Feb. 4, 2025 — Applications are now open for an innovative new graduate program in open-source investigative reporting.
The new concentration in open-source investigative reporting in the master of arts degree in journalism and strategic media at the University of Memphis is one of only a handful of programs nationwide teaching digital and visual investigations, an emerging field in which journalists analyze publicly available video, satellite imagery, social media networks and online databases.
Many journalists now using these techniques are either self-taught or have learned them via online forums.
“Open-source investigative techniques have been used to break some of the most impactful news stories of the last few years,” said Robby Byrd, associate chair for graduate studies in the Department of Journalism and Strategic Media. “It’s important that journalists learn these techniques and apply them to their work. I’m happy that UofM is leading the way.”
The program is housed in the Department of Journalism and Strategic Media and works in conjunction with the UofM’s Institute for Public Service Reporting.
“The new Open-Source Investigative Reporting Program adds another dimension to the institute’s Otis L. Sanford Journalist Incubator, which already features a paid internship program for UofM students, operates Civil Wrongs, our documentary-style podcast and academic course exploring racial injustice and teaches introductory journalism to middle and high school students,” said Marc Perrusquia, director of The Institute for Public Service Reporting. “We are so thankful to Scripps for creating this opportunity for us and the UofM.”
“This program will have a lasting effect on investigative journalism across the country and will position our students as tomorrow’s leaders in the field.”
-Dr. Matt Haught
Open-source research uses publicly available information to uncover data and get to the truth. Through the graduate program in Open-Source Investigative Reporting, journalists with all levels of experience will learn how to discover, uncover and report on information found on the internet, social media, public databases, books and periodicals – from the U.S. and other countries. The program will also teach participants how to conduct open records requests and what to do if a request is denied or delayed.
“This program will have a lasting effect on investigative journalism across the country and will position our students as tomorrow’s leaders in the field,” said Matt Haught, chair of the Department of Journalism and Strategic Media.
A decline in the number of journalists has meant fewer eyes and ears on government, which in turn has led to the public getting less substantive reporting on issues critical to the region. Since its founding in 2018, the Institute for Public Service Reporting has raised community awareness of complex issues. As the teaching institute in the Department of Journalism and Strategic Media, the Institute for Public Service Reporting has created a professionally staffed newsroom specializing in in-depth investigative, public service and explanatory journalism. It also operates the Otis L. Sanford Journalist Incubator, educating students from middle school to graduate school while inspiring working journalists who want to hone their skills.
The program is funded by a $300,000 grant from the esteemed Scripps Howard Fund, in partnership with the Adam R. Scripps Foundation.
Application link: apply.memphis.edu/portal/graduate_application
