International Journalism Studies

The MA in International Journalism Studies (MAIJS) Programme provides professional postgraduate studies in international journalism with a particular emphasis on Hong Kong, mainland China and East/Southeast Asia. Launched in 2007, the programme has become known as an excellent preparation for a career in the news media, especially in the fields of international journalism and business and financial journalism.
Specifically, the Programme aims to:

1. provide an opportunity for mid-career journalists to reflect on their profession and develop their conceptual and analytical skills to inform their work;
2. provide the basis for a future career in journalism, particularly in the international field;
3. provide a scholarly introduction to the field of study for those contemplating further research for academic, professional or personal reasons; and
4. bring together a group of students who can contribute different perspectives on the field of study.

There are two concentrations in the programme: International Journalism & Business and Financial Journalism.
The International Journalism concentration aims to cultivate journalism professionals with an in-depth understanding of international politics, economy and culture, and equip them with the necessary skills to operate in English in covering international news.
The Business and Financial Journalism concentration aims to accommodate students with or without previous experience working in or studying business and economics. Students not only learn how companies and markets function, but are also taught the skills of writing and reporting business and financial news for daily newspapers, business journals and financial websites.

Academic Qualification

Applicants should:

1. hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised university or comparable institution; or
2. have at least seven years’ experience as a journalist or in another related profession that, in the view of the Department, constitutes a level equivalent to a first degree in courses relevant to the MA programme, and must show evidence of academic aptitude and achievement.

Language Proficiency Requirement

Applicants should be able to communicate in English at an advanced level, possessing one or more of the following qualifications:

1. a minimum score of 550 (paper-based) or 79 (internet-based) in TOEFL; or
2. a band score of 6.5 or above in IELTS; or
3. an equivalent qualification.

Others

Applicants should submit a 500-word self-statement in English outlining their academic interests and objectives, or a sample of a piece of journalism or research paper or similar work written by the applicant in English.

The Government offers financial assistance in the form of non-means-tested loan to all students.  The beneficiaries are expected to repay their loans within a specified period after graduation. 
Scholarships are bestowed upon selected recipients including new students on the basis of academic merits and other criteria stipulated by the donors.