Best Online Master’s in Journalism Programs
Master’s in journalism programs provide hands-on experience, build your portfolio, and teach you skills in reporting, multimedia storytelling, and news anchoring.
Journalists do the important job of informing the public about current, historical, and cultural events. They often value truth, curiosity, and community, and they must possess key skills in news reporting and qualitative research. Students earning a master’s in journalism specialize their degrees, gain work experience, and create portfolios that can help them start an impactful career in the field.
This guide ranks some of the best online journalism master’s programs in 2022. Learn about the expectations of a typical journalism program, available concentrations, and career paths.
The Best Online Journalism Master’s Programs
University of Georgia
Athens, GA- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Located in Athens, the University of Georgia enrolls master's students in its top-ranked online journalism program. The builds specialized skills for advanced practice, preparing graduates for leadership positions with increased salary potential. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners specialize the program by choosing from a variety of electives. The master's program recommends a background in journalism for applicants.
Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students also build professional connections by attending networking events.
University of Georgia at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 45%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of arts in journalism and mass communication - emerging media
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,878
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,186
- In-State$9,790
- Out-of-state$28,830
- In-State$8,878
- Out-of-state$25,186
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled38,920
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment14%
- AccreditationYes
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- Lincoln, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in journalism degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln uses a flexible distance learning format. The MA in journalism and mass communications program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles with increased earning potential. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to journalism. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. The master's program recommends a background in journalism or a related field when applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 78%
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Program Name: MA in journalism and mass communications
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,976
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,280
- In-State$7,560
- Out-of-state$24,000
- In-State$5,976
- Out-of-state$17,280
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled25,390
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Florida St. Petersburg
- St. Petersburg, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master's in journalism program at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg offers a flexible online format. The digital journalism and design program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. After earning a master's degree, candidates may also pursue careers in new industries.
The master's curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical skills. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. The master's program recommends a background in journalism or a related field for those applying.
Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.
University of South Florida St. Petersburg at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 27%
Total Online Master's Programs: 2
Program Name: Digital journalism and design MA
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,048
- In-State$4,206
- Out-of-state$15,121
- In-State$8,350
- Out-of-state$19,048
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate27%
- Students Enrolled4,448
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment66%
- AccreditationYes
American University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The master of arts in journalism and public affairs program at American University, located in Washington, offers a flexible online format. The journalism program strengthens industry-specific skills, preparing graduates for leadership responsibilities. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.
The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives on journalism. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The program encourages applicants to gain experience in journalism before applying.
Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local community. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.
American University at a Glance:
Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year
Admission Rate: 36%
Total Online Master's Programs: 16
Program Name: Master of arts in journalism and public affairs
Graduate Tuition In State: $30,351
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,351
- In-State$49,070
- Out-of-state$49,070
- In-State$30,351
- Out-of-state$30,351
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled14,318
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment20%
- AccreditationYes
University of Missouri
- Columbia, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Missouri, located in Columbia, offers a flexible online master's in journalism. The master of science in strategic communications and data journalism program builds specialized skills for leadership roles in the journalism field and related industries. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.
The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of journalism. Learners prepare for the job market by choosing a specialty through electives. The master's program recommends a background in journalism or a related field for those applying.
Online enrollees participate in internship programs at approved locations in their local area. Internships and other practicum activities also provide professional networking opportunities.
University of Missouri at a Glance:
Type of School: Public, four-year
Admission Rate: 81%
Total Online Master's Programs: 21
Program Name: Master of science in strategic communications and data journalism
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,264
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,363
- In-State$9,120
- Out-of-state$26,991
- In-State$9,264
- Out-of-state$25,363
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate81%
- Students Enrolled30,014
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Masters
Journalism
2023
Online Master’s in Journalism Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyWhat Is an Online Master’s in Journalism?
A journalism master’s degree typically takes two years to complete. While most programs deliver similar outcomes, like excellent communication skills and hands-on journalism experience, they often differ in curricula.
