Journalism, MA

The MA in Journalism program merges fundamentals of journalism with training in cutting-edge digital tools and techniques. A top-50 research university, Northeastern offers a distinctive blend of intellectual rigor and experiential education, most notably through our renowned cooperative education program, which students come from around the world to access.

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The Master of Arts in Journalism program combines foundational reporting skills with digital media expertise in an intimate, mentorship-driven environment. Students develop professional capabilities through hands-on courses in news writing, investigative techniques and multimedia storytelling, guided by Pulitzer Prize-winning faculty. Based in Boston’s dynamic media landscape, the program offers co-op opportunities with leading news and media organizations and experiential learning at in-house publications including The Scope covering Boston social justice movements, Storybench exploring digital storytelling futures and Global Observer offering international student perspectives on news.

The 36-credit curriculum features a structured study plan including Enterprise Reporting, Digital Journalism Fundamentals, Media Ethics and specialized electives. The program is typically completed in three semesters with scholarship and assistantship opportunities available.

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Deadlines + Requirements

Scholarships + Assistantships

 

Learning Outcomes

  1. Describe, analyze, and critique the role of Journalism in a democracy (1st Amendment).
  2. Gather and use data for reporting & analysis.
  3. Collaborate with other news professionals in writing & production of news.
  4. Report & produce a story across a range of media.
  5. Identify patterns in media innovation & the evolving business dynamics of Journalism.
  6. Write focused, organized, literate, and accurate narratives using AP Style; when appropriate.
  7. Critically analyze visual information.
  8. Understand and apply ethical standards of Journalism.

Degree

Master of Arts

Credits

36

Duration

1.5 Years

Location

Boston

Format

In-person

 

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Uniting proven journalism with emerging technologies

The MA in Journalism program is specifically designed for students with little or no journalism experience. Students can complement their academic study with a six-month co-op assignment at a media organization, providing valuable real-world experience that bridges classroom learning with professional practice. 

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Course Catalog

Sample Plan of Study

Student-Run Publications + Platforms

Students gain hands-on experience producing in-house publications including The Scope, Storybench and Global Observer.

Professional Writing + Standards

Students learn to write focused, accurate narratives using AP Style while understanding and applying journalism's ethical standards.

Data Analysis + Multimedia Production

The curriculum teaches students to gather and analyze data for reporting while producing stories across multiple media platforms and critically analyzing visual information.

Industry Collaboration + Innovation

Students collaborate with news professionals in writing and production while identifying patterns in media innovation and evolving business dynamics of journalism.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Master of Arts in Journalism are shaping the future of news across print, digital, and multimedia platforms. They bring together reporting skills, creative storytelling instincts, and a deep commitment to ethical journalism that informs and empowers communities. Through mentorship from award-winning faculty and opportunities to publish in professional outlets, students build a foundation in both traditional and emerging media practices. Whether reporting breaking news, producing immersive video stories or using data to uncover new insights, they are creating impactful journalism that connects people to the world around them. 

Our program prepares students for careers such as: 

  • Reporters  
  • Editors  
  • Authors 
  • News Analysts 
  • Production Editors  

Industries where our students work include: 

  • Media and Publishing 
  • News 
  • Broadcasting 
  • Entertainment  
  • Public Relations 
  • Business 

Students

The Master of Arts in Journalism draws aspiring journalists and media professionals who want to master both traditional reporting skills and cutting edge digital storytelling techniques. Students benefit from mentor-driven learning in Boston’s vibrant media landscape.  

After graduation, our alumni have gone on to roles including: 

  • The Washington Post (Graphics Journalist) 
  • Los Angeles Times (Data and Graphics Journalist) 
  • The Guardian (Production Editor) 
  • Boston Globe Media (Writer) 
  • Wall Street Journal (Columnist) 

Journalism

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