International Journalism MA
University of Leeds, United Kingdom
International Journalism MA
University of Leeds
Journalism & Media Studies
International Journalism MA at the University of Leeds
The International Journalism MA at the University of Leeds gives postgraduate students the opportunity to study journalism from a global perspective, developing the ability to produce journalistic material to legal, ethical, and professional standards. The program covers the impact of digital technologies on journalism practice and the evolving relationship between journalism and politics, equipping you with a critical understanding of how news shapes and is shaped by global issues.
This course is designed for both students encountering journalism at Masters level for the first time and graduates who already have a background in the field. You will engage with core modules covering journalism theory, practice, and policy, while optional modules allow you to tailor your studies to your career aspirations in areas such as climate communication, media and politics, and gender studies.
Based within the School of Media and Communication, you will benefit from access to Helix, the University's learning innovation hub offering immersive technologies, multimedia production studios, and a physical makerspace. The program culminates in an independent dissertation, allowing you to conduct in-depth research on a topic of your choice under expert supervision.
Program Highlights
- Study journalism from a truly global perspective with international comparisons across societies and cultures
- Access to Helix, a cutting-edge learning innovation hub with immersive technologies and multimedia production studios
- Participate in a 2-week online Global Industry Programme to gain real consultancy experience and build industry connections
- Flexible optional modules let you specialise in areas such as climate communication, media and politics, or media and race
Curriculum and Modules
The International Journalism MA curriculum blends core theoretical foundations with practical skills development and flexible optional modules. Core modules lay the groundwork in global journalism theory and research methods, while electives allow you to pursue specialist interests aligned with your career goals.
International Journalism: Theory and Practice
30 CreditsExamines the intersection between theory and practice of contemporary international journalism. Through a focus on how news is manufactured, this module challenges conventional thinking about news media and develops a framework for assessing journalistic output across press, television, radio, and the internet.
Dissertation and Research Methods
60 CreditsProvides the academic competencies necessary for successful postgraduate study, with particular focus on producing a strong dissertation. This module forms one-third of the entire program and guides you through designing and executing an independent, self-directed research project.
Journalism, Law and Ethics
30 CreditsCompares the legal and ethical frameworks regulating journalism practice across national and international jurisdictions. You will evaluate these frameworks' roles in serving the public interest and promoting citizen engagement.
News Production and Digital Journalism
30 CreditsExplores the process of news production on different platforms and the impact of digital technologies on journalism practice. You will develop practical skills in producing journalistic content for multiple media formats.
Journalism, Politics and Society
30 CreditsCritically evaluates journalism's political, social, and economic role in the context of globalisation, including its relationship with state institutions and policy makers. Students analyse how journalism shapes public discourse on global issues.
Critical News Analysis
30 CreditsDevelops skills in critically analysing news output using a range of theoretical approaches. Students build competencies in evaluating journalistic content and making international comparisons across societies and cultures using practical examples and case studies.
Optional Modules
Admission Requirements
The International Journalism MA welcomes applicants from a diverse range of subject disciplines. The program receives a high number of applications and places are limited, so meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee an offer. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu.
Academic Requirements
- Degree ClassificationBachelor's degree with a 2:1 (Hons) or international equivalent
- Preferred SubjectsTheory-focused media-related course, communication studies, literature, history, sociology, or politics
- Professional ExperienceRelevant professional experience will also be considered alongside an undergraduate degree in a preferred subject
- Supporting StatementAll applicants must explain why they wish to study the course and outline their career plans in the supporting statement
- Additional DocumentationA sample of recent written work may be requested to support the assessment of your application
English Language Requirements
- IELTS Academic6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component
- TOEFL iBT88 overall (minimum 19 listening, 20 reading, 22 speaking, 21 writing)
- Pre-sessional English6-week or 10-week pre-sessional courses available for those who do not yet meet the language requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Leeds offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to support international students pursuing the International Journalism MA. These awards are designed to recognise outstanding academic achievement and help ease the financial burden of postgraduate study.
International Excellence Scholarship
10%, 25%, or 50% tuition fee reductionA competitive scholarship recognising outstanding academic achievement among international students applying for eligible taught Masters courses. Around 500 awards are available each year. Contact Uni4Edu for eligibility details and application support.
International Masters Regional Scholarship
GBP 6,000 automatic fee reductionAn automatic tuition fee reduction for international Masters students from eligible countries and regions. No separate application is required; if you meet the criteria, the scholarship is applied automatically. Contact Uni4Edu to check your eligibility.
Leeds Alumni Bursary
10% tuition fee reductionFormer University of Leeds students returning for a Masters degree may be eligible for a 10% alumni tuition fee bursary. This can be combined with other available scholarships. Contact Uni4Edu for details.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The International Journalism MA equips you with advanced skills in research, critical analysis, and communication that are highly valued across a wide range of industries. Graduates have found success in national and international journalism, public relations, government communications, and academic research.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers of Graduates
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Leeds is a member of the prestigious Russell Group and consistently ranks among the top universities in the United Kingdom and globally. Its School of Media and Communication benefits from strong industry partnerships with organisations such as the BBC, Ofcom, and Channel 4, whose national headquarters is based in Leeds.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Communication & Media Studies | QS World Subject Rankings | #33 |
| Journalism | Guardian University Guide | Top 15 in the UK |
| Social Sciences & Management | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 100 |
| Arts & Humanities | QS World Subject Rankings | Top 100 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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