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Master of Arts
On Campus School of Communication, Media & the Arts
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The Master of Arts in journalism & media production in the School of Communication, Media & the Arts takes an intensive, hands-on approach to learning in journalism, photography, videography, documentary filmmaking and television production.

Why Earn Your Master of Arts in Journalism & Media Production at Sacred Heart?

Sacred Heart University’s journalism & media Production (JMP) program focuses on the “next generation of media production.” The New York Times has reported on the “fundamental transformation” in the news industry toward “digital journalists who produce, record and edit much of their material.” This program will supply the communications and news industries with professional communicators in ways that only a media studies program with a strong digital multimedia production component like ours can. The proof is in the large number alumni already working as reporters and media producers across the nation and around the globe.

The Master of Arts in journalism & media production (JMP) program is ideal for students seeking careers in: Group of SCMA students

  • Broadcast Journalism
  • Photojournalism 
  • Videography 
  • Documentary Filmmaking
  • Live Television Production 
  • Media Production
  • Post-Production Editing  
  • Commercial Photography

Students have the opportunity to design a flexible educational experience within the framework of the curriculum. With courses held on-campus, the JMP program is broken into six, eight-week segments that allow students to explore their interests and master their craft. Students can finish as quickly as one year by taking classes two nights each week, or in two years by taking classes one night each week.

I came to SHU for a master's degree and left with so much more; a career, a family, and amazing memories. I was unsure of what to expect from a post-grad education and worried that I would not make personal connections. At SHU, that couldn't be further from the case.

What We DoSCMA forum

Journalism & Media Production is a program that gives the student real life opportunities to produce professional content. This hands-on program is designed to give the student the skills and experiences they need to succeed in their desired career path.

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Social Justice

Making a difference

Our program gives socially concerned students the opportunity to use their dedication as journalists and media professionals to make a difference. If you are passionate about social justice issues, you can you use your media skills as a catalyst for positive change. We encourage Investigative Journalism and responsible communication based on facts and solid reporting. It is all about finding your voice and using your craft to make the world a better place.

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Dual Degree Program

Students apply to the Bachelor’s–Master of Arts in Journalism & Media Production (JMP) Dual Degree Program as an incoming freshman and are admitted directly into the graduate program at the same time as your admission as an undergraduate student. Students are encouraged to reach out to your admissions counselor to discuss dual degree options.

Facilities & Equipment

The SCMA program is housed in the Frank & Marisa Martire Center for the Liberal Arts, a $50 million, 120,000-square-foot world-class facility offering unparalleled resources. Students have access to media production studios and interactive laboratories designed to advance the skills and knowledge students need for the global marketplace. The Dr. Michelle C. Loris ’70 Forum and media theater are wired to our control rooms via fiber optic cable, enabling students to produce professional multi-camera, live-streamed programs with live audiences. All JMP students are issued a MacBook Pro laptop to keep after graduation, the latest Adobe software licensure and a personal DSLR camera kit for use during the full course of the program.

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Learning Outcomes

JMP students will be prepared to lead in the workforce as they focus on the concept and practice of the digital journalist and production specialist as the emerging model of the future. Students will develop the technical, editorial and theoretical skills necessary for preparation as a digital journalist and production specialist. Emphasis will be placed on: SCMA students working on the computer

  • Research
  • Writing
  • Ethics
  • Interviewing
  • Reporting
  • Producing
  • Audio and video editing
  • Directing
  • Field recording video

Students will not only master all of these skills, but also be prepared to work in all of the emerging formats of new media. Hands-on classes will guide students through distinct photo, video, studio and field event projects that will incorporate all of the necessary skills required for a professional career. JMP students build their professional portfolio as their work is distributed and published through various media outlets while earning their degrees.

Careers

Students create real-world multimedia productions for actual organizations, businesses, publications or media outlets. This practical focus with the latest technologies in a professional context gives students the experience and portfolio they need to compete and excel in the ever-changing communications and media industries.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports projected growth for employment in media and communication occupations between 2022 to 2032 will result in about 114,300 new jobs. Demand for media and communication occupations is expected to rise from the need to create, edit, translate and disseminate information through a variety of different platforms. SHU’s close proximity to the New York City/Tri-State Region gives students the opportunity to work at high-profile companies such as ABC News, NBC, CBS and MTV in addition to many other important corporations that conveniently neighbor Sacred Heart University.

Faculty Highlights

STEM Designated Program

This is a STEM-designated program, which means you will be trained in areas of technology that are in high demand with U.S. employers. This program allows international students with F1 visas to extend their OPT in the U.S. by 24 months after graduating (36 months in total).

More Information

For more information on earning your master of journalism & media production, contact:

Associate Director of Graduate Admissions

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