Mass Communications

Documentary Journalism

The major in Documentary Journalism balances the breadth of the liberal arts and sciences curriculum with the depth of a professional curriculum in documentary journalism, along with a choice of unrestricted electives to provide a well-rounded educational experience.  Majors must complete 120 credits with a minimum of 40 credits at the 300-400 levels.  Majors will complete a minimum of 42 credits in LASC, 45 credits in the documentary journalism program, and the remaining credits will be available as unrestricted electives.  Internships, while not formally required, are strongly encouraged to gain additional insight into the journalism profession.  The goal of the documentary journalism curriculum is to prepare a graduate for a career in the journalism profession.  The learning outcomes are: to demonstrate an awareness and understanding of the principles of documentary journalism; to demonstrate an awareness and understanding of the ethical standards of the journalism profession; to investigate, report, photograph, edit and produce publications for print, broadcast and the internet that meets professional industry standards; to demonstrate an ability to work collaboratively as a member of a team; and to demonstrate an entry-level professional competency through the successful completion of an internship or other professional field experience.