Journalism
Major, Minor
Journalism major
Are you ready to be the voice of change? As a journalism major, you're not just learning; you're becoming a storyteller for the world. We blend journalism fundamentals with innovative media tools, equipping you with skills in research, editing, reporting and visual storytelling. These skills will help you kick-start a great career in sharing important stories.
AT A GLANCE
Why major in journalism?
Our journalism major blends essential journalism training with the latest media developments, giving you the skills you need to succeed in the ever-changing field of journalism.
Here are just a few of the benefits of our journalism major program:
- Learn from experienced faculty who are passionate about journalism.
- Develop a strong foundation in journalism fundamentals, such as editing, writing and reporting.
- Learn about the latest media developments and how to use them to tell stories.
- Be prepared for a successful career in journalism.
What will you learn as a journalism major?
Our journalism program is accredited by The Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC), a distinction held by only one other Michigan university. Our journalism major balances classroom theory with service learning and other hands-on experiences that help you develop the skills required for entry-level positions in the media, related professions, and entrepreneurial media-related careers.
Employers expect journalism graduates to have had at least one internship, an indicator that an applicant has the attitude and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace. The School of Communication, Journalism and Media Internship coordinator will provide input on finding internships that match your career interests and allow you to build a portfolio of your work.
Hands-on learning
Here, you won't just learn in a classroom; you'll have hands-on opportunities to be a journalist while still in college.
- Write for our award-winning, student-run newspaper, Central Michigan Life (CM Life). CM Life’s business and advertising program was named the College Media Company of the Year annually from 2014 to 2020 by the College Media Business & Advertising Managers. The newsroom has been recognized with an Associated Collegiate Press Pacemaker 100, naming it one of the nation's top 100 student media outlets. It has been named the Michigan Press Association College Newspaper of the Year.
- Our multimedia student lifestyle and feature publication, Grand Central Magazine. Grand Central Magazine captures the unique lifestyle experiences of the students at Central Michigan University. They're about what makes college and life worthwhile, expressed through content you won’t see elsewhere.
- Join our student-run PR agency, PR Central, a nationally affiliated, student-run public relations firm. Which provides students with hands-on opportunities to work with clients in various fields, from non-profit to technology. Members gain portfolio pieces and real-life experience working in a public relations firm.
- An internship will give you professional experience while still in school. Previous internship locations include The Associated Press, the Detroit Free Press, The Washington Post, the Michigan House of Representatives, the American Red Cross and numerous public relations agencies.
Interested in a journalism minor?
No matter your major, a journalism minor can be valuable to your education. It will give you the skills and knowledge you need to be a more effective communicator, researcher, and thinker.
Concentrations
Public Relations
What can I do with a journalism major?
As a journalism major, you will graduate with the knowledge to work with organizations and jobs across the media spectrum. You may work for a firm or agency serving many clients or in-house for a company or institution.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Reporter | $57,500 |
| Public Relations Manager | $130,480 |
| Internal Communications Manager | $79,582 |
| Social Media Strategist/Specialist | $56,770 |
| News Analyst, Reporter, and Journalist | $57,500 |
| Copywriter | $73,690 |
| Media Planner | $52,560 |
Have you ever dreamed of making a mark in the world? The SCJM Media Hall of Fame is waiting for you! Established in 2002, our Hall of Fame features alumni and faculty who have not only served their communities with dedication but have also made a significant difference globally.
Inspired by Dr. Gilbert Maienknecht, the founder of our Department of Journalism in 1959, the selected hall of famers are those who embody the values and ethics taught at our university. If you aspire to make a difference and stand out in your future journalism career, make CMU your first step.
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