Journalism students learn how to communicate using the written or spoken word and using visual communication skills such as graphic design, video, and still photography. They learn how to find information, usually by interviewing news sources. Journalism majors typically take 75 percent of their college course work in the liberal arts and sciences in order to have a broad understanding of history, geography, political science, economics, literature, and the natural sciences. In courses in the major, they will learn about both the theory and practice of journalism. Courses may cover the history and law of journalism in foreign countries, and the special contributions of women and minorities to the field.
Students also develop specialized skills.
Those interested in newspaper journalism take courses in reporting, writing, and editing. Students interested in photojournalism take courses in reporting and photography. A broadcast news major learns how to report on and produce news for radio or television broadcasts. In advanced courses, students may learn the particular skills of the investigative reporter or the science writer. They may learn how to design newspaper or magazine pages with computers.