The Institute of American Indian Arts (IAIA) was selected by NBC Universal News Group to be a part of the initial cohort of institutions to participate in the launch of NBCU Academy, a new, innovative, multi-platform journalism training and development program for four-year university and college students that offers education, on-campus training, and online programming. The initiative includes a curated onsite curriculum for a hands-on learning experience with world-class NBCU News Group journalists, funding for accredited journalism programs, and scholarships.

Inaugural NBCU Academy scholarships were awarded to Shantel V. Chee (Diné), Jordan M. Martin (Blackfeet Tribe), Preston C. Johnson (Navajo Nation), and Tyrell Etsitty (Diné).

Another set of scholarships of $10,000 are available to eligible students with financial need who declare for IAIA’s Certificate in Broadcast Journalism. Scholarship funds are to be used for tuition assistance, student housing, internship stipends, field reporting, or equipment.

The application deadline is Friday, February 2, at 5 pm (MST).

Scholarship Qualification Requirements

The following requirements must be met in order to be eligible for the scholarship.

• Have diverse or underrepresented community affiliation
• Declared an IAIA Broadcast Journalism Certificate
• Must attend NBCU Academy seminars and events
• Enrolled in or have completed ENGL102 or have an equivalent transfer credit
• Non-degree seeking students enrolled in the certificate must take IAIA’s English placement test before registering for ENGL102/ENGL340
• Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or above at the time of application
• Must complete online application
• Personal one-page essay stating:
  1. Interest in a journalism or broadcast-related career after graduation
  2. Demonstrated commitment to diversity and inclusion at school or in their community
  3. Demonstrated commitment to media studies coursework or involvement on-campus
• Must be authorized to work in the United States with visa sponsorship by IAIA
• Provide the following work samples: A written sample such as a journalism article or a work of creative nonfiction; and a video or audio sample from a documentary, broadcast-type news report, or podcast
• Must fill out a FAFSA and show financial need
• Submit application by Friday, February, at 5 pm (MST).

About Broadcast Journalism

IAIA’s Certificate in Broadcast Journalism is designed to give students a fundamental understanding of storytelling, journalism, and broadcast video production. With a mix of courses from the Cinematic Arts & Technology department and the Creative Writing department, this 24-credit program will support the interests of students seeking opportunities in broadcast news and related fields. Indeed, for many graduates of the Cinematic Arts & Technology program, their first job prospects will be found at their local TV stations. The knowledge gained from these classes will help prepare students for such opportunities.

Philosophy

We believe it is important for Native people to tell their own stories, whether it’s in film, theater, literature, or, in this case, journalism. For too long, the stories of Indigenous people have been told by others. But now there are opportunities to empower Native storytellers to share the issues and concerns of their unique communities to create a greater understanding among all cultures.

The goal of the program is to provide students with a foundation of skills to be effective storytellers as journalists and competent producers of broadcast video, and to encourage them to shine a light on the challenges and triumphs of diverse, underrepresented communities.

Learning Outcomes

• To demonstrate competence in the journalistic crafts of reporting, research, and storytelling
• To show technical proficiency in broadcast video production
• To practice ethical behavior in broadcast journalism