Journalism

Introduction
The Masters in Journalism provides wide-ranging training and education for those interested in the profession of journalism and related fields. It balances practical, theoretical, technical and analytical elements to address the changing media environment and the new, and increasingly diverse, demands being made on entrants to journalism. Upon completion you will have the in-depth knowledge and aptitude to pursue a successful journalism career.

Programme
Programme Aims and Objectives
The programme provides training and education for those interested in the journalism profession and its related fields. It balances practical, theoretical, technical and analytical elements to address the changing media environment and the new and increasingly diverse demands being made on entrants to journalism. Upon completion, graduates will have the skills, in-depth knowledge and understanding to begin to pursue a successful journalism career, whether in newspapers, magazines, online or in television or radio.

Programme Structure and Content
This one-year, full-time programme includes taught modules for two semesters, with a project or dissertation and an internship. The project/dissertation is a significant journalistic project or a piece of research focused on journalism. Students receive training in print, online and broadcast journalism. Students learn to work both on their own initiative and in teams. Modules are marked, in part or in whole, by continuous assessment, namely simulated newsroom exercises, preparation of features and news stories, online activities, broadcast packages, seminar presentations, and essays. Examinations and in-class tests are set in some modules. In the work placement which takes place in July and August, students gain experience and have the opportunity to practise their skills.

Course Life
DCU has been a leader in journalism education in Ireland for over three decades. DCU lecturers, with extensive experience in journalism practice across all media, have excellent industry links and are active in researching and analysing news media nationally and internationally.

Why Do this programme?
While strong writing ability is a prerequisite for entry, the programme is open to committed applicants from all academic backgrounds, from science and technology, through business and economics, to the humanities. Entry to the programme is competitive.

• The longest-established Masters in Journalism programme in Ireland.

• Lecturers with a wealth of experience in journalism practice.

• A broad mix of professional and theoretical training.

• Excellent working relations with media organisations, ensuring relevant and up-to-date course content.

• A commitment to the continuing need for serious professional journalism across all media platforms.

To view the current course structure, please visit the Provider's website.

Requirements

General Entry Requirements
For admission to the MA in Journalism programme, successful applicants will have:

A degree at the level of an Irish or UK Honours undergraduate degree (H2.2 or above) or equivalent

Applicants with appropriate combinations of professional qualifications and experience may also be considered. This includes discipline-specific knowledge and know-how; transferable skills; basic research competency; personal effectiveness.

International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language.

NEXT STEPS

Make an Application
To apply for this programme:

All Applicants must apply through DCU's Student Application Portal.

Provide Academic Transcripts for each and every year of study with English translation if applicable.

All Applicants are required to include two written submissions with their application
(i) Personal statement of 500-750 words (maximum) where the applicant outlines their suitability for the programme; highlights relevant recent experiences and involvements in areas specific to the programme.

(ii) Applicants should upload ONE WRITTEN BYLINED JOURNALISM ARTICLE of circa 300 words of their own composition, on a subject and in a genre of their choice, written for a specific publication. The article may be published or unpublished.

(iii) If the article has been published, state when and in which publication. Otherwise, indicate the outlet for which you think your submission would be best suited.

(iv) Applications which include more than one sample article will be disqualified.

Please also include your CV.

If applicable, provide evidence of competence in the English language as per DCU entry requirements.

Application Deadlines:
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until the programme is full or until the following dates:

- Closing date for non EU applicants is 1st July 2022
- Closing date for EU applicants is 31st July 2022

Note applicants who require a study visa for the purposes of studying at DCU, are advised to apply as early as possible.

All entry requirements should be met before the commencement of the programme.

Queries:
Queries from EU applicants should be directed to postgraduateadmissions@dcu.ie.

Queries from non EU applicants should be directed to international.office@dcu.ie.

1 year full-time.

Commencement of Programme
The programme commences in September 2022.

Careers
Your ability to write clearly, quickly and accurately, and to process information speedily will equip you for a wide range of careers, not just those in journalism. Graduates work in a wide range of areas, including mainstream journalism across all media, nationally and internationally, and in organisational representation and lobbying and general communication roles. While many of our graduates find jobs in journalism, others pursue careers in related sectors such as NGO, corporate and political communication, advocacy for commercial, voluntary and public organisations, consultancy, academia, public administration, research, information and public relations.

Potential Careers:
News Reporter (print, online, broadcast)
Journalist
Sub-editor
Feature Writer
Sports Reporter
Columnist
Producer
Researcher
Lobbyist
Editor
Advocate
Public Communication Specialist
Media Entrepreneur
Advertising copywriter
Broadcaster
Journalist
Picture researcher/editor
Presenter, radio and television
Press officer
Public relations officer
Publishing copy-editor/proofreader
Writer, radio/TV/film
Podcaster
Videographer