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Master's in Journalism in the USA: Top Universities & Fees

Do You Know?

On average, approximately 4,500 positions for news analysts, reporters, and journalists will become available each year over the next decade.

The USA is a top destination for those pursuing a Master’s in Journalism. According to the QS World University Rankings, 17 of the top 30 universities globally for Communication & Media Studies are located here. Prestigious schools like Harvard, Stanford, and the University of California, Berkeley, offer outstanding programs that blend academic knowledge with hands-on experience.

As the media industry continues to evolve with digital transformation and changing consumer habits, the need for skilled journalists remains strong. Graduates of Master’s in Journalism programs are well-equipped to meet this demand, providing a strong career path for master's in journalism graduates.

This post highlights some of the best U.S. universities offering Master’s programs in Journalism, along with details on tuition and career prospects, helping you make informed decisions to study in the USA.

Master's in Journalism in the USA: Overview

A Master's in Journalism in the USA generally takes 1 to 2 years to complete, with options for both full-time and part-time study to suit different lifestyles. With intakes available in FallSpring, and Summer, you can pick the best time for your application.

Most programs require you to submit GRE or GMAT scores to evaluate your preparedness for leadership roles. Proficiency in English is also necessary, with TOEFL scores typically ranging from 79 to 114 and IELTS scores between 6.5 and 8.0, depending on the school.

Here’s a quick snapshot of what you can expect from a Master's in Journalism in the USA:

Parameter Details
Duration 1 to 2 years (full-time or part-time)
Intakes Fall, Spring, Summer
Course Level
  • Master of Arts (M.A.)
  • Master of Science (M.S.) in Journalism
Top Universities
Average Annual Tuition $20,000 – $81,500 (INR 17.2L – INR 70.3L)
Entrance Exams Required GRE/GMAT (varies by university)
English Proficiency
Eligibility Criteria Bachelor's degree in journalism or related field; relevant work experience (varies by program)
Career Opportunities
Specializations

Now that you have an overview, let’s explore what makes studying a Master’s in Journalism in the USA a great choice for your career.

Why Pursue an MS in Journalism in the USA?

Master’s in Journalism in the U.S. provides access to exceptional education, preparing you for the demands of the media industry. 

With six of the 10 best universities for Master's in Journalism in the world located in the U.S., you'll gain the skills and connections needed to advance in this competitive field. 

Here are some reasons why studying at these prestigious institutions can set you up for success:

  • Top Journalism Schools: The U.S. is home to renowned journalism schools like Columbia University, UC Berkeley, and Northwestern University. These programs combine traditional reporting with modern digital storytelling.
  • Specializations That Match Your Interests: Whether you're into investigative journalism, data reporting, broadcast, or digital media, you can find a program that lets you focus on what excites you most.
  • Good Earning Potential: Graduates with a Master’s in Journalism can expect competitive pay. For instance, news analysts, reporters, and journalists earn a median annual salary of $60,280 (INR 51.6L), with room for growth.
  • Broad Career Opportunities: A journalism degree can take you beyond traditional roles. You can work in public relations, digital marketing consultingcontent strategy, or digital marketing, applying your storytelling skills across industries.
  • Networking and Industry Access: Studying in the U.S. opens doors to a vast network of professionals and alumni, helping you make a career in journalism.

Now that you have a general idea, let’s move on to explore the best universities offering this program.

Top Universities Offering Master's in Journalism in the USA

Finding the right master’s degree programs for you means balancing quality, cost, and time. With fees starting near $18,000 (INR 16.1L), this list helps you weigh each option side by side. Deadlines and course lengths are clear, so you can stay ahead.

