Today's journalists engage with society through newspapers, television, and new media, thanks to an array of digital platforms. With an online master's degree in journalism, you will strengthen your writing, storytelling, and messaging skills while also learning about editing, multimedia reporting, and strategic communication. With people relying more on journalists to keep them informed on local, state, national, and global news, it is no wonder that the Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates an 8% growth in writing professions from 2016 to 2026.
Choosing a Program
A master's in journalism online program teaches the ability to effectively communicate important news and purposeful messaging. It also demonstrates research abilities to source stories and verify the integrity of leads. Courses can include, for example, studies in public relations, brand management, investigation skills, social media, and news production. These topics will be covered whether you opt to pursue a career in print media, corporate communications, or advertising. In addition, those who wish to become on-air news broadcasters will need to enroll in public speaking classes.
With your master's degree in journalism, you might choose an area of concentration. For example, you may wish to concentrate in interactive media, which explores the theories and practices of creating content for virtual communities and how the content users within them help expand journalistic reach. You could also concentrate in a specific type of journalism, such as health communications or political reporting.
Your degree requirements depend on the school and program you select. In some instances, earning your degree may require professional projects or presenting a thesis based on independent research. Your program of choice also determines whether your studies are fully online or a combination of online and face-to-face instruction.
For career information, skip down:

Online Master's in Journalism Degree Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected the degree programs based on the quality of program and range of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.
The Best Online Master's in Journalism Programs
Rank | School | Location | Apply | More Information |
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1 |
Harvard University |
Cambridge, MA Apply Now | ||
2 |
University of Missouri-Columbia |
Columbia, MO Apply Now | ||
3 |
University of Nebraska-Lincoln |
Lincoln, NE Apply Now | ||
4 |
University of Memphis |
Memphis, TN Apply Now | ||
5 |
University of South Flordia-St Petersburg |
St. Petersburg, FL Apply Now | ||
End of list, bravo!
Online Master's in Journalism Careers
An online master's degree in journalism prepares you for professions like a reporter or a public relations specialist. Regardless of the career you choose, you must demonstrate strong communication skills, attention to detail, and intellectual curiosity about the news and its impact on people's lives.
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Writer and Author: This professional creates content for an array of outlets, including magazines, newspapers, blogs, and online sites. The role requires selecting and researching subject matter, ensuring the information reported is factual and verifiable. A writer and author may also work on advertising and promotional initiatives intended to persuade media consumers.
- Median Annual Salary: $61,240
- Projected Growth Rate: 8%
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Editor: This expert reviews content prior to its publication/dissemination, ensuring accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation. In addition, an editor checks facts, organizes ideas, and determines which graphics best help illustrate content.
- Median Annual Salary: $57,210
- Projected Growth Rate: 0%
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Public Relations Specialist: This specialist aims to ensure the positive reputation and image of organizations in the media and public. The role requires drafting press releases, creating focused messages for media placement, and advising clients in how best to communicate with the press and public. Earning a master's degree in journalism can build your writing and public speaking abilities as well as hone your ability to skillfully analyze media-related data.
- Median Annual Salary: $58,020
- Projected Growth Rate: 9%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics