Public Accountability
The Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) requires its accredited programs to publish retention and graduation data on their website and to update the information annually.
The ACEJMC unanimously voted to reaccredit the Missouri School of Journalism in 2024. The School was found to be in full compliance with all eight standards at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, reaffirming its status as one of a handful of schools continuously accredited since the late 1940s. Only 119 journalism and mass communication programs in the U.S. hold this accreditation.
The accrediting team highlighted several strengths of the Missouri School of Journalism:
- Strong and dynamic leadership that is pushing an excellent school to even greater heights.
- Innovative curriculum that implements the “Missouri Method” of journalism education, adapting to the changing media environment.
- Dedicated faculty of professionals and scholars who prioritize collaboration.
- Significant endowment and robust fundraising efforts that support new initiatives and faculty salaries.
The 70-page accreditation report praised the school’s renowned hands-on teaching, commonly referred to as the “Missouri Method,” which immerses students in real-world print/digital news, TV news, and strategic communication work. This approach ensures students are well-prepared for professional careers.
“Students have unparalleled opportunities to learn in a professional atmosphere, supported by working professionals, faculty, and staff,” the report noted. “The list of achievements is almost unending.”
A summary statement in the team’s report noted: “The School of Journalism at Missouri is a shining example of outstanding preparation of students to be successful practitioners in journalism and strategic communication. The Missouri Method remains a unique hands-on experience for students working side-by-side with professionals in all our disciplines. The Columbia Missourian, produced by the school, has become the paper of record in town. The side-by-side work with professionals at the local NBC affiliate (owned by the university) makes J-School students highly sought out by industry. The school is constantly updating its curriculum with cutting-edge thinkers and is led by a dynamic dean and an accomplished leadership team. It isn’t a stretch to suggest the Missouri School of Journalism has never been stronger with more to come.”
The public accountability information provided in this section is updated on an annual basis. If you have any questions, please contact the Missouri School of Journalism.