2026 National Hearst Journalism Fellowship Program

Job Description

Hearst Newspapers Journalism Fellowship

Duration: 2 Years Location: Rotations in San Francisco, Houston, San Antonio, Albany, or Connecticut

Deadline to Apply: January 5, 2026

Are you ready to launch your journalism career with one of the most respected names in media?

The Hearst Journalism Fellowship is a prestigious, full-time, two-year opportunity designed to catapult the next generation of journalists into impactful careers in today’s fast-changing digital landscape.

This isn’t just a foot in the door, it’s a front-row seat to the future of journalism.

What You’ll Experience

• Two immersive, 12-month rotations at leading Hearst newspapers—including the San Francisco Chronicle , Houston Chronicle , San Antonio Express-News , Albany Times Union , or one of our respected publications in Connecticut.
• Work alongside Pulitzer-winning journalists and newsroom leaders who are telling powerful stories with data, video, and AI-driven tools.
• Receive hands-on mentoring from seasoned editors and specialists who are invested in your growth.
• Access cutting-edge newsroom tech and training in digital reporting, investigative journalism, breaking news, and audience engagement.
  
  
  

What’s In It For You

• Full-time employment with a competitive salary and benefits from day one
• Health insurance, relocation allowance, and housing stipend (depending on location)
• Personalized career development plans, mentorship, and peer networking across our national newsroom network
• The opportunity to turn your Fellowship into a long-term journalism career with Hearst Newspapers (many of our Fellows do!)
  
  
  

Who We’re Looking For

We’re seeking bold, curious, and digitally savvy storytellers with a passion for public service journalism. You might be a reporter, digital producer, data journalist, visual storyteller, or multimedia creator.

Ideal candidates will:

• Be recent college grads or early-career journalists
• Have a background or demonstrated interest in journalism or related fields
• Be eager to relocate and take on new beats in multiple cities
• Bring a hunger to learn, create, and lead in a modern newsroom environment
  
  
  

How To Apply

Please submit the following in PDF format:

• Resume (1 page) – Include major/minor, graduation date, contact info, and social handles
• Work Samples (1 page with clickable links)
• Cover Letter (max 2 pages) – Tell us why you should be our next Fellow
• Three Professional References – Names, titles, emails, and phone numbers
• Two Letters of Recommendation – Sent directly to: fellowships@hearstnp.com
  
  
  

Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. for the full two-year duration.

We are unable to sponsor work visas for this program.

Deadline to Apply: January 5, 2026

About Hearst Newspapers

With 24 daily and 52 weekly newspapers across the U.S.—including the San Francisco Chronicle , Houston Chronicle , and Albany Times Union —Hearst Newspapers is one of the nation’s most influential media networks. We are investing boldly in the future of news—through digital innovation, community journalism, and the talent of storytellers like you.

This is more than a fellowship. It’s your launchpad.

Join us and shape the future of journalism.

• Learn more at hearstfellowships.com