MA in Journalism - Literary Reportage in New York United States | New York University

At NYU's Arthur L. Carter Journalism Institute, the Literary Reportage program immerses students in a rigorous writing curriculum that balances polished prose with thorough investigative work. These emerging journalists become global storytellers, pursuing their interests to create meticulously researched, artfully composed narratives that captivate readers. Upon completing the program, they earn an MFA degree that signifies the comprehensive nature of their writing education.

While journalism schools develop skilled reporters and MFA programs cultivate elegant writers, Literary Reportage merges these strengths. Starting in 2020, graduates receive an MFA instead of an MA—a change that acknowledges the program's existing approach without altering its content. The MFA offers additional benefits as a terminal degree, qualifying graduates to teach in nonfiction MFA programs.

The program teaches Tom Wolfe's concept of 'stylish reporting,' advanced interviewing techniques, and broader ethnographic research methods uncommon in traditional journalism programs. Students explore diverse topics: philosophical examinations of nature paths, underground subcultures, political corruption in stadium development, or cold case investigations of missing writers. Some adopt participant-observer roles for insider perspectives, while others draw from personal experiences to craft memoir-style pieces. Many leverage extensive archival research to uncover compelling stories.