Download a class profile (PDF) of the M.A. Journalism class entering in 2008.
What distinguishes USC Annenberg's M.A. in Journalism program?
Through our two-year program, all students are taught newswriting, reporting and production across media platforms. Also, the School emphasizes an entrepreneurial approach. Finally, summer study abroad experiences with assigned internships are offered.
Do I need an undergraduate degree in journalism, or previous professional journalism experience?
No. USC Annenberg's M.A. in Journalism is designed for students with little or no professional journalism training. The School instead seeks individuals who have demonstrated strong academic achievement, writing proficiency, and who have developed a serious commitment to journalism, and who display evidence of professional potential.
What are the admission periods for the M.A. in Journalism? What are the deadlines?
Admission is limited to the fall term. The application deadline for admission and consideration for a teaching assistantship or merit-based scholarship is January 2.
How long does the program take to complete?
The M.A. in Journalism is a 40-unit program that full-time students complete in two years.
How many people apply? Are admitted? Enroll?
221 applications were received from those seeking admission to the M.A. in Journalism program for Fall 2008. 140 of those applicants were offered admission, and 62 enrolled.
What are the average undergraduate GPA and GRE scores of those who enrolled in the M.A. in Journalism in Fall 2008?
The enrolled class had an average undergraduate GPA of 3.37 and an average GRE verbal and quantitative score of 1124.
Are there minimum admission requirements for the School?
In addition to the University graduate admission standards (3.0 undergraduate GPA and 1000 GRE verbal and quantitative), USC Annenberg's School of Journalism recommends a minimum GRE verbal score of 550, a minimum TOEFL score of 280 on the computer exam or 114-115 on the internet-based exam (for international students) and a GRE writing score of 5.0.
What is the Journalism Essay?
The Journalism Essay is an opportunity to write a 250- to 500-word persuasive essay describing a journalistic event or events that sparked your interest to pursue this profession and why.
What type of writing sample should I submit?
An academic paper, published article, professional brochure or pamphlet may be submitted.
Will professional references be accepted?
References from classroom instructors are strongly preferred. One professional reference may be substituted for a faculty reference.
Is funding available?
All applicants, including international students, are considered for departmental scholarships and awards as part of the admission review process. Only 12% of the entering class receives financial support from USC Annenberg. Since most graduate students are self-funded, all U.S. citizens and permanent residents are urged to apply for federal student aid. Refer to USC Financial Aid for application instructions. International students must demonstrate the financial resources to study and live in the United States. Refer to USC Graduate Admission for pertinent details and instructions.
Does this program provide the opportunity to study or work abroad?
During the summer after the first year, School of Journalism students may study, intern and travel through an Annenberg program in London, Hong Kong, or Cape Town.
What about domestic internships and career opportunities?
USC Annenberg's Career Development Office provides a steady stream of leads on internships and full- and part-time jobs. Our interns and graduates can be found working at many of the nation's leading media organizations including ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, ESPN, C-SPAN, CNBC, KMEX, Telemundo, KWHY, AOL, variety.com, latimes.com, eCompanies, washingtonpost.com, the Associated Press, the Chicago Tribune, Dallas Morning News, Korea Times, Los Angeles Times, La Opinion, Philadelphia Inquirer, New York Times, Newsday and Wall Street Journal.