Master the art of reporting and writing for publication or broadcast in Southern’s Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Journalism degrees. Both provide the liberal arts background necessary for careers in news media and allied fields, such as business, public service, and law school or other related graduate programs.
The news media requires a multimedia journalist capable of producing a full package of news via text, video, audio, still photos, and graphics. This program is geared toward providing you with a full range of knowledge, tools, and skills you’ll need to be successful in the field in this news media landscape.
Students will be able to participate in any of the many student media organizations offered on campus, such as the student newspaper, magazine, television station, and radio station. Students can also attend professional development conferences with faculty at the state, regional, and national levels. Hands-on coursework is taught by faculty who are veteran journalists as well as part-time faculty working in the field.
In a changing news media landscape, this much remains true: People still want to know what is going on in the world and the local community around them. The basic skills of reporting and writing remain unchanged. What has changed are the expectations for journalists and the methods of delivery to readers and viewers.
Journalism, B.A.
The Journalism, B.A. degree provides students with a full range of knowledge, tools, and skills they will need to be successful in this new news media landscape. The degree offers a broad liberal arts background necessary for careers in the news media and in allied fields, such as public relations, sports information, business, and public service. The degree also prepares students for further study in law or graduate school. In addition to writing, reporting, and web publishing skills, the Journalism, B.A. degree offers flexibility to explore more topics through elective courses. A required cognate pushes students to specialize in an area outside of journalism to immerse themselves in broader skills-building or content areas, such as political science or sports.
Journalism, B.S.
The Journalism, B.S. degree offers a broad liberal arts background necessary for careers in the news media and in allied fields, such as public relations, sports information, business, and public service. In addition to writing, reporting, and web publishing skills, the B.S. degree includes a deeper immersion in technology and a required internship. A required cognate pushes students to specialize in an area outside of Journalism to immerse themselves in broader skills-building or content areas, such as political science or sports.
Careers
Today’s ever-changing media marketplace demands students go beyond the strong reliance on writing, research, and editing to a high reliance on technology and multimedia presentation and storytelling. Employers are seeking informed citizens who have a strong knowledge of good ethical practice and decision-making built on First Amendment and Freedom of Information principles. Whether you are seeking traditional careers or one that utilizes the strengths of writers and editors, photographers, and designers, studying journalism at SCSU will prepare you for these professional careers.
Studying journalism at Southern is a lifelong partnership between students and faculty. Long after receiving their degree, graduates see faculty as a valuable resource for years of multiple job placements, networking, and professional guidance. Our alumni are also our professional colleagues in traditional journalism fields and law, education, web editing, and many other career paths, and often serve as important mentors to our current students.
We have years of accomplishments by our faculty, students, and alumni to provide a strong network for the first job and beyond.
Typical Job Titles
- Reporter
- Journalist
- News Anchor
- Magazine Writer
- Content Manager
- Social Media Manager
- Public Relations Specialist
Faculty Mentorship in Campus Media
Journalism faculty serve as advisers or supportive mentors to students in all areas of campus media organizations, including:
- Southern News (student newspaper)
- WSIN radio (radio station)
- SCSU-TV (TV station)
- Folio (literary magazine)
- Society of Professional Journalists (organization)