Master’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies
About Our Program
The Hank Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies offers a graduate program leading to a master of arts degree. Courses focus on applied research techniques and media experience, as well as specialized areas such as emerging technologies, digital storytelling, social media, sports, law, advertising, and public relations.
During the second half of the program, students focus on a thesis, creative project, professional paper, or internship. These experiences are mentored by professors, bringing together media techniques, concepts, and a topic area of your choice. After graduation, our students have started careers in media production, social media, journalism, and corporate communication or pursued a doctoral degree.
Available Tracks
Graduate students have multiple routes to achieving a Master of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies.
Graduate students who select this track have the option of completing a traditional or creative thesis. The traditional thesis is an original piece of work that the student writes under the guidance of a thesis advisor and committee. The creative thesis may be written or take the form of a documentary, podcast, photo essay, script, website, or any combination approved by the student's thesis advisor and committee.
Graduate students who select this track have the option to complete a professional paper for their culminating experience. The professional paper is an original piece of work completed under the guidance of a single faculty advisor. It can be either an academic paper that could be submitted to a journal or a professionally oriented paper that can take the form of a white paper, public relations campaign, or other forms of professional writing and presentation.
Learn MoreStudents on the internship track will complete an internship under the guidance of a professional standing committee and produce a write-up about the experience. Students have worked with prestigious organizations such as the Las Vegas Raiders, Golden Knights, and NPR, among many others.
Learn More
“51ԹϺ is the place that helped launch my career. Thanks to the wonderful faculty and support I received throughout my time in the Journalism and Media Studies program I felt more than prepared for life after grad school. I had the opportunity to work with the Las Vegas Aces as a media relations intern which led to me working as a digital/social coordinator for the Las Vegas Raiders. Working in the NFL has been my dream since I could remember, and I can’t thank 51ԹϺ enough for helping me achieve it.”Maileena Faaita, Class of 2023
Expand Your Knowledge and Open a Range of Career Possibilities
The Hank Greenspun School of Journalism and Media Studies prepares students to become effective professionals in news, sports, advertising and marketing, digital and social media, and more. Upon graduation, students will:
- Develop a grounding in media theory and application.
- Achieve competencies in research methodologies relevant to the field.
- Cultivate the critical thinking skills necessary for leadership in media, technology, and higher education.
- Develop professional media skills in strategic storytelling, multimedia content creation, and social media.
Having acquired this knowledge, previous graduates have gone on to work as newspaper reporters, editors, digital content specialists, broadcast media producers, social media strategists, media relations professionals, magazine writers, government correspondents, professors, and attorneys.
Contact
Benjamin Burroughs
Graduate Coordinator
benjamin.burroughs@unlv.edu