Master of Journalism (MJ)
Master of Journalism
The Master of Journalism offered jointly by Dalhousie University and the University of King’s College prepares students to tell in-depth, evidence-based stories to the public. The degree focuses on storytelling, reporting practice and methods of journalism research. Graduates will have the skills to enter a newsroom or any field that requires advanced analytical and communication skills.
Students begin the program with an introduction to standards of ethical and legal conduct, alongside research, interviewing and storytelling skills in audio, video and text. They sharpen their journalism skills in text and images by completing a workshop in news reporting for online platforms.
As they progress through the program, they delve into advanced research skills, data journalism techniques and contemporary issues in the profession. They learn visual storytelling methods and gain an understanding of the business environment for journalism while taking two electives to build their subject matter expertise.
In their second year, students will complete a professional project under the supervision of faculty. This research-intensive, visually compelling feature demonstrates the student’s ability to explore an important story in the public interest. The professional project is a significant component of the degree requirement and the centerpiece of the student’s portfolio.
The degree also includes an option of admission in January of Year 1 for applicants who have a journalism degree or deep work experience in the field.
Visit the Faculty of Graduate Studies website at dalgrad.dal.ca and/or the School of Journalism website at ukings.ca/mj for more information.
Program Requirements:
For students admitted without an undergraduate degree in journalism or deep experience working as a journalist, this full-time program begins in September each year and runs for 20 months. For students with an undergraduate journalism degree or deep experience in the field, the program begins in January each year and runs for 16 months.
Fall Year 1 (Non-BJ applicants Only, 21 Credit Hours)
JOUR 6151.03 Journalism Research
JOUR 6153.03 Reporting Fundamentals
JOUR 6156.03 Writing and Reporting for Audio and Video
JOUR 6709.03 Journalism & Society
JOUR 6857.09 News Workshop
Winter Year 1 (All Students - 12 to 18 credit hours)
JOUR 6702.06 Advanced Reporting
JOUR 6703.03 Professional Journalism Environment
JOUR 6705.03 Data Journalism Methods
Elective(s)**
Summer Year 1 (All Students - 3 credit hours)
JOUR 6800.03 Professional Project*
Fall Year 2 (All Students - 9 credit hours)
JOUR 6706.03 The Evolving Business of Journalism
JOUR 6704.03 Visual Storytelling
JOUR 6800.03 Professional Project*
Winter Year 2 (3 to 9 credit hours)
JOUR 6800.03 Professional Project*
Elective(s)**
* The Professional Project is completed over 3 terms. A grade of IP is assigned in the Summer Y1 and Fall Y2 terms, with a final grade issued upon completion in Winter Y2.
** 6 credit hours of electives must be completed and are typically taken in the winter semesters of either Y1 and/or Y2. Electives must either be at the JOUR 6000 level, or must be approved by the graduate coordinator prior to registration.