Master of International Journalism

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Melbourne

Program Overview

The Master of International Journalism at the University of Melbourne is designed for aspiring journalists who want to make a global impact through their storytelling. This program is perfect for those who are passionate about current affairs and wish to develop their skills in a diverse and dynamic environment, preparing them for a successful career in international journalism.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1

In the first year, students develop core international journalism skills through subjects such as International Journalism – Key Skills, International Traditions in Journalism, International Business Journalism, Photojournalism, Audio Journalism, Video Journalism, and New Media Storytelling. The focus is on news gathering, writing, multimedia production and understanding journalism across different cultures and media systems.

Year 2

In the second year, students deepen their professional skills through subjects such as Investigative Journalism, Newsroom-Applied Professional Practice, and advanced electives. Students can also undertake a Journalism Project, Internship or Journalism Thesis, providing opportunities to apply their skills in an international professional or research setting.

Focus Areas: Investigative Journalism, Digital Media, International Reporting

Learning Outcomes: Critical thinking, ethical journalism practices, multimedia storytelling, and cross-cultural communication skills

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is aligned with industry standards and is recognized by leading journalism organizations, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Melbourne consistently ranks among the top universities globally, with high employability rankings in journalism and media studies, as recognized by QS and The Guardian.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Melbourne, the Master of International Journalism program is designed to immerse students in real-world experiences that enhance their practical skills and prepare them for a successful career in journalism. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through various projects, internships, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Students will have the opportunity to work with industry-standard tools and collaborate with peers on impactful journalism projects.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Master of International Journalism program:

- Industry Partnerships: Collaborate with leading media organizations through internships and projects, gaining invaluable insights and experience.
- Multimedia Production Facilities: Access to cutting-edge studios and equipment for video, audio, and digital journalism, allowing you to create high-quality content.
- Digital Tools: Utilize industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite for editing and production, as well as data journalism tools to enhance your reporting skills.
- Field Trips: Participate in excursions to media organizations and events, providing firsthand exposure to the journalism industry and networking opportunities.
- Group Projects: Engage in collaborative projects that simulate real-world newsroom environments, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
- Research Laboratories: Access dedicated spaces for research and innovation in journalism, where you can explore new media trends and technologies.
- Libraries and Resources: Benefit from extensive library resources, including access to databases, archives, and journals that support your research and learning.
- Guest Lectures and Workshops: Attend sessions led by industry professionals, offering insights into current trends and practices in international journalism.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Master of International Journalism at the University of Melbourne equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a dynamic media landscape. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as international correspondent, multimedia journalist, and media consultant, where they can make a significant impact on global storytelling and communication.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and future opportunities:

- University Services: The University of Melbourne offers dedicated career services, including personalized career coaching, workshops, and networking events that connect students with industry professionals.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: The university boasts a high employment rate for graduates, with many securing roles within six months of graduation. The average salary for journalism graduates can range from AUD 60,000 to AUD 80,000, depending on the role and experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The university has strong ties with leading media organizations, such as the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) and News Corp, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The Master of International Journalism is recognized globally, ensuring that your qualification holds value in various international markets.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths, with many going on to work in prestigious media outlets, NGOs, and international organizations.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Master of International Journalism, you may choose to pursue a PhD in Media Studies or Communication, allowing you to delve deeper into research and contribute to academic discourse in the field. Additionally, you could explore specialized certifications or short courses in areas like digital media or data journalism to further enhance your expertise and career prospects.

Additional Information & Requirements

Have completed a bachelor degree (AQF7) in any discipline with a weighted average mark (WAM) of 65%, or equivalent.
The Master of International Journalism is a 200-point program (2 years full-time), with a 150-point option (1.5 years) for applicants with a relevant AQF 7 Bachelor degree (65% WAM), or AQF 7 degree + relevant AQF 8 Graduate Certificate (65% WAM), or AQF 7 degree (65% WAM) + 2 years relevant work experience.
The Master of International Journalism is a 200-point program (2 years full-time), with a 100-point option (1 year) for applicants with a relevant AQF 8 Honours degree (65% WAM) or AQF 7 Bachelor degree (65% WAM) plus 2 years relevant work experience.
Cognate (relevant) disciplines include: Journalism, Political Science, Media and/or Communications, Broadcasting and TV Hosting, Radio and Television Science, Digital Media, Professional Writing, Network and New Media, Creative Writing.
Professional experience relevant to this course may include roles in journalism.
IELTS Academic: Overall 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in Writing, Speaking, Reading and Listening. Or TOEFL iBT: Overall 81, with a minimum of 19 in Writing and Speaking, and 16 in Reading and Listening.
Campus Location: University of Melbourne, Parkville Campus, Grattan Street, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia.
CSPs are university places subsidised by the Australian Government. Generally, Commonwealth supported students are still required to pay a discipline-based Student contribution amount (17,399).