Overview

The Journalism and Media Studies programme at San Diego State University is designed to empower students to create a more informed, just, and democratic society. Through a combination of innovative teaching and community engagement, the curriculum prepares individuals to communicate with courage and integrity. Students learn to navigate a complex global media environment while strengthening public understanding of vital social issues.

Why Journalism and Media Studies at San Diego State University?

The school is dedicated to fostering a global society where media professionals value diversity, inclusivity, and the public good. Students benefit from an environment grounded in the First Amendment, affirming free expression and freedom of thought as essential conditions for social progress. The institution maintains sustained relationships with journalists, media organisations, and civic institutions locally and nationally.

The programme is built upon three core pillars: Democracy and the Public, Integrity and Professional Courage, and Inquiry and Inclusion. These values ensure that graduates are not only technically proficient but also ethically grounded. The school also hosts dedicated research centres and the Broom Center, providing students with unique opportunities for scholarship and professional development.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 14130 per year
National fee: USD 14130 per year
Local fee: USD 6838 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on the intersection of technology, ethics, and social justice. Modules may include:

Media and Society
Ethical Professionalism
Global Diversity and Inclusion
Technologies for the Public Good
Community Engagement
Principles of Journalism
Media Analysis
Professional Responsibility

Careers with Journalism and Media Studies

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles within the transglobal media landscape, working as principled communicators in high-stakes contexts. The programme equips students for careers in journalism, digital media, and public relations where transparency and accountability are paramount. Alumni often find employment with media organisations, civic institutions, and global communication firms, using their skills to challenge structural barriers and power imbalances.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Principles of Economics

Writing for the Mass Media

Social Media in the Digital Age

Contemporary Media

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

105

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Diego, United States

Disciplines

Journalism Media Studies & Mass Media View 908 other Bachelors in Media Studies & Mass Media in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

105

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

National

Admission application through the Cal State Apply website (online)

Unofficial transcripts

Your Social Security Number, if you have one.

Your citizenship status.

Credit card. Application fees are due at the time of submission and are paid by credit card.

Annual income. If you are a dependent, then report your parents income. If you are independent, then report your income.

Your parent's employment background and two recommendations. This applies only if you are applying to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP).

International

Completion of high school/secondary level

SAT/ACT Tests

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Out-of-State

14130 USD / year

≈ 14130 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6838 USD / year

≈ 6838 USD / year

Living costs

San Diego

United States

1400 - 2455 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Journalism and Media Studies.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

San Diego

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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