Here's a quick overview of the best universities in the USA for Journalism, along with key details like fees, duration, and deadlines:

University Program Annual Tuition (USD & INR) Duration & Deadline
Harvard University Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in Journalism $20,640 (INR 17.6L)

2 years

Deadline: 28 Aug 2025

University of Texas at Austin M.A. in Journalism $18,816 (INR 16.1L)

2 years

Deadline: 1 Dec 2025

Stanford University M.A. in Journalism $40,730 (INR 34.8L)

2 years

Deadline: 2 Dec 2025 (closed)

University of Southern California M.S. in Journalism $83,864 (INR 71.7L)

10 months

Deadline: 10 Jan 2025 (closed)

Columbia University M.S. in Journalism $81,500 (INR 69.7L)

9.5 months

Deadline: 15 Dec 2025

University of California, Berkeley M.J. in Journalism $21,904 (INR 18.7L)

2 years

Deadline: 1 Dec 2025

New York University M.A. in Journalism $23,407 per semester

2 years

Deadline: 6 Jan 2025 (closed)

Michigan State University M.A. in Journalism $31,927 (INR 23.2L)

2 years

Deadline: 1 Nov 2025

University of Wisconsin-Madison M.A. in Journalism $18,838 (INR 21.2L)

2 years

Deadline: Applications open in Sep 2025

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and subject to change. Please refer to the respective university websites for the most current information.

With the top universities in mind, let’s explore some popular options, including details on tuition, program duration, and deadlines.

Popular Universities for Master’s in Journalism in the USA

Several prestigious universities offer MS programs in Journalism, each with unique features such as varying tuition fees and application deadlines. 

For instance, Columbia University charges $36,727 (INR 31.6L) annually, while the University of Texas at Austin offers a more affordable option at $12,762 (INR 11.0L) per year. 

Below are some notable universities along with their program details:

University Program Annual Tuition Fees (USD) Duration & Application Deadline
Northwestern University M.S. in Journalism $35,664 (INR 30.5L)

12 months

Deadline: Admission open in Aug 2025

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) M.S. in Science Writing $30,995 (INR 26.5L)

12 months

Deadline: 15 Jan 2026

Pennsylvania State University M.A. Media Studies $22,787 (INR 19.5L)

2 years

Deadline: 1 Oct 2025

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign M.S. in Journalism $30,564 (INR 26.1L)

2 years

Deadline: 28 April 2025 (closed)

University of Missouri, Columbia M.S. in Journalism $40,154 (INR 34.3L)

2 years

Deadline: 25 Nov 2025 

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and subject to change. Please refer to the respective university websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Now that you have a list of universities, let’s look at the eligibility criteria you need to be aware of when applying.

Eligibility Criteria for a Master's in Journalism in the USA

To apply for a Master's in Journalism in the USA, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL (100+) or IELTS (7.0+). Be prepared with supporting documents like your Statement of Purpose, resume, and proof of financial resources.

Here's a breakdown of the key eligibility criteria and supporting documents you'll need:

Criteria Sub-Criteria Details
Academic Requirements Educational Qualification A recognized bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
  Academic Score Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (some institutions may have higher requirements).
  Academic Transcripts Official transcripts from previous studies.
English Language Proficiency TOEFL Score Minimum score of 100 (iBT) or 600 (paper-based).
  IELTS Score Minimum overall band score of 7.0.
  Duolingo English Test Minimum score of 115+.
Standardized Tests GRE Score Most programs do not require the GRE, but some may still request it.
Visa Requirements Passport Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the program's duration.
  I-20 Form Issued after admission, requires proof of financial resources.
  Proof of Funds Evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses.
  F-1 Visa Interview Mandatory for international applicants.
Supporting Documents Statement of Purpose 500-1,000 words outlining motivation, career goals, and alignment with the program.
  Letter of Recommendation 2-3 professional or academic references.
  Resume/CV Updated resume highlighting academic, work, and internship experience.
  Writing Samples Samples showcasing writing and journalistic skills.
Miscellaneous Work or Internship Experience Preferred but not mandatory, especially if GRE scores are waived.
  Program-Specific Requirements Some programs may have additional requirements, such as a higher GPA, specialized coursework, or specific work experience.

Now that you know what’s required, let’s go over how you can apply to your chosen Master’s in Journalism program.

Application Process for Master's in Journalism in the USA

The application process for a Master’s in Journalism in the USA can be complex and time-sensitive. 

