Bachelor of Arts in Journalism

The world of journalism is changing. However, the need for excellent journalists is not. The major in journalism grounds its curriculum in the skills that all employers within the news media and professional communications want: strong writing and editing skills; excellent storytelling skills; the ability to find and process complex information, and share it in a way that helps others understand it; and the ability to deal on a face-to-face basis with diverse audiences.

The core of the curriculum remains reporting, writing and editing for print and the Web. A dedicated and talented faculty with strong professional careers in journalism teaches these courses. That core is joined by a range of classes aimed at developing a foundation in multimedia storytelling: digital photojournalism, audio-visual gathering and editing; and Web site development and content delivery. Experts from all units throughout the SoM teach these classes. Ethical and professional standards and emphasis on First Amendment principles and media law concepts are incorporated throughout the curriculum to complete the package.

Students in the journalism major graduate prepared for work at any news media outlet or for any position in professional communications. Along the way, they get one-on-one academic and career advising from the journalism faculty — and the knowledge and skills to make a difference.

Specific objectives are to:

• Prepare students for professional careers in the media.
• Instil in students a high degree of professionalism, which consists principally of practical competence and ethical understanding.
• Enhance students' understanding of the role of the news media in a democratic society.

Exceptional academic programs applied learning opportunities, and world-renowned faculty are only part of what makes the WKU experience unparalleled. Your hopes, dreams, and ideas are important to us. We strive to provide you with an environment where creativity is nurtured and intellect grows. WKU is a student-centered, applied research university. That means we are dedicated to making sure you achieve your goals and graduate with skills for success. You will not only graduate with a diploma, but you will also enter the real world with an experience that makes you stand out above the rest.

The WKU Mission

Western Kentucky University (WKU) prepares students of all backgrounds to be productive, engaged, and socially responsible citizen-leaders of a global society. The University provides research, service, and lifelong learning opportunities for its students, faculty, and other constituents. WKU enriches the quality of life for those within its reach.