International Journalism MA

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Leeds

Program Overview

The MA International Journalism at the University of Leeds equips you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to work as a journalist in today’s fast-changing global media landscape. You’ll learn how to research, report, write, and produce stories across multiple platforms, while exploring international media systems, ethics, and audience engagement. This program is perfect if you’re passionate about current affairs, storytelling, and making an impact through journalism on a global scale.

Curriculum Structure:

Core Modules:
You’ll start with essential modules that build the foundation for professional journalism. Global Journalism Studies gives you insights into media systems, international reporting standards, and cross-cultural reporting challenges. Multiplatform Journalism equips you with practical skills to produce stories for print, broadcast, and online platforms, including social media, podcasts, and video content.
Optional / Specialised Modules:
Depending on your interests, you can choose modules such as Investigative Journalism, Data Journalism, or Digital Media and Politics. These allow you to specialise in areas that align with your career goals, whether it’s uncovering corruption, analysing political trends, or mastering digital storytelling tools.
Dissertation / Major Project:
The course culminates in a major research or practical project where you can develop an in-depth investigation or produce a portfolio of professional-quality journalism. This is your chance to showcase your skills, creativity, and understanding of the global media landscape.
Practical Learning Opportunities:
Throughout the program, you’ll participate in workshops, live newsroom simulations, and field trips that mirror real-world journalism practice. You’ll also receive one-to-one feedback from experienced journalists, giving you hands-on guidance and professional insight.

Focus Areas:
International reporting, multimedia journalism, investigative journalism, audience engagement, media ethics, global media systems

Learning Outcomes:

Develop the ability to research, report, and produce news for multiple platforms
Understand global media systems and cross-cultural reporting challenges
Acquire practical skills in multimedia storytelling, data journalism, and investigative techniques
Demonstrate professional-level journalism skills through a dissertation or portfolio
Gain ethical awareness and critical thinking to navigate complex global stories

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
While the program doesn’t have a specific external accreditation, it is highly respected in the journalism and media sectors. Graduates are equipped to work in newsrooms, international media organisations, NGOs, communications agencies, or pursue further research in journalism and media studies.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
The University of Leeds is widely recognised for excellence in media and communications education. Graduates of this program have gone on to careers in international news organisations, digital media companies, and global communications roles, benefitting from Leeds’ strong industry links and practical focus.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MA International Journalism at the University of Leeds is all about learning by doing. You’ll move beyond the classroom to get hands-on experience in reporting, multimedia production, and global media practice. By the end of the programme, you’ll have both the knowledge and the practical skills to thrive in the fast-paced world of international journalism.

Here’s how the programme brings learning to life:

Helix Innovation Hub
Work in this cutting-edge facility equipped with multimedia studios, immersive technologies, and collaborative spaces where you can experiment with digital storytelling and bring your journalistic ideas to life.
Global Industry Programme
Take part in a two-week virtual work experience with a business or media organisation, gaining real-world consultancy experience and building valuable professional connections.
Specialist Media Facilities
Develop your skills in the digital media lab, radio studio, and TV studio, using industry-standard tools to create content and build a professional portfolio.
Research-Led Teaching
Learn from academics who are actively researching journalism today, making sure your projects and practice reflect the latest trends and debates in the field.
Dissertation Project
Undertake an independent research project on a topic of your choice, applying both your practical skills and analytical knowledge to make a meaningful contribution to the field.

With these experiences, you’ll graduate with not just academic understanding, but also real-world skills, professional exposure, and a strong network, ready to take on opportunities in journalism anywhere in the world.

Progression & Future Opportunities

University Services Supporting Employment:
- Careers Centre: Offers tailored career advice, CV workshops, and interview preparation.
- Global Industry Programme: A two-week virtual consultancy experience with businesses, enhancing employability skills.
- Helix Innovation Hub: Provides access to cutting-edge digital technologies and multimedia production studios for hands-on experience.
Employment Stats and Salary Figures:
- Leeds graduates enjoy a high employability rate, with many securing roles within six months of graduation.
- Early-career salaries typically range from £25,000–£30,000, with potential for growth as experience accumulates.
University–Industry Partnerships:
- Collaborations with organisations such as BBC, National Trust, Leeds Culture Partnership, and other media, cultural, and policy bodies provide real-world experience and networking opportunities.
Long-Term Accreditation Value:
- A degree from Leeds is internationally recognised, valued in Europe, North America, and Asia.
- The university’s strong reputation in humanities, social sciences, and creative industries enhances employability and credibility globally.
Graduation Outcomes:
- Alumni have progressed to influential roles in media, cultural organisations, policy-making bodies, NGOs, and research institutes.
- Many graduates also pursue international opportunities thanks to the global recognition of a Leeds degree.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MA International Journalism, graduates can pursue:

PhD Studies: Engage in doctoral research in areas like media studies, international relations, or digital communication.
Professional Development: Enhance expertise in areas such as data journalism, media law, or public relations through specialised training.
Interdisciplinary Programs: Explore courses that combine journalism with fields like technology, business, or political science to broaden career prospects.