The Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship invites experienced journalists to join an immersive academic year at the University of Michigan, combining the resources of a leading institution with the freedom to pursue meaningful journalistic work. This program is designed to give participants the time, space, and support to deepen their craft and tackle ambitious journalism projects.
Who Should Apply
- Journalists with at least five years of professional experience, working for news organizations or independently.
- Candidates may specialize in a wide range of journalistic disciplines, including reporting, editing, data analysis, visual storytelling, audio production, audience engagement, design, development, entrepreneurial ventures, or newsroom innovation.
- Applicants whose primary work is not full-time journalism should show that most of their output is journalistic. The fellowship is not open to full-time academics, PR professionals, trade writers, lobbyists, public advocates, or independent scholars seeking academic degrees.
- U.S. citizens should apply as U.S. candidates; non-U.S. citizens should apply as international. A Green Card does not qualify as U.S. citizenship.
What the Fellowship Offers
- An eight-month residency, from late August through April, focused on uninterrupted learning and creative work.
- Support to develop individualized journalism projects—these may involve skill expansion, addressing newsroom challenges, or launching new initiatives.
- Access to the University of Michigan’s faculty, research infrastructure, seminars, workshops, and expert-led sessions.
- Private dialogues with newsroom leaders and global change makers, plus workshops to build leadership and professional capabilities.
- Opportunities for international travel that enrich the context and depth of fellows’ reporting.
- A stipend of US $85,000, paid monthly August through April, covering living costs, health insurance, and fellowship obligations.
- An additional US $5,000 relocation allowance to help ease moving expenses.
- Support in securing housing and relocation arrangements tailored to each fellow.
- Spouses or partners may participate in program activities and audit university courses when feasible.
Fellowship Requirements & Terms
- Fellows must reside in Ann Arbor, Michigan, for the fellowship duration and give full attention to program responsibilities.
- Regular attendance at seminars and events is mandatory.
- Journalists employed in newsrooms should seek a leave of absence from their employer, with the understanding they will return after completing the fellowship.
Application Timelines & Notifications
- International applicants (non-U.S. citizens) must submit by December 1, 2025.
- U.S. applicants have until February 1, 2026 to apply.
- Offers to international candidates will be extended by mid-February; U.S. offers by early May.
- The fellowship begins in mid-August, allowing time for relocating to Ann Arbor.
How to Learn More & Apply
Further details and application materials are available on the official Knight-Wallace Journalism Fellowship website at Wallace House, University of Michigan.
