English/Communications 

Journalism 

Modern society has come to rely on journalism and journalists to draw connections between the parts of a huge, complex, restless system which might easily fragment and turn against itself. The centrality of journalists in explaining a dynamic, ever-changing world makes journalism a profession which requires a wide variety of inter-related skills: observation, analysis, and above all, mastery of clear expression, explanation and interpretation.

At MCLA, you learn the craft of journalism along with other arts like storytelling, social and historical analysis, and rhetorical persuasion -- plus developing a "nose for news" and knowing the news value of a story as a commercial commodity.

After your introductory journalism courses, you will be invited to participate in news teams who write and edit the campus newspaper, produce television news broadcasts, and function as editors or columnists. Finally, you will be encouraged to undertake an internship at a newspaper or broadcasting outlet where you can extend you competence in this demanding and exhilarating profession.

Foundation Courses 24 credits
Department Electives 6 credits
ENGL 225 Writing for Print News Media 3 credits
ENGL 221 Literary Journalism or ENGL 328 Issues in Journalism 3 credits
ENGL 305 Magazine Writing and Editing or ENGL 323 Publication Design and Topography 3 credits
ENGL 321 News Editing Practicum (required) 1-6 credits

Two communications electives at the 200-level or above 6 credits

Choose electives from the following list:
ENGL 205 Introduction to Black & White Photography
ENGL 337 Advanced Photography
ENGL 338 Photo-Journalism
ENLG 427 Senior New Editing Practicum
ENGL 481 Special Topic in Mass Communication - By subject - This course may be repeated.
ENGL 500 Directed Independent Study
ENGL 540 Internship
Total journalism concentration requirements 46-51 credits