Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and
Mass Communication
A
4-year bachelor's degree program in journalism and mass communication can
prepare students for reporting, analysis and writing jobs. Academic Bachelor of
Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees are available in journalism and mass
communications. Either type of degree requires students to complete both a
broad liberal arts education and rigorous writing coursework. Some schools
incorporate internship programs into degree curricula.
Education Prerequisites
Prospective
students must typically have a high school diploma in order to qualify for
admittance. In addition, many colleges of journalism and mass communication
have secondary entrance requirements, such as submitting writing samples or
completing prerequisite college coursework with a minimum grade point average.
Applicants should also have proven skills in English and public speaking.
Course Topics
In
addition to expectations within the major, some schools require students to
either select a secondary major or declare an emphasis of study outside of journalism.
Courses within a journalism and mass communication bachelor's degree program
usually require substantial expository writing. Heavy emphasis is typically
placed on topics related to media. Some course topics might include:
- Broadcast journalism
- Multimedia story coverage
- Fundamentals of mass communication
- Advanced writing and reporting
- Ethical issues in public relations
- Photojournalism
- Writing for the magazine market
- Television news writing
- Graphic design
Popular Career Options
Graduates
can generally qualify for employment opportunities with newspapers, magazines,
television networks and other forms of written and electronic media. Some
possible job titles include:
- News reporter
- Media researcher
- Magazine writer
- Photojournalist
- Public relations specialist
Continuing Education
For
individuals interested in continuing their academic education, a master's
degree program in journalism and mass communication can offer career
advancement opportunities. Pursuing a master's degree may also help prospective
journalists develop their portfolios and writing skills.
This
program is designed for the working professional. The master’s degree enhances
professional knowledge, skills, and leadership in journalism and mass
communications. Interdisciplinary curriculum combines up-to-date knowledge with
practical application and individualized experience.
In
some courses, real-time interaction between campus and distance students
provides a unique perspective on media coverage from around the globe.
Choose from three specializations
The
Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communications has three
specializations from which to choose. You can personalize a program to meet
your individual interests and needs. Thesis and non-thesis options are available.
- Integrated Media Communications: Designed to provide advertising, public relations, marketing, and communications industry professionals with skills needed in the profession and to update their knowledge about the rapidly changing media and marketing environment in which they operate. A professional project is required.
- Media Studies: The purpose of this specialization is to gain cutting-edge theoretical knowledge about the various influences and effects of the media. A thesis is required.
- Professional Journalism: Designed for working professionals in print and digital journalism with emphasis given to improving one's skills for the workplace. A professional project is required.
