MA Journalism, Media and Communications
The name of this Masters degree has changed from Journalism Studies to Journalism, Media and Communications. Read more about the change here...
Cardiff School of Journalism, Media and Cultural Studies is at the forefront of exciting new developments in journalism, media and communications. The School is home to internationally renowned scholars in this important and burgeoning field.
The MA draws on the strength and diversity of Cardiff’s staff, giving students a unique opportunity to work with academics whose research is at the cutting edge of exploring how media are changing in a dynamic global communications environment characterised by technological, political, social, economic and cultural upheaval.
It is the longest established of Cardiff’s MA programmes, having recently celebrated its 25th anniversary. Originally called the MA in Journalism Studies, the new title of the degree reflects the breadth of the degree, encompassing innovative scholarly approaches to journalism, media and communications.
The MA focuses on the academic study of journalism, media and communications but also offers opportunities for the development of professional skills through research, allowing students to develop their own scholarship during their time in Cardiff.
This programme is NOT designed as a vocational degree and does not provide training in journalism. Students should not consider this degree as a professional qualification towards becoming a journalist.
Who should apply?
- Graduates interested in an advanced academic study of journalism.
- Students looking to undertake PhD research in journalism studies.
- Experienced journalists and other media practitioners wishing to reflect on their professional practice.
Find out how to Apply at Cardiff University's main website.
Principal Aims of the Course
The overall aim of the programme is to develop an in-depth understanding of how news media works across a variety of social, cultural, economic and political contexts. More specific aims include:
- Providing students with an opportunity to work with leading scholars in the field and to develop your own original research in the area.
- The experience of studying in an exciting international academic environment, where students from all over the world work together and learn from each other.
- The chance to investigate different types of journalism and media – including online, public service broadcasting, local journalism, tabloid journalism, war reporting, Web 2.0, and science journalism – and their role in society.
- Providing students with insights into key issues and debates, to assess how media are linked to forces of globalisation, to political institutions, global responses to war, conflict and terrorism, and environmental challenges, amongst others.
- A consideration of how issues of citizenship, race, gender, ethnicity and class are shaping contemporary forms of news media content.
- The opportunity to acquire up-to-date research skills to carry out your own original research for the dissertation and beyond
Student Satisfaction
"I chose Cardiff as it was ranked as one of the top Universities for journalism and media studies by my government. The internationally diverse friends and classmates as well as the humility of the lecturers were the best things about the course."
Pushpa Al Bakri Devadason - MA Journalism Studies 2009/10
"As a professional journalist, I looked for an academic degree that would enable me to reflect on my practice and that of my colleagues around the world. The journalism studies degree was a perfect fit for that reason. It was also important for me to attend a university that prioritises research. The JOMEC faculty members have conducted excellent research and are leaders in the journalism studies field. Individual modules expose students to the evolving field of journalism studies and provide an excellent foundation for the students’ research projects."
Shelley J. Thompson - MA Journalism Studies 2007/8
Further course information
For further information regarding course content please contact the Course Director and for general enquiries contact the MA Administrative Assistant.