Students who major in journalism and mass communication at CSULB join a program with rich traditions of high academic standards and solid preparation for entry into the several professions. In all areas of study, students have opportunities to pursue theory and concept study as well as hands-on skills. All majors work for the bachelor of arts degree in journalism.
Students who study print journalism emphasize writing, reporting and editing, although their studies usually include graphics and on-line publications. Many of them contribute as reporters and editors to two award-winning student publications, the Daily Forty-Niner and the University Magazine, both notable for successes in California Intercollegiate Press Association competitions. They also are encouraged to participate in internships on professional publications.
Those who study broadcast journalism have opportunities to study both radio and television broadcasting. They also study writing, editing, and include production in their curriculum. Students have the opportunity to contribute their work to "Campus Connections," a CATV magazine program aired on Charter Cable 68. Students in broadcast journalism are strongly encouraged to participate in internships.
Students studying online journalism and new media work in a variety of media environments, develop web pages and become adept in the use of new technological developments in journalism and the mass media. All journalism students are encouraged to be knowledgeable in print, broadcast and on-line journalism, as media industries continue to converge and intermingle.
Public Relations students have opportunities to study agency public relations as well as corporate and nonprofit practice. They study both internal and external public relations concepts and practices. They also have opportunities to compete against other colleges and universities in skill-based national competition, the Bateman Competition.
The Department of Journalism is an institutional member of the national Association of Schools of Journalism and Mass Communication. It is host to a student chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists, a chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America and Kappa Tau Alpha, the national journalism honorary society.
The Department of Journalism provides all journalism and public relations students with the opportunity to intern in the mass media, and endeavors to aid students in finding positions in the professions after graduation.
