The journalism major prepares students to communicate to diverse audiences in a free society through critical thinking, analytical writing, real-time reporting and compelling multi-media presentations. It requires professional quality, versatility and performance.
Experiential learning is emphasized through a vibrant student media, hosted internships and coursework that include real-life assignments. One top intern program is the Schieffer School in Washington, offered to a select group of students, usually seniors, in the fall.
Students majoring in journalism should master the elements of written, oral and visual presentation of the news. As well, students should understand the role of the First Amendment and journalism in a democracy and the ethical and legal standards that accompany the gathering and distribution of news. This includes theory, history and concepts of journalism, as well as practical skills.
Classes in which journalism skills are taught and practiced are limited to 15 students.
Once students complete our foundational Reporting course, they can purse specialties such as sports, broadcast or business.
The goals of skills classes include development of a portfolio, or body of work, that becomes the basis for graduating students entering the job market. As part of their coursework, students produce professional-quality newscasts in the department’s high-definition broadcast journalism studio and practice real-time journalism through the Department of Journalism’s student media.
Professors and instructors in the journalism program have both academic credentials and professional experience. Students are allowed and encouraged to volunteer for student media as entering first-year students.
For additional information about the journalism major at TCU, including a list of classes and other requirements, see the university catalog.