<p>I realize this is somewhat of a broad question. I know I am leaning to a career in journalism & media and i have a possible interest in publlic relations. What do i know, I'm just a Junior! Need help narrowing down schools with best programs and separating out schools that do not have strong departments and strong alumni network. Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>Northwestern will fit all your needs. Seriously. Not only is Medill considered one of the best, if not the best, but also NU's communication school is also highly regarded. My two cents.</p>
<p>The S.I. Newhouse School at Syracuse is considered to be the best in the country year in and year out along with NU. For instance, some famous Newhouse alums include Dick Clark, Mike Tirico, Ted Koppel and Bob Costas and many others.</p>
<p>We were given the following information by the head of admissions of a major journalism school during a visit last summer.</p>
<p>For mid-sized to large schools, the best five undergraduate journalism programs are, in alphabetical order, Northwestern University, Syracise University, University of Missouri-Columbia, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, and University of Southern California. The next three best programs are (again in alphabetical order) Penn State University-University Park, University of Miami (Fla.), and University of Texas-Austin. Other schools particularly strong in certain areas are Ohio University (print journalism), University of Illinois-Champaign (advertising and marketing), and University of Maryland-College Park (government reporting). A number of other schools were also mentioned, but this admissions officer thought those programs stood out.</p>
<p>For smaller programs, he cited New York University and Boston University.</p>
<p>Obviously, lists will differ. We found this list to be consistent with our research, and thought that his comment about who he competes with for students (he's at a Top 5 program) was significant.</p>
<p>Hope this helps. Our daughter is also a junior interested in journalism. Maybe she'll run into you down the road.</p>
<p>great advice dadtimesthree!! they were excellent lists!</p>