University of Chicago Opens Applications for 2027 Journalists in Residence Program
Experienced journalists from around the world can apply for a 12-week program focused on political economy, business reporting and the relationship between politics and markets. The application deadline is September 20, 2026.
The Stigler Center for the Study of the Economy and the State at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business has opened applications for its Spring 2027 Journalists in Residence Program, an opportunity designed for journalists who want to deepen their understanding of political economy and strengthen their business reporting skills.
Launched in 2017, the program aims to help shape the next generation of leaders in business journalism while contributing to a better-informed public debate about the interaction between politics and the economy.
A transformative experience for journalists
The Stigler Center recognizes the important role journalists play in modern democracies by gathering, investigating and communicating information about markets, businesses, policymakers and other economic actors.
Selected participants will spend approximately 12 weeks on the University of Chicago’s Hyde Park campus in Chicago. During the residency, journalists will have the opportunity to:
- Audit university classes;
- Participate in Stigler Center events and activities;
- Collaborate with other journalists from around the world;
- Network with University of Chicago scholars;
- Expand their knowledge of political economy;
- Develop a deeper understanding of the forces shaping markets, business and public policy.
The program is intended for journalists working across different forms of media, including print, digital, television and radio.
Who can apply?
The Stigler Center encourages applications from journalists who have at least several years of professional experience, are proficient in English and have a strong interest in developing their knowledge and understanding of political economy.
The program is particularly relevant for journalists covering areas such as business, economics, politics, finance, public policy and markets.
What applicants need to submit
Applicants for the 2027 program must submit all required materials through the official online application portal.
The application package includes:
1. Curriculum vitae (CV)
Applicants must provide an up-to-date CV outlining their professional and educational background.
2. Personal statements
Applicants must explain their interest in the Journalists in Residence Program and describe their professional and learning goals.
3. Two letters of recommendation
Two recommendation letters are required. The letters must be submitted directly by the recommenders through a separate portal link provided to them during the application process.
Letters uploaded or submitted by the applicant on behalf of a recommender will not be accepted.
4. Three published news articles
Applicants must submit three examples of their published journalism.
If the articles were originally published in a language other than English, applicants must provide English translations together with the original articles.
Television and radio journalists can provide links to video or audio work in a PDF or Word document, accompanied by English transcriptions.
5. Proof of English proficiency, if applicable
Non-native English speakers are required to demonstrate English proficiency unless they obtained their undergraduate or graduate degree from a university where English was the primary language of instruction.
Examples of acceptable proof may include TOEFL, IELTS, SAT, ACT, Cambridge or Duolingo results, as well as other forms of recognized English-language certification.
Other possible evidence can include an English-equivalency diploma or certificate, professional experience in an English-speaking workplace, or a letter from an employer or manager confirming the applicant’s English-language abilities.
Important application requirement
The Stigler Center states that all application materials must be submitted through the official online application portal.
Materials sent by email, social media or other methods will not be considered.
Application deadline for Spring 2027
The deadline to apply for the Spring 2027 Journalists in Residence Program is:
September 20, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Central Time (Chicago).
Applicants can expect decisions to be announced by the end of December 2026.
The Spring 2027 residency is tentatively scheduled to take place from:
March 15 – May 31, 2027
An opportunity for journalists seeking international experience
For journalists looking to expand their international professional network and gain a stronger academic foundation in economics, business and political economy, the program offers an opportunity to spend several months at one of the world’s leading universities while working alongside journalists and scholars from different backgrounds.
The combination of academic courses, professional networking and exposure to research at the University of Chicago can provide participants with new perspectives for investigating complex economic and political issues.
How to apply
Applications for the 2027 Journalists in Residence Program are now open.
Application deadline: September 20, 2026
Apply for the 2027 Journalists in Residence Program
For program information and application requirements, visit the Stigler Center’s official Journalists in Residence Program page:
Stigler Center – Journalists in Residence Program
Questions about the application: stiglercenter@chicagobooth.edu
https://www.chicagobooth.edu/research/stigler/education/journalists-in-residence-program/jir-apply