Dr. Christina Bellantoni

Professor

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Biography

Christina Bellantoni is a Professor of Professional Practice and the Director of the USC Annenberg Media Center. With over 20 years of experience as a political journalist, she has served in various high-profile roles, including as the editor-in-chief of Roll Call and an on-air analyst for PBS NewsHour. Bellantoni has covered local, state, and federal government for multiple platforms, providing insights during four presidential campaigns and contributing to major news outlets such as CNN, NPR, and MSNBC. A fellow at Harvard Kennedy School’s Institute of Politics, she was also vice president of the Washington Press Club Foundation. Recognized for her innovative coverage, Bellantoni's California politics team earned statewide accolades. Throughout her career, she has been actively involved in leadership and diversity initiatives, focusing on digital media and media literacy. As a faculty fellow within the Communication Leadership Policy, she continues to engage in research while mentoring the next generation of journalists.

Research Interests

Experience

Director

2015-08-01 — Present

USC Annenberg Media Center • Los Angeles, CA

Leads the student newsroom and oversees student works while offering lessons from a long career in journalism.

Political Editor

2003-01-01 — 2015-07-31

Roll Call • Washington, D.C.

Managed political coverage and served as editor-in-chief, gaining recognition for innovative reporting.

Awards

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Pulitzer Prize

2015-04-01
#

1st Place Maryland Delaware DC Press Association

2014-01-01
#

National Breaking News Award

2000-01-01

Courses

JOUR 207: Reporting Writing JOUR 210x: Basics News Production Non-Majors JOUR 414: Advanced Digital Media Storytelling JOUR 448: Government public affairs reporting 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.