Best Broadcast Journalism Schools to Consider?

I'm hoping to major in broadcast journalism and want to attend a school with a strong program. Can anyone share their thoughts on the best broadcast journalism schools and what makes their programs great?

Surely, there are quite a few institutions known for their excellent programs in broadcast journalism. Here are top five schools that come highly recommended for their comprehensive curriculum and real-world opportunities for students interested in this field.

1. Northwestern University's Medill School: Northwestern's Medill School of Journalism is renowned for its immersive journalism program. Here, students are trained in all aspects of modern journalism, from broadcast to digital media, and are given extensive hands-on experiences via Medill's newsroom and their numerous partnerships with major media organizations.

2. University of Southern California's Annenberg School: USC's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism is one of the best due to its approach to digital innovation and convergence of media. They have state-of-the-art facilities, with the option to take classes in a wide range of subjects such as investigative reporting, audience analytics, and global journalism.

3. Columbia University's School of Journalism: Columbia is recognized worldwide for its outstanding journalism program. While they don't offer an undergraduate journalism program, their graduate program is lauded. Their comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain exposure to a myriad of topics crucial to a journalist's role today.

4. University of Missouri's School of Journalism: Known as the world's oldest journalism school, it offers hands-on experience through the university-owned NBC affiliate, KOMU-TV. Students learning broadcast are required to work in all roles at the station, from reporters to producers.

5. Syracuse University's S.I. Newhouse School: Newhouse provides a practical, hands-on approach to the study of broadcast journalism. Whether you're working on a news story in their laboratories or participating in a live, student-run webcast, you'll be gaining real-world experience from day one.

A few things that make these programs great include the opportunity for practical experience, comprehensive curriculum, accomplished faculty, and strong affiliations with leading news networks. Picking the right school will come down to your personal aims and what you value most out of your journalism education. Always consider factors like location, size, financial aid, and culture when picking your school.