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Journalism
Stories are the currency of our culture — they inform, question, humanize, and spark action. While technology has evolved, the core of journalism remains the same: a relentless pursuit of the truth. From Woodward and Bernstein uncovering Watergate to Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey launching the #MeToo movement, great journalists have always had instincts, tenacity, and an unwavering commitment to storytelling.
Journalists continue to shape the narrative, whether it’s delivering breaking news, investigating injustices, or amplifying underrepresented voices. If you’re driven to ask tough questions, uncover hidden truths, and create compelling stories that make an impact, a journalism major is your first step.
Experiential Learning
- Intern with organizations such as the Peoria Chiefs, Clear Channel Radio, NBC Universal/The Olympics, Saddle and Bridle Magazine and Kate Spade
- Deliver and produce news stories for BUTV as well as write and report for the Broadside Literary Journal, and our student newspaper the Bradley Scout
- Networking and professional development opportunities with the Broadcast Education Association and the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
Program Details
Core Requirements – 9 hrs.
- COM 101: Survey of Communication (3 hrs.)
- COM 300: Communication Theory (3 hrs.)
- COM 417: Issues and Perspectives in Communication (3 hrs.)
Major Requirements – 18 hrs.
- COM 201: Journalistic Writing (3 hrs.)
- COM 215: Basic Reporting (3 hrs.)
- COM 225: Visual Storytelling (3 hrs.)
- COM 330: Communication Law and Ethics (3 hrs.)
- COM 360: Digital Journalism (3 hrs.)
- COM 425: Advanced Reporting (3 hrs.)
Electives – 12 hrs.
One course (3 hrs.) from:
- COM 315: Intercultural Communication Theory (3 hrs.)
- COM 386: Media, Race, and Gender (3 hrs.)
- COM 415: Global Media Systems (3 hrs.)
Three courses (9 hrs.) from:
- ART 228: Basic Digital Photography (3 hrs.)
- COM 204: Audio Production (3 hrs.)
- COM 307: News Feature Writing (3 hrs.)
- COM 310: Broadcast News Reporting and Writing (3 hrs.)
- COM 314: Introduction to Video: Studio Production (3 hrs.)
- COM 323: Newspaper Editing and Design 3
- COM 335: Introduction to Video: Field Production (3 hrs.)
- COM 340: Magazine Production (3 hrs.)
- COM 345: Photojournalism and Documentary Photography (3 hrs.)
- COM 365: Digital Photography (3 hrs.)
- COM 414: Advanced Video – Studio Production (3 hrs.)
- COM 435: Advanced Video – Field Production (3 hrs.)
- COM 494: Communication Expedition (1–3 hrs.)
- COM 495: Communication Internship (1–3 hrs.)
Total Hours – 39
Career Opportunities
Journalism majors often pursue careers in news, publishing and public relations, and they also pursue graduate programs in politics and law. Recent Bradley journalism graduates work as reporters, columnists, copy editors and social media coordinators with companies such as Yelp, Walt Disney, Maui Jim, and GateHouse Media.
Minor
If you love writing, storytelling, and keeping people informed, a journalism minor is a great fit. You’ll gain real-world experience in news reporting, social media, and audience research—making it a strong complement to majors in media production, marketing, advertising, and public relations.