Journalism Summer School

Storytelling in the Age of AI: A CNN Academy Summer School and Simulation 

30 June -12 July 2025  | University College Dublin, Ireland 

Hear from CNN journalists, industry experts and media analysts about how technology is transforming the way we tell stories and the challenges of international reporting.  

Learn the skills necessary to be a true multimedia journalist such as mobile storytelling, open-source intelligence and the benefits and challenges posed by artificial intelligence. 

Then put those skills into practice during a realistic simulation where you’ll be split into groups, despatched to a fictional country and set the task of reporting on a breaking news story. 

The simulation transcends traditional journalism training, providing a transformative experience that combines real-world challenges, collaboration, competition and a commitment to addressing pressing global issues.

If you have any queries about the Summer School, please contact Catherine.Carey@ucd.ie

Choice of Modules

The Summer School consists of two modules and participants are welcome to choose to take module 1 on its own or modules 1 and 2 together. (Module 2 is not available on its own). 

Module 1: Reporting in the Age of AI 
(30 June – 5 July 2025) 

This immersive one-week programme is designed for those eager to stay ahead with the latest skills and knowledge in journalism. CNN journalists and instructors will provide hands-on audio, video and digital production training in person. Participants will also benefit from masterclasses by leading industry professionals, ensuring they acquire a diverse skill set vital for navigating the complexities of modern journalism. The module includes:  

  • Multiplatform content production  

  • Mobile storytelling shooting and editing 

  • Verification techniques and open-source intelligence 

  • AI and the evolution of news media technologies   

  • Practical exercises 

Module 2: CNN Academy Simulation
(7 -12 July 2025) 

This is an immersive programme that unites emerging journalists in a week-long experience of intensive journalism training. Faced with a breaking news story unfolding in real-time, students will test and refine their skills in a realistic news environment. Participants will be split into groups and tasked with producing a comprehensive news report by the end of the week, shot and edited on their phones. The winners will be selected in a closing ceremony. The module includes:  

  • Access to a custom-built social media tool 

  • Mock news conferences 

  • Interviews with role players 

  • Trip to a realistic field environment 

  • Feedback from CNN professionals   

Note: further details on module content, schedule and faculty will be posted on this page. 

Who is the Summer School for?

Students and early-career journalists and media practitioners.  

Students should have completed at least one year of university. Students can be from any discipline but must have a strong interest in the field of journalism. Students can take the modules for credit if this is required by their home institution – see below.  

For those who have completed a first degree, the modules will provide advanced skilling suited to transitioning to a career in journalism or developing transferable skills in communication and storytelling.  

Credit

Each module carries 5 ECTS credits. Modules 1 and 2 together carry 10 ECTS credits.  

UCD uses the ECTS European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS), based on student workload. Your home institution decides on credits to be awarded for modules completed at UCD.  

Note for US-based students: We recommend that 3 US credits be awarded for the successful completion of each week, so 6 US credits for the completion of both weeks.  

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Fees

Module 1 = 1,600 euros.

Modules 1 and 2 = 3,500 euros. 

 Please note, the fee for tuition does not include accommodation. 

Housing

Participants enrolling on this programme are eligible to apply for UCD's on-campus housing. If you would like to apply for on-campus accommodation, then please indicate this in your application form when prompted to do so. You will then receive information about how to apply and costs for on-campus accommodation via e-mail. Participants are welcome to not stay on campus but must note that finding accommodation off-campus will be solely their responsibility. 

Study In Dublin

University College Dublin is Ireland’s largest and most international university, located on a modern campus in the heart of a leafy, residential area on Dublin’s southside. UCD offers world-class academic, residential and sporting facilities, and is within easy reach of Dublin's city centre, picturesque coastline and the magnificent Irish countryside, along with a host of cultural and visitor attractions.  

If you have any queries about the Summer School, please contact Catherine.Carey@ucd.ie