Apparatus (102, 132, 140) for recording data and method (200) for making the same. In accordance with some embodiments, a magnetic recording layer (148) is adapted to store data along perpendicular magnetic domains. A protective overcoat layer ( 150) is formed on the magnetic recording layer (148) to substantially protect the magnetic recording layer (148) from environmental effects. The protective overcoat layer (150) is made of carbon intermixed with at least one transition metal, such as but not limited to chromium.