NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Sports Media Specialization, Master of Science in Journalism
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
18 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Learn from leading national sports journalists.Faculty Expertise
- Gain hands-on experience through Medill Explores, with past opportunities including Super Bowl coverage and Olympic Training Center visits.Experiential Learning
- Build a professional portfolio with published work through Medill News Service.Portfolio Development
- Connect with a strong alumni network for mentorship and career advice.Mentorship and Networking
- Benefit from dedicated Career Services to explore opportunities in traditional media, non-mainstream organizations, and sports franchises.Career Support
- Study in Chicago, a major sports city with numerous professional and collegiate teams.Location Advantage
The Sports Media specialization within the Master of Science in Journalism program prepares students to cover the dynamic world of sports. This field extends beyond game reporting to encompass the business, lifestyle, and broader societal impacts of professional and collegiate sports. Students will develop a comprehensive skill set to report on diverse sports-related topics, from financial aspects and athlete profiles to major events and controversies, utilizing various journalistic formats including deadline reporting, features, profiles, and investigative pieces, all integrated with multimedia components.
Curriculum
The curriculum focuses on developing advanced writing and reporting skills across various sports genres through readings, lectures, and discussions. A peer workshop format enhances writing quality. The program emphasizes practical experience, offering opportunities to interact with sports media professionals and athletes, and includes field trips to major sporting events and organizations. Students will learn to cover sports from the field, locker room, press box, and broadcast booth.
- Year 1
- Sports Journalism Fundamentals
- Advanced Reporting Techniques
- Multimedia Storytelling in Sports
- Sports Media Ethics and Law
- Medill Explores: Sports Immersion
- Year 2
- Investigative Sports Journalism
- Sports Business and Finance Reporting
- Profile and Feature Writing
- Capstone Project/Thesis
Careers
Graduates of the Sports Media specialization are well-prepared for a variety of roles within the sports industry. Beyond traditional journalism outlets, opportunities exist in non-mainstream media, digital platforms, and communications roles for sports franchises and related organizations. The program's strong alumni network provides a significant advantage for career advancement.
- Sports Reporter
- Sports Editor
- Sports Journalist
- Sports Broadcaster
- Sports Producer
- Sports Feature Writer
- Investigative Sports Reporter
- Sports Media Manager
- Sports Communications Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the Sports Media Specialization?
- You need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. If English is not your native language, you must provide certification of English language proficiency, though specific test score requirements are not detailed.
- How much does the Sports Media Specialization cost?
- Tuition rates are determined by the Medill School and program; specific amounts can be found via the Medill School of Journalism link on the Graduate Tuition page. Living costs for housing and meals are additional if chosen.
- How long does the Master of Science in Journalism program take?
- The program is structured over two years, with Year 1 focusing on core modules and Year 2 including an investigative journalism module and a capstone project or thesis.
- What are the career prospects after completing this specialization?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as Sports Reporter, Sports Editor, Sports Media Manager, or Sports Communications Specialist within traditional media, digital platforms, or sports organizations.
- When is the application deadline for the Sports Media Specialization?
- The application deadline is December 1, 5 PM CST, of the year prior to admission. The application typically opens in September.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required.
TOEFLNot specified
IELTSNot specified
Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the English language if it is not their native language. Specific score requirements for English proficiency tests are not provided on the program page.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition rates for graduate programs at Medill are determined by the school and program. Specific tuition amounts are available via the Medill School of Journalism link on the Graduate Tuition page.
Tuition (home)Tuition rates for graduate programs at Medill are determined by the school and program. Specific tuition amounts are available via the Medill School of Journalism link on the Graduate Tuition page.
LivingInformation on housing and meal plans for graduate students is available through Graduate Housing and Northwestern Dining. These costs are additional if chosen.
For comprehensive cost of attendance, please refer to the respective financial aid office.
How to apply
1. Complete Online ApplicationAccess the online application form through The Graduate School website.
2. Submit Academic Statement and Personal StatementThese essays are part of the online application.
3. Request Letters of RecommendationProvide 2-3 letters of recommendation.
4. Submit TranscriptsProvide original transcripts from all previously attended universities.
5. Submit Resume/CVInclude your current resume or curriculum vitae.
6. Certify English ProficiencyIf English is not your native language, you must provide certification of your English language proficiency. Details on accepted tests and scores are not specified on the program page.
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the Sports Media Specialization?
+
You need a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. If English is not your native language, you must provide certification of English language proficiency, though specific test score requirements are not detailed.
How much does the Sports Media Specialization cost?
+
Tuition rates are determined by the Medill School and program; specific amounts can be found via the Medill School of Journalism link on the Graduate Tuition page. Living costs for housing and meals are additional if chosen.
How long does the Master of Science in Journalism program take?
+
The program is structured over two years, with Year 1 focusing on core modules and Year 2 including an investigative journalism module and a capstone project or thesis.
What are the career prospects after completing this specialization?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as Sports Reporter, Sports Editor, Sports Media Manager, or Sports Communications Specialist within traditional media, digital platforms, or sports organizations.
When is the application deadline for the Sports Media Specialization?
+
The application deadline is December 1, 5 PM CST, of the year prior to admission. The application typically opens in September.