La Trobe University > Courses > Journalism

Journalism

Why study journalism?

Social media and the internet have revolutionised the quantities of information generated and shared around the world – but have also heightened the demand for high quality information. Journalism and professional communication courses offer a wealth of career opportunities, from reporting roles with traditional media, to production roles in new media, to public relations and communication roles in organisations across the community.

La Trobe's journalism courses offer a thorough grounding in the past and current roles of media as well as the practical aspects of content development – with a strong emphasis on industry experience. Each program offers opportunities for internships and work placements, as well as education and tuition to equip graduates with the skills required for a media career.

Study the social, political, economic and cultural role of the media. Learn about print, broadcast and online journalism and digital media. Develop skills in research, writing, editing and production.

If you are interested in studying journalism, we've prepared a list of frequently asked questions that both current and prospective students have about journalism at La Trobe.

Media and Communication Welcome

Career opportunities

Television, film, radio, print and online production, journalism, media law, marketing, advertising, teaching, communications, industry funding organisations, campaign or advocacy officer, media expert, policy and research officer (Government, business, academic, NGO).

Short courses

We also offer single subject study. Visit our short courses page to find out more.

Courses

Master of Communication (Journalism Innovation)

Location: Melbourne

Start dates: Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)Semester 1 (March), Semester 2 (July)

Duration: 2 yearsEither 1.5 years full-time (3 years part-time) or 2 years full-time (4 years part-time). The length of the course will be determined by the relevance of your previous educational experience.

Master of Communication (Public Relations)

Location: City

Start dates: Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)Semester 1 (March), Semester 2 (July)

Duration: 2 years1.5 years full-time (3 years part-time) or 2 years full-time (4 years part-time)

Journalism placement opportunities

A media internship (MST3INT) is available to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Media Studies and the Bachelor of Journalism. In this unit, students will develop contacts with, and work in, a media organisation. Students will develop an understanding of issues internal to the organisation such as its goals, structure, management and work practices.

Overseas study opportunities

La Trobe University has exchange arrangements with universities world-wide. The Media Studies Program has specific arrangements with Roy H. Park School of Communications at Ithaca College in Ithaca, New York and Queen Margaret College in Edinburgh, Scotland. Also, our students have studied at a range of University of California campuses.  To learn more, please visit the Study Abroad program.

Student work

upstart is a project of La Trobe's Journalism, Media Studies and Cinema Studies programs. The site showcases the writing of emerging journalists.

Student and graduate profiles

Students of the College talk about their experience at La Trobe.

About the academic staff

You'll get to meet a large number of academics during your course, from tutors through to lecturers.

View all staff in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences