University of South Florida

Overview

The Master of Arts in Digital Journalism and Design at the University of South Florida merges the art of storytelling with cutting-edge design and production techniques. This program prepares students to effectively plan, create, and publish digital media, equipping them with the technical and creative skills that are highly sought after by employers in the evolving media landscape.

What you'll study

The curriculum is structured around graduate seminars and hands-on coursework that emphasizes both editorial and design/production skills. While specific course offerings may vary, students typically engage in a blend of core media studies, digital production, and experiential learning.

• International Communications Seminar
• Journalists in the Movies
• Magazine Design & Production
• Media and Elections
• Media Management Seminar
• Neighborhood News Bureau
• Photojournalism
• Sizzling Images
• Social Media

Applied learning & capstone-style work: Students often culminate their studies with a project or portfolio that showcases their digital storytelling and design/production capabilities. The format of this final project may vary based on individual course plans and departmental requirements.

Electives: Students have the opportunity to choose additional graduate-level courses that align with their interests in journalism, media strategy, and digital design, subject to availability.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

• A bachelor’s degree with a minimum “B” average or higher.
• Applicants with a prior graduate degree must also have a “B” average or better.
• If you possess both a bachelor’s and a graduate degree at the time of admission, the graduate GPA is typically the determining factor.
• Degrees must be equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s/graduate degree. Applicants from non-U.S. institutions may need a transcript evaluation to establish equivalency.
• Applicants from non-English speaking countries who have not completed at least a bachelor’s degree in the U.S. must demonstrate English proficiency.

English language requirements

• IELTS: minimum 6.5
• TOEFL iBT: minimum 79
• PTE Academic: minimum 53
• Duolingo English Test: minimum 110

Required documents (typical)

• Completed online application
• Official transcripts from all previous institutions
• English test scores (if applicable)
• Additional materials as requested by the department (e.g., statement of purpose, résumé, or writing samples—check current requirements)

Career prospects

Graduates of the MA in Digital Journalism and Design are well-prepared for various roles in the media industry, including positions in digital content creation, multimedia journalism, and media management. With a strong foundation in both storytelling and design, alumni often find opportunities in news organizations, online media outlets, and creative agencies, where they can apply their skills in innovative ways within the digital landscape.