Master of Science Program

The 10-month M.S. program offers aspiring and experienced journalists the opportunity to study the skills, the art, and the ethics of journalism by reporting and writing stories that range from short news pieces to complex narrative features. Students learn how to think critically and deeply, to be both ethical and street smart, working with New York City as their laboratory.

Students may choose from one of four specializations: newspaper, magazine, broadcast or new media. Applicants interested in investigative reporting may apply to the Stabile Center for Investigative Journalism, a sub-specialization of the M.S. program. Students may also enroll in this program on a part-time basis.

Fall term

Every M.S. student reports in the best news laboratory in the world — the streets of New York City. Starting with the core course, Reporting and Writing I, students explore the neighborhoods of New York's five boroughs to develop sources, find fresh ideas and probe beneath the surface to produce vivid, telling stories. This course covers the basics of journalism applicable to all media: how to report; how to write a lead, structure a story, and cover a neighborhood or a government agency; and how to cover spot news, feature and investigative stories.

Each story students write, every drill they perform, is meticulously edited by their professors, critiqued in class as a group and often reviewed one-on-one with faculty. In addition, each class produces an online publication showcasing the best student work.

Spring term

The spring semester demands much of the same rigor, only now through the practical application of the techniques learned in the fall. Students enroll in a workshop, a seminar and an elective, and continue work on their master's project.

Master's project

The master's project, which spans the fall and spring terms, requires intensive research to produce a substantial piece of journalism. Working closely with an advisor, students are expected to demonstrate an ability to conduct and sustain in-depth reporting over several months, to gather and organize large amounts of material, and to write in clear, accessible and professional-quality prose.
Learn more about the master's project

Stabile Program for Investigative Journalism

Inaugurated in September 2006, the Toni Stabile Center for Investigative Journalism is for students interested in pursuing distinguished careers in investigative journalism. Candidates for the Master of Science degree may apply to this program, which offers courses taken in addition to the traditional M.S. specializations of broadcast, newspaper, magazine and new media.
Applicants will be eligible for Stabile scholarships designated specifically for investigative journalism. The specialization is open to 15 students per year. To apply, go to our online application, check "Yes" for the Stabile Center Investigative Journalism specialization, and complete essay C.

Contact the Admissions Office

(212) 854-8608
admissions@jrn.columbia.edu
Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism
2950 Broadway (@ 116th St)
Room 203 (lobby)
New York, NY 10027