You'll need to prepare essential documents such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and a writing sample. For example, MIT's application deadline for the next academic year is January 15th.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to do:

Step 1: Check the Program Requirements

  • Academic Background: Most programs want you to have a bachelor's degree from a recognized institution. But if you’ve got solid work experience in journalism, that might count instead.
  • English Skills: You'll likely need TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores. But if your previous degree was taught in English, you’re good to go. 
  • Standardized Tests: Many schools skip the GRE or GMAT requirements. For example, NYU's Journalism program doesn’t need GRE scores. 

Step 2: Get Your Documents Together

  • Transcripts: You’ll need official records from all the schools you’ve attended.
  • Letter of Recommendations: Usually, you’ll need two or three letters from professors, supervisors, or colleagues who can speak to your potential.
  • Statement of Purpose: Write an essay that explains why you’re passionate about journalism, your career aspirations, and why this specific program caught your eye.
  • Writing Sample: Submit a piece of your journalistic or academic writing. 
  • Resume/CV: Make sure your resume is up-to-date with any relevant experience and skills.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

  • Online Submission: Head over to the school’s application portal to submit everything.
  • Application Fee: Most programs charge an application fee. It’s non-refundable, so be sure to check how much it is for the program you’re applying to.
  • Deadlines: Keep track of application deadlines to ensure timely submissions. For example, MIT’s deadline for the next academic year is 15 January. 

Step 4: Interview (If Needed)

Some schools, like Northwestern’s Medill School of Journalism, may ask you for an interview as part of their selection process. 

Step 5: Track Your Application Status

Once you’ve submitted everything, monitor your application status regularly on the school’s portal. This will let you know if any documents are missing or if there are updates.

Step 6: Accept Your Offer

If you’re accepted, you’ll get an official letter with all the details. Follow the instructions to accept the offer and secure your spot.

Step 7: Apply for Your Visa

  • I-20 Form: After acceptance, you’ll receive Form I-20 from your school. This is essential for your student visa application.
  • F-1 Visa: You’ll need to apply for an F-1 student visa through the U.S. Department of State.
  • Documents You’ll Need:
    • Form I-20 
    • Proof of financial support 
    • Valid passport 
    • Visa application fee (around USD 160/INR 13.6K)

After you apply, it’s important to understand the courses and structure of the program. Let’s take a closer look at the curriculum.

Master's in Journalism in the USA: Course Details

A Master's in Journalism in the USA blends traditional reporting with modern media skills. You'll learn core principles while specializing in areas like data, broadcast, or investigative journalism. 

Practical experience gained through internships and projects prepares you for a career in the media world.

Below is an overview of the course structure:

Course Type Programs
Core Subjects
  • Reporting and Writing
  • Media Law and Ethics
  • Data Storytelling
  • Journalism Ethics and Accountability
  • Digital Media
  • News Production and Editing
  • Investigative Journalism
Electives or Specialization
  • Data Journalism
  • Broadcast Journalism
  • Sports Journalism
  • Environmental Journalism
  • Political Journalism
  • Documentary Filmmaking
  • Media Management
Other Offerings
  • Research Projects: Work on investigations or capstone projects to apply what you learn and build your portfolio.
  • Internships/Co-op: Gain real-world experience with media organizations, broadcasters, or PR firms.
  • Tools Training: Learn industry-standard tools such as Adobe Premiere Pro, social media analytics, and web design.
  • Portfolio Building: Create a portfolio to showcase your skills across various media formats.
  • University Labs: Work in high-tech newsrooms and studios to hone practical skills.

Understanding the curriculum is just the start. Let’s now discuss the cost of studying in the USA.

Cost of Pursuing a Master's in Journalism in the USA

A master’s in Journalism in the USA involves various academic and living expenses. On average, the total annual cost of living in the USA can reach up to $172,699 (INR 1.5Cr). This includes tuition, accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.

Here's a breakdown of typical annual expenses to help you plan your finances:

Purpose Annual Expenses (USD) Annual Expenses (INR)
Tuition Fees $81,500 INR 69.6L
Accommodation $20,000 INR 17.1L
Transportation $1,000 INR 85.5K
Food and Groceries $6,500 INR 5.6L
Books and Course Materials $1,200 INR 102.6K
Personal Expenses $3,500 INR 3.0L
Health Insurance $2,000 INR 1.7L
Student Activity Fee $500 INR 42.7K

Note: 

  • These costs are estimates and may vary depending on the university and location.
  • The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

While considering the cost, it’s also important to explore scholarship opportunities to help ease the financial burden.

