Journalism (MS) at Northwestern University

Programme overview

A one-year graduate programme in Chicago teaching journalism skills and values for today's digital media landscape. Students choose a specialization, report in local, national and international settings and join an alumni network of more than 18,000.

Faculty: Medill School of Journalism, Media, Integrated Marketing Communications | Duration: 1 year | Intake: September | Study mode: full-time | Location: Evanston, IL, United States

What you will study

A foundation in modern journalism principles followed by a specialization: Health, Environment and Science; Media Management and Leadership; Medill Investigative Programs; Politics, Policy and Foreign Affairs; Magazine; Sports Media; or Video and Broadcast.

Career pathways

Graduates work at outlets including AP, The Washington Post, Bloomberg, CNN, The New York Times, ESPN and NPR; Medill Career Services offers workshops, networking and coaching.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

GRE/GMAT not required. Open to students straight from undergraduate study, professionals with 1-3 years of experience and career changers. Deadlines: Round 1 November 9, 2026; Round 2 January 18, 2027; Round 3 March 29, 2027. All admitted students are considered for merit-based scholarships.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Graduate applications for 2026-27 open September 15, 2026; deadlines vary by programme. The Graduate School application fee is $95 and nonrefundable, paid by credit or debit card.

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