Graduate Program
The School of Journalism at The University of Texas at Austin offers intensive, uniquely designed degrees for Master’s and Doctoral candidates in both professional and research arenas.
Guide to Graduate Programs
The policies and procedures of the graduate program can be found in the Graduate Student Handbook.
Advising/Registration
All graduate students are required to meet with the Graduate Advisor once a semester (October and April) to plan for the following semester's coursework and program of study. Subsequent registration for coursework is performed online using the registrar's online services. You will need to know your UT EID to access registration.
Course Syllabi
Course requirements for a graduate degree in Journalism vary depending on the degree. In most cases, 36 hours of coursework are required for a Master's degree and between 60 and 70 hours for a PhD. Both programs have extensive requirements that should be discussed with your Graduate Advisor.
Student Organizations
The School of Journalism sponsors multiple student organizations, including chapters of national organizations. Our student organizations are uniquely diverse and offer aspiring journalists opportunities to learn, create and socialize with fellow students who share their interests.
Admissions
THE DEADLINE TO APPLY FOR FALL 2012 IS DECEMBER 15, 2011 FOR FALL ADMISSION ONLY. The Graduate School web site has more information about applying.
Master's Program
A Master's degree from the School of Journalism in Research and Theory requires 30 hours of coursework. A Master's degree in Photography or the Professional track requires 36 hours.
Research Focus
An engaged scholar in today's evolving journalism landscape should be cognizant of qualitative, quantitative and critical perspectives that foster current and future research. The highly specialized graduate faculty works closely with scholars to cultivate innovative research, all aimed at unearthing questions and introducing possible solutions facing journalism today.
IRB Research
Research is defined by relevant federal regulations as "a systematic investigation, including research development, testing and evaluation, designed to develop or contribute to generalizable knowledge." Studies designed for publication are considered research. Students conducting research are usually required to go through the university's Institutional Review Board when conducting any research involving human subjects.
Doctoral Program
A PhD from the School of Journalism is a research-intensive degree, preparing student to become active and productive researchers across all spectrums of journalism. Scholars engage in quantitative and qualitative approaches, learning practical and creative analysis in multiple arenas.
- Degree Requirements and Program of Work
- Tracking Progress
- Comprehensive Exams
- Dissertation Tips
- Graduation
Student Profiles
Though they come from all walks of life, graduate students in the School of Journalism are all traveling similar paths. From professional track Master's students to dissertation-seeking Doctoral candidates, the scholars here represent the brightest and boldest in the field of journalism. The changes they seek through experience, research, cutting-edge theory building and problem-solving are the cornerstone of journalistic pursuits in academia.
Student Funding
Students are encouraged to visit the Office of Student Financial Services for various funding opportunities. Fellowships through the School of Journalism are also available for those meeting the requirements.
Student Employment
Although teaching assistant positions are generally viewed as employment and not financial assistance, the School of Journalism employs some currently enrolled master's and doctoral students as teaching assistants to assist faculty members in teaching undergraduate courses.
