Journalism

The Bachelor of Journalism at Monash University provides students with comprehensive training in the fundamental principles and practices of journalism, equipping them with the skills necessary to excel in the dynamic media industry. This program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, ethical reporting, and effective storytelling across various platforms including print, broadcast, and digital media. Students will engage with a diverse curriculum that covers news writing, editing, multimedia production, media law and ethics, and investigative journalism, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the responsibilities and challenges of journalists today. Through a combination of theoretical modules and practical work, learners will gain hands-on experience in reporting, interviewing, and producing high-quality content suitable for different audiences and formats. The program also offers opportunities for industry placements, internships, and collaborations with media outlets, enabling students to build professional networks and apply their skills in real-world scenarios. With faculty comprising experienced journalists and media professionals, students are mentored in investigative techniques, data journalism, and digital storytelling, preparing them for careers in national and international media organizations, online news platforms, broadcasting companies, and more. Graduates of the Bachelor of Journalism will be equipped to contribute to the free flow of information and uphold journalistic integrity in a rapidly changing global landscape. Monash University’s strong emphasis on ethical reporting and social responsibility ensures that students are not only proficient in journalistic skills but also conscious of the significant societal impact of their work. This program is ideal for individuals passionate about informing the public, engaging with current issues, and making a meaningful difference through the power of the media.

The course is structured in three parts: Part A. Foundations for advanced journalism studies, Part B. Core master's study and Part C. Advanced expertise. All students complete Part B. Depending upon prior qualifications, you may receive credit for Part A or Part C or a combination of the two.

Note that if you are eligible for credit for prior studies you may elect not to receive the credit.

Part A. Foundations for advanced journalism studies (24 points)

These studies will introduce you to journalism studies at advanced undergraduate or graduate level. They are intended for students whose previous qualification is not in a cognate field.

Part B. Core master's study (48 points)

These studies draw on best practices within the broad realm of journalism studies. Through a combination of academic and practice-based work, students gain a solid foundation in all production technologies - print, video, radio and online - in metropolitan, regional and international contexts.

Part C. Advanced expertise (24 points)

The focus of these studies is professional or scholarly work that can contribute to a portfolio of professional development. You have two options:

• a program of coursework study where you select the units to suit your own interests. This option includes the opportunity to undertake an internship in the field.
• a 24 point research thesis. Students wishing to use this master's course as a pathway to a higher degree by research should take this second option.

Students admitted to the course, who have a recognised honours degree in a cognate discipline including humanities or social sciences, will receive credit for Part C, however, should they wish to complete a 24 point research project as part of the course they should consult with the course coordinator.

Requirements

The course comprises 96 points structured into three parts: Part A. Foundations for advanced journalism studies (24 points), Part B. Core master's study (48 points) and Part C. Advanced expertise (24 points).

Depending on prior qualifications you may receive entry level credit (a form of block credit) which determines your point of entry to the course:

• Students admitted at entry level 1 complete 96 points, comprising Part A, Part B and Part C.
• Students admitted at entry level 2 complete 72 points, comprising Part B and Part C.
• Students admitted at entry level 3 complete 48 points, comprising Part B.

Note: Students eligible for credit for prior studies may elect not to receive the credit and complete one of the higher credit-point options. Such students should consult the course coordinator about appropriate units to complete since those listed in Part A(a) may not be appropriate.

All students must complete a minimum of 48 credit points at level 5 and a maximum of 24 points at level 2 or 3 for entry point 1. Unless otherwise stated, units with codes beginning with 2 or 3 are 6 points, and units with codes beginning with a 5 are 12 points.

Part A. Foundations for advanced journalism studies (24 points)

Students complete:

a. Two 6 point units (12 points) from the following, taken during the first full time equivalent year of study:

• ATS2324 Climate change communication
• ATS2490 Advanced professional writing
• ATS2395 Australia in a globalising world
• ATS2693 Politics and the media
• MGF5991 Professional development - Career dynamics
• ATS2784 News and power
• ATS2787 Digital storytelling
• ATS3265 Broadcast studio journalism
• ATS3645 Journalism and global change
• ATS2087 Lifestyle journalism
• ATS2169 Photojournalism
• ATS2255 Smartphone journalism
• ATS2647 Journalism: War, crime and trauma
• ATS2788 Audio storytelling
• ATS2790 Feature writing
• ATS2791 Editing and design
• ATS3113 Reporting the Arts circuit
• ATS3789 Video journalism
• ATS3802 Journalism practice and discourse
• ATS3808 Investigative reporting

b. One unit (12 points) from the electives listed in Part C

Part B. Core master's study (48 points)

