$21,690 /Yr
DePaul University Master of Arts (M.A.) Journalism is a 24-month full-time program designed for multimedia news producers and visual storytellers entering journalism’s digital-first landscape. Tuition is US$20,712 annually (INR 19.74 Lakhs), with rolling admissions for September 2026, January 2027, and March 2027 intakes. The program requires a 3.0 GPA and TOEFL iBT 96 (or equivalent English proof). International students benefit from STEM designation, allowing up to three years of post-graduation work authorization in the United States.
The program emphasizes hands-on multimedia storytelling across four concentration tracks: Accountability Journalism, Data Journalism, Multimedia Journalism, and Sports Journalism. Core courses cover reporting bootcamp, multimedia reporting, and journalism ethics. You’ll work in Chicago’s third-largest media market, accessing internship partnerships with professional newsrooms. Graduates become content producers at 400+ digital platforms. This program suits journalists transitioning into data-driven reporting, international students seeking U.S. media experience, and career-changers with strong writing portfolios.
- Concentrations span data journalism, accountability reporting, and multimedia storytelling.
- Post-study work authorization extends to three years via STEM OPT.
- Rolling admissions and flexible start dates (September, January, March) reduce application pressure.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the September 2026 intake are Open. International student deadline is rolling admissions. For January 2027 and March 2027 intakes, also rolling — no hard cutoff. Apply as early as possible to secure course slots.
Indian applicants should note: DePaul enrolls strong cohorts of Indian students (20-25% of international body). WES credential evaluation takes 5-10 business days; begin this immediately after application acceptance.
Also Check: DePaul University Admission Requirements
DePaul University M.A. Journalism Fees and Living Costs 2026
Total program cost includes tuition, mandatory fees, and health insurance. All costs below reflect the 24-month full-time track.
| Cost Component | USD | INR |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Tuition (12 courses × $3,452) | $20,712 | ?19.74 Lakhs |
| Total Tuition (24 months) | $41,424 | ?39.47 Lakhs |
| Health Insurance (24 months) | $5,600* | ?5.34 Lakhs |
| Technology & Misc Fees (estimated) | $1,200 | ?1.14 Lakhs |
| Subtotal (Tuition Only) | $41,424 | ?39.47 Lakhs |
| Total with Living Costs (24 months) | $82,224 | ?78.39 Lakhs |
*Estimated based on quarterly health insurance rates for international graduate students.
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of USD 1 = INR 95.26 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily; verify before applying.
- Tuition is charged at $863 per credit hour; most graduate courses are four credits ($3,452 per course).
- DePaul offers new-student tuition awards: $525 per 4-credit course, reducing your first-year cost to $16,212 annually.
- Graduate assistantships include full tuition waiver (one course) plus $1,600 stipend per quarter.
- Application fee: $75 (non-refundable for international applicants).
Cost of Living in Chicago for M.A. Journalism Students
| Expense Category | Monthly (USD) | Monthly (INR) | 24 Months (USD) | 24 Months (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (Shared) | $1,000 | ?95,260 | $24,000 | ?22.86 Lakhs |
| Food & Groceries | $400 | ?38,104 | $9,600 | ?9.14 Lakhs |
| Transport & Commute | $120 | ?11,431 | $2,880 | ?2.74 Lakhs |
| Utilities & Internet | $150 | ?14,289 | $3,600 | ?3.43 Lakhs |
| Personal & Misc | $200 | ?19,052 | $4,800 | ?4.57 Lakhs |
| Total Monthly | $1,870 | ?1.78 Lakhs | $44,880 | ?42.74 Lakhs |
Key Insight: Chicago’s Loop and Lincoln Park neighborhoods offer shorter commutes to DePaul’s downtown campus, reducing transport costs. Plan for total two-year expense of approximately USD 87,000 to USD 92,000 (INR 83 to 88 Lakhs) including tuition and living.
Also Check: Cost of Living in USA for Indian Students
DePaul University M.A. Journalism Admission 2026
DePaul’s M.A. Journalism program admits rolling, with no single deadline. However, deadlines exist for specific intake quarters to optimize course scheduling.
| Intake Quarter | Start Month | Application Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Summer/Fall | September 2026 | Rolling | Earliest intake. Apply by late July for priority course access. |
| Winter | January 2027 | Rolling | Second intake. Apply by November for course slot confirmation. |
| Spring | March 2027 | Rolling | Third intake. Apply by January for spring start. |
Rolling admissions means decisions arrive within 2-4 weeks of a complete application. There is no hard cutoff, but earlier applications secure better course schedules, especially for core courses and concentrations.
