Journalism, Minor

Why Minor in Journalism?

Engaging in a minor degree program signifies your commitment to expanding your skill set and academic success beyond the basic academic requirements. When you are job-hunting post-graduation, this added effort can make a positive impression on potential employers. Possessing a minor in a relevant area can be a helpful bonus and help you stand out from the crowd.

Personal Interest and Passion: Many individuals have a genuine interest in storytelling, reporting, content creation, or media production. A minor in journalism allows students to pursue this passion alongside their primary academic focus.

Enhanced Communication Abilities: Journalism cultivates effective communication skills, including concise writing, effective interviewing techniques, and the ability to convey complex information in a clear and engaging way. These skills are invaluable in many professions, from public relations to corporate communications.

Networking Opportunities: Journalism programs often offer chances to connect with professionals in the field through guest lectures, workshops, coaching, and networking events. These connections can lead to internships, mentorships and job opportunities, providing valuable insights and guidance for future career endeavors.

Versatility in Career Paths & Opportunities: WWhile some may pursue a career directly in journalism, the skills gained through a minor in this field are highly transferable. A minor in journalism can open opportunities in diverse industries for several media-related career paths, including content creation and production, media relations, public relations, communications, digital media, marketing, and more.

Minor in Journalism Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Qs)

Q: Do I need prior experience in journalism to pursue a minor?
A: No, prior experience is usually not needed, although a passion for storytelling, curiosity about the world, and core communication skills are beneficial.

Q: What if my schedule is already full with my major requirements? Can I still fit in a journalism minor?
A: Depending on your program and course availability, it may be possible to fit in a journalism minor even with a full schedule. Speak with your academic advisor to explore options such as summer courses, online classes, or creative scheduling to accommodate both your major and minor requirements.

Q: Will a minor in journalism help me if I want to pursue graduate studies?
A: Yes, a minor in journalism can be beneficial for graduate studies, especially for advancing your research and writing skills, particularly if you are interested in fields like communications, media studies, or journalism itself. It showcases your proficiency in critical thinking, problem-solving, attention to detail, logical reasoning, objectivity, and media literacy, which are valuable in many graduate programs.

Q: Can I pursue freelance opportunities with a minor in journalism?
A: Absolutely! A journalism minor provides you with the skills needed to write and edit articles, produce content, and pitch stories or visuals to various publications or platforms. It can be a powerful foundation for a freelance writing career.

Program Faculty