Master's programme in Investigative Journalism
Summary
The program provides an in-depth understanding of investigative journalism as a fundamental pillar of democratic society. You are expected to collaborate effectively in teams and will have the opportunity to develop skills in planning, researching, verifying, and carrying out journalistic investigations. The curriculum places particular emphasis on investigative journalism, international collaboration, research and verification methods, and data journalism, all aimed at preparing you to scrutinize power and meet the challenges of today’s media landscape.
About
The mission of investigative journalism is to scrutinize power and uncover what others intend to keep hidden. Independent, critical journalism is a cornerstone of a democratic society. Around the world, press freedom is facing serious restrictions, and maintaining this vital work requires international collaboration among journalists. In a globalized world, coordination and cooperation are more important than ever.
The Master's Programme in Investigative Journalism (MIJ) at JMG in Gothenburg brings together students from around the world and offers an in-depth understanding of the role investigative journalism plays in strengthening democracy. Through collaboration, students are given the opportunity to develop journalistic skills and build international networks.
Preparing for a changing industry
The programme provides knowledge and skills in investigative journalism, with specialization in international collaborations and data journalism.
The programme is firmly rooted in the journalistic profession and the news industry, developed in collaboration with both. Its aim is to prepare you for an evolving media landscape by strengthening essential skills and knowledge, while also upholding the core values and ethics that define quality journalism.
Combining practice with theory
Theoretical and practical perspectives are integrated through all the courses. We have an explicit pedagogical goal of moving away from the distinction between the academic and professional spheres. This is expressed by emphasizing the methodological and problematizing aspects of journalism, as well as the possibilities of applying scientific perspectives and research for journalistic purposes.
This goal is also highlighted in the choice we provide you for your final project, which can be carried out as an investigative journalistic project or as an academic thesis.
Please note that the course is campus-based and built around the student’s active involvement. The programme is suitable for journalists or others engaged in relevant issues. We welcome students with a diverse background.
Please note that the programme is in English.
This course centers on investigative, data-driven, and collaborative journalism. It is not an introductory course; students are expected to take strong individual responsibility for developing relevant skills. Throughout the year, we offer practice-oriented workshops in writing and media techniques to help students identify their learning needs and support one another in building their journalistic competence.
Apply on: universityadmissions.se. Together with your application you should attach your CV and cover letter, no later than the final day of application.
Programme structure and content
The program runs over one year and consists of four mandatory courses given at full pace and combine theory with the appliance.
Investigative Journalism in Digital Environments (JU2601)
The course provides students with basic knowledge of the conditions, methods and practices of news and investigative journalism, both from a theoretical and practical perspective.
Investigative Journalism Across Borders (JU2600)
The course provides students with basic knowledge of the conditions, methods and practices of cross-border collaborative journalism, both from a theoretical and practical perspective.
Data Journalism and Visualization (JU2602)
The course places heavy emphasis on a journalistic approach, with specific focus on data knowledge for journalistic purposes.
Master's Thesis or Project in Investigative Journalism. (JU2603/JU2604)
The programme concludes with either an investigative journalism project or an academic thesis.
Who should apply?
We welcome students with a diverse background, with academic and/or professional experiences from different fields. Journalists and non-journalists, from all over the world.
We assume you are curious, driven to hold those in power accountable, and eager to pursue meaningful journalism in collaboration with others, sharing your knowledge and skills generously. You are also expected to take responsibility for your own learning and actively contribute to a supportive, team-oriented environment
If you're eager to collaborate, challenge those in power, and sharpen your journalistic skills, apply to the one-year Master's Programme in Investigative Journalism.
Prerequisites and selection
Entry requirements
A Bachelor's degree of 180 credits or corresponding. Applicants must prove knowledge of English: English 6/English Course B from Swedish Upper Secondary School or the equivalent level of an internationally recognized test, for example TOEFL.
Selection
For the selection we require a CV + a Letter of Intent of maximum 500 words each for the two documents (if this limit is exceeded the applications will be disqualified). Save your CV and Letter of Intent into PDF documents and upload them with your other documents (please see our webpage for information about the deadline). The Letter of Intent should address the questions below:
- Your goals and interests: What are your personal and professional goals and interests? In what way does the program align with your asucture anpirations? Which aspects of the program’s strd content have sparked your interest, and why?
- Your background: How have your experiences – academic, professional, and otherwise – shaped your interest in investigative journalism and prepared you for the program?
- Collaboration: What is your view on collaboration, and how will you contribute to a positive learning environment?
- Investigative journalism: How do you perceive the role of investigative journalism in society?
We encourage you to be specific, reflective, and demonstrate that you are ready to take responsibility for your learning and contribute to a diverse, international learning environment.
After graduation
Graduates of the programme receive the degree Master of Science in Journalism specializing in investigative journalism.
Facilities
The teaching takes place in a modern digital environment in the premises of JMG. Students are expected to bring their own laptops, access to video and audio editing studios is possible upon request.
