Master of Science in Data Journalism Program
Columbia Journalism School’s MS in Data Journalism unfolds over three semesters, welcoming both newcomers and seasoned reporters who want to master data-driven narratives. The program begins with foundational computing in fall, then advances through storytelling techniques and computational innovation in spring. Students complete a master’s project while exploring journalism’s business, historical, legal, and ethical frameworks—building confidence as they learn to treat data as another reporting instrument.
Path to Mastery
The curriculum follows a deliberate progression, where each semester deepens what came before. Students begin with technical foundations, then apply these skills to increasingly complex problems, eventually synthesizing everything in a capstone project. Along the way, they develop both analytical precision and editorial instinct—learning not just to work with datasets, but to recognize which ones contain stories worth pursuing.
Opportunities and Open Doors at Columbia University
No prior data experience is necessary, which makes the program particularly accessible to traditional reporters looking to expand their toolkit. While core courses focus on data-driven storytelling, students can also explore investigative journalism, video production, and other formats. This breadth helps them develop versatility across the various platforms where data journalism now appears—without losing sight of what makes a story compelling.
