The new M.A. in Journalism Studies is aimed at students interested in acquiring the theoretical foundation and methodological skills necessary to conduct scholarly research in the field of journalism studies. 

The M.A. program is a research-oriented program, designed with two kinds of students in mind:  those interested in the scholarly study of journalism as a practice and as an institution and wish to acquire the necessary research skills to produce scholarly work, perhaps with the intention of continuing on to doctoral study; and mid-career journalists who are interested in familiarizing themselves with the scholarly literature in this field and in pursuing a specific research project.

This program is not intended for students interested in becoming journalists.  Students interested in becoming journalists in the print, radio, television and/or on-line media should consult the program description of our Graduate Diploma in Journalism.

While some previous study or work in journalism is preferred, this is not a requirement for entry into the M.A. in Journalism Studies, and we welcome applicants of all backgrounds. The program will require 18 credits of coursework (i.e., six three-credit courses), a six-credit literature review and thesis proposal, and a final thesis. The following core courses are required:

       JOUR 601        Foundations of Journalistic Thought I (3 credits)

       JOUR 602        Foundations of Journalistic Thought II (3 credits)

       JOUR 603        Political Economy of Journalism (3 credits)

       JOUR 604        Research Methods in Journalism Studies (3 credits)

Three to six credits of elective courses may be chosen from this list:*

       JOUR 610        International Journalism (3 credits)

       JOUR 620        Journalism Ethics (3 credits)

       JOUR 630        Mediating Diversity (3 credits)

       JOUR 640        Textual Approaches to Journalism (3 credits)

*Students (in consultation with their faculty advisors) may enroll in one three-credit elective course external to the Journalism Department, which the M.A. Program Director and the respective external department must approve.

For further information, please contact Dr. Jim McLean, M.A. Program Director, Department of Journalism, Concordia University at: james.mclean@concordia.ca

Theses completed in the MA in Journalism Studies:

Elyse Amend.  (2011).  “In search of models: An investigation into the practical use of models of science communication in science journalism production.”  (Dr. David Secko, supervisor). Available at: http://spectrum.library.concordia.ca/35782/

Gabriela Capurro.  (2011).  “Covering the Two Amigos: Neo-colonial representations of Canada and Mexico in their national press.”  (Dr. Lisa Lynch, supervisor). Available at: http://spectrum.library.concordia.ca/7789/