About

History

IPJ Class of 2010 on graduation day

The Institute on Political Journalism (IPJ) was established in 1985 to ensure that future journalists apply basic ethical principles to their reporting and have the tools to accurately cover issues involving economic concepts and free market principles. Over 1,600 students have graduated from IPJ and have gone on to work in every major media market in the country.

The quality of public discourse in a free society depends heavily on the accuracy of information provided by the news media. IPJ explores the practical and theoretical questions surrounding journalism in the world of politics. Students examine the basic free-market economic principles to better cover the news and discuss the major ethical issues that threaten the practice of political journalism. This mission is accomplished through classes, an internship experience and a variety of leadership and networking activities including guest lectures, site briefings and panel discussions.

The Fund for American Studies (TFAS) was founded in 1967 to help instill in young people an appreciation for the American form of government and the free enterprise system. TFAS sponsors thirteen Institutes that teach college students about the principles and values upon which the United States was founded.

“My experience with IPJ was the best of my life. I know now that throughout my career I will always say that it all started with TFAS!”
Andrea Masenda
Tyler Junior College
Intern, The World & I Online

“There are few programs that can inspire and engage aspiring journalists quite like the Institute on Political Journalism."
David Muir, IPJ ’93,
ABC News Word New Tonight weekend anchor