Program Overview

Master of Professional Studies in Data Journalism

The University of Maryland College of Information (INFO) and Philip Merrill College of Journalism (Merrill College) have partnered to offer a Master of Professional Studies in Data Journalism. This program combines the best of Merrill's journalism training and the INFO College's data-management techniques to produce a curriculum that trains the next generation of data journalists.

Program Overview

The Data Journalism master's degree requires 36 credit hours, consisting of:

• 10 Core Courses (30 Credits) that teach students journalism, open source intelligence, data analytics, visual analytics, and more
• 1 Advanced Journalism Training OR Capstone Project (6 Credits)

Students can complete the degree entirely virtually, in person, or via a combination of the two. The program can be completed in as little as two years or at a self-paced schedule.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to train students in both journalistic and scientific methods, enabling them to take their investigative skills to another level with advanced data skills. Students will learn to extract stories and meaning from data, preparing them for careers in journalism, data science, or related fields.

Reputation

The program is offered by two renowned colleges:

• Merrill College has won 14 Pulitzer Prizes and 5 Peabody Awards.
• INFO College has distinguished faculty, research centers, labs, and groups, providing hands-on learning opportunities for students.

Career Paths

Graduates of the Data Journalism master's degree program will achieve a competitive edge in their careers. Those interested in journalism careers will be able to extract stories and meaning from data, while those interested in careers as data scientists or analysts will develop a distinct competitive edge as data professionals who can express results in expertly crafted stories.

Hands-On Learning

Students will apply what they learn through real-world, hands-on experience with a final project or capstone project at one of the INFO College's many partner organizations. This experience will align with their career goals and provide opportunities for hands-on learning at world-renowned research centers and labs.

Student Community

The INFO College has a diverse student body of over 2800 students from 61 countries, creating a welcoming and encouraging environment. Students can choose from hundreds of student organizations, including INFO student organizations, service opportunities, and social activities.

Tuition / Costs

• In-State (Maryland resident) tuition and fees: approximately $34,200 to complete 36 credit hours
• Out-of-State tuition and fees: approximately $69,500 to complete 36 credit hours

Financial Aid

The UMD INFO College provides financial aid to select current students who demonstrate academic excellence. Students may also reduce their tuition costs by serving as a TA or GA at UMD, but please note that these positions are competitive.

Admissions / Pre-Reqs

• Application Deadline: early February for best consideration, final deadline July 2, 2025
• Application Requirements:
  • 4-year baccalaureate degree
  • 3.0 GPA on prior undergraduate or graduate work
  • GRE or GMAT scores are optional
  • TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE score required for international applicants
  • Complete the UMD Graduate School application
  • Three writing samples
  • $75 application fee

English Language Proficiency Requirements

International applicants must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores, with minimum requirements:

• iBT TOEFL: Total 96 (Speaking 22, Listening 24, Reading 26, Writing 24)
• IELTS: Overall 7 (Listening 7, Reading 7, Writing 7, Speaking 6.5)
• PTE: Total 68 (Writing 68)