For instance, some master’s in journalism programs focus on theory and investigative research, while others help students develop a portfolio with writing, audio, or video samples. Consider which curriculum meets your needs before applying to a master’s-level journalism degree.
Regardless of program, individuals with a master’s in journalism graduate with the following hard and soft skills:
SOFT SKILLS
- Project management
- Written and oral communication
- Critical thinking
- Time management
- Cultural awareness and inclusivity
HARD SKILLS
- Qualitative/quantitative research
- Fact-checking
- Data analysis
- Marketing
- Public relations
Who Should Pursue a Journalism Master’s?
Many entry-level positions in journalism require just a bachelor’s degree, so a journalism master’s isn’t necessary for employment. Most employers value work experience and focus more on your portfolio and past internships.
Aspiring professionals with degrees in other fields can benefit from earning a master’s in journalism, as they will learn the reporting and analytical skills necessary to become a journalist. A degree in this field also helps enrollees create a solid portfolio that highlights their qualifications and experience.
Experienced journalists who wish to add a new skill set or concentration to their portfolio can also benefit from a master’s degree in journalism.
What Can I Expect in Pursuing a Master’s in Journalism Online?
Online master’s in journalism programs include the same courses as in-person programs, covering research, writing, and media studies. Prospective journalism students can choose a specialization that, in addition to refining their writing and reporting abilities, equips them with experience relevant to their career goals.
Journalism Master’s Concentrations
What’s the Difference Between a Master of Arts in Journalism and Master of Science in Journalism?
Master of arts (MA) and master of science (MS) degrees in journalism both provide advanced qualifications in writing, reporting, and storytelling. However, these programs differ in the type of students they attract and the work they prepare you for.
MA IN JOURNALISM
Example Concentrations:
- Business and economics
- Arts and culture
Best for:
Seasoned journalists who want to develop expertise in a specialized subject. This path assumes some familiarity with the conventions of journalism.
MS IN JOURNALISM
Example Concentrations:
- Investigative reporting
- Documentary journalism
Individuals looking to change careers, new students, and early-stage professionals interested in building a portfolio. This path builds applied journalism skills for those with little to no experience.
Choosing an Online Master’s in Journalism Program
Accreditation, cost, learning format, and specialization options are all important to consider when selecting your ideal program. Choose a program with a curriculum that supports your professional goals and gives you the skills you need to advance your career. If you plan on pursuing a career in news media, for example, consider programs with concentrations in investigative or news reporting.
Accreditation for Online Master’s in Journalism Degrees
Accreditation is an independent quality assurance measure that verifies high levels of excellence and rigor. Every school should hold some form of institutional accreditation, and candidates should always verify a prospective school’s regional accreditation status before pursuing a master’s in journalism.
Beyond the institutional accreditation, some programs also receive accreditation that is specific to their fields or industries. The Accreditation Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications accredits media-related programs.
Journalism Careers
The following list details several career paths for journalists. In most cases, entry-level work does not require a master’s in journalism, but having one can help you hone your expertise and give you a competitive edge in the job market. For example, if you’re interested in public relations (PR), a master’s degree in journalism with a PR emphasis could make you a more appealing job candidate.
Journalism Professional Organizations
National Association of Black Journalists
Since 1975, this organization has supported Black journalists and media professionals throughout the U.S. NABJ maintains regional chapters, hosts an annual conference, and provides financial aid and a career center for its members.National Association of Hispanic Journalists
Established in 1984, NAHJ supports Latinos/as through professional development initiatives and training events. Current members and recent graduates can use its career and resource centers to find new opportunities in the industry.Asian American Journalists Association
AAJA promotes diversity in journalism and the accurate, equitable coverage of people of color. This organization offers resource guides and sponsors professional development events for its over 1,500 members around the world.American Press Institute
API promotes innovation and sustainability in the news industry. It focuses on understanding new and potential audiences, supporting organizational change, and advancing accountability in journalism.Society of Professional Journalists
With roots dating back to 1909, SPJ is the oldest professional journalism organization in the U.S. It empowers journalists by promoting ethical standards and supporting diversity and inclusion efforts within the industry.Frequently Asked Questions
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