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National Journalism Center

Since 1977, the National Journalism Center has trained aspiring journalists in the values of responsible, balanced, and accurate reporting. We’re training a new generation of leaders to bring balance to the media.

Apply for the 12-Week Program

The program is dedicated to reviving objectivity in the news media landscape.

 

Spring 2024 Session

Dates - January 22 to April 19

Summer 2024 Session

Dates - May 20 to August 2

Why Students Choose NJC

“I would recommend NJC to anyone who has a passion for policy, media, and following the news.”

University of Michigan

“I have learned more about journalism this summer than during my entire college career thus far.”

Mississippi State University

Being a part of the National Journalism Center has furthered my passion to pursue a career in journalism.

North Carolina AT&T University

Paid Internships

Spring and summer internship opportunities with a monthly stipend.

On-the-Job Training

Experience gained in working at the nation’s leading media outlets.

Weekly Seminars

Talks and workshops with prominent journalists and public policy experts.

The DAO Prize

The Dao Prize

The Dao Prize, funded by the Daofeng and Angela Foundation and launched in conjunction with YAF’s National Journalism Center, is an annual award founded to recognize excellence in investigative journalism. Dao Prize-winning journalism stands out for accuracy and courage.

HISTORY OF THE PROGRAM

For over 40 years, we’ve trained aspiring journalists in the values of responsible reporting.

notable ALUMNI

Peter Schweizer

Bestselling Author, YAF Alumnus, and President of the Government Accountability Institute

Marc Thiessen

Former Speechwriter for George W. Bush, Columnist, Commentator and Author

Greg Gutfeld

Author, Editor, Blogger and Television Personality

FAQS

What do I need in order to complete my application?

There are 5 main components of the NJC application.

  • Application 
  • Cover Letter
  • Resume
  • 2-3 Writing Samples (of 5 pages or less; news clips preferred)
  • An official college transcript is required upon acceptance into the program.


Applications will not be reviewed until all supplemental materials are received, and candidates will not be accepted into the program with any outstanding materials.

These materials can be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to the NJC office.

National Journalism Center
RE: Application
11480 Commerce Park Dr
Suite 600
Reston, VA 20191

What information should I include in my references?

References can be professional, academic or personal. Please include the name of each reference, their affiliation, their relationship to you, their email address, and their phone number. A total of three references are required.

Do I need letters of recommendation?

You do not need to submit letters of recommendation; full contact information for your references is preferred. You may submit reference letters if you choose, but only in addition to submitting detailed contact information for your references.

What writing samples do you prefer?

Ultimately, we would like participants to have published news clips that best exemplify your talents as a news reporter, however, we recognize that some candidates might not have news clips. If you do not have published material, please send us an academic sample that clearly demonstrates your writing ability (no longer than 5 pages). If you are sending academic samples, we recommend sending samples from courses that would relate to covering politics, including papers on public policy, economics, business, communications, or journalism.

What are you seeking in a candidate?

The National Journalism Center seeks candidates that are dedicated to becoming a more responsible reporter, combating media bias, and developing as a conservative journalist. The most competitive applicants will have demonstrated some previous interest in journalism, either working for their college newspaper, starting their own news blog, or have other media experience.

I am not a journalism or communications major. Can I still apply?

Yes, we do accept other social science majors. Many of our past program participants have been pursuing degrees in history, political science, economics, and philosophy.

I am a college freshman/sophomore, recent graduate. Am I eligible to apply?

NJC typically accepts college juniors, seniors, and recent graduates. We do, however, accept some exceptional college freshmen and sophomore applicants. At this time, we do not accept high school students.

Can foreign students apply?

We have taken some scholars and fellows from foreign countries in the past; however, securing a visa can be a long and difficult process. For this reason, we limit our acceptance of foreign applicants.

What is the next step in the application process?

When you have submitted all components of your application, your materials will be reviewed by the NJC staff. If we feel that you could potentially be a valuable asset to the NJC program, we will contact you for a series of interviews with staff members. Please note that not all applicants will be granted interviews.

Will I be notified if I'm not accepted into the program?

Applicants will be notified of their status with the program as staff reviews applications.

Is there any cost to participate in the program? Do program participants receive a scholarship for their participation in the program?

There is no cost to participate in the National Journalism Center program. In fact, participants receive a $1,500 monthly scholarship which is pro-rated for partial months. Participants frequently use part or all of their scholarship to pay for housing, food, and transportation while in Washington.

Does NJC provide housing for participants?

NJC itself does not provide housing; however, we do provide you with resources to help you find housing in the area. Housing guides are emailed to participants upon their acceptance into the program and NJC staff are available to answer any questions or concerns you may have about moving to Washington, D.C. It is worth noting that most of our participants come from outside the greater D.C. area and typically have few problems finding housing, provided they start early. It is a very transient city; students are coming and going at all times of the year, so there are no shortage of options for temporary housing.

When do I find out about my placement?

Participants will be notified of their media placements a few weeks before the program begins. Some media organizations will contact NJC participants for interviews or to set up logistical information. Please note that these interviews are in conjunction with the NJC program and are not separate opportunities. Everyone will be notified officially about their placement and provided with contact information for their supervisor during orientation, if not sooner.

How does NJC determine my placement?

We take your career interests, previous experience, and your suggestions into consideration and match you with a partnering media outlet at which we believe you will best thrive.

I will be taking classes at school while participating in this program. Can I do NJC part-time?

Most NJC trainees participate in the full-time program; however, some participants taking classes may participate in the program part-time if arrangements are made with NJC staff in advance.

What is a typical week like?

Participants typically spend between 30 and 35 hours per week at their media placements, and also participate in the NJC weekly training seminar. Because news is not 9-5, your placement may require you to work some nights or weekends.

What do training seminars consist of?

The seminars include journalism skills training, writing and grammar exercises, reading assignments, and current events discussions. Each seminar typically features guest speakers, either prominent journalists or public policy experts who will share their insights into the industry or resources for journalists to take advantage of. These sessions are designed to give participants a better understanding of media, society and public policy, and the intersection between the three here in Washington, D.C.

Why should I choose the NJC program?

NJC provides you with the opportunity of a lifetime and can further your career in journalism. Through our hands-on program, you will learn alongside some of the best journalists in the D.C. area. During weekly seminars, participants will learn how to advance their writing skills and make themselves more marketable to prospective employers, and will gather invaluable knowledge and extensive training to pursue future careers in media.

What are the latest program dates and where do I apply?

Please apply here.

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Get Involved

Become a Member

Chapters

Events & Conferences

Host a Speaker

Campus Activism

Programs

Center for Entrepreneurship

National Journalism Center

Reagan Ranch

Reagan Boyhood Home

Campus Lectures & Activism

Defending Student Rights

Middle School Programs

News & Issues

All Media

Articles

Videos

The New Guard

About

About Us

Staff Members

Our Boards

Careers

Financials