Journalism
The Master of Science in Journalism offers an intensive and practice-focused curriculum for students who want to develop the reporting, analytical, and storytelling skills essential to modern media. The program integrates coursework in news writing, investigative reporting, media ethics, and digital journalism, helping learners understand how to gather information, verify sources, and produce accurate, impactful stories. Through newsroom simulations, case studies, and real-time editorial work, students explore how journalistic practices adapt to political, social, and technological change. This structure strengthens the ability to think critically, communicate clearly, and operate responsibly within the fast-paced world of news production.
Beyond the foundational elements of reporting, the program emphasizes hands-on experience through multimedia projects, field assignments, and collaborative work with professional journalists. Students develop competencies in interviewing, data journalism, visual storytelling, and cross-platform production as they create content for digital, broadcast, and print formats. Exposure to modern newsroom tools, media law, and audience engagement strategies further prepares learners to navigate evolving media landscapes. By combining theoretical insight with applied practice, the program equips graduates to contribute meaningful, trustworthy journalism across diverse media environments.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Journalism
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 07 February 2026
- Location: Northwestern University, United States
- Field of Study: Journalism
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Reporting Foundations, Multimedia Skills & Media Ethics
• News Writing and Reporting
• Multimedia Storytelling Techniques
• Media Law and Ethical Standards
• Interviewing, Fact-Checking and Verification
Semester 2 – Investigative Journalism, Data Reporting & Capstone
• Investigative Reporting Methods
• Data Journalism and Public Records Analysis
• Digital News Production and Editing
• Journalism Capstone Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for reporting, production, and editorial roles across media organizations that require strong storytelling and analytical skills. Many professionals work in newsrooms, digital media outlets, broadcast organizations, and investigative journalism units, contributing to daily reporting, long-form features, multimedia packages, and fact-based analyses. Responsibilities may include researching complex topics, conducting interviews, verifying public records, producing digital content, editing stories, and collaborating with editors to shape narrative direction. With strong preparation in multimedia skills and reporting accuracy, graduates are also suited for roles in documentary production, data-driven investigations, public affairs communication, and nonprofit media. The program further provides a foundation for freelance journalism and advanced media research.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for students who want to become versatile, ethical, and well-trained journalists capable of producing impactful stories across modern media platforms. Its curriculum emphasizes rigorous reporting, multimedia proficiency, and ethical decision-making, offering a structured path from foundational writing skills to advanced investigative work. The one-year design provides an immersive, newsroom-like experience supported by mentorship from experienced journalists, hands-on assignments, and a capstone project that showcases professional readiness. Students benefit from access to industry tools, real-world reporting opportunities, and collaborative editorial environments that strengthen both confidence and craft. For individuals aiming to shape public understanding through reliable and compelling journalism, this program delivers a focused and future-oriented academic journey.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 312 555 2040
Email: admissions@northwestern.edu
Address: University of Northwestern, 633 Clark Street, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
