FASPE Journalism Fellowship in 2027 (Fully Funded)

Are you passionate about ethical journalism and eager to explore the moral responsibilities of the profession? Do you want to learn how history’s lessons can shape your role in modern journalism? The FASPE Journalism Fellowship offers students and early-career journalists a unique opportunity to explore these critical issues in an immersive, two-week program. This fellowship is designed to challenge your understanding of ethical leadership in journalism by exploring both historical examples and contemporary challenges.

The FASPE (Fellowships at Auschwitz for the Study of Professional Ethics) Journalism program takes Fellows on a journey through key sites in Germany and Poland, examining the ethical failures and decisions of journalists during the Nazi regime. By connecting historical events with today’s media landscape, Fellows develop a deep understanding of their responsibilities as journalists. FASPE’s approach combines place-based learning with rigorous academic seminars led by experienced faculty, fostering a rich learning environment.

Each year, 13 to 16 aspiring or early-career journalists are selected to participate in this fully-funded program. The fellowship brings together a diverse cohort of journalists who will engage in interdisciplinary seminars and collaborative discussions with Medical and Clergy Fellows. Through this experience, participants form strong professional networks and gain the tools needed to navigate the ethical complexities of journalism in modern society.

Fellowship Focus Areas

FASPE Journalism Fellows look at issues like:

• Journalistic complicity in Nazi policies through misreporting or inadequate coverage.
• Technology’s impact on journalism.
• Journalists’ roles in electoral politics and holding power accountable.
• Ethics of advocacy journalism.
• The media’s role in normalizing aberrant behavior.
• Reporting challenges in an era of “fake news” and its accusations.
• Balancing access tactics to address ethical issues in journalism.

What are the benefits of the FASPE Journalism Fellowship?

FASPE is committed to covering all program costs and related travel to ensure financial ability does not limit participation. The fellowship covers the following expenses:

• Round-trip economy airfare from the United States to Europe.
• Transportation costs for group travel and activities in Germany and Poland are covered.
• All entrance charges.
• Everything in the program.
• All hotel expenses.
• The cost of all group meals.
• Money to cover non-group meals.

Furthermore, FASPE Journalism Fellows will:

• Be able to work as editors, reporters, nonfiction writers, photojournalists, broadcasters, and a variety of other positions across a wide range of media, just as previous fellows have done.
• Fellows form long-lasting bonds and deep connections through their shared exchanges.
• Journalism Fellows are part of formal and informal networks that help them advance in their careers.

All candidates must prepare and submit these application materials to apply for the FASPE Journalism Fellowship:

Online Form: Complete basic information (contact, education, recommenders’ details) via Submittable.

Resume: Include education, employment history, honors, awards, and publications.

Transcripts

Submit transcripts from all significant institutions attended (electronic or scanned copies).

Unofficial transcripts are accepted; however, screenshots are not allowed.

First-year students without grades must provide a letter from the dean confirming enrollment and good standing.

Short Essay Questions: Respond to essay questions relevant to the program you are applying for.

Letters of Recommendation

Two letters of recommendation are required from academic faculty or supervisors (due January 10, 2027).

Letters should cover your academic performance, participation, leadership potential, and ability to handle intense discussions.

Letters of Recommendation Guides

Number of Letters: Two letters are required.

Recommender Types

For students: Preferably from academic faculty in your current or recent graduate program; acceptable from previous graduate or undergraduate faculty.

For early-career professionals: Letters can also come from a supervisor or employer.

Submission Details

Letters must be sent directly by recommenders.

Due date: January 3, 2027.

Instructions for submission will be provided in the Submittable form.

Guidance for Recommenders

Discuss relevant academic work or experiences enhancing the program’s focus on ethics.

Assess participation in discussions and evaluate verbal/written expression.

Detail reactions to emotionally and intellectually intense experiences.

Evaluate the ability to work and travel in small groups.

Assess potential leadership qualities compared to peers.

Include any other relevant information.

How to Apply for the FASPE Journalism Fellowship?

Eligible candidates can apply through the online application portal, Submittable

For further information about the Journalism Fellowship by FASPE, please visit FASPE’s website.

Similar Opportunities Available

FASPE Business Fellowship for MBA/MSc Students and Business Professionals

FASPE Law Fellowship for Law Students (Fully-Funded)

FASPE Medical Fellowships 2027 for Medical Students (Fully Funded)

Applicants should meet the following requirements

Graduate students or early-career professionals in the formative stages of their careers

Applicants with ≤10 years of professional journalism experience

Journalism applicants must fit one of the following

Some journalism experience + currently enrolled in a graduate program and planning a journalism career

Completed an undergraduate degree and am working as a journalist

Completed a graduate degree and am working as a journalist

Preference for applicants with published or aired work in recognized news outlets

Open to diverse journalism roles: reporters, editors, photojournalists, documentarians, or other storytellers

Fellows should be open-minded, self-reflective, and capable of leadership in their field

Must demonstrate academic strength, professional potential, and willingness to engage in respectful discussions

All applications welcome; FASPE values diversity across backgrounds, identities, and perspectives

How to Apply for the FASPE Journalism Fellowship? Eligible candidates can apply through the online application portal, Submittable: Apply Now