MA Journalism and Public Affairs

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

American University

Program Overview

The Master of Arts (MA) in Journalism and Public Affairs at American University is a 30-credit, full-time graduate program designed to prepare students for professional careers in modern journalism and news production. The program offers opportunities to specialize in Investigative Journalism, Broadcast Journalism or International Journalism, combining reporting, research, multimedia storytelling and public affairs coverage to help students produce accurate, impactful journalism across multiple platforms.

Curriculum Structure:

The program is designed to be completed in approximately 11 months and begins with an intensive summer journalism boot camp. The curriculum combines 12 credits of required coursework, 12 credits of electives and a six-credit capstone seminar.

First Stage: Students develop essential reporting and production skills through COMM-624 – Boot Camp for Journalists, COMM-724 – Reporting of Public Affairs, and COMM-621 – Community News Reporting. They also learn about journalism ethics, legal responsibilities, news verification and public affairs reporting.
Second Stage: Students strengthen their professional and analytical abilities through COMM-601 – Communication Law and electives such as COMM-618 – Data-Driven Journalism, COMM-509 – Politics and the Media, and COMM-544 – Foreign Correspondence. They can tailor their coursework to investigative, broadcast or international journalism.
Final Stage: Students complete COMM-720 – Capstone Seminar in Journalism, developing substantial journalistic work that demonstrates their reporting, research and storytelling abilities. The program also provides opportunities for internships and practical newsroom experience.

Focus Areas:

Investigative Journalism, Broadcast Journalism, International Journalism, Public Affairs Reporting, Data Journalism, Political Reporting, Community News Reporting, Foreign Correspondence, Opinion Writing, Longform Storytelling, Visual Journalism, Multimedia Production, Journalism Ethics

Learning Outcomes:

Graduates develop advanced reporting, interviewing, writing, editing and investigative research skills while learning to produce accurate and engaging stories across digital, broadcast, audio and print platforms. They gain the ability to investigate public issues, analyze political and international developments, verify information and apply professional journalism ethics. The program also strengthens data analysis, multimedia production, critical thinking and news judgment, preparing graduates for careers in contemporary journalism.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

American University's School of Communication is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC). The university identifies this as the only ACEJMC-accredited graduate journalism program in Washington, DC. This accreditation recognizes the program's commitment to professional journalism standards, ethical reporting and industry-relevant education.

Reputation (Employability & Recognition):

The program benefits from American University's location in Washington, DC, giving students opportunities to cover congressional hearings, federal agencies, government institutions and U.S. Supreme Court proceedings. Students can gain practical newsroom experience through the Investigative Reporting Workshop and publish their work on The Wash, the university's journalism platform. The school also offers internship and fellowship connections with organizations such as The Washington Post, NPR, CNN, ESPN, The New York Times and Bloomberg. Graduates can pursue careers as investigative journalists, broadcast reporters, international correspondents, political journalists, news editors, multimedia producers and data journalists.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At American University, the MA in Journalism and Public Affairs program is designed to immerse students in real-world experiences that build practical skills essential for success in the field. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students engage in hands-on learning that prepares them for the dynamic landscape of journalism and public affairs. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including internships, collaborative projects, and the use of advanced digital tools.

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

- Internships: Students have the chance to intern with leading media organizations, government agencies, and non-profits in Washington, D.C., providing invaluable on-the-job experience.
- Multimedia Labs: The program features dedicated multimedia labs equipped with the latest technology for video production, audio editing, and digital storytelling.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects allow students to work together on real-world assignments, fostering teamwork and enhancing their problem-solving skills.
- Field Trips: Students participate in field trips to newsrooms, government offices, and public affairs organizations, gaining insights into the industry and networking with professionals.
- Research Facilities: Access to specialized research facilities and libraries supports students in conducting in-depth investigations and developing their journalistic skills.
- Digital Tools: The curriculum incorporates training in industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, social media analytics tools, and content management systems.
- Guest Lectures and Workshops: Regular sessions with industry experts provide students with current insights and practical knowledge from seasoned professionals.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MA in Journalism and Public Affairs at American University prepares graduates for a dynamic career in media and communication, equipping them with the skills needed to excel in various roles. Alumni have successfully transitioned into positions such as:

- Investigative Journalist
- Public Relations Specialist
- Communications Director
- Media Consultant

This program not only provides a solid foundation in journalism but also opens doors to numerous opportunities in the public affairs sector. Here’s how American University supports your journey:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you land your dream job.
- Employment Statistics: Over 90% of graduates find employment within six months of graduation, with average starting salaries around $55,000.
- Industry Partnerships: American University has strong connections with organizations like NPR, The Washington Post, and various government agencies, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and internships.
- 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 media outlets and non-profits, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing students for real-world challenges.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MA in Journalism and Public Affairs, you may choose to pursue a PhD in Communication or a related field, allowing you to delve deeper into research and academia. Alternatively, you could explore specialized certifications in digital media or public relations to enhance your expertise and career prospects. The opportunities for growth and advancement are abundant, making this program a stepping stone to a fulfilling career in journalism and public affairs.