Top 9 Universities Worldwide for Journalism & Mass Communication Studies

Best Universities For Journalism in the World

There is now a lot of room for journalism as a career worldwide. Thanks to the growth and escalating competition amongst the media industry’s participants and the attractive job opportunities in journalism and other related areas. Also, due to its distinctive working environment, this industry appeals to the younger generation worldwide.

If you are one of the many people who want to study abroad and pursue journalism or mass communication but aren’t sure which college to opt for, then going through a well-curated list of top universities for journalism may help you. Many of us may find it challenging to choose the best university due to the abundance of options available to us and the misleading marketing that is frequently displayed.

Here's a list of top journalism universities worldwide to help you easily select the most suitable educational institute for study abroad programmes.

A curious mind, love for the written word, and in most circumstances, a degree in journalism are all one needs to work in the journalism dreamland. If you are looking to pursue education abroad, then the following are the top 9 universities in the world to study journalism.

1. University of Southern California

For education abroad, this university in Los Angeles is one of the top universities in the United States for a degree in journalism and communications. Both undergraduate and graduate students can enrol in journalism programmes at the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School of Communication and Journalism. Notably, its name is derived from the funding provided by the diplomat Walter Annenberg.

2. The London School of Economics and Political Science

The LSE Department of Media and Communications is ranked first in the United Kingdom; thanks to its excellent interdepartmental research, teaching, and training. The top graduate programmes in the world include PhD programmes, a few short courses, and 12- and 24-month master’s degrees in social science and related subjects. Also, students can select from various MSc programmes, including gender, media and culture, strategic communications, and media and communications.

3. University of Texas

The University of Texas, Austin School of Journalism, United States, admitted its first pupils in 1914. Due to its extensive competence, this institution has risen to the top of the global rankings for abroad education in terms of universities offering communication and journalism studies.

The Moody College of Communication at UT Austin requires all to study a number of subjects like global culture, independent investigation, ethics and writing. Notably, graduate programmes for mass media and journalism up to the doctorate level are offered by Moody College.

4. Nanyang Technological University

Experiential learning is a significant component of NTU Singapore’s Bachelor of Communications Studies programme. The four-year programme is taught at the Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information, which supports intensive international field excursions to expose undergraduates to the reality of reporting from abroad.

A 22-week internship is another requirement for third-year students in order to get practical experience and begin developing their career networks. The institution also provides a master’s programme that can be pursued full- or part-time in addition to the undergraduate degree.

5. University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam offers a variety of programmes related to journalism and media studies. These programmes are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in journalism theory, media ethics, communication, and practical skills required for the field. If you are willing to study abroad, then you can choose bachelor's, master's and exchange programmes in journalism, media studies and other related fields.

6. Stanford University

Every master’s in journalism student at Stanford University, United States, one of the top journalism institutions in the world, is required to work on a thesis project that demonstrates his/her skills and areas of expertise or interest. If a faculty member in the journalism programme approves, then this gives students a chance to have their work published, which is advantageous for those who have not yet earned their degrees.

Additionally, the university’s facilities are outfitted with top-notch technology. Stanford offers its students professional machines and software that teach them how to convert antiquated writing styles to a more engaging and modern platform.

7. University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania brings a range of programmes based on journalism and communication through its Annenberg School for Communication. These programmes are designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for a career in journalism. The university programmes often focus on the intersection of media, communication, and society.

If you are interested in studying abroad, then the University of Pennsylvania can be a good pick. Some of its potential aspects include exchange programmes, global seminars, and language and cultural seminars.

8. New York University

The New York University offers several programmes related to journalism, media studies, and communication. The Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute at NYU is specifically dedicated to journalism education and research and has award-winning faculty members who are industry leaders. Programmes within the institute are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in various aspects of journalism, including reporting, writing, multimedia production, and more.

9. National University of Singapore

One of the few universities in Southeast Asia to study abroad that offers courses in interactive media design, media studies, and gender and cultural studies is the National University of Singapore. The Communications and New Media department at this university is ideal for journalists who aspire to have successful careers. Students enrolled in the Communications and New Media department are cultivated into journalists who can operate in a variety of media and communications organisations. Thanks to its all-encompassing educational philosophy.

Final Word

In this blog, we explored the top universities to study abroad that offer the best journalism and communication degrees at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Choosing the right university is vital for students planning to study at global universities. While the programme details are important, it's also essential to consider other factors such as the quality of education, research opportunities, industry connections, location, and support services for international students.