Journalism and Mass Communications (MA)

MA

Journalism and Mass Communications, MA

On Campus Online 30 - 36 cr

The College of Journalism and Mass Communications offers a Master of Arts degree with specializations available in professional journalism and integrated media communications (IMC).

Description

The master's degree is designed to build or enhance professional knowledge, skills, and leadership in journalism and mass communications. The program is designed to accommodate the needs of students with an undergraduate degree in journalism and mass communications; journalism, advertising, public relations, marketing and education professionals; or students with careers and undergraduate degrees in areas other than journalism and mass communications. Applicants with an undergraduate major in an area of study other than journalism and mass communications or students with little or no professional related experience may be required to complete undergraduate journalism and mass communications courses.

Both specializations are available by distance education. Overall, the program's interdisciplinary curriculum combines up-to-date knowledge with practical application and individualized experience.

Academic Pathways

Specializations

  1. Integrated Media Communications
  2. Professional Journalism

Applying for Admission

Standard requirements for all graduate programs

  • Application for Admission with $50 non-refundable application fee.
  • Transcripts (unofficial): Uploaded as part of application form.

    If International: Uploads must include all college- or university-level transcripts or mark sheets (records of courses and marks earned), with certificates, diplomas, and degrees plus certified English translations.

    After admission: Official documents are required from all students who are admitted and enroll. Photocopies of certified records are not acceptable. International students enrolled in other U.S. institutions may have certified copies of all foreign records sent directly to the Office of Graduate Studies by their current school’s registrar office.

  • If applicant’s native language is not English, verification of English proficiency is required.

    When sending TOEFL scores, our institution code is 6877 and a department code is not needed.

  • If applicant is not a US citizen and expects an F or J visa: financial information.
  • Applicants must also fulfill any additional requirements the department specifies at the time of application.

Additional requirements specific to this program

UNL Undergrads applying for the Accelerated program: See Accelerated Master's Programs for instructions, and in the application form be sure to select only from the "UNL Undergraduates: Accelerated Master's Programs" section.

All other applicants:

  • Minimum English proficiency: Paper TOEFL 600, Internet TOEFL100, IELTS 6.5
  • Resume/CV
  • Personal Statement: In roughly 500 words, this statement of objectives should explain your professional background and goals with this degree.
  • Portfolio: The purpose of the portfolio of work is to show the admissions committee the depth and breadth of your professional work, and the quality and creativity of your writing. Include up to 10 examples of your best work. You may include pieces you created in class, at work or as part of an internship, or pieces you created for your own personal use. You may include group work if you indicate your contribution. Also, if your work was published, indicate when and where.
  • Three recommendation letters: At least two should be academic references.

Admission Application Deadlines

  • July 1 for Fall.
  • October 1 for Spring.
  • March 1 for Summer.

Graduate Chair

Adam Wagler

Support Staff

Tiffany Groteluschen

Tuition & Fees
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See program summaries for details like application deadlines and requirements.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment.

UNL Graduate Chairs and staff please complete the program update form to provide edits. Updates to graduate program pages are made on an annual basis in conjunction with the Graduate Application for Admission.