Investigative journalists are research connoisseurs and master interviewers, and they know how to dig for information anywhere—even the garbage. The importance of investigative journalism cannot be understated. Investigative journalists are the watchdogs that ensure the law is carried out correctly by uncovering corruption and other revelations that can affect the way our country is governed. Investigative journalism TV shows, radio and print stories are produced everywhere on a local and national scale.

If you're considering an investigative journalism career, it's important to have a natural curiosity, stellar research skills and a drive to ensure that justice prevails. Investigative journalism information is easily accessed on the Internet from reputable resources and journalism schools. When researching investigative journalism information, consider the following:

1. A number of highly regarded colleges offer investigative journalism degree programs within their journalism schools or communications curricula.
2. Journalism organizations offer numerous resources and tips for those considering or already working as reporters for investigative journalism TV shows, radio shows or newspapers.
3. Investigative journalism TV can help inspire with hard-hitting pieces that uncover crime and expose corruption.
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Inquire about investigative journalism programs at colleges and universities

A number of colleges and universities offer excellent journalism degree programs with investigative journalism focuses, while some well-developed journalism schools make entire degrees out of the profession. Check out these examples.

I recommend: The Stabile Center for Investigative Journalism is part of the prestigious Columbia University School of Journalism located in New York City, the media capital of the world. U.C. Berkley's investigative journalism program also comes highly regarded.

Discover investigative journalism resources online

Search these sources of information for great investigative journalism info, from research tips to where to find a job. Professional investigative journalists looking for a bit of a refresher or quick reference should bookmark these online sites.

I recommend: In addition to providing grants for investigative journalism, The Fund for Investigative Journalism provides a treasure trove of links to organizations that can help you with your research. The Center for Public Integrity in Washington, D.C. is one of the premier organizations conducting large-scale, in-depth research on a wide variety of national topics that can be localized.

Search for investigative journalism careers

A new career in investigative journalism could be just a click away when you search reputable sites that specialize in journalism jobs. In addition to inquiries with newspapers, these web sites can also help with your investigative journalism job search.

I recommend: JournalismJobs.com is a great job site for reporters, editors and writers looking for work and often posts positions linked to investigative journalism careers. Investigative Reporters and Editors specializes in just that, and has an extensive online job database to prove it.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When researching an investigative journalism career, sometimes the best investigative journalism resource are the journalists themselves. If you're visiting the above websites, find college professors or working investigative journalists and send them an email with career questions.