Academic Eligibility
| Requirement | Minimum / Details |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | From any discipline; accredited institution required. |
| Cumulative GPA | 3.0 or above (on a 4.0 scale). GPA below 3.0 requires additional review. |
| GMAT/GRE | Not required for M.A. Journalism. |
| Journalism Background | No prior journalism coursework required. Portfolio demonstrates writing ability and editorial judgment. |
| Application Essays | Four essays, 3-4 double-spaced pages each. Topics: career goals, journalism focus, analytical thinking, intellectual curiosity. |
DePaul’s overall US News ranking for graduate programs stands at strong performance across business and communication disciplines. The university enrolls approximately 76% of applicants, making it moderately selective. For Indian applicants, a 3.0 GPA translates to approximately 75% in your undergraduate degree; ensure all transcripts are officially converted via WES or NACES-approved credential evaluators.
English Language Proficiency
International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency via one of these tests. TOEFL and IELTS are most widely accepted by U.S. immigration and employers.
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 96 overall with no section below 20. This is intermediate-to-advanced proficiency required for graduate-level journalism coursework and reporting projects.
- IELTS: Minimum 7.5 overall band score. Requires strong performance across listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
- Duolingo English Test: Minimum 130 overall. Fastest certification (results in 48 hours) and most affordable option.
- PTE Academic: Minimum 53 overall. Accepted by USCIS for visa applications.
Tip for Indian Students: TOEFL iBT 96 is achievable with 3-4 months of focused preparation targeting 30+ in Writing and Speaking. Many DePaul Indian students prepare using official ETS materials while completing their bachelor’s degree. Register early; test seats fill quickly during peak season (June-August).
DePaul University M.A. Journalism Application 2026
The application process for M.A. Journalism is streamlined and rolling. No bulk application deadlines exist, but strategic timing improves course access and scholarship eligibility.
| Application Element | Details | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Online Application | Complete on DePaul’s graduate portal. $75 international application fee (non-refundable). | Start 6-8 weeks before desired intake. |
| Bachelor’s Transcript | Official transcript uploaded or mailed. For non-U.S. degrees, submit WES or NACES credential evaluation alongside official transcript. | Simultaneous with application or within 5 days. |
| Four Essays | 3-4 double-spaced pages each. Prompts: why journalism, desired concentration, analytical example, intellectual achievement. Spell-check and have reviewed by a native English speaker. | Prepare concurrently with transcript gathering. |
| Journalism Portfolio | 3-5 samples: published articles, blog posts, multimedia pieces (video, podcast), or class projects. Should demonstrate research, interviewing, and writing skill. | Prepare during application period (1-2 weeks). |
| Resume/CV | One page or two pages. Include work history, relevant skills (editing software, AP style), and media exposure (student paper, podcast, freelance). | Finalize before submission. |
| Decision & Offer | Arrive within 2-4 weeks of complete application. Include acceptance letter, course schedule draft, scholarship eligibility. | Rolling process. |
- Rolling admissions mean no single deadline, but earlier submission secures preferred course slots and internship partnerships.
- Complete applications (transcript, essays, portfolio, resume) are reviewed within 14-21 days.
- Conditional acceptances may require improved GPA or TOEFL score re-submission; full acceptance releases immediately afterward.
- Once accepted, international students should begin I-20 visa document processing with DePaul’s International Office (5-7 business days).
Application Tip: Submit your essays 2-3 weeks before your target intake. This gives admissions time to review and request any clarifications, and gives you time to respond without rushing. Rolling admissions is forgiving, but earlier submission shows serious intent.
Read More: F-1 Student Visa Requirements for USA
DePaul University M.A. Journalism Scholarships 2026
DePaul offers merit-based scholarships and assistantships specifically for M.A. Journalism students. Aid is rolling and determined by application strength, academic profile, and portfolio quality.
| Scholarship Type | Award Amount | Award Amount (INR) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Student Tuition Award | $525 per 4-credit course | ?50,062 per course | All new M.A. Journalism students in Fall, Winter, or Spring intake. |
| Graduate Assistantship | Full tuition waiver (one course) + $1,600 stipend per quarter | ?3,452 + ?1.53 Lakhs per quarter | Strong academics; typically 3.5+ GPA or strong portfolio. Requires 10-15 hours/week work. |
| College of Communication Internship Scholarship | Varies ($2,000-$5,000) | INR 1.91 to 4.76 Lakhs | Enrolled in journalism internship for credit. Funding available each quarter. |
| Merit-Based College Scholarship | Up to $5,000-$10,000 (rare, competitive) | ?4.76 to 9.53 Lakhs | Exceptional portfolios, published journalism experience, or prior awards. |
- Realistic Cost-Offset Example: New student tuition award ($525 × 8 courses in first year) = $4,200 (?4.00 Lakhs). Reduces Year 1 cost from $20,712 to $16,512.
