MA (JOurnalism)

Programme description

The MA (Journalism) is designed to provide education and training for entry to the profession of journalism. It combines the practical, analytical, theoretical, and technical skills necessary to the practice of journalism in contemporary media. The programme consists of taught courses over two semesters; a Final Project (Dissertation) which is a major piece of journalistic writing, of 10,000–12,000 words in length; and a placement. Tuition is carried out in a dedicated newsroom and radio studio environment.  Modules themselves, as well as, the content of modules may vary from year to year.

Programme aims and objectives

The MA (Journalism) aims to combine the practical, analytical, theoretical, and technical skills necessary to the practice of journalism in contemporary media.

ECTS weighting

90 ECTS.

Programme fee, academic year 2009–10

E.U. students: €8,205
Non-E.U. students: €12,500*

Please note: fees are correct at the time of online publication, but are subject to change (E&EO); non-E.U. fees must be paid in full prior to registration.

Application

Applications to this programme are made online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC). Relevant PAC application code above right.

Supporting documentation required to supplement your online application: (1) An article (c. 700 words) of journalistic interest, either published or unpublished. If published indicate clearly the name and date of publication; if unpublished indicate the name or type of newspaper or magazine for which you think it may be suited; (2) A personal statement detailing your interest in the pursuit of journalism studies, including brief information on your relevant journalistic/media experience as follows:

• Name and date of publication/s, radio station, etc.  
• Title/s of piece/s and brief details on content, e.g., topic, interviewees etc. 
• Role/activities.

Minimum entry requirements

The Programme welcomes applications from graduates of all disciplines. Applicants must have a second class honours degree, or higher. Applicants are required to submit a c. 700-word article, which may be published or unpublished. If the article is published indicate clearly the name and date of publication; if the article is unpublished indicate the name or type of newspaper or magazine for which you think it most suited. Applicants must be competent in the use of computers and keyboarding.

Selection criteria

Selection is based on the candidate's academic results in conjunction with his/her application and submission of work. Some candidates may be interviewed at the discretion of the Admissions Board. Short-listing usually operates for the annual intake of 16 students.

Examination arrangements

Modules are assessed in whole or in part by a combination of continual assessment and semester examinations.

Placement 

The programme endeavours to arrange a placement for each student. Students must accept the first placement offered them. Placement is usually unpaid, and students may have to relocate in order to take up a placement.

Career opportunities

Journalism graduates of NUI Galway work with national and regional newspapers, national television and radio, and local radio. While most graduates’ preferred choice is to work as journalists, some graduates work as public relations executives and as press and information officers with various national and local organisations. Over the years graduates and students from the programme have been winners of various national awards for young journalists, including most recently, the  National Press Student Journalist of the Year 2006 award, at the Oxygen student media awards.

Programme content (subject to change)

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