5 Benefits of Earning a Master’s Degree in Journalism

Pros of Earning a Master’s Degree in Journalism

Finely Honed Skills
Networking
Portfolio Building
Confidence
Specialized Education

As the internet changes the face of reporting around the world, it’s normal to wonder about the benefits of earning a master’s degree in journalism. While the field might be changing, additional education is still important. In fact, the benefits of a master’s degree could give students a valuable edge in a competitive and evolving job market.

Short Learning Curve

Journalism is changing rapidly, thanks to ever-evolving platforms and technology. To be a successful journalist, it’s crucial to master current programs and learn how to anticipate future developments. That’s where a graduate program can help. It teaches students how to be responsible communicators in an era of information overload; courses can also provide valuable skills training in the technologies that are most crucial to reporters. While it’s possible to learn on the job, a master’s degree reduces the learning curve and eliminates a great deal of trial and error along the way. A two-year program can provide a fast, efficient education that might take five or more years to get independently. Plus, since professors are constantly looking to the future, it’s a great way to stay on top of emerging developments.

Networking

One of the most important benefits of getting a master’s degree in journalism isn’t the education, but the people you’ll meet along the way. Graduate programs often give students the chance to meet and build a rapport with top journalists and other professionals in the industry — connections that might be difficult to make otherwise. After graduation, these relationships are invaluable in finding a job, getting interviews, and getting introductions. In a competitive field like journalism, this edge can jump-start a career. The trick? Seizing every opportunity to build a strong professional network during graduate school.

Portfolio Building

In the process of pursuing a journalism master’s degree, students do more than attend class. A big part of the curriculum is practical — in other words, students spend a great deal of time pursuing stories and writing pieces. In addition, many programs require at least one internship, so students have the chance to work at a real-world publication. All of these practical exercises lead to one of the most valuable advantages of a master’s degree in journalism: a well-developed portfolio filled with carefully edited and professionally critiqued pieces. According to Adweek, a portfolio is even more important than a resume for journalists who are searching for a job.

Confidence

The journalism industry is competitive; with many great reporters on the market, companies can afford to pick the best of the best. The people that thrive are the ones who understand the business and know how to pitch themselves effectively. That’s where a journalism master’s degree comes in handy. Over the course of a program, students learn how to handle everything from writing a compelling pitch to getting the best sources. When they enter the job market, this practical experience gives them the confidence and the skills to go for the big, well-paying jobs.

Specialized Education

In some fields, journalists need special knowledge and skills. Take science reporting, for example — to write accurately about complex research, journalists need a special set of skills and background knowledge. The same goes for fields such as politics and data science. For people who want to work in a specialized area, a master’s degree is a must. In addition to teaching students how to write responsibly about these sensitive and important areas, the program can lead to better job prospects. Why? It makes the journalist more credible and gives employers more confidence when it comes to hiring.

Conclusion

For recent undergraduates and experienced professionals, a master’s degree is one way to get ahead in the journalism industry. Everyone’s situation is different; by measuring the benefits of a master’s degree in journalism against the costs, it’s easier to decide if it’s the right path.

Related Resources: