Close Menu

Master of Science in Journalism

The Master of Science in Journalism program at the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) is a 1.5-year program designed to equip students with comprehensive training in digital, audio, and video journalism. Offered by the School of Economics and Social Sciences (SESS) at IBA, this program provides students with hands-on experience in a newsroom setting under the mentorship of seasoned professionals.

With a modern curriculum developed in collaboration with Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism, the program reflects evolving media trends and incorporates online learning modules to adapt to the global digital landscape. Students gain essential skills for careers in reporting and production across various media platforms.

Additionally, the program offers internship opportunities in newsrooms across the United States, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world journalistic environments and gain valuable reporting experience.




Courses Offered

  • Semester 1: (Fall)

    • News Writing & Reporting
    • The Profession of Journalism
    • Digital News Reporting
    • Governance & Society in Pakistan
    • CEJ Newsroom I

  • Semester 2: (Spring)

    • Current Affairs TV Lab
    • Multimedia Journalism
    • International Affairs
    • MPhil Seminar (Specialized Modules)
    • CEJ Newsroom II

  • Semester 3: (Summer)

    • Specialized Journalism
    • CEJ Newsroom

  • Semester 4: (Fall)

    • Capstone Reporting Project
    • Internship

Our Faculty

Instructors with international degrees and journalism experience, in and outside of Pakistan. View their profiles here

Eligibility

  • Minimum of 16 years of education
  • Minimum CGPA of 2.5 or 50% marks in last degree
  • Applicants with prior journalism experience encouraged to apply

Admissions

Admissions to the Master of Science in Journalism (MSJ) program at the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) are open from January to June each year for the Fall intake. Prospective students are encouraged to visit the IBA Admissions Schedule for detailed information on application deadlines and procedures. The Centre for Excellence in Journalism (CEJ) at IBA also organizes open houses, providing an opportunity for potential students to visit the Centre. For further details about the program and admissions, students can email and sign up to receive updates.

Scholarships

IBA offers a limited number of 100% scholarships for the MS Journalism programme, the funding for which has been provided by our generous donors. These scholarships are both need-based and merit-based. Furthermore, you may also apply for a need-based scholarship or an interest-free loan with the IBA's Financial Assistance Committee, the details for which may be accessed here:
https://www.iba.edu.pk/financialassistance/

*IBA reserves the right to revise the fee without prior notice
*This program does not lead to a PhD



Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the minimum degree requirement for admission in the MSJ program?
You should have at least 16 years of education or an equivalent degree in any discipline from a local or foreign institute recognized by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), with a minimum CGPA of 2.5 out of 4.0.
2. I have got my last degree results in percentage. Can I apply for the program?
Percentage is only considered in case the CGPA is not available. Students with 50% marks in their last degree can apply for the program. All equivalency claims shall be evaluated by the HEC.
3. I have a degree in a discipline other than Journalism and Media Studies. Can I apply for the program?
Yes! But please make sure you fulfill the minimum degree requirement for the admission.
4. I have working experience in the Journalism industry. Can I apply?
Applicants with prior journalism experience are encouraged to apply.
5. I don't live in Karachi. Can I apply for the program?
Yes! But you will have to make arrangements for your accommodation. The Institute of Business Administration has hostel facilities for male and female students in the main campus of the university located in the premises of the University of Karachi.
6. How will I travel to the CEJ if I reside in the IBA's hostel?
The IBA has a shuttle facility that accommodates students to travel from the Main Campus to the City and vice-versa. Timings of the shuttle: https://www.iba.edu.pk/transport.php
7. How can I access the online admissions form?
Please click this link to access online admissions form: https://onlineadmission.iba.edu.pk/
8. What will happen after I submit the application?
The admit cards will be issued online to the selected candidates.
9. What dates are important for the admission process?
Please click this link to follow important deadlines: https://admissions.iba.edu.pk/graduate_fall_2023.php
10. What subjects will be tested in the aptitude test?
  • General Knowledge/Current affairs (MCQs)
  • English composition (MCQs)
  • Essay writing
11. What is the duration of the program?
This is a 1.5-year Masters degree program.
12. What courses are offered in the program?
Twelve courses are offered with 39 credit hours. Here is the breakdown of the courses:

Semester 1:

  • News Writing & Reporting
  • The Profession of Journalism
  • Digital News Reporting
  • Governance & Society in Pakistan
  • CEJ Newsroom I

Semester 2:

  • Current Affairs TV Lab
  • Multimedia Journalism
  • International Affairs
  • MPhil Seminar (Specialized Modules)
  • CEJ Newsroom II

Semester 3:

  • Specialized Journalism
  • CEJ Newsroom

Semester 4:

  • Capstone Reporting Project
  • Internship
13. What is a capstone reporting project?
Under the mentorship of experienced industry professional faculty, each student has to prepare a news report on an investigative journalism project. Also, the students will have to defend their projects before a panel of internal and external members.
14. Is there a language proficiency prerequisite for applying for the program?
No! You don't need to have any language proficiency certificate for admission in the program. However, apart from your mother tongue, you need to understand English and Urdu to navigate through the program.
15. What is the admission schedule for the program?
Here is the link to access complete admission schedule for the program:
16. What career opportunities are available after completing the MSJ program?
Graduates of the MSJ program can pursue careers in news reporting, digital media, broadcast journalism, investigative journalism, media research, and communications roles in both public and private sectors.
17. Does the MSJ program accommodate working professionals?
The program is intensive and may require a significant time commitment. Prospective students who are working professionals should consider this when applying.
18. Where can I find more information about the MSJ program?
For detailed information, please visit the Centre for Excellence in Journalism (CEJ) section on the IBA website: cej.iba.edu.pk
19. Are there any financial assistance options available for MSJ students?
Yes, IBA offers various financial assistance programs, including scholarships and need-based financial aid, to support eligible students. Applicants are encouraged to explore these options during the admission process.
20. How can I apply for the MSJ program?
Prospective students can apply online through the IBA admissions portal. The application process typically includes submitting academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Applicants may also need to pass an entrance test and interview.