- Graduate assistantships are highly competitive; apply emphasizing media production, reporting, or multimedia skills.
- Internship scholarships are available each quarter; secure one during your practicum course for additional offset.
- Indian students often qualify for institutional aid at the same rates as domestic students; no citizenship restriction stated.
Scholarship Reality: M.A. Journalism scholarships offset 15-30% of tuition for most recipients. Budget $35,000 to $42,000 USD (INR 33-40 Lakhs) for the full program even with aid. DePaul’s assistantships are merit-based and competitive; prioritize your portfolio quality in the application.
Check Out: USA Scholarships for International Students
DePaul University M.A. Journalism Salary and Placements 2026
DePaul M.A. Journalism graduates enter multimedia reporting, digital content production, and data-driven journalism roles. Starting salaries vary by employer, location, and media tier.
| Role / Career Path | Starting Salary (USD) | Starting Salary (INR) | Typical Employer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multimedia Reporter (Local News) | $30,000-$38,000 | ?28.58-?36.20 Lakhs | Local TV, radio, regional newspapers. |
| Digital Content Producer | $35,000-$45,000 | ?33.34-?42.89 Lakhs | Digital media platforms, Vox, Axios, podcasts. |
| Data Journalist | $40,000-$50,000 | ?38.10-?47.63 Lakhs | ProPublica, FiveThirtyEight, major metro papers (NYT, WaPo). |
| Broadcast Journalist / Producer | $32,000-$42,000 | ?30.48-?40.08 Lakhs | TV networks, streaming platforms (Netflix, HBO). |
| DePaul Graduate Median (2024-2026) | $33,073 | ?31.53 Lakhs | Varies; 18-20 graduates/year from M.A. program. |
Source: DePaul Career Outcomes Report 2024-2026 and research.com journalism salary surveys.
- DePaul M.A. Journalism graduates report median salary of $33,073, below the national master’s average ($50,692), reflecting entry-level media market rates and competitive newsroom hiring.
- 90%+ of DePaul master’s graduates are employed or in further education within six months of graduation.
- Internship completion during the program significantly increases placement odds at major news outlets and digital platforms.
- Take-home pay: U.S. federal income tax (10-12%) plus state tax (varies; Illinois ~5%) and FICA (~7.65%) reduces gross by approximately 22-25% for $35,000-$40,000 earnings.
ROI Reality: M.A. Journalism ROI is mission-driven rather than purely financial. Two-year investment (USD 87,000 / INR 83 Lakhs) yields journalism skills and U.S. media network worth more than salary on day one. Newsroom experience compounds career value; journalists moving to larger metros or specialty beats (data, investigative) reach $50,000-$65,000 within 3-5 years.
Also Check: Post-Study Work Visa (OPT) in USA
United States Visa and Work Authorization for M.A. Journalism 2026
International students pursuing an M.A. Journalism at DePaul enter the United States on an F-1 Student Visa. Post-graduation work authorization is a major advantage of STEM-designated programs.
- F-1 Student Visa: Issued for the duration of your program (24 months for M.A. Journalism) plus one month of grace period. Grants full-time student status and on-campus employment authorization (up to 20 hours/week during terms, unlimited during breaks).
- Optional Practical Training (OPT): Post-graduation work permit valid for 24 months. STEM extension adds 24 months (dual designation available). Total: up to 36 months (three years) of authorized work. No employer sponsorship required for the first 24 months.
- Spouse/Dependent Rules: Spouses may apply for F-2 dependent status and are now eligible for work authorization via EAD in some circumstances. Check current USCIS rules with DePaul’s International Student Office.
- H-1B Specialty Occupation Visa Path: After OPT expires, employer sponsorship for H-1B (specialty occupation worker visa) is available if your role qualifies. Journalism roles (reporter, producer, editor) may qualify depending on employer definition and advanced degree utilization.