Students complete:

a. The following two units (24 points):

• APG5095 Research and writing
• APG5640 Journalism in society

b. Two capstone units (24 points) chosen from the following:

• APG5044 Professional internship
• APG5135 Video journalism
• APG5182 Digital management and production
• APG5547 Studio production
• APG5856 Research project*

* Students electing to take the research thesis option and APG5856 should consult with the course coordinator.

Part C. Advanced expertise (24 points)

Students complete either a. or b. below.

a. The following unit/s:

• APG5848 Research thesis (24 points) or APG5849 Research thesis A (12 points) and APG5850 Research thesis B (12 points)**

** Students admitted to the course at entry level 3 who wish to complete a 24 point research thesis should consult with the course coordinator.

b. Two elective units (24 points) from the following:

• APG5099 Media innovation
• APG5184 Video-making as research
• APG5190 Global journalism: Hong Kong field school
• APG5642 Investigative journalism
• APG5653 Journalism futures: New York field school
• APG5752 Field trip in media and communications
• APG5782 Film festival study tour
• a capstone unit not already completed in Part B

Qualifications

Depending on prior qualifications:

English entry requirements

• IELTS: 7.0 overall (no band lower than 6.5); or
• TOEFL Paper-based test: 587 with a TWE of 4.5; or
• TOEFL Internet-based test: score of 94 overall with minimum scores: Writing: 24, Listening: 20, Reading: 19 and Speaking: 20.

The Bachelor of Journalism at Monash University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Domestic students can access government funding schemes such as the Higher Education Loan Program (HELP), which includes the HECS-HELP, FEE-HELP, and other loans designed to assist with tuition fees. These schemes enable eligible students to defer the payment of their tuition fees until they are earning a sufficient income. International students, on the other hand, are responsible for paying tuition fees upfront or through approved payment plans, as government assistance schemes are not available to them.

Monash University provides various scholarships for both domestic and international students to help reduce financial burdens. Scholarships may be based on academic excellence, financial need, or other criteria, and can cover partial or full tuition fees, living expenses, or study materials. The university’s scholarship portal is regularly updated with new opportunities, and students are encouraged to apply early for available funding.

Additionally, students may consider external funding options such as government or private grants, sponsorships, and lending programs offered by banks or financial institutions. Part-time work opportunities on campus or in the surrounding community may also assist students in managing their living expenses while studying. The university’s Career and Employment Services provide guidance on employment options, resume preparation, and interview techniques, aimed at helping students balance work and study effectively.

Students should also explore external crowdfunding, family support, or specific industry-related grants that may be available in their home country or region. The cost of studying at Monash for a Bachelor of Journalism varies depending on the student’s residency status, chosen coursework, and other personal factors. It is important for prospective and current students to consult the university’s financial services and student support offices to obtain detailed and personalized information on available financing options, payment deadlines, and resources for financial aid application procedures. Monash University remains committed to supporting students financially by offering flexible solutions and a comprehensive range of scholarships and grants.

The Bachelor of Arts in Journalism at Monash University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required for a successful career in the media industry. The program focuses on developing critical thinking, ethical understanding, and practical abilities in news reporting, multimedia storytelling, and media production. Students are introduced to the core principles of journalism, including news writing, editing, interviewing, and the use of digital technologies. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with hands-on experience, allowing students to apply their learning in real-world contexts through internships, industry projects, and media simulations. Monash University emphasizes a global perspective and ethical practice in journalism, preparing students to work effectively across diverse cultural and societal contexts. Throughout the degree, students can choose from a range of elective units to specialize in areas such as investigative journalism, digital media, broadcasting, or international reporting. The program encourages critical engagement with contemporary issues facing the media industry, including the impact of social media, misinformation, and digital transformation. Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Journalism have gone on to work in various sectors, including traditional news outlets, digital media companies, public relations, and communications agencies. The program maintains strong links with industry professionals and media organizations, providing networking opportunities and placements that enhance employability. Overall, this degree aims to produce versatile, ethical, and innovative journalists capable of contributing to a dynamic and evolving media landscape worldwide.