Do I need a journalism degree to enter the Master in Journalism?

No. The Master in Journalism is open to graduates from any discipline. Subject specialists who want to write about their own field are often particularly well placed for modern beats.

Does the Master in Journalism cover investigative and data work?

Yes. Investigative methods, data journalism and freedom of information basics are part of the programme, alongside core reporting and digital craft.

Is the Master in Journalism useful for someone in PR or communications?

It can be, particularly if you want to deepen reporting and editorial discipline. Note, however, that journalism and PR have distinct ethical positions and the programme is grounded in editorial values.

How long does the master take?

Full-time learners typically complete in one to two years; part-time options extend that. Final duration is confirmed at enrolment.

Can I study fully online?

Supported online study may be available depending on intake. Some newsroom-style elements benefit from face-to-face work; delivery is confirmed during admissions.

Tuition varies by mode and intake. Contact HICL admissions for current information and any payment plans.

Master in Journalism | HICL Postgraduate Programme | Harold International College of London

Master in Journalism at HICL

Journalism is in a strange place. There has never been more news, and there has rarely been less trust. Newsrooms are smaller, platforms move faster, and audiences expect both depth and immediacy. The Master in Journalism is for people willing to step into that environment with proper training in reporting, verification, ethics and digital craft rather than treating journalism as content production.

The Master in Journalism is a postgraduate programme aimed at graduates from any discipline who want to make journalism their profession, and at working communicators looking for a serious upgrade in their reporting and editorial skills.

The unflattering bits the brochure usually skips

Journalism does not pay particularly well at entry level. Hours can be unpredictable. Sources will sometimes lie to you. Lawyers will sometimes lean on you. Algorithms will push your most thoughtful work into a thin slice of attention while a shouty take goes viral. The Master in Journalism does not pretend otherwise. It builds craft and judgement so that, whatever the market looks like, the work you produce is defensible and the kind of work editors and audiences need.

Who This Master Is For

Recent graduates committed to a journalism career and willing to specialise.
Communications, PR and content professionals moving into reporting.
Subject specialists (science, finance, sport, policy) wanting to write about their field.
Mid-career professionals making a second-career move into media.

Where Graduates Work

Graduates of the Master in Journalism typically progress into roles with news organisations, digital publishers, broadcasters, podcasts, specialist trade media, investigative outlets and editorial teams within larger organisations. Pathways include reporter, sub-editor, digital journalist, multimedia producer, podcast producer and editor. Many also work freelance or build their own publications.

Themes You Will Work Through

Core reporting, sourcing and verification.
News writing across print, online and broadcast styles.
Investigative methods, data journalism and FOI basics.
Media law and editorial ethics.
Digital storytelling, audio, video and visual journalism.
Business of journalism: platforms, audience and sustainability.

Module structure is confirmed at enrolment.

How the Programme Is Delivered

The Master in Journalism at HICL is delivered through taught content, newsroom-style exercises, applied assignments and portfolio building. On-campus and supported online options may be available depending on intake; some elements benefit particularly from face-to-face newsroom-style work.

Entry Requirements

A bachelor's degree in any discipline.
Strong writing and an interest in news and current affairs.
IELTS 6.0 or equivalent for international applicants.
Sample writing and a personal statement on your journalism intentions are welcomed.

Apply for the Master in Journalism

If you want to do journalism that actually holds up in a year's time rather than chase the next algorithm, the Master in Journalism is the right step. Click Enroll Now to apply and HICL admissions will respond within one working day with the next steps for your Master in Journalism application.