Knight-Bagehot program accepting applications

The Knight-Bagehot program, which trains journalists to cover business and economics, at Columbia University’s School of Journalism is now accepting applications.

The fellowship is open to full-time editorial employees of newspapers, magazines, wire services, and broadcast news organizations as well as to freelance journalists. Applicants must have at least four years’ experience. There are no academic prerequisites. Though some attempt is made to achieve a diversity of backgrounds, the affiliation of applicants is not a factor in the selection process. Journalists from nationally known organizations are not given preference over those from smaller regional media.

The chief criterion for selection is demonstrated journalistic excellence. While essays and letters of recommendation are important parts of the application, the greatest weight is given to work samples. Clippings and tapes need not cover business subjects, and applicants do not have to be business specialists.

The program permits fellows to make whatever arrangements are deemed appropriate. Though applicants’ employers, except under unusual circumstances, should submit a letter supporting the application, applicants are not required to obtain formal employer approval. While the program recognizes fellows’ desire to advance their careers, it urges them to return to their current employers at the end of their year at Columbia.

Fellowships are announced by May 1. The number of fellowships awarded each year, as well as the level of the living-expenses stipend, is determined by the program’s financial resources. For the academic year, which begins mid-August 2011 and ends late May 2012, we anticipate awarding nine fellowships with a stipend of $50,000 each.

To apply, go here. The deadline is March 1.