Journalism plays a pivotal role in society by helping people navigate the events of society, giving a platform to the marginalized, and keeping a watchful eye on hidden truths and modifications going on in economics, politics, fashion, and every other field worldwide. The discipline’s purpose is to provide balanced reporting and to ensure that those in authority are held accountable.
Due to the power media holds and the impact it makes, many students want to attain a degree in journalism. If they gain that from a globally renowned international university, their prospects in the field are improved. Thus, you may want to consider the best journalism schools in Asia, 15 of which are listed in this article. They are leading globally with their highly updated and current curriculum in journalism and media studies.
Top Journalism Schools in Asia
Several top-tier universities that meet or exceed international benchmarks for higher education can be found in Asia. But to be specific, here are some of them that are considered the best Asian journalism schools for international students:
1. National University of Singapore
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is the country’s leading university and an established Asian-focused research institution. According to QS 2023 rankings, it is placed 8th worldwide and 1st in Asia. Thus, it’s a top school for aspiring journalism students in Asia, especially as its Department of Communications and New Media offers several journalism and communication courses to international students.
Additionally, the journalism courses at NUS place a premium on cross-departmental collaboration and interdisciplinary research. For instance, the communications and new media program is built on the analysis of emerging media. It explores the ways that media affects cultural, political, and socioeconomic activities. Program participants learn about and apply concepts from media studies, mass communication, and digital communications.
2. Nanyang Technological University
As one of Singapore’s finest public institutions, Nanyang Technological University (NTU Singapore) is consistently ranked among the world’s most incredible, with QS World University rankings placing it at 26 worldwide for 2023. It ranks even higher in Asia, placing 5th in the continent in both QS and Times Higher Education rankings.
The university offers a four-year bachelor’s and a two-year master’s in Communication Studies at its Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information. These are well-suited to students thinking about focusing on journalism and media regulations, data science and media analysis, strategic communication, broadcast media, and other journalism-related specialties.
3. Hebrew University of Jerusalem
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem has been Israel’s leading institution and research center for decades. It brings together students from 90 different countries. Then, when they graduate, they continue by becoming the public, scientific, educational, and business leaders of Israel and the globe. Thus, the Hebrew University has a pivotal role in influencing global developments.
This university focuses on many fields, including communication and media technology. Also, students may get a bachelor’s degree with a double concentration from the Faculty of Social Sciences. The dual majors could be communication and journalism.
Learning more about theories and challenges is possible via research with the department. Research topics include political media and behavior, public opinion and media influence, journalism and digital journalism, and visual communications.
4. Chinese University of Hong Kong
When it comes to academics and service to the region, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is unrivaled. Since its inception in 1963, CUHK has been dedicated to furthering the cause of knowledge preservation, growth, and communication. With its AACSB accreditation, CUHK is a top choice for journalism undergraduates in Asia.
Furthermore, one of CUHK’s most popular bachelor’s courses is for journalism and communication. Its offering school, the School of Journalism and Communication, placed 13th in Communication and Media Studies worldwide in the QS subject rankings for 2023. Courses in the curriculum range from the origins of mass media to discussions of communication theory and the importance of values in the field.
5. City University of Hong Kong
Next on our list of top journalism schools in Asia is considered a pinnacle of excellence: the City University of Hong Kong. It is an internationally renowned institution that is rapidly expanding its presence in the region and the globe. This university has a deep dedication to achieving the highest standards of quality, encouraging innovation for the betterment of society.
It is one of Asia’s most forward-thinking institutions due to its ground-breaking work in a wide range of disciplines. These have a direct impact on society’s most urgent problems. The university provides three-year bachelor’s programs, as well as two-year master’s programs in Media and Communication. There is also a Ph.D. program for three to four years. These courses focus on informing students on the latest developments in the multidisciplinary disciplines of media and communication.
6. Yonsei University
Another school that ranks highly in Asia is Yonsei University, as it placed 76th in the 2023 QS Rankings. As one of the most prestigious private schools in Korea, it is widely known for its diverse student body and skilled faculty.
This institution offers bachelor’s and graduate programs in communication. Through them, students get a better understanding of journalism’s significance in society, economy, and politics with this course. The courses are built on that kind of knowledge, honing the skill, so students can adapt to different media settings. Some of the courses these programs may cover include the following: journalism studies, cyber communication, online journalism, and sociology of the news media.
7. University of Science, Malaysia
The Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) is a premier institution of higher education in Malaysia, and the nation’s second-oldest. Recognized by the National Accreditation Board of Malaysia, this institution has placed 137th in the 2023 QS University rankings. Such a feat may be because it has taken a unique approach to higher learning by shifting away from the conventional academic structure in favor of a more organized one.
Students may get a BA in Communication at the school. The goal of this course is to provide students with a more thorough theoretical grasp of communication and societal topics. Introduction to Mass Media, Media Writing, and Media Entrepreneurship are some of the foundational courses offered for this program.
8. Peking University
Peking University, established in 1898, is the nation’s oldest continuously operating university. The institution has successfully combined research on critical scientific topics with the preparation of highly knowledgeable professionals. Ranking 17th worldwide, it is evident that it excels in high-quality education.
