Welcome to the Journalism Studies Division of ICA
76th Annual ICA Conference
Date: 4-8 June 2026
Location: Cape Town, South Africa, Cape Town International Convention Center
The Journalism Studies Division of the International Communication Association (ICA) is dedicated to advancing journalism theory, research, and professional education. The division welcomes a wide range of theoretical, epistemological, and methodological approaches, all united by a shared interest in understanding how journalism works across diverse temporal and geographic contexts.
Our aim is to enhance existing knowledge of journalism while fostering greater coherence among research paradigms. By supporting empirical inquiry and promoting dialogue across different academic approaches, the division contributes to the continued professionalization of journalism studies and journalism education. It serves as a vibrant intellectual hub—a clearinghouse for scholarship on journalism—where scholars can engage, collaborate, and exchange ideas.
With more than 700 members from around the world, the division brings together a diverse and dynamic community of researchers and thinkers. At the annual ICA conference, we organize a wide range of initiatives, including paper sessions that facilitate rich scholarly exchange and our flagship PhD Colloquium, which provides an important space for doctoral students to network and engage with senior scholars.
The division is further dedicated to supporting scholars at different stages of their careers. Our mentorship program helps early-career researchers navigate the academic profession, while our matchmaking initiative encourages collaboration across countries, backgrounds, and research traditions. Beyond the conference, we host webinars open to both members and non-members, creating opportunities to share knowledge and broaden participation in journalism studies.
We are also committed to recognizing excellence within our community. Each year, the division honors outstanding contributions through awards for dissertations, books, journal articles, and public engagement initiatives, celebrating the achievements of our members and advancing the field of journalism studies.
Members receive regular newsletters featuring division updates, opportunities, and announcements from across our community. If you are not yet a member, we warmly invite you to join the ICA Journalism Studies Division and become part of this intellectually diverse, forward-looking community.