Visa Reality: F-1 + OPT + STEM extension gives Indian journalism students three years to secure permanent residency sponsorship or transfer to H-1B. Many graduates secure data journalism or compliance roles (classified as specialty occupations) with major news platforms or corporate communications teams, enabling the H-1B pathway.
Read More: F-1 Student Visa Process for Indian Students
DePaul University M.A. Journalism Ranking 2026
DePaul University’s College of Communication is well-regarded for journalism and media education. While no specific QS or THE subject ranking exists for DePaul’s M.A. Journalism program, the broader institution holds strong recognition in U.S. News graduate rankings.
| Ranking Source | Category | Rank / Rating | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| US News & World Report | Overall National University | Not ranked in top 100; regional ranking strong (Illinois-based universities). | 2025-2026 |
| US News Graduate Programs | Business School (MBA) | Ranked for MBA programs (Kellstadt Graduate School). | 2025-2026 |
| College Factual | Journalism Major (Undergraduate/Graduate) | #24 most popular school for journalism master’s degrees in the U.S. | 2026 |
| Collegedunia | International Student Hub | Strong program for international journalism students seeking U.S. media experience. | 2026 |
DePaul’s M.A. Journalism ranks 24th nationally by graduate enrollment volume, indicating robust program maturity and employer recognition. The lack of QS/THE subject-level ranking reflects journalism’s position as a practice-focused discipline; program prestige is tied to internship opportunities (Chicago’s third-largest media market), faculty expertise, and graduate placement outcomes rather than pure research metrics.
Honest Take: Journalism ranking systems prioritize research output over practitioner training. DePaul’s strength lies in hands-on multimedia skill development and Chicago media access, not doctoral research. Select DePaul for career preparation, not rankings prestige.
Conclusion: DePaul University’s M.A. Journalism is best suited for international students committed to multimedia reporting careers and leveraging three years of U.S. work authorization post-graduation. The 24-month, STEM-designated format, rolling admissions, and Chicago media market access outweigh the below-median starting salary. Apply early to secure tuition awards and internship partnerships that compound your career return on investment.
M.A. Journalism FAQs
Ques. Is a portfolio required, and what should it contain?
Ans. Yes, a portfolio is required and weighs equally with essays in admissions decisions. Include 3-5 pieces: published articles, blog posts, video reels (minimum 2-3 minutes total editing), podcast episodes, or class projects. Quality beats quantity; demonstrate research, interviewing, and storytelling. If you have no published journalism, submit strong class assignments with instructor recommendations.
Ques. Can I work part-time during the M.A. program?
Ans. Yes, F-1 students may work up to 20 hours per week during academic terms on campus (within DePaul) or off-campus with prior authorization. Most M.A. Journalism students work as freelance journalists, student reporters, or media interns, which counts toward your on-campus work limit. During quarter breaks, you can work unlimited hours with proper documentation.
Ques. What is the difference between Accountability, Data, Multimedia, and Sports Journalism concentrations?
Ans. Accountability Journalism focuses on investigative reporting, public records research, and watchdog journalism. Data Journalism teaches statistical analysis, visualizations, and computational storytelling. Multimedia Journalism emphasizes video, audio, and interactive digital storytelling across platforms. Sports Journalism covers sports reporting, athlete interviews, and broadcast sports production. Choose based on career goals; all offer equivalent placement outcomes but differ in skill emphasis.
Ques. What is the STEM extension, and how does it help Indian students?
Ans. STEM designation extends Optional Practical Training (OPT) from 12 months to 24 months, giving you three years total U.S. work authorization after graduation (24 + 24 months). Indian students use this time to secure employer sponsorship for H-1B visa or pursue permanent residency sponsorship. Without STEM, you’d have only 12 months to transition; STEM nearly triples your window for career building and visa pathway execution.
Ques. How much does health insurance cost, and is it required?
Ans. All international graduate students are automatically enrolled in DePaul’s Student Health Insurance Plan. Estimated cost is $700 per quarter ($2,800 annually). You may waive coverage with proof of comparable private insurance; few students do, as DePaul’s plan covers routine care, emergencies, and mental health services essential during a demanding program. Plan for this in your budget.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $21690 |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Living Expenses | $18201 |
| Transportation | $1284 |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $21690 |
| 2023 | $18960 |
| 2022 | $13950 |
| 2021 | $28224 |
Important Dates
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Masters in Journalism in USA: Colleges, Deadlines, Requirements & Cost
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program | Scholarship per student$ 10,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,000/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,000/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| R&D Systems Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,500/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Go Clean Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 3,500/Yr$3,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Business Administration Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
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