School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics

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SOAS On-demand

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Duration
1 year full-time / up to 3-years part-time
Start of programme
September
Attendance mode
Full-time or part-time
Location
Online
Course code
PGTF0313
Entry requirements

We will consider all applications with a 2:2 (or international equivalent) or higher in a relevant subject.

 

In addition to degree classification in a relevant subject we take into account other elements of the application such as supporting statement. References are optional, but can help build a stronger application if you fall below the 2:2 requirement or have non-traditional qualifications. 

See international entry requirements and English language requirements

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Please note: applications for this programme are made for the MA Global Journalism degree. The MA Investigative and Human Rights Journalism degree will be awarded as an exit pathway. 

Developed in partnership with the Institute for Journalism and Social Change, this pathway on the MA Global Journalism will prepare you for career paths in investigative journalism and human rights reporting. 

As well as getting to grips with the fundamentals of investigative research techniques, you will learn to address the complex ethical, safety and funding challenges that are often at stake in this kind of journalism, and understand its unique contribution to democratic life.

Our courses integrate history, theory and a future-leaning approach to critical journalism practice. They aim to kick-start and advance careers in the global news industry, with a focus on digital and multimedia journalism for global audiences. 

Our course content as well as teaching methods are rooted in a conception of journalism’s potential to speak truth to power, and a concern for the different ways in which that is under threat: from disinformation to emergent forms of censorship and repression. 

Our diverse range of modules also share a common orientation towards the Global South, championing decolonised and feminist approaches, and placing both the under-represented and the under-reported at the core of our curriculum.

Above all, you will have the opportunity to develop and hone a cross section of skillsets applicable to a wide range of career paths within journalism and beyond.

This course is part of the MA Global Journalism suite of pathways. 

International mobility

Students registered on the online programme are eligible to study in London for a period of intensive in-person delivery (up to 2 weeks) related to their modules/course. Overseas students who opt for this can do so using the standard visitor visa route. Please be aware that students who come to the UK on the standard visitor route are not eligible for the graduate route visa. For more information and guidance about the standard visitor route please visit our Visa section.

Why study MA Global Journalism at SOAS? 

  • Develop and advance careers in reporting for conventional newsrooms, NGOs and human rights organisations, as well as a broad range of communication roles in the world of politics and campaigning and broader sectors
  • Our flexible mode of study accommodates both online and on campus enrolment, and includes (optional) in person modules that are delivered intensively in London and Dhaka. 
  • Above all, you will work on both individual and collaborative journalism investigations across borders and under the mentorship of world class and award-winning reporters. 

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The MA Human Rights and Investigative Journalism pathway is taught over two study sessions beginning in September and January as well as a final project that runs throughout the full-time or final year of study.

Module typeModule nameSep 2025Jan 2026
CoreConflict and Human Rights Reporting * 
Investigative Newsgathering Techniques  *
Final Project **
CompulsoryGlobal News: Theories and Practice A* 
Global News: Theories and Practice B* 
Collaborative Research Project: Human Rights Investigation *
ElectivesPhotojournalism and Social Change* 
Writing for Visual Media * 
Documentary and Social Change  *
Introduction to Data Journalism * 

Important notice

The information on the website reflects the intended programme structure against the given academic session. The modules are indicative options of the content students can expect and are/have been previously taught as part of these programmes.

However, this information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change.

Core

Compulsory

Electives

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On all modules you will be supported by a dedicated module tutor and convenor with whom you can discuss academic queries at regular intervals during each study session. All course readings, resources and other learning materials are provided through the Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) which also provides access to the SOAS Library. 

All modules are taught by a mix of synchronous (live) and asynchronous elements. Several modules are taught as hybrid enabling participation of students both on campus and online, and collaboration between them.  Students have 24/7 access to study skills support through Studiosity and are able to interact with their module tutor and fellow students in discussion forums, peer-to-peer learning and engagement guided by the tutor. 

Assessments are 100% coursework-based and designed to build knowledge and skills over the course of study.

Intensive in-person teaching 

Students registered on the online distance program are eligible to study in London for a period of intensive in-person delivery (up to 2-weeks) related to their modules/course. Overseas students who opt for this can do so using the standard visitor visa route. 

Please be aware that students who come to the UK on the standard visitor route are not eligible for the graduate visa. For more information and guidance about the standard visitor route, you can find out more at our Standard visa visitor page, or at GOV.UK's Check if you need a UK visa page.

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Mode of study/fee status Fee per year 
Full-time online (Home or overseas) £12,710 
Part-time online (Home or overseas) £6,355 
Full-time on campus (Home) £12,710 
Part-time on campus (Home)£6,355 
Full-time on campus (Overseas) £26,330 

Postgraduate loans

If you have been a resident in England for 3 years you may be eligible. See postgraduate funding and finance for more information. 

Alternatively, we also recommend students approach their local British Council, British High Commission or British Embassy, for information on local funding.

Dependent on nationality, employment circumstances and other factors, funding and sponsorship sources can include:

  • United Nations (UNESCO, FAO, UNDP, UNEP etc)
  • Bilateral Aid Agencies (SIDA, GTZ, etc)
  • European Union
  • British Council
  • UK Department for International Development / Foreign and Commonwealth Office
  • NGOs
  • Educational and other charitable trusts

Application

To make an application, or to find out more about our admissions procedure, please visit how to apply (ODL)

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The MA Global Journalism and specialist pathways prepare students for freelance careers and journalism roles within conventional news organisations as well as NGO and campaigning organisations. Students will also acquire cross-over skills applicable to a range of career pathways within broader fields including communications, human rights law and politics. 

Find out about our Careers Service.

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SOAS On-demand

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