Journalism Concentration

Our journalism concentration provides the basis for a fascinating and challenging career in a field that is changing daily as the traditional print and electronic media move closer together. This is a rapidly changing field and we keep track with the changes.

Students are able to do reporting and cover all the important events on WCU campus and the community and publish it on The Western Carolina Journalist, the news website of the Department of Communication established in the fall of 2010. This enables students to practice their professional judgment and skills with various community groups and local agencies.

Majors can expand their knowledge of the various communication tools by taking a second communication concentration of broadcasting, or public relations.

As an option journalism majors can take a second major in a specific field they have an interest in joining, as environmental science, natural resource management, criminal justice, a foreign language, international studies or one of the sciences.

Faculty bring years of academic and professional experience to the classroom. Classes engage students in "real world" challenges using the community as a laboratory.

Students can begin their professional networking by joining the Society of Professional Journalists and WCU student chapter and enhance their skills and network.

To complete the program: A total of 40 hours is required, including a minor, second communication concentration, second major, or other approved program and student selected general electives. At least 30 hours taken at WCU must be at the junior-senior level to meet one of the general university degree requirements.

Total hours required for the degree: 120

For an official listing of the required courses you should consult The Undergraduate Catalog, the official Western Carolina University catalog of courses.