Master's in Journalism in the USA: Scholarships for International Students

Studying master’s in Journalism in the USA can be expensive, but there are several scholarships to help reduce the financial burden. For example, the Fulbright Scholarship provides full tuition coverage and living stipends, enabling international students to cover their expenses.

Below are both internal and external scholarships that can significantly reduce your overall costs.

Internal Scholarships

Finding financial support for your MS in Journalism can really take the pressure off when it comes to covering tuition and living costs. Scholarships offering up to $32,000 (INR 27.5L) in stipends can help you focus on your studies without constantly worrying about money.

Below are some popular university-funded scholarships for an MS in the US:

Scholarship Type Details
Medill Scholarships and Grants (Northwestern University) Merit-based

Eligibility: All Journalism Master’s students at Medill. 

Benefit: Covers 15%-50% of tuition.

Columbia Journalism School Scholarships Merit-based

Eligibility: All applicants. 

Benefit: Approximately 20 full-tuition scholarships available.

Knight-Bagehot Fellowship in Economics and Business Journalism (Columbia University) Merit-based

Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing a career in economics and business journalism. 

Benefit: Full tuition, health insurance, $7,800 (INR 6.7L) per month stipend, and subsidized housing.

USC Allan Malamud Scholarship (University of Southern California) Need-based, Merit-based

Eligibility: Junior or Senior standing students interested in sports journalism. 

Benefit: $6,500 (INR 5.6L)

Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute Fellowships (NYU) Merit-based

Eligibility: All applicants to the Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute. 

Benefit: Partial tuition scholarships.

To further ease your financial burden, numerous external scholarships are available for international students pursuing an MS in Journalism.

External Scholarships

In addition to university-specific scholarships, external scholarships for Master’s in Journalism offer invaluable financial relief for international students. For example, the Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) Scholarships provides up to $20,000 (INR 17.1L) to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.

Below are some other notable scholarships that support students with funding for tuition, research, and travel:

Scholarship Type Details
Fulbright Foreign Student Program Fully Funded

Eligibility: International graduate students. 

Benefits: Full tuition, living expenses, and travel allowances.

MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship Merit-based

Eligibility: International students pursuing graduate degrees in the U.S. 

Benefits: $8,000 (INR 6.8L) award for full-time graduate students.

National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) Scholarships Merit-based

Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in journalism. 

Benefits: $10,000 (INR 8.5L).

Asian American Journalists Association (AAJA) Scholarships Merit-based

Eligibility: Undergraduate and graduate students pursuing careers in journalism and media.

Benefits: Up to $20,000 (INR 17.1L)

Overseas Press Club Foundation Scholarships Merit-based

Eligibility: Graduate students of journalism in the United States. 

Benefits: $3,000 (INR 2.6L) scholarship or a $4,000 (INR 3.4L) fellowship

Jack R. Howard Fellowship Merit-based

Eligibility: Graduate students pursuing journalism with a focus on international reporting. 

Benefits: Full tuition and a stipend for living expenses.

AAUW International Fellowships Merit-based

Eligibility: Women pursuing graduate studies in the U.S. 

Benefits: $20,000 (INR 15L) stipend

Erasmus Mundus Journalism Scholarship Merit-based

Eligibility: Students from non-EU countries pursuing international journalism degrees. 

Benefits: Full tuition, living expenses, and travel allowances.

After securing financial support, you’ll want to know about the job market and the opportunities available to you as a journalism graduate.

Job Opportunities After a Master's in Journalism in the USA

A Master’s in Journalism opens up high-paying opportunities, such as becoming a news analyst, with an average annual salary of $101,430 (INR 86.6L). The job market offers roles across various industries, from media to public relations, ensuring steady demand. 

