Visual Journalism (GrDip)
Graduate Diploma (GrDip)
Offered by:Department of Journalism, Faculty of Arts & Science
Program overview
The Graduate Diploma in Visual Journalism, starting in June and ending in April, gives you the skills required to tell impactful stories through still photography and video. The digital media landscape now makes it possible for individuals to shoot, edit, and write their own stories in a visually based multimedia practice. Our program educates students to think critically and aesthetically. Under the guidance of our faculty, many of whom are working photojournalists, you will explore various forms of visual journalism including daily news photography, documentary and studio photography. Our courses provide a foundation in the theoretical and analytical dimensions of journalism. The program offers various internships and opportunities to connect with working journalists, all with an eye to offering real opportunities in the working world of visual journalism.
Program details
- Undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.00 on a 4.30 scale.
- Some experience in journalism, photojournalism or a media-related field is considered an asset.
- Proficiency in English. Applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate that their knowledge of English is sufficient to pursue graduate studies in their chosen field. Please refer to the Graduate Admission page for further information on the Language Proficiency requirements and exemptions.
Fully-qualified candidates are required to complete a minimum of 33 credits.
9 credits – Summer Term
JOUR 501 - Research Methods for Journalism (3 credits)
JOUR 502 - Introduction to Reporting (3 credits)
JOUR 511 - Introduction to Multimedia (3 credits)
12 credits – Fall Term
JOUR 500 - Critical Approaches to Journalism (3 credits)
JOUR 523 - News and Feature Photography (3 credits)
JOUR 527 - Elements of Lighting for Visual Journalism (3 credits)
JOUR 536 - Advanced Video Journalism (3 credits)
12 credits – Winter Term
JOUR 513 - Journalism Ethics and the Law (3 credits)
JOUR 535 - Documentary and Photographic Series (3 credits)
And two of the following courses:
JOUR 503 Introduction to Visual Journalism (3 credits)
JOUR 507 Basics of Digital Imaging (3 credits)
JOUR 508 Research Project (3 credits)
JOUR 521 Visual Story-Telling (3 credits)
JOUR 528 The Digital Magazine (3 credits)
JOUR 531 Visual Journalism Photo Editing (3 credits)
JOUR 532 Documentary Video and Radio (3 credits)
JOUR 537 Visual Journalism Portfolio (3 credits)
Your completed application will include:
- Application form and Fee
- Three Letters of Reference and assessment form (2 must be from academic sources)
- Statement of purpose (approximately 600 words), outlining your background, work experience, and desire to be a journalist
- Transcripts for all post-secondary institutions attended
- Proof of Canadian citizenship (if applicable)
- Applicants whose primary language is not English, are required to submit official language test scores, unless exempted.
Please apply online. Read the how-to guide for application procedures.
| DEGREE |
FALL (September) |
WINTER (January) |
SUMMER (May/June) |
| Visual Journalism | Diploma | n/a | n/a | Jan. 15* |
*Late applications may be considered, please contact the Program Director.
Courses typically offered include:
- News and Feature Photography
- Documentary and Photographic Series
- Documentary Video and Radio
- Critical Approaches to Journalism
- Journalism Ethics and the Law
Consult the graduate calendar for a complete list of current courses. All courses and assignments are conducted in English.
Important information about admissions
Please be advised that Concordia University does not process admissions or fee payments through third parties for our degree programs.
All applicants are advised to ensure that they are communicating directly with the university for admissions and fee payments.
