Frequently Asked Questions

 

How big is the program?

We seldom enroll more than 15 students.

Are there any part-time students?

No.

How long does it take to get a master's degree in Communication (Journalism)?

One academic year, typically late September through mid-June.

Can courses be taken outside the Department of Communication?

Yes, though normally no more than two.

Do students complete a master's project?

Yes, it's a requirement for graduation. The project represents a major commitment of time, research, and writing. Students generally spend all of Spring Quarter working on it.

Do most students have an undergraduate degree in journalism?

Some do, some don't. But all have enough newsroom experience to enter an advanced master's program that does not teach basic newswriting and reporting.

Is the program primarily "practical" or "theoretical"?

That's a bad distinction, and we do our best to ignore it. The program is certainly practical or professional in that it's designed to prepare people for careers in journalism. But it's also theoretical or academic in the sense that we take journalism seriously as a subject of study - that is, we want to provide an analytical framework for understanding journalism and its role in society. Students graduating from our program should be able to "do" journalism and do it well, but they also should be able to think independently and critically about what they're doing and why they're doing it.

Are internships available?

Yes. Almost every student completes a local or national internship, sometimes during the year but often during the summer following graduation. Students also have many opportunities to write for campus publications, including The Stanford Daily.

Where do students live?

Most students prefer to live on campus. Stanford is a residential campus with very attractive housing options for graduate students.

Will I qualify for a teaching or research assistantship?

No. Journalism students take a full load of courses, which doesn't allow time for an assistantship (usually 20 hours a week).

Is financial aid available?

Yes. Thanks to the generosity of graduates and other friends of the program, we provide each year several full or partial tuition scholarships.

When are admissions decisions made?

Usually by late February or early March.

Where exactly is Stanford located?

Here. About 35 miles south of San Francisco and 20 miles north of San Jose, right in the middle of one of the largest media markets in the United States.

Can I visit campus, talk with faculty and students, sit in on a class or two?

Absolutely. Contact us and we'll arrange a very pleasant but busy day for you.