AIJC Scholarship for Master of Arts in Journalism Call for Scholarship Applications: Exclusive for Members of the Philippine Press Institute

The Asian Institute of Journalism and Communication (AIJC) is pleased to announce the opening of applications for two scholarship grants for the Master of Arts in Journalism program. This is exclusively offered to member publications of the Philippine Press Institute (PPI).

This initiative aims to empower practicing journalists with advanced journalistic competencies and a firm grounding in ethical standards, public accountability, and integrity—qualities essential for navigating the complexities of an increasingly digital, volatile, and rapidly evolving media landscape.

Scholarship Coverage and Mechanics
Two types of scholarships are offered to PPI members for the Master of Arts in Journalism program at AIJC. Both scholarship recipients will receive discounted tuition fees along with access to research resources, academic mentoring, and collaborative projects.

1. 20% Scholarship: Provides a 20% discount on tuition fees
2. 50% Scholarship: Provides a 50% discount on tuition fees

The two selected scholars for AY2025-2026 will also be involved in the marketing and research initiatives of the Institute. Grantees must therefore allocate time to work with AIJC in research projects and institutional marketing efforts, including content creation, event support, and strategic communication initiatives.

The grantees must maintain good academic standing throughout the program, with an average grade not lower than 1.50 per trimester.

Eligibility

The applicant must meet the following criteria:

1. Be a practicing journalist affiliated with a news organization that is an active member of the Philippine Press Institute (PPI)
2. Hold a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communication, or a related field from a CHED-recognized higher education institution
3. Have at least two years of professional experience in the journalism field
4. Demonstrate a strong commitment to the public interest and ethical journalism

Scholarship Tiers

The level of support—either a 20% or 50% tuition discount—will be determined based on the applicant's professional background and academic potential. For AY2025-2026, only one applicant will be selected for each scholarship tier.

The 20% scholarship will be awarded to the most qualified applicant who has a proven track record in community journalism and a clear commitment to journalistic excellence and ethics.

The 50% scholarship will be granted to the applicant who demonstrates exceptional qualifications, including leadership in media, a strong portfolio of ethical work in community journalism, and significant potential for research contributions and community engagement at AIJC.

Application Requirements

Each applicant must submit the following to gs@aijci.com:

1. Curriculum vitae
2. Portfolio of published work: Compilation of at least 15 published news stories from 2023-2025
3. Letter of intent explaining goals for pursuing graduate studies
4. Transcript of records (bachelor’s degree)
5. Diploma (bachelor’s degree)
6. One recommendation letter from the employer and one recommendation letter from any undergraduate professor
7. Certification of news organization’s membership in the Philippine Press Institute

Submission Details
The deadline for submission of scholarship application requirements is on August 31, 2025. The two selected scholars will be notified on or before September 19, 2025. They will be asked to formally register and submit the rest of the admission requirements once they receive the notification.

For inquiries, please contact Ms. Christine Ofilan, AIJC Registrar and Librarian, at christine.ofilan@aijci.com.

Applicants for admission to the AIJC Graduate School may be admitted after satisfying the following requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree, preferably in journalism or communication
  • Work experience in any communication-related job
  • Accomplished GS Online Application for Admission Form [Link Here] with attached documents:
    • Updated comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
    • Soft/Scanned Copy of Original Transcript of Records from previous college/University
    • Soft/Scanned Copy of School Diploma from previous college/University
    • Two letters of recommendation from previous professors and/or employers
    • Hi-Resolution 1×1 ID picture with white background
    • Proof Payment for PhP1,050.00 Admissions Fee (Bank Details will be in the Link)
  • 1-on-1 Admission Test and Interview [To be Scheduled]

In addition, Foreign students should present a Certificate of Eligibility and Study Permit from the Department of Education, and a copy of their Alien Certification and Registration.

Transferees may submit a true copy of their grades for assessment; relevant courses may be credited toward the AIJC program they want to pursue.

HOW IT WORKS

INQUIRE FOR RATES

We want to make it easy yet still comprehensive and hands-on by leveraging digital tools to aid in your admission journey.

Step 1: Accomplish the GS Online Application Form and submit the required documents [Link Here]

Step 2: Once confirmed, our Admissions Officer will verify your Interview and Entrance Exam Schedule via Mobile/Email.

Step 3: Ace the 1-on-1 Live Online Test and Interview (allot 2 hours).

Step 4: When you succeed, you will receive an Acceptance Letter (which would contain the Enrollment Rates) and a Conforme which you’ll need to sign and send a copy to our admissions officer.