Here's a snapshot of some popular job roles and their average annual salaries:

Job Role Average Annual Salary (USD) Average Annual Salary (INR)
News Analyst, Reporter, or Journalist $101,430 INR 86.6L
Advertising and Promotions Manager $152,620 INR 1.30Cr
Public Relations Manager $159,420 INR 1.36Cr
Communication Manager $146,320 INR 1.25Cr
Fundraising Manager $133,620 INR 1.14Cr
Web and Digital Interface Designer $108,820 INR 92.9L
Producer and Director $107,170 INR 91.5L
Content Writer $87,590 INR 74.8L
Broadcast Announcer or Radio DJ $86,950 INR 74.4L
Technical Writer $86,620 INR 74.0L
Editor $85,110 INR 72.7L
Film and Video Editor $83,470 INR 71.3L
Public Relations Specialist $77,720 INR 66.4L
Fundraiser $70,760 INR 60.5L
Health Education Specialist $69,790 INR 59.6L
Photographer $53,380 INR 45.6L
Proofreader or Copy Marker $51,100 INR 43.6L

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate and may vary over time.

As you prepare to step into the job market, it’s essential to know which organizations are actively seeking professionals with your expertise.

Top Recruiters Hiring Journalism Graduates in the USA

A Master's degree in Journalism requires a considerable investment, but the potential rewards are significant. With average annual salaries for top journalism roles reaching up to $188,956 (INR 1.6Cr), graduates can look forward to a rewarding career in media.

Here are some top recruiters and the average salaries they offer in the USA:

Top Recruiter Job Role Average Annual Salary (USD)
CNN Journalist $95,557 (INR 81.7L)
Insider Inc. Editor $100,575 (INR 86.0L)
The New York Times Senior Reporter $97,207 (INR 83.1L)
Washington Post Staff Writer $98,000 (INR 83.8L)
Bloomberg Columnist $188,956 (INR 1.6Cr)
NBC News Sports Editor $77,000 (INR 65.8L)

Source: Indeed

Note: The INR conversion is based on the current exchange rate.

To make your journey smoother, let’s see how upGrad can help guide you through the steps of applying and succeeding in the program.

How Can upGrad Help You Pursue a Master’s in Journalism in the USA?

Completing a Master’s in Journalism in the USA opens up exciting career opportunities, but the journey can feel overwhelming. The application process, visa requirements, scholarship opportunities, and test preparations can be tricky.

upGrad simplifies the process. We offer personalized mentorship to help you choose the right program, guide you through the university application, and assist with visa paperwork and related tasks. Additionally, we help you find relevant scholarship options and prepare for English language tests, ensuring a smooth and stress-free path.

Don’t let the complexity of the process hold you back. Book a 1:1 session with upGrad experts, apply with confidence, and take the first step toward your Master’s in Journalism at a top university in the USA.

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166 results found

Master of Liberal Arts (A.L.M.) in Journalism

Harvard University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 32.46L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

MS in Communication Disorders Speech and Language Disabilities Concentration

State University of New York at New Paltz, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 14.00L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Communication MA

Johns Hopkins University, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 46.98L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Art in Communication

Western Illinois University , USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 6.66L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Communication Studies

Eastern Illinois University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 10.73L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Arts in Journalism and Media

University of Texas Austin, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 16.03L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Communication Studies (MA)

Minnesota State University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Journalism MJ

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year 6 Months
  • FEES
    INR 24.11L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Arts Professional Communication

Youngstown State University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Arts in Communication

University of Dayton, USA

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 30.51L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Master of Arts in Specialized Journalism (Arts and Culture)

University of Southern California, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 39.54L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

Master of Arts in Journalism

DePaul University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 31.20L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-7.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Communication and Advocacy (M.A.)

James Madison University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 20.55L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

International Communication (MS)

St Johns University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Communication, Media and Theatre, M.A.

Northeastern Illinois University, USA

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 8.51L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Library Media - non-certification (MEd)

Plymouth State University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Education in Sport and Exercise Science

University of Minnesota, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 13.13L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
View details

Master of Arts in Communication Studies

California State University - San Bernardino, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 10.45L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Global Strategic Communication, M.S.

Florida Institute of Technology, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
View details

Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Public Relations

Sacred Heart University, USA

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 19.45L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025
View details

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