University College Dublin

The MA in Journalism and International Affairs trains you to report on global issues with strong editorial judgement and modern, digital-first storytelling skills.

Co-designed with CNN Academy and delivered with UCD’s Clinton Institute, the programme blends academic insight into international affairs with newsroom-style practice across audio, video, and social media.

• Level: Master of Arts (MA)
• Duration: 1 year (full-time)
• Credits: Typically 90 ECTS (confirm with UCD)
• Delivery: On-campus with newsroom-style learning components
• Language of instruction: English
• Programme focus: International affairs reporting + cross-platform journalism
• Partner involvement: CNN Academy and UCD Clinton Institute
• Start dates: Check UCD programme intake dates
• Tuition fees: Vary by applicant category—check UCD fees for the current academic year

Programme Structure

The programme combines core academic study with applied journalism training. Modules are designed to build skills progressively—from research and methods to reporting, digital storytelling, and international affairs analysis.

• Journalism & International Affairs (core)
• CNN Academy Newsroom (applied newsroom practice)
• Research Skills and Methods (core research and verification training)
• Public Diplomacy and Soft Power (international communication and influence)
• The Global Politics of Cyber Security (security, policy, and information ecosystems)
• Politics and Digital Storytelling (digital-first reporting and narrative design)

Capstone / final assessment: The programme typically culminates in a substantial assessed journalism output or equivalent integrative assessment (confirm the exact format with UCD for the current intake).

Learning approach: You will work on reporting tasks that reflect real editorial workflows, with feedback aimed at improving clarity, accuracy, and audience impact across formats.

Admission requirements

• Academic background: An honours undergraduate degree (NFQ Level 8) in a relevant subject area, with a minimum Upper Second Class Honours (UCD GPA minimum 3.08 or international equivalent).
• Alternative route: Applicants without the above degree may be considered if they have extensive relevant work experience.

English requirements

• IELTS: minimum 6.5 (overall)
• TOEFL iBT: minimum 100
• PTE Academic: minimum 65
• Duolingo English Test: minimum 130
• Oxford Test of English (OTE): minimum 140

Application documents (typical)

• Academic transcripts and degree certificate (or evidence of completion)
• Proof of English proficiency (if required)
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Statement of purpose / personal statement
• Any additional supporting documents requested by UCD

Deadlines and intake: Application deadlines and start dates vary by intake—check UCD’s current admissions calendar for the most accurate timing.

Work Permits

After completing your studies in Ireland, you may be eligible to apply for a post-study work permission, subject to meeting the relevant Irish immigration requirements.

• Typical eligibility: You must have successfully completed your programme and hold the appropriate immigration permission at the time of application.
• Duration: Post-study work permissions are granted for a limited period and are subject to the rules in force at the time you apply (you should check the latest Irish Government guidance).
• Application timing: You must apply within the permitted timeframe after course completion.
• Conditions: You may need to demonstrate that you completed the programme and that you meet the required criteria for the specific permission category.

Important: Immigration rules can change. Always verify the most up-to-date requirements with the Irish immigration authorities or your university’s international student office before planning employment.