Major in Journalism

Journalism, the collection and distribution of current news and information, is essential to all democratic societies. Journalists write, photograph, manage, edit, record video, publish and present news for the public through various forms of media including online publications, newspapers, magazines, specialty publications catering to unique audiences, radio and television.

Public relations is also a strong and growing career field that requires a deep awareness of journalistic skills and concepts.

Program Overview

The major in journalism prepares you to function effectively in a multimedia and multicultural environment, practice ethics in communication and maintain the professional standards of journalism.

Journalism courses include:

  • Opinion writing and article writing
  • Broadcast television news production
  • News reporting and news editing
  • Photojournalism, press photography and graphic design
  • Research and information gathering
  • Contemporary issues in journalism and critical analysis of news
  • Emerging media
  • History of journalism
  • International journalism
  • Mass media and society
  • News and entertainment
  • Public relations principles, public relations writing and advanced public relations

Special topics courses in journalism are available as well. You can often work individually with faculty members on independent study courses. You can also join several journalistic and/or public relations advocacy organizations, such as the National Association of Black Journalists and the Public Relations Student Society of America.

In addition, students have a high degree of success in obtaining internships and viable employment through our network of alumni and organizations with synergistic goals such as the Northern Illinois Newspaper Association.

Undergraduate Advising

Laura Vazquez, Ph.D.
Director of Undergraduate Studies
Watson Hall 213
815-753-7107
lvazquez@niu.edu 

Olivia Monteiro
Academic Advisor
Watson Hall 217
815-753-5354
omonteiro@niu.edu 

Undergraduate Advising Info