at 11:55pm.
The specific objectives of this program are to:
Develop foundational skills in news reporting, writing, and editing
Build proficiency in conducting effective interviews and gathering information from sources
Learn and apply Associated Press (AP) Style
Develop skills in accessing and interpreting public records
Practice writing effective headlines and communicating clearly for a public audience
Develop an understanding of journalism ethics and responsible decision-making
Strengthen media literacy and gain a deeper understanding of the changing media landscape
Explore the role and importance of local journalism and independent media outlets
Gain hands-on professional experience through journalism assignments and an internship with KYMN
Develop a portfolio of published work that can be used to demonstrate skills and experience to future employers or graduate programs
Mode of Instruction: In-person classroom instruction combined with hands-on professional journalism assignments
Professional Experience: Students will participate in a journalism internship with Northfield independent radio station, KYMN
Academic Internship Credit: During the Spring 2027 semester, students will be required to register for a 1.0-credit academic internship and reflection seminar
Professional Learning: Students will develop their journalism skills through both classroom assignments and professional work in a local media environment
Portfolio Development: Students will complete the experience with a portfolio of published work
Texts and Media: Course materials will include a variety of local, regional, and national news sources
Sophomore, junior, or senior with a strong academic record
Any academic discipline is welcome
Strong interest in journalism, storytelling, media, communications, or related fields
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Curiosity and a willingness to ask questions and engage with people and the community
Ability to meet deadlines and manage responsibilities in a fast-paced environment
Willingness to communicate clearly and consistently with instructors, editors, supervisors, and sources
Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively as part of a team
Questions?
Meghan Anderson
(she, her, hers)
Associate Director, Ole Career Launcher, Innovation and the Arts