Step 5: Process the Tuition Fee Payment via Bank Transfer and send Proof of Payment via Mobile/Email to our admissions officer.

Step 6: Once all is done, you’ll receive the Schedule of Classes and an exclusive invitation to join the AIJC MS Teams App Group.

*Check the Enrollment Schedule Here.

Are you a continuing student? Please click here.

Program Syllabus and Schedule
  • Communication and Related Social Science Models and Theories

    3 Units

  • Communication Audit

    3 Units

Required Courses: (6 units)

Any two of the following:

  • Strategic Communication Program Management

    3 Units

  • Stakeholder Relations Management

    3 Units

  • Ethics, Media Laws, and Relevant Transnational Agreements.

    3 Units

Major Courses: (6 units)

Any two of the following:

  • Managing Communication Research, Assessment, and Evaluation Programs

    3 Units

  • Social Media Management

    3 Units

  • Government Relations and Lobbying

    3 Units

  • Issues Management and Crisis Communication

    3 Units

  • Communication for Development

    3 Units

  • Global Communication Environment

    3 Units

Any two of the following:

  • Business for Communication

    3 Units

  • Consumer Behavior and Change Communication

    3 Units

  • Identity, Brand, and Reputation Management

    3 Units

  • According to CMO 15, s 2019, a capstone project “culminates the student’s academic or learning experience.

    It provides the student an opportunity to exhibit the knowledge and skills obtained during the course of graduate study. The student presents the capstone project to a panel or committee of experts for grading and evaluation.”

    The capstone project also may be in the form of a reentry plan. It will identify the concrete changes to be made by the student in the performance of his/her work, incorporating lessons gained or competencies acquired from the graduate program he/she is about to complete.

    The capstone project shall identify research-based innovative strategies and activities and the expected outcomes.

    Evidence of the capstone project's realism and practicability, degree of ease in implementation, and feasibility in terms of cost should be given special attention.

What You Get:

  • Schedule Online Live Sessions via Zoom Professional
  • Recorded Session Library Available
  • PDF E-Modules
  • AIJC E-Book Library
  • In-Person Huddles/Events
  • AIJC Hybrid Graduation Ceremony

Class Schedules:

  • Every Saturday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

*Manila, Philippine Time

Recognized by:

Courses Description

Communication and Related Social Science Models and Theories

Survey of major social science models and theories which impact on communication processes including persuasion, behavior and social change, etc.

Communication Audit

The communication audit is a process that companies go through in order to determine how good their communications are. Communication involves how a company or organization sends and receives information; or shares it with varying audiences.

Strategic Communication Program Management

Strategic leadership and communication program development, management and evaluation. It emphasizes basic communication research, strategic communication objectives and message design, selection of media, development of materials, management of teams and impact evaluation.

Stakeholder Relations Management

Communication strategies and tools in establishing, sustaining, and enhancing relationship with internal (e.g., governing board, stakeholders, employees) and external (e.g., government, customers, suppliers and the community) stakeholders.

Ethics, Media Laws, and Relevant Transnational Agreements.

Ethics is a system of principles that guides action. While the law establishes what can and cannot be done in given situations, an ethical lapse can erode public trust; and in turn devalue the work of all PR practitioners. Ethics upholds personal, professional, social and moral values. Ethics and Law create a moral compass for navigating ethical dilemmas. The course features a survey of national laws and international agreements and protocols which impact on the communication profession and its practice.

Who is this masters degree for

Public Relations Managers and Consultants:

  • This program caters to professionals already in corporate PR and communication roles. It offers advanced training in strategic communication planning, crisis management, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management, empowering professionals to drive organizational goals and maintain brand reputation in corporate environments.

Social Media Managers/Strategists:

  • Digital media strategists and social media managers play a pivotal role in shaping brand perceptions, engaging audiences, and managing online reputation. This program provides specialized training in digital communication strategies, and crisis communication in digital environments, empowering professionals to leverage digital platforms effectively and drive brand success.

Government Public Affairs Officers:

  • Public affairs officers working within government agencies require a nuanced understanding of communication strategies to effectively engage with stakeholders and disseminate important information to the public. This program offers tailored coursework in government communication, crisis management, and strategic public relations.

Investor Relations Managers:

  • Investor relations managers and financial communication specialists play a crucial role in maintaining transparent communication with investors, analysts, and financial stakeholders. This program offers specialized training in financial PR, investor relations strategies, financial reporting, and corporate governance, empowering professionals to effectively communicate financial performance, corporate strategy, and investment opportunities
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