Journalism Studies
In today's fast-paced digital media age, journalism is not only a tool for reporting but also a bridge that connects cultures, policies and the public, truth and social perception. Choosing to pursue a Master’s in Journalism Studies in China enables students to explore one of the world's most influential media ecosystems while gaining an edge in international communication.
Program Overview
The Master's Program in Journalism Studies is an interdisciplinary field that explores the principles of information dissemination and news production mechanisms. It encompasses areas such as journalism theory, media practice, intercultural communication, and new media research.
The program aims to cultivate high-level professionals with a global perspective, solid academic foundation, and practical skills. It is particularly suitable for students aspiring to work in journalism, media planning, public relations, or media research, especially those who wish to understand China’s media environment and act as a bridge in Sino-foreign communication.
Who is this Program For?
This program is ideal for individuals who:
- Have a passion for journalism, media, and public information;
- Enjoy communication, writing, and creative expression;
- Are curious about the media system in China and Asia;
- Aspire to work in international communication, public relations, branding, or academic research;
- Thrive in dynamic, multicultural, and socially engaged environments.
Program Objectives
The program aims to cultivate journalism and communication professionals with the following attributes:
- Strong political awareness, international vision, and cross-cultural communication ability;
- Proficiency in journalism and communication theories and research methods, with a clear understanding of both domestic and international media trends;
- Strong practical skills in news reporting, writing, editing, and commentary, capable of handling positions in journalism and related fields;
- Independent research capacity and critical thinking skills, enabling students to conduct teaching and research in journalism studies;
- Proficiency in at least one foreign language, with the ability to read and write academic literature in that language.
Study Mode and Duration
- Duration: Full-time study for three years, with a maximum of four years;
- Early graduation may be possible in no less than two years if specific criteria are met;
- The program combines coursework, focused research, practical training, and thesis writing.
Curriculum
|
No. |
Course Title |
Credits |
|
1 |
Theory and Practice of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era |
2 |
|
2 |
Marxism and Methodology of Social Sciences |
1 |
|
3 |
Foreign Language for Graduate Students |
2 |
|
4 |
Studies in the History of Journalism and Communication |
3 |
|
5 |
Studies in Journalism Theory |
2 |
|
6 |
Studies in Communication Theory |
2 |
|
7 |
Research Methods in Journalism and Communication |
3 |
|
8 |
Studies in the History of Chinese Journalism Thought |
2 |
|
9 |
Public Opinion Studies |
2 |
|
10 |
Studies in News Content Production |
2 |
|
11 |
Studies in Converged Media Journalism Practice |
2 |
|
12 |
Comparative Journalism Studies |
2 |
|
13 |
Intercultural Communication Studies |
2 |
|
14 |
Western Thoughts on Journalism and Communication |
2 |
|
15 |
Special Topics in Media Convergence |
2 |
|
16 |
Studies in Specialized Reporting |
2 |
|
17 |
New Media and Society |
2 |
|
18 |
Social Media Studies |
2 |
|
19 |
Media Culture Studies |
2 |
|
20 |
Academic Ethics and Norms |
1 |
|
21 |
Introduction to Journalism (For interdisciplinary students, not for credit) |
— |
|
22 |
Journalism Practice (Supplementary, not for credit) |
— |
|
23 |
Literature Review |
1 |
|
24 |
Academic Seminars |
1 |
|
25 |
Midterm Assessment |
1 |
|
26 |
Research Training |
1 |
|
27 |
Social Practice |
1 |
Professional Practice
The professional practice component includes:
- Internship: Arranged during the fourth semester at relevant institutions, lasting no less than three months;
- Research Participation: Involvement in faculty research projects, academic conferences, fieldwork, and data collection as needed.
Participation is recorded in the “Graduate Academic Exchange and Practice Evaluation Form” and must be reviewed and approved by the college and the graduate school to earn 1 credit.
Training Approach
The program adopts a dual-mode training approach: “supervision by individual advisors combined with collective mentorship by advisor groups.” Advisors are responsible for guiding students in academic coursework, research, thesis writing, and personal development, with an emphasis on cultivating independent research capabilities.
Research Directions
- History and Theory of Journalism: Focuses on the history of journalism and communication in China and abroad, including Marxist perspectives, ideological evolution, and public opinion.
- Journalism Practice: Explores fundamental principles and operational norms of news reporting, writing, editing, and commentary.
- Comparative Journalism Studies: Investigates the development of journalism in various countries and the evolution of communication ideologies, with emphasis on intercultural journalism and global media flows.
Degree Award
Students who fulfill all credit requirements and pass the thesis defense will be granted a Master’s Degree in Journalism Studies, pending approval by the university’s Academic Degree Evaluation Committee.
Career Prospects
Graduates may pursue careers in:
- Media organizations (newspapers, television, digital media, etc.);
- Public relations, media consulting, and advertising agencies;
- News and communication departments in government and international organizations;
- Higher education institutions and research centers;
- Corporate media and brand communication departments.
Further academic study, including doctoral programs or overseas education, is also an option.
Related Majors
- Communication Studies
- Advertising
- Network and New Media
- Publishing and Editing
- Intercultural Communication
Leading Universities in China in this Field
- Renmin University of China
- Communication University of China
- Fudan University
- Huazhong University of Science and Technology
- Tsinghua University
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University
- Wuhan University
- Jinan University
- Peking University
- East China Normal University
Evaluation of the Journalism Studies Program
The Journalism Studies Master’s program in China is a balanced combination of academic theory and practical training. It prepares students with a strong foundation in media research, critical thinking, and real-world journalism practice through internships and project-based learning.
As a leading media powerhouse in Asia, China offers international students a comprehensive understanding of how global media operates in both regional and international contexts. Studying journalism here provides a strategic advantage for careers in international communication and regional expertise in East Asia.
The above provides an overview of the Master’s program in Journalism Studies. Visit the “Major Search” section to explore more details about study programs in China!
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