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About the Journalism Degree Program

Writer, photographer, investigator, critic – a journalist wears many different hats. The exciting field of journalism is always changing, but the fundamentals behind a journalist’s work remain the same. These include quality writing, ethical decision-making, honesty, hard work, and, most importantly, the desire to tell the truth. You’ll learn all of these and more in the Journalism degree program at Wayne State. You’ll learn what makes a good story, how to lay out a newspaper, law, and ethics – and don’t forget the element of photography. What’s more, you’ll get to practice your communication skills at Wayne State’s own student-run newspaper, The Wayne Stater. A journalism degree can lead to many different routes – newspapers, magazines, online news, television, radio – even marketing and public relations.

Sample Program of Study

journalism degree fact sheet

 

 


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Percent of recent WSC graduates employed or in graduate school
based on the most recent graduate survey

Fast Facts

Degrees offered: B.A. or B.S. in Mass Communication / Journalism


Hours required:
For concentration: 36
General education: 30
To graduate from WSC: 120


Popular minors: Electronic Media, Online and Social Media, Editing and Publishing, Travel and Tourism


School: Arts and Humanities


Department: Communication Arts


Newspaper: The Wayne Stater has served the college as its campus newspaper since 1911. The weekly newspaper provides a learning laboratory for journalism students, as well as a local news source for the college and larger community. 


Awards: The newspaper annually achieves high honors at the NCMA’s Golden Leaf Awards, which rewards Nebraska college journalists for their work. The Wayne Stater usually finishes in the top three in the Best Newspaper category, and dozens of WSC students have won awards.

Scholarships and Aid

In addition to having the region’s most affordable tuition, we offer thousands of dollars in scholarships every year. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid as you pursue the Journalism degree program.

Our Focus is Results

Wayne State has the keys to your success and offers just what you need to become well prepared for the real world in the Journalism degree program.

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Skills Learned

  • Advanced news reporting and editing
  • Leadership
  • Interviewing and research
  • Legal and ethical standards of journalism
  • Photography for print media
  • Multiplatform content creation
  • Layout and design for publications
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Oral and written communication
  • Professional standards and ethics

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Possible Careers

  • Reporter
  • Editor
  • Newscaster
  • Digital journalist
  • News analyst
  • Freelance writer
  • Publisher
  • Editorial writer
  • Digital content specialist
  • Scriptwriter or technical writer
  • Critic or reviewer
  • Marketing specialist

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Employers

  • Newspapers and magazines
  • Publishing companies
  • TV networks and media companies
  • Radio stations
  • Public relations firms
  • Advertising agencies
  • Marketing firms
  • Government agencies
  • Non-profit organizations
  • Business and corporations
  • Schools, colleges, and universities

Learn From the Best

Our faculty are accomplished. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in the Journalism degree program.

Outside the Classroom

At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education in the Journalism degree program by participating in clubs, organizations, internships, and more.

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Clubs and Organizations

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Workshops

Communication arts workshops in radio and video will give you abundant firsthand experience in a wide range of multimedia content and help you build your portfolio to prepare yourself for a journalism career. ​

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Opportunities

  • Publications -  Practice your skills in reporting, writing, editing, and photography for The Wayne Stater. You’ll also have the opportunity to compete for awards for your work in college journalism.
  • Wildcat Spirit Short Film Festival – A special opportunity to showcase your filmmaking skills, meet other filmmakers in the region, and compete for prizes.
  • Conferences and trips - You’ll get to travel to meetings throughout the state and attend national conferences in Chicago, St. Louis, Minneapolis, Nashville, and Kansas City.
  • Study Abroad - Earn credit toward your degree while experiencing exciting global adventures overseas.
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Internships

Internships can be done with any news organization. Public relations and marketing are good options as well. Your academic advisor and Career Services are available to help students find internship opportunities.

Take the Next Step

Take the Next Step