Peking University has evolved into a modern university with a wide range of academic departments and programs, administered by varying schools and faculties. For instance, the university’s School of Journalism and Communication offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs. These cover journalism courses such as data journalism, general introduction to journalism and communications, global journalism, and journalism theories. The fees and admission criteria vary across programs
9. Gadjah Mada University
The next top Asian university for journalism is Gadjah Maja University (UGM), which is known for Its Indonesian Ivy League Status. The ethnic and linguistic diversity of the student body is reflected in the wide range of departments found at this school. UGM is regarded as a premier institution of higher education in Yogyakarta.
In the QS World University Rankings for 2023, UGM came in at 263. It is also AACSB-accredited. Among the many disciplines you can study in this institution, you may pursue journalism, public relations, or entertainment as a bachelor’s or graduate student. Many resources are provided, and the department is continually expanding the progress of communication and digital media. For instance, its media majors are trained to acquire skills in the creation of publications, particularly those of contemporary print and digital media outlets.
10. Zayed University
Zayed University, which honors the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is widely recognized as a forerunner in educational reform in Asia. It has earned a reputation as a top institution for teaching innovation and the formation of young professionals on a worldwide scale. The institution, by funding high-quality research that expands human understanding, promotes an environment favorable to academic study across multiple fields.
Aspiring journalists may be interested to know that preliminary programs in media history, communication and social criticism, media storytelling, and applied digital communication are required for all disciplines. Zayed University also offers a Bachelor’s in Communications and Media and an MA in Communication. Students are not limited to learning about just one medium of expression but are exposed to a wide range of media and technology.
Such a range includes print, radio, television, the Internet, and video games. Instruction and real-world application are uniquely combined in this approach. The curriculum is based on the standards established by the International Advertising Association for Approved Courses.
11. Islamia University of Bahawalpur
With notable academics and a broad range of study areas, Islamia University of Bahawalpur ranks among the 1000 best universities worldwide and the top public universities in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Among Asian universities, it is placed between #501 and #550 in 2023. There are now more than 1,800 faculty members employed by the institution.
Its study is extensive and recognized, especially in the field of media studies. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. degree programs for those interested in pursuing a career or research in media studies and journalism. Introduction to mass media, mass communication, and other courses are part of these programs.
12. Tsinghua University
Tsinghua University dates back to 1911 and is known for its spirit of social commitment and advanced teachings. It showcases competence in journalism through its Global Business Journalism graduate program. Diverse perspectives and experiences are brought to the students in this exceptional two-year program.
The said program has attracted Master’s degree applicants from different nations. Thus, it has created a lively and diverse academic community. The constantly shifting needs of the corporate world and global economy are also addressed in Global Corporate Journalism’s modern curriculum.
13. Tata Institute of Social Sciences
Another top journalism school in Asia that we recommend is known for its high standards of teaching and has garnered acclaim worldwide. Established in the middle of the 1930s, Tata Institute of Social Sciences is the earliest social services school in Asia. It is counted among the 250 best schools globally by QS Rankings 2023.
The TISS School of Media and Culture is well-established. It offers master’s and Ph.D. programs in media and cultural studies. The MA in Media and Cultural Studies is designed to help students acquire a critical understanding of the intersections between media, culture, and society. It also equips students with skills and knowledge crucial to the field, such as research, video production, direction, scripting, and more.
14. Hong Kong Baptist University
Established as a non-profit institution, Hong Kong Baptiste University’s major goal is to meet the academic requirements of international students. Therefore, its faculty and staff are devoted to student accomplishment so that they may grow professionally and personally. Furthermore, its devotion to the field of journalism makes it a top choice for aspiring media professionals from across the world.
The university’s School of Communication offers a Bachelor’s in Multimedia and Multiplatform Journalism, along with double degree and graduate programs. They examine journalism as an interpersonal interaction and a professional activity, both theoretically and practically. It also discusses new trends and important journalistic issues worldwide. Journalistic objectives and practices employed in and out of Hong Kong will be examined from many viewpoints throughout the programs’ courses.
15. Amity University
The last school on our list of best journalism schools in Asia is the highly regarded Amity University. It ranks among the top 1000 schools in the world. It is well-recognized for making higher education easily available to people on a global scale. Its acceptance rate is also high.
Several programs are offered at the Dubai campus of Amity University. Among them is the Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication, which spans three years. This program offers in-depth training in communication and media disciplines.
Some of its courses are Introduction to Media Research, Online Journalism, Digital Media, and Theories and Models of Mass Communication. This degree program is meant to provide students with a clear and concise introduction to all parts of mass communication, from its origins to its practical applications in the form of internships.
FAQS About Studying Journalism
Is Pursuing a Degree in Journalism Abroad Worth It?
Yes, gaining a journalism degree from an acclaimed institute abroad is highly rewarding. It will positively shape your career in the field, as studying abroad is a great way for aspiring journalists to gain exposure to new cultures and specific work techniques. International graduates also develop unique techniques for reporting, producing content, and other journalism-related skills.
Furthermore, many positions, such as newspaper journalist, political risk analyst, press sub-editor, and publishing copy editor, open up for students with an international journalism degree. Especially now that print media is shifting to digital media, journalists are offered brand-new roles that still allow them to play integral roles in the news broadcasting industry.
Getting a degree in journalism from a highly regarded Asian university would be a logical and viable path to take. More doors will be opened to you in terms of education and employment if you graduate from such institutions with a stellar academic record.
We hope this article was useful in determining which Asian university would be best for you as an aspiring journalist. Also, you might want to check out this article about the Best Countries to Study Broadcasting Abroad!
