COURSE CURRICULUM

Each student entering the Master of Arts program in Journalism & Media Studies is required to complete a minimum of 31 semester hours of graduate-level coursework, which may be pursued under one of several structured academic plans depending on the student’s career goals and mode of study. The program is designed to provide both theoretical understanding and practical training in journalism, mass communication, and media studies, while allowing flexibility for specialization. Students may select from Plan I, the thesis option available to main campus students, which emphasizes advanced scholarly research and is typically chosen by those interested in media theory, communication research, or preparation for doctoral study. Alternatively, students may choose Plan II, the non-thesis option available in multiple formats, including the on-campus track, the fully online option offered through OTIDE, the Community Journalism concentration, or the Sports Media concentration. The non-thesis pathways are designed for students who are primarily interested in professional practice and applied skills in areas such as reporting, editing, digital journalism, visual media production, sports media, and community-focused news coverage. These tracks emphasize critical thinking, media literacy, storytelling skills, and problem-solving abilities relevant to modern journalism and communication industries. The online Plan II option provides additional flexibility for working professionals and distance learners who wish to advance their careers without relocating to campus. Across all options, the program maintains a strong foundation in journalism ethics, media law, communication theory, and research methods, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for careers in media organizations, digital platforms, corporate communication, or further academic study. Overall, the MA in Journalism & Media Studies offers a structured yet flexible graduate experience that balances academic rigor with professional development across multiple media-related career pathways.