M.A. in Journalism

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Undergraduate Degree: To be eligible for postgraduate (master's) programs at Marshall University, international students are required to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The minimum academic requirement is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

2. Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 with no individual band (section) score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: A minimum overall score of 80.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105.                                                                                                                                            

3. Standardized Tests (GRE or GMAT): 

   • GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A minimum GRE score of 300 is required.
      
4. Course by Course WES required.

Marshall University offers several scholarship opportunities to international students to help them with the cost of their education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and other criteria. 

1. Marshall University Merit-Based Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to international students based on their academic performance. The specific criteria and the value of the scholarships may vary. Students are automatically considered for these scholarships during the admission process.

2. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarship: Marshall University offers scholarships to students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP) to improve their English language skills before beginning their degree program. These scholarships can help reduce the cost of language preparation.

3. International Student Scholarships: These scholarships are available to both undergraduate and graduate international students. The eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary based on academic achievement and program of study.

4. Undergraduate Competitive Scholarships: Marshall University provides a range of competitive scholarships for undergraduate international students. These may be based on factors like leadership, community involvement, or specific academic achievements.

5. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate students have the opportunity to apply for assistantship positions. These positions may involve research or teaching and often include a stipend and tuition benefits.

6. External Scholarships: International students are encouraged to explore external scholarships, such as those offered by government agencies, foundations, and organizations in their home countries. Marshall University's International Student Office can provide guidance on external scholarship opportunities.

7. Honors College Scholarships: Exceptional undergraduate students may be eligible for Honors College scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support high-achieving students in their pursuit of advanced academic and research opportunities.

8. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Marshall University offer scholarships or assistantships specific to students in certain fields of study. Prospective graduate students should inquire within their respective departments.

9. Athletic Scholarships: International students with exceptional athletic abilities may be eligible for athletic scholarships if they are recruited to participate in Marshall University's sports programs.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria can change over time.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Journalism is a distinguished program designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in journalism and related fields. Whether pursuing careers in traditional reporting, digital journalism, content production, or media analysis, the program prepares students to excel in the world of news and information.

1. Journalist/Reporter: Graduates often pursue careers as journalists or reporters, working for newspapers, magazines, television stations, radio outlets, or digital media. They cover stories, conduct interviews, and report on local, national, or international events.

2. Editor: Editors review and edit news stories, articles, or content for accuracy, style, and grammar. They play a crucial role in ensuring the quality and integrity of the content published by media organizations.

3. Broadcast Journalist: Broadcast journalists work in television and radio, delivering news reports to the public through various mediums, including live broadcasts, podcasts, and video reports.

4. Digital Journalist: In the digital age, digital journalists write and produce content for online news outlets, blogs, and social media platforms. They often work in multimedia, creating text, images, videos, and infographics.

5. Investigative Journalist: Investigative journalists delve deep into issues to uncover stories that may not be readily apparent. They often work on in-depth, long-term projects and may expose corruption, wrongdoing, or hidden truths.

6. Foreign Correspondent: Graduates with a passion for international affairs can become foreign correspondents, reporting on events and issues from around the world.

7. Photojournalist: Photojournalists use photography to tell stories. They capture compelling images to accompany news articles or work as independent photographers.

8. Social Media Manager: Many organizations rely on social media managers to create and manage their online presence, making sure their messages reach the right audiences and engage with them effectively.

9. Content Producer: Content producers work in various media outlets to create, curate, and manage content for online platforms, ensuring that it aligns with the organization's mission and goals.

10. News Anchor: News anchors present news stories on television or radio, serving as the public face of the news organization.

11. Public Relations Specialist: Graduates can work in public relations, representing organizations and individuals, shaping their public image, and managing communication with the media and the public.

12. Media Analyst/Critic: Media analysts and critics review and analyze media content, offering insights and critiques on journalism, movies, TV shows, or other forms of media.

13. Content Strategist: Content strategists plan and develop content strategies for organizations to reach and engage their target audiences effectively.

14. Communications Specialist: Communications specialists work for corporations, non-profits, or government agencies to manage internal and external communications, ensuring consistent messaging and information flow.

15. Documentary Filmmaker: Graduates interested in visual storytelling can become documentary filmmakers, creating films that explore a wide range of topics, from social issues to historical events.

16. News Producer: News producers are responsible for managing the production of news programs, including deciding on story selection, presentation, and format.

17. Media Educator: Some graduates choose to become educators, teaching journalism and media studies at colleges, high schools, or community centers.

18. Freelance Journalist: Freelance journalists work independently, pitching stories to various media outlets or producing content for multiple clients.