Journalism News/Editorial Minor

Journalism, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

35 credits

Introduction

Journalism is the work of supplying content, primarily news, for the ever-expanding world of mass media. Journalists are responsible for gathering information, analyzing and editing it for a mass audience, and dispensing it using some form of media platform. Increasingly the methods of distribution have become more complex, but the basic mission of a journalist remains the same: to serve the public by finding, defining, writing and editing information.

Today’s journalist can be found on traditional publications such as newspapers and magazines, broadcast outlets and specialized publications. He or she may utilize online delivery or other forms of electronic communication. The trained journalist may use her or his skills in the expanding field of public relations, working to serve as a bridge between those with a message to communicate and the journalist who seeks information.

Why Consider a Journalism News/Editorial Minor?

The Journalism News/Editorial Minor focuses on writing, reporting and editing. These communication skills are useful in many fields, and journalism minors may work in some aspect of publishing or may apply their journalist expertise to another industry, such as education.

Contact Information

Department Chair Jennifer Keller Communications Facility 253 360-650-4987 Jennifer.Keller@wwu.edu

Academic Department Manager Karen Smith Communications Facility 255 360-650-3252 Karen.Smith@wwu.edu

Sample Careers

Reporter | Editor | Customer Service Representative | Public Relations Specialist | Community Relations Director | TV News Anchor | Speech Writer | Advertising Copywriter | Copywriter | Market Research Analyst | Lobbyist | Photojournalist | Designer | Multimedia Producer | All careers involving communication

Major/Career Resources

www.wwu.edu/careers/students_choosingamajor.shtml

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Students interested in completing a Journalism News/Editorial Minor must have a 2.5 GPA or higher at Western. Students should contact the Journalism department manager as early as possible to complete the paperwork. Journalism courses are in high demand, and we work closely with minors to place them in classes in a timely fashion for graduation.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.