I am currently debating between Mizzou and Loyola Chicago for Journalism. I know Mizzou is recognized for its Journalism school, but how does it compare to the Journalism program at Loyola Chicago? Also, how do the two schools compare as institutions? In other words, what is the culture like at Mizzou and Loyola Chicago in terms of student life socially and academically?
These are two very different schools Mizzou is pretty much in a college town where the University is its big focus. University of Missouri School of Journalism is one of the best in the country. In the past few years, the school overall reputation has taken a little bit of hit due to the events that unfolded in the Fall of 2015. Enrollment has been way down because of this. Having said that, based on the experience that I personally have had with the local the rep as well as all the interactions I had with admissions, administrators, and students, I think they are doing everything they can to turn some of this negative press around. Actually, they are some of the nicest people I have met during this stressful process. Mizzou will offer you a great education along with the typical rah rah spirit that comes with these large Division 1 schools.
I can not speak for Loyola since I am not familiar with it. But it is in the city of Chicago which would be very different than Mizzou. Mizzou also has decent scholarships for out of state students. Neither school is extremely selective although the school of Journalism might be more difficult to get in. Lots of OOS kids want to go to Mizzou for the Journalism school.