MA in Journalism

2 Years Part Time Masters Program

University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

Program Overview

The Master of Arts in Journalism at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, offered through the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media, is an intensive one-year program designed for aspiring and early-career journalists seeking to strengthen their reporting, writing and multimedia storytelling skills. Students develop practical expertise in investigative reporting, public affairs, digital content production and emerging artificial intelligence technologies while learning to create impactful journalism that informs communities and strengthens public life.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1 – Summer Session II (June–July):

Students begin with MEJO 750: Fundamentals of Reporting, developing essential skills in news writing, beat reporting, feature writing and identifying newsworthy stories. They also study MEJO 741: Law, Ethics and Contemporary Issues, exploring media law, libel, copyright, First Amendment rights and ethical responsibilities in modern journalism.

Year 1 – Fall (August–December):

Students advance their professional reporting abilities through MEJO 751: Journalism Methods, focusing on interviewing, research, analytical thinking and effective news presentation. MEJO 758: Public Life Reporting introduces government structures, public policy and community issues, while MEJO 782: Digital Content Creation develops practical skills in video production, graphic design, data visualization, interactive media and web publishing.

Year 1 – Spring (January–May):

The spring semester strengthens advanced journalistic practice through MEJO 754: Advanced Reporting, where students gather information, conduct interviews, analyze data and produce long-form journalism. MEJO 756: Journalism and AI introduces practical artificial intelligence tools, techniques and ethical considerations, while two electives allow students to explore specialized journalism topics or complementary academic disciplines.

Year 1 – Summer Session I (May–June):

Students complete MEJO 992: Capstone Project, bringing together their reporting, writing and multimedia production abilities in a comprehensive journalism project. The final project combines long-form writing with additional storytelling formats such as video, audio, photography or interactive media, demonstrating their readiness for professional journalism careers.

Focus Areas:

News Reporting, Investigative Journalism, Public Affairs Reporting, Journalism Ethics and Law, Multimedia Storytelling, Digital Content Creation, Video Production, Data Visualization, Interactive Media, Artificial Intelligence in Journalism, Feature Writing, Public-Service Journalism.

Learning Outcomes:

Develop professional reporting and interviewing skills, produce compelling news and feature stories, apply journalistic ethics and legal principles, analyze public issues and government decisions, create multimedia content across digital platforms, use data visualization and interactive storytelling tools, evaluate AI applications in journalism, and complete an independent multiplatform journalism capstone project.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) and has maintained accreditation since 1958. In May 2024, ACEJMC unanimously voted to fully reaccredit the school, demonstrating its commitment to professional journalism education, academic quality and industry standards.

Reputation (Employability & Recognition):

UNC Hussman has a strong reputation for journalism education, supported by more than a century of academic experience and national recognition.

10 Hearst National Championships in collegiate journalism over the last 11 years.
15 consecutive years winning the most awards of any school in the Society for News Design International Student Competition.
3 Pulitzer Prizes won by UNC Hussman master's alumni, individually or as part of reporting teams, during the six-year period highlighted by the school.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the MA in Journalism program is designed to immerse students in hands-on experiences that prepare them for the dynamic world of media. Students gain practical skills through a combination of coursework, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities and tools. The program emphasizes real-world applications, ensuring that graduates are not only knowledgeable but also equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in various journalism careers.

Here are some key aspects of experiential learning in the MA in Journalism program:

- Multimedia Labs: Students have access to advanced multimedia labs equipped with the latest technology for video production, audio editing, and digital storytelling.
- Digital Tools: The program incorporates industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and Audition) and data visualization tools, enabling students to create compelling content.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a cornerstone of the curriculum, allowing students to work together on real-world journalism assignments, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
- Internships: The program encourages internships with local and national media organizations, providing students with invaluable experience and networking opportunities.
- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to newsrooms, media organizations, and journalism conferences, offering insights into the industry and exposure to professionals.
- Research Facilities: The School of Media and Journalism houses dedicated research facilities where students can engage in projects that explore emerging trends in media and communication.
- Libraries and Resources: The university's libraries provide extensive resources, including access to databases, archives, and a vast collection of journalism-related materials.
- Institute for the Study of the Americas: This institute offers additional resources and opportunities for students interested in journalism related to Latin America and the Caribbean.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MA in Journalism at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill prepares graduates for a dynamic career in media and communication. Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles such as investigative reporters, digital content strategists, and public relations specialists. With a strong foundation in both traditional and digital journalism, graduates are well-equipped to thrive in an ever-evolving industry:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events tailored specifically for journalism students.
- Employment Statistics: Approximately 90% of graduates secure employment within six months of graduation, with starting salaries averaging around $50,000 annually.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNC has established partnerships with leading media organizations, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world experience that enhances their employability.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to work for prestigious outlets such as The New York Times, NPR, and CNN, showcasing the program's strong reputation in the industry.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MA in Journalism, students have the opportunity to pursue a Ph.D. in Media Studies or related fields, allowing for deeper research and specialization. Additionally, graduates may choose to enroll in certificate programs or workshops to enhance their skills in emerging areas such as data journalism or multimedia storytelling. This continued education can further elevate their career prospects and expertise in the field.