MSc Computational and Data Journalism

This programme allows you to dive into the most current and complex areas of the field, from artificial intelligence and data science to cybersecurity and human-centred computing. You'll be based in the Abacws building, our stunning new £45.5 million home for the School of Computer Science and Informatics, which is purpose-built to foster collaboration and provide a world-class environment for innovation and hands-on experimentation.

Your learning is built around applying advanced theory to solve real-world problems, supported by exceptional resources:

• State-of-the-Art Specialist Laboratories: You will have direct access to our suite of specialist labs within the Abacws building. This includes the Data Science Lab, the Cyber Security Lab with its isolated network for ethical hacking and digital forensics work, and the Human-Centred Computing Lab for practical work in UX and interactive systems.

• Industry-Standard & Research Software: You will gain hands-on experience with the tools that drive innovation. This includes data science and deep learning platforms like Python with TensorFlow and PyTorch, big data tools like Apache Spark, and professional environments for software engineering, simulation, and secure systems development.

• Research-Led Teaching & Group Projects: You'll be taught by active researchers from groups like the Artificial Intelligence Research Group and the Security, Privacy and Human-Centred Computing Research Group. A core part of your experience will involve collaborative projects, tackling challenges that mirror the cutting-edge work happening in our research centres.

• Substantial Individual MSc Project: The programme culminates in a significant individual research project. This is your opportunity to work deeply on a specialist topic of your choice, often supervised by one of our research experts, to create a substantial and impressive piece of work for your professional portfolio.

• High-Performance Computing (HPC) Resources: For projects requiring significant computational power, such as processing large datasets or running complex simulations, you will have access to the University's Advanced Research Computing (ARCCA) facilities, including the supercomputer Hawk.

Graduates of Cardiff University's MSc Computational and Data Journalism program gain specialized skills at the intersection of journalism, data science, and computing, preparing them for careers as Data Journalists, Investigative Reporters, Digital Content Producers, and Newsroom Developers. The multidisciplinary nature of the course ensures graduates are equipped to meet the growing demand for data-driven storytelling in media and communication sectors:

• Cardiff University’s Careers and Employability Service provides focused support including personalized career coaching, internship sourcing, networking events, and links to leading media organizations such as BBC, The Washington Post, and The Financial Times where alumni have found roles.

• Employment outcomes reflect strong demand for graduates with combined journalism and computational skills, with competitive salaries for roles in digital media, investigative reporting, and data analysis.

• The program collaborates with industry leaders and investigative journalism bodies, offering students opportunities to work on live projects and gain exposure to cutting-edge newsroom technologies.

• The degree benefits from long-term academic and professional accreditation standing, enhancing its value for career advancement in journalism and media industries.

• Graduates typically secure roles within national and international media outlets, NGOs, investigative journalism groups, and digital communication firms.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates may pursue doctoral research (PhD) in computational journalism, media studies, or digital communication technologies, or undertake specialized professional training in data analytics, machine learning, or digital media production to further career prospects in academia or industry.