Georgetown University

What you'll study

This master's balances practical production training with critical study of media systems, policy and audience engagement. Core studio and production modules typically cover audio production, video production, multicamera studio practices, and post-production editing for broadcast and online platforms. Digital modules examine podcasting, social media strategy, analytics, mobile storytelling and transmedia narrative techniques.

• Production and Technical Skills: studio directing, field production, sound design, nonlinear editing, live-streaming workflows and technical standards for radio and television.
• Storytelling and Journalism: reporting for broadcast, scriptwriting for radio and television, investigative techniques, interview practice and multimedia story packages.
• Digital Media and Strategy: social and emerging media, audience development, content monetisation, platform strategies and data-driven editorial decision-making.
• Media Law, Ethics and Policy: freedom of expression, FCC and regulatory frameworks, intellectual property, ethical decision-making and the implications of new technologies on public discourse.
• Research and Capstone: methods for media research, practicum placements or an industry-focused capstone project producing a portfolio of broadcast and digital work.

Course delivery typically includes a mix of hands-on lab work in professional-standard audio and video studios, seminars on media theory and policy, and internships or practicum placements with local broadcast outlets, public radio, production companies or digital agencies in Washington, D.C.

Entry requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in any discipline; applicants with relevant professional experience are also welcome.
• Application form with a personal statement outlining professional goals and interest in radio, television and digital media.
• Academic transcripts and at least two references (academic or professional).
• A resume or CV detailing relevant education and professional experience.
• Portfolio of work demonstrating production, reporting or digital media experience is strongly advised — this can include audio samples, video reels, links to published work, or digital projects.
• Proof of English language proficiency for international applicants where applicable (e.g. recognised test scores or equivalent evidence).
• Some applicants may be invited to an interview; prior broadcast or digital experience can strengthen an application but is not always required.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles across public and commercial media, nonprofit organisations, and corporate communications. Typical career paths include:

• Broadcast producer, assignment editor or field producer for radio and television networks.
• Multimedia journalist, podcast producer or investigative reporter.
• Digital content strategist, social media manager or audience development specialist.
• Media production specialist, video editor or post-production supervisor.
• Communications advisor, media trainer or public affairs producer for NGOs, government offices or think tanks.
• Independent producer, consultant or entrepreneur creating branded or documentary content for digital platforms.

The programme’s emphasis on practical work and portfolio development helps graduates demonstrate concrete skills employers look for across newsrooms, production companies, public media and digital agencies.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown’s location in Washington, D.C. places students at the intersection of media, policy and public affairs, creating strong opportunities for internships and collaborations with national broadcasters, public radio stations, production houses and policy organisations. The university combines faculty with professional media backgrounds and academic specialists in media policy, providing balanced training in both practice and the broader regulatory and ethical context.

Students benefit from access to professional-standard studios and editing suites, connections to a wide alumni network in journalism and communications, and extracurricular opportunities such as student-run radio, media clubs and public events featuring visiting journalists and media executives. The programme’s practicum and capstone options enable students to graduate with a substantive body of produced work and professional contacts in the industry.