It provides flexibility to adapt to the needs of individuals for advanced study or for those without prior media experience or journalism education. It also encourages students to gain expertise in an area of study outside journalism that coincides with their future goals.

The program appeals to applicants who seek employment in related areas of innovative journalism including mobile or online media, radio and TV news, documentaries, newspapers, magazines, photojournalism and other visual communication, media management, public relations, and journalism for domestic or international markets.

It serves applicants who seek fundamental, advanced and specialized courses in journalism and related fields, who wish to pursue doctoral study, who are professional journalists planning to advance in the industry, and those who will seek opportunities in fields such as environmental journalism and teaching.

The Master of Arts Degree program in Journalism is available under either Plan A (with thesis), usually for those who plan a career in research or to pursue doctoral study, or Plan B (without thesis), usually for those who seek a professional career in journalism or a related area. Students work closely with an academic advisor to successfully complete a program plan for this master’s degree.