Audio

Why audio?

Podcasting has transformed audio journalism and become a part of our daily lives. Between the industry’s growth, its strong outlook for the future and the continued reach of traditional radio, there has never been a better time to pursue a career in audio journalism.

Why Columbia?

Home to The Daily, Radiolab, Planet Money and more, New York City has long been a leader in podcast and radio development and at Columbia. The school’s location means you will have the opportunity to work with outstanding, award-winning faculty and to meet professionals from across the  industry as guests in your classroom and at events at the school.

As a student journalist in New York, you will cover some of the top stories of the day and be at the heart of breaking news. You will also be exposed to a wealth of communities, stories and challenges — preparing you to report anywhere. 

Radio Race

Columbia's Radio Race is an audio storytelling competition. The parameters are announced on a Friday afternoon, and local producers in New York City— working independently or in teams have until midnight on Sunday to complete their piece.

What classes will I take and what skills will I learn?

At Columbia, you will learn the critical, foundational skills you need to succeed as a professional working on any podcast or in radio newsroom. Your time as a student will give you the opportunity to learn every aspect of the audio reporting process. This goes beyond the basics, from using professional editing software and equipment to the craft of interviewing and writing for the ear. You will leave prepared to work across all forms of audio — from long form and investigative to daily radio news.

As you begin your reporting studies, M.S. students will go through a brief but robust introductory audio reporting training in August. In the fall, you can take additional audio classes that provide key foundational skills, such as Writing for the Ear and/or an Image & Sound: Audio One. In the Spring, more advanced, in-depth radio and podcasting classes are offered during the semester’s 15-week production module. 

Students dedicated to audio reporting and audio who meet the prerequisites can then submit proposals for audio Master’s Projects. A full audio project is typically a 20-30 minute documentary or a series of three 7­-9 minute related segments, with no written component.

All of these educational opportunities provide real­-world training that ensures you have the skills to quickly make yourself valuable in any work environment.