University College Dublin

Overview

The Master of Arts in Journalism and International Affairs at University College Dublin equips students with the skills needed to report on global issues with strong editorial judgment and modern storytelling techniques tailored for digital platforms. This program, co-designed with CNN Academy and delivered in collaboration with UCD’s Clinton Institute, merges in-depth academic knowledge of international affairs with practical newsroom experiences across various media formats, including audio, video, and social media.

• Level: Master of Arts (MA)
• Duration: 12 months (full-time)
• Credits: Typically 90 ECTS (please confirm with UCD)
• Delivery: On-campus with practical newsroom learning components
• Language of instruction: English
• Programme focus: International affairs reporting and cross-platform journalism
• Partner involvement: CNN Academy and UCD Clinton Institute

What you'll study

The curriculum combines essential academic coursework with hands-on journalism training. Modules are crafted to develop skills progressively, covering topics from research methodologies to reporting, digital storytelling, and international affairs analysis.

• Journalism & International Affairs (core)
• CNN Academy Newsroom (applied newsroom practice)
• Research Skills and Methods (core research and verification training)
• Public Diplomacy and Soft Power (international communication and influence)
• The Global Politics of Cyber Security (security, policy, and information ecosystems)
• Politics and Digital Storytelling (digital-first reporting and narrative design)

Capstone / final assessment: The program typically concludes with a significant assessed journalism project or an equivalent integrative assessment. Please check with UCD for the specific format applicable to your intake.

Learning approach: Students engage in reporting tasks that mirror real-world editorial workflows, receiving feedback aimed at enhancing clarity, accuracy, and audience engagement across various formats.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: An honours undergraduate degree (NFQ Level 8) in a relevant field, typically requiring a minimum of Upper Second Class Honours (UCD GPA minimum of 3.08 or international equivalent).
• Alternative route: Applicants lacking the specified degree may still be considered based on extensive relevant work experience.

Career prospects

Upon completion of the program, graduates are well-prepared for careers in journalism and international affairs, with opportunities in various media organizations, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations. The combination of practical skills and theoretical knowledge positions them for impactful roles in the ever-evolving landscape of global communication.