The document analyzes three graduate journalism programs for Amanda Hoffstrom to attend: Northwestern University, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. It summarizes the cost, location, reputation, and likelihood of admission for each program. The recommendation is for Amanda to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison, as it has the best combination of cost-effectiveness, reputation, and probability of admission given her academic background.

1. Choosing a Graduate Journalism Program Report by Brian Welshons

2. Overview Goal: To find the best graduate program to meet the needs of Amanda Hoffstrom. Possible Programs: Northwestern University, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Research : Performed interviews, researched program websites and other online research

3. Amanda Hoffstrom B.S. in Journalism from University of Wisconsin-Madison News Editor for Daily Cardinal and Student Editor for U-WIRE Named U-WIRE’s top 100 student journalists Interned at Minneapolis-St. Paul Magazine

4. Problem Statement Problem : Amanda Hoffstrom needs to receive comprehensive information from which to select a graduate school for journalism. Benefits of Proper Program : Maximized employment potential, improved job skills, and expanded opportunities Consequences of Improper Program : Unemployment, job dissatisfaction and lack of job-related skills

5. Northwestern University Combines existing knowledge with new technologies and media Program Focus Very Hard, Not Likely Ability to be Admitted Close to Chicago, Alumni are hired by top organizations across the nation Job Placement 3 rd Program Ranking Evanston, Illinois Location 1 year Program Length $9,240 +books Housing and Other Costs $43,096 Tuition

6. University of Wisconsin-Madison Teaching journalistic integrity given today’s journalism environment Program Focus Moderate, Very Likely Ability to be Admitted Close to Chicago, Minneapolis and Milwaukee. 24 Pulitzer Prize winners Job Placement Tied for 7th Program Ranking Madison, Wisconsin Location 3 semesters Program Length $12,852 Housing and Other Costs $17,004.24 Tuition

7. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities To prepare the student for a career in various communication industries Program Focus Moderate, Likely Ability to be Admitted Close ties to Minneapolis and Star Tribune and Pioneer Press Job Placement 15 th Program Ranking Minneapolis, Minnesota Location 3 Semesters Program Length $19,623 $4,023 if live at home Housing and Other Costs $18,420 Tuition

8. Summary Northwestern University is very good school but is too expensive and it is unlikely to be accepted. University of Minnesota is more affordable and in a large city but has the lowest reputation and lacks an impressive alumni University of Wisconsin is the most cost-effective, has a good reputation but isn’t in a large city.

9. Recommendation Recommendation University of Wisconsin-Madison Reasons Cost-effective Thorough education that would meet her goals Program has a good reputation High probability of being accepted given her academic background