By FARAH MUBARAK
Global Business Journalism reporter
When it comes to studying journalism, China may not be the first country that pops into your mind. But its evolving role in the world, along with its developing economy, makes it a destination that you should consider for pursuing a master’s degree in journalism.
The Global Business Journalism Program at Tsinghua University, a prestigious English language program at China's top university, has hosted students from 68 nations since its launch in 2007. Participants study best practices in global journalism and get practical training to improve their writing, reporting and data skills from veteran international journalists with deep knowledge of global economic issues.
Do you need any more convincing? If so, here are six reasons to study journalism in China:
1. “If you are interested in China, study journalism in China.”
That’s the advice of David Bartle, a GBJ student from the United States, who believes studying in China will help you to familiarize yourself with the Chinese media industry, culture, and current events. Because China is also a major partner of many developing countries in Asia and Africa, he said, studying in China gives you a close-up view of emerging global issues.
“If you’re nervous about the quality of openness and freedom of journalism in China,” Bartle said, “realize that there is still a need for China experts who can provide accurate, objective windows into the country.”
2. You don’t have to be fluent in Chinese to study in China.
The GBJ Program is a fully English-taught program. But students also have the chance to learn Chinese during their time at Tsinghua. This can surely increase your future job prospects and give you an advantage among dozens of applicants.
3. The GBJ program has a partnership with Bloomberg News.
Whether it’s the Bloomberg Research Lab featuring 10 Bloomberg terminals, the Bloomberg Lecture Series, or the international faculty of veteran journalists, Tsinghua offers it all. There are also dozens of internship and mentorship opportunities for GBJ students in Chinese and international media. Global Business Journalism participants also have full access to the resources of our partners at the International Center for Journalists, the world's leading journalism training organization.
4. It’s all about connections.
The job market is more competitive than ever. Networking is an advantage that can open up many doors. The GBJ program allows you to connect with faculty, students, alumni, and guest speakers from all over the world, namely 68 countries (and counting).
Tsinghua School of Journalism and Communication Associate Dean Shi Anbin doesn’t call the Global Business Journalism Program “the United Nations of Journalism” for nothing.
5. Censorship is not as pervasive as you may think.
It is no secret China has a different way of doing things. But it is a way that very few Western journalists are exposed to. Studying in China would give you the opportunity to learn about this system and adapt.
If you are not interested in working in China, you can still learn the best practices in journalism from leading global experts. Data analysis and business writing are just a few of these practices. You can apply them in your own country, or any other country you plan on working in. Tsinghua University provides an open and tolerant environment for its students to achieve this.
6. Last but definitely not least, studying in China is just cheaper.
Wouldn’t it be great if you could just focus on studying without having to worry about student loans? The GBJ Program offers lots of scholarships to its students. Students can apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship or the tuition scholarship. Even if you don’t get a scholarship, it is still cheaper than studying in other countries like the United States.