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E.W. Scripps School of Journalism
Schoonover Center 200
1 Ohio University
Athens, Ohio 45701-2979
740.593.2592

Changing Major

Ohio University students wishing to change their major to journalism (or pursue a dual degree in journalism) must apply for transfer to the E. W. Scripps School of Journalism.  A limited number of transfer students are accepted each semester.  

Requirements for consideration

  • A minimum grade point average of 3.0 overall or a 3.0 in the last two semesters (or three quarters). NOTE: A 3.0 qualifies a student only for consideration and does not guarantee admission.
  • A minimum of 30 semester hours (45 quarter hours) at the time of application deadline.

Current OHIO students applying to transfer are encouraged to:

  • Attend a transfer workshop offered by the school each semester 
  • Take journalism courses before applying for transfer (several courses do not have a prerequisite)
  • Join journalism student organizations and work with publications and broadcast outlets (many of which are open to all majors)

Application Procedure

A student's transfer application packet must include the following supporting materials typed, signed, dated, and submitted in a binder:

  1. A completed Application for Transfer.
  2. An OHIO transcript and/or official copies of all transcripts from colleges or universities previously attended. If a current OU student, you only need to submit your current DARS.
  3. A current resume.
  4. At least two letters of recommendation from references best able to comment on the applicant's ability to succeed as a student in the E.W. Scripps School of Journalism (professors and/or employers). Recommendation letters are an important part of the transfer committee's deliberations. Applicants who do not include at least two letters will not be considered. Letters of recommendation should be sent to the student and digital files of letters can be included in the application Note: Recommendation letters should not be from fellow students, high school teachers, administrators or guidance counselors.
  5. A 500-word written essay on the theme "Why I want to be a journalism major." Sign and date your essay.
  6. Examples of journalism work (not to exceed six samples). Sign and date each sample submitted.

Incomplete applications will not be considered. It is the responsibility of the applicant to make sure that his or her transfer application packet is complete. Submit the completed application packet to:

Julie Conrad
E. W. Scripps School of Journalism
223 Schoonover Center
Ohio University
Athens, OH 45701-2979

The school's transfer committee will evaluate applications and make recommendations to the Director and Associate Director, who make final decisions on transfer admissions. Applicants will receive written notification of acceptance or denial. Students denied admission must wait one year (from the time the application was submitted) to re-apply. Applications will not be carried over to the next year. Re-application is necessary.

Additional information is available in the school office, 223 Schoonover Center, 740-593-2539.

NOTE: This policy is effective as of April 22, 2008


Application Deadlines

Transfer applications are accepted twice per academic year. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. 

Spring 2025 application deadline: Sept. 20, 2024 (5 p.m.)

Fall 2025 application deadline: Feb. 21, 2025 (5 p.m.)


A virtual Transfer Workshop will be Thurs., Sept. 12th from 6 to 7 p.m. on Microsoft Teams for those interested in applying to the school for Spring 2023-2024.  Click this LINK to join the workshop.