Journalism

The Master of Science in Journalism at Columbia University offers a comprehensive and rigorous training program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic field of journalism. Building on Columbia's historic legacy as a leading institution for journalism education, this program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical expertise, preparing students to navigate an ever-evolving media landscape. Throughout the curriculum, students engage in a diverse range of coursework that covers core areas such as investigative reporting, data journalism, multimedia storytelling, ethics, and media law. They have opportunities to develop proficiency in various journalistic formats, including print, digital, broadcast, and online media, enabling them to produce compelling stories across multiple platforms.

The program emphasizes hands-on learning through workshops, newsroom simulations, and real-world reporting assignments, often in collaboration with prominent news organizations. Students benefit from the expertise of renowned faculty members who are active practitioners, industry experts, and scholars committed to excellence in journalism. Additionally, the program fosters a strong emphasis on diversity, accuracy, and accountability, cultivating a responsible approach to reporting that upholds the highest journalistic standards. As part of their studies, students are encouraged to explore emerging trends such as data visualization, mobile journalism, and social media engagement, ensuring they are well-prepared for the digital age.

Graduates of the program leave with a robust portfolio of published work, a deep understanding of the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists, and the analytical skills necessary to interpret complex information. They are equipped to work in various sectors, including news organizations, media companies, nonprofit advocacy groups, and digital startups. The Columbia Journalism School's extensive network provides students with valuable internship and employment opportunities, fostering professional growth and industry connections. With its combination of practical training, academic rigor, and emphasis on ethical responsibility, the Master of Science in Journalism at Columbia University aims to produce journalists who are not only skilled storytellers but also committed to informing the public and upholding the integrity of the news media.

Reporting

All M.S. students begin with the 11­-week Reporting course, which includes four weeks devoted to digital training and use of social media and digital news design to build and retain audience. Students learn the fundamental practices of journalism, including how to gather and evaluate information; how to interview sources; and how to write a compelling story.

Modules

All M.S. students select one seven­-week course in each of three modules:

• The Written Word: An opportunity to hone your writing skills. Choices include deadline, profiles and feature writing.
• Image and Sound Intensive: Skill development in video, audio, photography or data visualization.
• Investigative Techniques for Journalists: How to obtain and analyze public records and data; get information about individuals and groups using a variety of sources; use social media for reporting and verification; and evaluate scholarly literature.

Essentials
All M.S. students complete four short courses in journalism essentials: law, business, ethics and the history of journalism.

Spring Classes
The spring term allows students to take seminars or production classes in their areas of interest. Choices include Human Rights Reporting, Video Newsroom, Food Writing and Data Visualization. Explore the spring 2016 course offerings.

Master’s Project
All M.S. students complete a Master's Project that spans the autumn and spring terms (or the summer for part­-time students). The Master’s Project will test your ability to conduct and sustain in­-depth research, challenge you to gather and organize large amounts of material and train you to present this material in a clear and professional way.

The Master’s Project is your opportunity to practice the highest level of long­form reporting, writing and producing.

Fall

• Digital Media and Audience Engagement Intensive 
• Reporting 
• M.S. Essentials: Business, Ethics, History & Law
• Image & Sound or Investigative Techniques (you will take the other in the spring)
• Master's Project

Spring

• Seminar/Production Class #1
• Seminar/Production Class #2
• Image & Sound or Investigative Techniques (whichever you didn't take in the fall)
• Master's Project
• Optional: On-air Skills for Broadcast Journalists 

M.S. students may apply for the general M.S. degree program or may choose an area of specialization:

• Data Journalism Intensive training in data and computing to expand reporting techniques to find and tell new kinds of stories.
• Stabile Center for Investigative Journalism Rigorous focus on investigative reporting techniques and methods.
• The Documentary Program A full­-time third semester designed to train students in the art of documentary filmmaking.

Students accepted into one of the specialty areas take designated classes in their specialty areas in addition to the general M.S. curriculum.

Students applying to one of the specialty areas may opt to also be considered for acceptance into the general M.S. program if they are not accepted into the specialized program.

Requirements

• $100 nonrefundable application fee
• Official transcript(s) 
• Three letters of recommendation 
• Writing test
• Proof of English language proficiency (where applicable for non-native speakers of English)
• General essays on personal and professional interests
• Specialization essay (for applicants to Stabile investigative, documentary and data programs)
• Resume
• Journalistic or written work samples
• No GRE or other exams required except for in some dual degree programs

The Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism offers various financial support options to assist students in funding their education. While specific scholarships and fellowships vary from year to year, the school provides a range of merit-based awards, need-based fellowships, and external scholarship opportunities tailored to journalism students. Many students secure funding through these fellowships, which may cover partial or full tuition costs, and often include a stipend to support living expenses. Additionally, students are encouraged to explore external scholarships, grants, and assistantship opportunities offered by government agencies, foundations, and industry organizations dedicated to supporting future journalists. The university’s Financial Aid Office provides comprehensive guidance and resources to help applicants understand eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines for both institutional and external funding sources. Students are also advised to consider federal student aid programs, such as FAFSA, to access low-interest loans if necessary. The competitive nature of journalism funding means prospective students should prepare strong applications highlighting academic achievement, commitment to journalism, and financial need. Many students work part-time in related roles during their studies to support their finances, and the university’s location in New York City provides numerous professional opportunities for internships and part-time employment, which can further assist in funding their education. Overall, Columbia’s financial support programs are designed to make graduate journalism education accessible to a diverse group of students committed to advancing their careers in journalism.

The Journalism program at Columbia University is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the rapidly evolving field of journalism and media. It offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical foundations with practical skills, emphasizing the importance of ethical journalism, investigative reporting, multimedia storytelling, and digital communication. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities such as the journalism school’s media center, which includes editing suites, broadcast studios, and digital labs, enabling hands-on experience with the latest equipment and software. The program also fosters a global perspective, encouraging students to report on international issues through specialized courses and overseas reporting opportunities.

Columbia Journalism School offers various degree options, including the Master of Science (M.S.) in Journalism, which covers core areas like reporting, editing, data journalism, and broadcast journalism. The program is known for its rigorous admissions process, seeking candidates with strong academic backgrounds, professional experience, and a passion for storytelling. Faculty members are distinguished journalists, editors, and media scholars who bring real-world experience into the classroom, mentoring students as they develop their individual journalistic voices.

Students have opportunities to collaborate on campus media outlets such as Columbia Journalism Review, Columbia News, and student-run radio and television programs. The program emphasizes the importance of investigative journalism and ethical standards, preparing graduates to work in diverse media environments, including print, broadcast, digital, and nonprofit sectors. Additionally, students are encouraged to engage in internships with major news organizations in New York City and beyond, providing invaluable industry experience and professional networking opportunities.

Alumni of the program have gone on to work for leading media outlets such as The New York Times, NPR, BBC, and various international news agencies, demonstrating the program’s reputation for cultivating influential journalists. The Columbia Journalism School also offers specialized courses on topics like data-driven reporting, media law, public affairs, and multimedia storytelling, making it a comprehensive program for students interested in the multifaceted world of journalism. Students graduate with a strong portfolio of work and the professional skills necessary to adapt to the changing landscape of media and journalism careers.