MSc Media, Communications & International Journalism

Program Overview

The MSc Media, Communications & International Journalism offers students a deep dive into the theoretical and practical aspects of journalism and media. It focuses on cultivating journalistic skills, alongside a strong understanding of media law, ethics, and global communications dynamics. The program provides students with the tools needed to excel in various fields of journalism, whether print, broadcast, digital, or investigative reporting, all while understanding the global impact of media in an interconnected world. Students are encouraged to engage with real-world issues, crafting stories and reports that shape societal narratives. The curriculum includes practical training in multimedia journalism, providing hands-on experience with writing, editing, and producing news for a digital audience. Graduates of this program are prepared to work in media companies, public relations, international organizations, and non-governmental sectors, or even as independent journalists.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc Media, Communications & International Journalism is comprehensive, focusing on media theory, journalism practice, and communication strategies in a global context. Core modules include International Journalism, Digital Media and Communication, Media Law and Ethics, and Multimedia Journalism, offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. In addition to these core subjects, students can choose specialized options, such as Global Communications, Investigative Journalism, and Media Politics, enabling them to tailor their learning to specific interests or career aspirations. The program emphasizes the integration of digital technologies in modern journalism, with a strong focus on digital content creation, online storytelling, and social media management. Students also gain experience in using industry-standard software and platforms, preparing them for the fast-evolving digital media landscape. The curriculum is constantly updated to reflect changes in the global media environment, ensuring that students receive a cutting-edge education in this dynamic field.

Research Focus: The research focus of the MSc Media, Communications & International Journalism revolves around understanding the complexities of media systems, the role of journalism in contemporary societies, and the effects of media on global issues. Students engage in critical research on topics such as global media flows, media ethics, the political economy of media, media representation, and digital journalism. Research in the program is both academic and applied, with students encouraged to explore contemporary issues such as media bias, fake news, the impact of social media on journalism, and the role of journalism in human rights and global advocacy. The University of Glasgow supports students in conducting independent research through a range of seminars and research projects, providing a platform for students to contribute to the field of media and journalism studies. This research orientation equips students with the analytical skills to critically assess media trends and issues globally.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a key component of the MSc Media, Communications & International Journalism program at the University of Glasgow. The program provides students with numerous opportunities to connect with industry professionals through internships, guest lectures, workshops, and networking events. The university's strong ties with media organizations, journalism associations, and communication agencies ensure that students gain real-world insights and practical exposure to the media and journalism sectors. Students are encouraged to undertake internships in various media outlets, from digital publications to broadcasting companies, allowing them to build industry experience and enhance their portfolios. Additionally, the program emphasizes the importance of collaborative learning through group projects and the creation of multimedia content. This industry-focused approach ensures that students are equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, which can be directly applied in professional media environments.

Global Perspective: The MSc Media, Communications & International Journalism program at the University of Glasgow offers a distinct global perspective, preparing students to understand and address media issues that transcend national borders. Students are exposed to global communication practices and learn to navigate the challenges of international journalism, including reporting in diverse cultural contexts and covering international political events. The program also focuses on cross-cultural communication, providing students with the skills to effectively communicate with global audiences. With a diverse student body and faculty, the program fosters an international learning environment where students can exchange perspectives and gain insights into global media systems. By engaging with international case studies, students examine the role of media in global conflicts, human rights issues, and international diplomacy. The university’s global outlook ensures that graduates are prepared to work in a variety of international settings, from international news agencies to NGOs, and to understand the complex dynamics of the global media landscape.