Emerson College's online Master of Arts (MA) in Journalism and Media Innovation equips students with multidisciplinary skills in multimedia storytelling, audience-specific writing, global and community reporting, and more. Housed within the Department of Journalism in the School of Communication, the program features experienced faculty with a history of working at prestigious media outlets. They equip students with contemporary skills for the next phase of their careers.

Students can customize their learning experience through elective courses, making it a flexible option for those pursuing careers in various journalism- and media-related fields, with the opportunity to expedite the degree for experienced professionals.

Curriculum Requirements for the Online Journalism and Media Innovation MA Program

Emerson College offers two program formats for its curriculum:

Standard Format (32 credits): 

The Standard curriculum allows students to complete the program either full-time in one year or part-time over two years. It comprises:

  • 4 core courses (16 credits):
  • 3 elective courses (12 elective credits)
  • 1 Capstone or Internship course (4 credits); and
  • A Group mentoring program (0 credits). Students are matched with journalism and media professionals each semester.

Experienced Journalist Format (28 credits):

The Experienced Journalism curriculum is designed for professionals with 5+ years of experience or a journalism bachelor's degree. Eligible candidates can waive the core course, Foundations of Journalism and Media Creation (4 credits), reducing the total credits to 28. The Experienced Journalist Format includes:

  • The remaining 3 core courses (12 credits);
  • 4 elective courses (16 credits); and
  • 1 Capstone or Internship course (4 credits).

Students can complete this format full-time in one year or part-time over two years.

Both formats are entirely online and asynchronous, offering flexibility in terms of location and scheduling, with the option to start in the fall or spring term.

To learn more, request information, and review application requirements and deadlines, visit our Journalism and Media Innovation MA Program page.