Dr. Amara Aguilar

Professor

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Biography

Amara Aguilar is a professor of journalism at the USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. She centers her work around emerging technology, visual journalism, and design while focusing on engaging Latinx audiences and diverse communities. Aguilar teaches courses on mobile journalism, storytelling for Latinx audiences, public relations strategy, and interactive design. She co-founded Dímelo, Annenberg Media’s award-winning bilingual outlet that serves Latinx audiences. With experience as a designer, visual journalist, and engagement producer, she has contributed to media outlets like CNN and NiemanLab. Aguilar has also conducted digital journalism training for organizations such as the Associated Press, ABC News, and the National Football League. Her contributions have garnered her several accolades including the Online News Association Challenge Fund Grant for Innovation in Education in 2020 and recognition as a top innovative journalism educator by MediaShift in 2018. She earned her doctorate from USC’s Rossier School of Education, focusing on organizational change and leadership. Currently, she is examining the state of Latinas in journalism and writing a book centered on Latinx storytelling.

Research Interests

Awards

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Online News Association Challenge Fund Winner

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TOW Knight Disruptive Educator

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MediaShift’s Top Innovative Journalism Educator

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Scripps Howard Foundation-AEJMC Visiting Fellow

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Apple Distinguished Educator

Courses

JOUR 464: Experimental Journalism Latin America JOUR 490x: Directed Research JOUR 590: Directed Research

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:100
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree
Application Checklist
  • Resume
  • Personal Statement
  • Writing Sample/Journalism Portfolio
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Kira Talent Video Interview
  • Official transcripts
Specialization Notes

GRE is not required for Summer 2026 admission.