Learn to tell compelling stories using sound and clear, conversational writing.
A good audio story takes you on a journey through sound. Learn to tell compelling stories using sound and captivating writing through offerings in the M.S. degree programs.
Overview
With the growing popularity of podcasts and the continued reach of terrestrial radio, there has never been a better time to pursue a career in audio. The Journalism School prepares students to work in any of the finest public radio newsrooms or on the most successful shows and podcasts.
M.S. students go through a brief audio training in August as part of their introduction to multimedia reporting. Even in those early classes, students receive technical instruction, one-on-one editing and constructive in-class feedback on their work.
In the fall, students interested in audio can take Writing for the Ear and/or an Image & Sound class in audio reporting. In the spring, Radio Workshop provides real-world training that ensures students interested in pursuing a career in radio have the skills to quickly make themselves valuable in any work environment. Radio Workshop has been a staple of the spring schedule for nearly two decades. Its network of graduates work in many of the best public and commercial radio and podcast companies in the United States and beyond.
Students interested in audio who meet the prerequisites can submit proposals for audio Master’s Projects. A hybrid audio-print project includes an 8-10 minute audio piece and a 2,500-word story. A full audio project is a 2,030-minute documentary or a series of three 7-9 minute related segments with no written component.
Regular guest speakers in audio classes include: Robert Smith (NPR), Stacey Vanek Smith (NPR), Alex Blumberg (Gimlet), Tim Howard (Gimlet), Luis Trelles (Radio Ambulante), Zoe Chace (This American Life), Ailsa Chang (NPR) and Joe Richman (Radio Diaries).
Classes
In addition to these classes, many instructors encourage students to incorporate audio elements into their reporting.
Please note: The classes listed here represent recent offerings at the Journalism School. Choices vary each semester depending on faculty availability and other considerations. Classes described now may change or be dropped to make room for new additions.
Student Work
Faculty
Daniel Alarcón
Associate Professor of Journalism
Joanne Faryon
Associate Professor of Professional Practice of Journalism
Golda Arthur
Adjunct Faculty
Sally Herships
Adjunct Faculty; Director, Radio Program
Peter Leonard
Adjunct Faculty
Rachel Quester
Adjunct Faculty
Kristin Schwab
Adjunct Faculty
Ben Shapiro
Adjunct Faculty
Naomi Starobin
Adjunct Assistant Professor of Journalism
Richard Yeh
Adjunct Faculty