Program Overview

Master of Journalism and Communication

The UNSW Master of Journalism and Communication is a two-year full-time postgraduate university degree in contemporary journalism, media studies, and communications. This masters degree will empower students with the hands-on skills and theoretical knowledge to understand and shape the global news media and communication industries.

Overview

The program is structured to acknowledge and recognize the unique experience students bring to their postgraduate education. If students have relevant professional and academic experience, they can complete the Master of Journalism and Communication in two years full-time (or the part-time equivalent), or as a 1.7 or one-year streamlined program.

Key Features

• Make an impact: Through this degree, students will learn the concepts that underpin ethical journalism and put them into practice through professional experience.
• Research project: In the final semester of study, students will have the option to devise and independently undertake a major research project.
• Prepare for the professional world: Through the student-led news platform, Newsworthy, students will have the opportunity to build a portfolio of real-world journalism.
• Learn with technology: UNSW focuses on learning through new and emerging technologies to ensure students are experienced with the tools they will use as professionals.

Why Study at UNSW?

• Practice in state-of-the-art production spaces
• Adobe Creative Cloud subscription included from the day students start their degree for the duration of their studies
• Be supported by the diverse, open, and inclusive Arts, Design & Architecture community
• Learn through research-informed teaching
• Prioritize career success - UNSW has been awarded Most Employable students for six years in a row

Program Structure

The number of, and which courses students study will depend on which program they undertake. The program is available in three streams:

• Journalism and Communications Stream A: One year, 8 courses, 48 units of credit (UOC)
• Journalism and Communications Stream B: 1.7 years, 10 courses, 72 units of credit (UOC)
• Journalism and Communications Stream C: Two years, 14 courses, 98 units of credit (UOC)

Entry Requirements

UNSW recognizes professional experience. If students have worked in a relevant industry, they may be eligible for credit points that would allow them to complete the one-year, full-time program.

• One-year accelerated program/ Stream A: Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%, plus one year relevant professional experience.
• 1.7 year program/ Stream B: Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in a relevant discipline, with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%.
• Two-year program/ Stream C: Bachelor degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline with a record of academic achievement equivalent to a UNSW credit average of 65%.

English Language Requirements

Students may be asked to provide evidence of their English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on their educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments, and examinations.

What Will I Study?

The program includes a range of courses that provide students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the journalism and communications industry. Students will have the opportunity to undertake a major research project and gain practical experience through internships and other hands-on learning experiences.

Future Careers

Whether students are industry professionals wanting to progress their career or hoping to move into the journalism, news, and media industries, they will graduate from the Master of Journalism and Communication with the confidence, experience, and knowledge to pursue their goals. Potential careers include:

• Journalism
• Public relations
• Corporate communications
• Digital media
• Film, television, and radio
• Government roles
• Education

Fees & Scholarships

2026 Indicative First Year Full Fee: $33,000* 2026 Indicative Full Fee to Complete Degree: $67,500* *Fees are subject to annual review by the University and may vary accordingly.