The Master of Arts degree program provides students with the exciting opportunity to acquire lifelong skills and knowledge as critical thinkers, excellent writers, and visual communicators in preparation for journalism careers in new media technologies and traditional mass media anywhere in the world. It provides flexibility to adapt to the needs of individuals for advanced study or for those without prior media experience or journalism education. It also encourages students to gain expertise in an area of study outside journalism that coincides with their future goals.

The program appeals to applicants who seek employment in related areas of innovative journalism including mobile or online media, radio and TV news, documentaries, newspapers, magazines, photojournalism and other visual communication, media management, public relations, and journalism for domestic or international markets. It serves applicants who seek fundamental, advanced and specialized courses in journalism and related fields, who wish to pursue doctoral study, who are professional journalists planning to advance in the industry, and those who will seek opportunities in fields such as environmental journalism and teaching.

The Master of Arts Degree program in Journalism is available under either Plan A (with thesis), usually for those who plan a career in research or to pursue doctoral study, or Plan B (without thesis), usually for those who seek a professional career in journalism or a related area. Students work closely with an academic advisor to successfully complete a program plan for this master’s degree.

In addition to the requirements of the University and of the College of Communication Arts and Sciences, students must meet the requirements specified below.

Admission

In addition to meeting the established standards required for admission to graduate study in the college, applicants for admission are asked to provide the Journalism Graduate Committee with the following:

1. An official transcript of all undergraduate and graduate work.
2. Three letters of recommendation from persons who are familiar with the applicant's academic and professional work.
3. Scores on the General Test of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).
4. A 750–word autobiography.
5. A 1000–word statement of goals for the master's degree.

Requirements for the Master of Arts Degree in Journalism