Professional Journalism Opportunities
In a recent survey of Montana Journalism graduates, more than 95 percent of those responding said they either had a job or were self-employed shortly after graduation. Of the most frequently mentioned job categories, journalism, marketing, and public relations were at the top.
Professional Opportunities
A journalism degree from the University of Montana isn't preparation for a career — it is the career, starting on day one.
Our students cover real stories, publish real work, and build real portfolios before they graduate. They report from the Montana Legislature, produce documentaries, investigate issues facing Native communities, and travel internationally to report on environmental issues. By the time they leave Missoula, they don't just have a degree — they have a body of work.
That hands-on foundation translates. In a recent survey of UM Journalism graduates, more than 95% said they were employed or self-employed shortly after graduation, with journalism, marketing, and public relations among the most common fields. Our alumni consistently credit the practical experience and collaborative culture here as the reason they were ready to compete.
Where UM Journalism Graduates Go
Our graduates go on to careers across the full media landscape, including:
- News reporter and investigative journalist
- Digital content creator and multimedia journalist
- Documentary filmmaker
- Photojournalist
- Broadcast news producer and anchor
- Social media strategist and content director
- Public relations and communications professional
- Editorial writer and magazine journalist
Whatever direction you want to take your storytelling, the skills you build here travel with you.
Real Experience Before You Graduate
All students are required to complete an internship before graduation — and most have built a substantial body of work well before that point through UM's signature programs: the Obit Project, the Native News Honors Project, the Student Documentary Unit, legislative reporting in Helena, and international reporting trips.
These aren't simulations. They're published, broadcast, and distributed journalism.
Internship and Job Listings
We regularly share internship and job opportunities from qualifying news and media organizations with current students and alumni. To submit a listing, email journalism@mso.umt.edu.
Students and alumni can also find current opportunities in our Montana J-School Internships, Jobs & Scholarships Facebook group.
Volunteer Opportunities
Students looking to build additional experience while enrolled can pursue volunteer roles with a range of media organizations. Email journalism@mso.umt.edu with inquiries.