Media Now is a summer journalism camp held on the Drake University campus in Des Moines, Iowa, now in its second decade.
Students and advisers pick one track — such as writing, photography, video, design, social media or yearbook — and spend three nights and four days on hands-on projects, local newsroom visits and a closing awards ceremony.
Benefits & funding
- Fee covers meals, a shared dorm room, instruction and field trips: US$465 early bird, US$575 regular, US$650 late.
- Full-ride scholarships are offered (up to six in past years).
- Optional round-trip bus from the St. Louis area: US$65.
- Partial refunds until May 31; none from June 1.
Eligibility
- Students entering 9th grade through graduating 12th grade; journalism advisers may also attend.
- Individuals and whole school staffs both welcome.
- No nationality or residence rule is stated.
- Campers must stay on campus for the whole camp.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
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Education required
High School
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Application process
- 1Register on the Media Now site once registration opens (it reads “coming soon” for 2027); the price rises from early bird to regular to late.
- 2For a scholarship, submit a 250–300-word essay during the scholarship window (typically February–April).
Program timeline
2026 application deadline (DJNF directory; passed)
Jun 11, 2026
2026 camp (DJNF directory)
Jul 7, 2026 to 07-10
scholarship window (typical)
February–April 2027
2027 camp (Media Now site)
Jul 6, 2027 to 07-09