The School of Journalism and Mass Communication offers a liberal arts approach to professional training in a variety of mass communication careers, offering a Journalism Bachelor of Arts (J.B.A.) or Journalism Bachelor of Science (J.B.S.). Our home in the College of Letters and Sciences means students receive excellent training in fundamentals of media law and history, media institutions and influence, and a range of approaches to media research and inquiry, balancing strong social-scientific, humanistic and theoretical instruction with our skills training. Our mission is to produce well-rounded practitioners and citizens who are informed consumers of information, responsible producers of content, and passionate innovators of digital communication technologies.
Degrees granted: Journalism Bachelor of Arts (JBA) or Journalism Bachelor of Science (JBS).
Length of study: Three semesters minimum to complete all degree requirements.
Course of study and prerequisites: J201 is required for admission to the J-School, and J202 is a prerequisite for both J335 and J345. Thus, J202 cannot be taken in the same semester as J335 or J345. Students may not take J335 and J345 simultaneously.
Tracks within the major: Students may choose either reporting or strategic communication as their major track. Students who choose to double-track must take courses sequentially.
Other degree requirements: Students must complete the standard Letters & Science general education requirements and a breadth requirement within the journalism major. This includes a complement of humanities and social science courses.
Study abroad and double majors: It is possible to complete a double major or study abroad and, with good planning, still graduate in four years. Note: Students may not double major in journalism and any program offered outside the College of Letters and Science, including the College of Engineering, the School of Nursing, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the School of Education (such as Art) or the Business School (such as Marketing, with the exception of the certificate for non-business majors).
Journalism certificate or minor: No general certificate or minor is offered, but SJMC does offer a Certificate in Sports Communication and co-sponsors the Digital Studies Certificate.