Program Coordinator/Contact
Mary Arnold, Department Head
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication
Yeager Hall 211
605-688-4171
E-mail: mary.arnold@sdstate.edu
www.sdstate.edu/mcom
Click here for additional information.
Program Information
A degree in journalism prepares students with essential skills including: writing, speaking, critical thinking and technology. Graduates are well-positioned for a wide variety of careers, ranging from traditional media to business to non-profit organizations. MCOM students may pursue a B.A. or B.S. in Journalism. Students may choose from departmental emphases: News-Editorial Journalism Emphasis or Broadcast Journalism Emphasis.
- News-Editorial Journalism Emphasis. Students who want to be reporters, editors or page designers for print and online media, photojournalists and those seeking employment in corporate or government communications take this emphasis.
- Broadcast Journalism Emphasis. Students who want to pursue careers in digital video storytelling for radio, television or online media and corporate environments take this emphasis.
Student Learning Outcomes
Students completing a journalism major will be equipped to:
- understand and apply the principles and laws of freedom of speech and press in the United States, as well as receive instruction in and understand the range of systems of freedom of expression around the world, including the right to dissent, to monitor and criticize power, and to assemble and petition for redress of grievances;
- demonstrate an understanding of the history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications;
- demonstrate an understanding of gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation and, as appropriate, other forms of diversity in domestic society in relation to mass communications;
- demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of peoples and cultures and of the significance and impact of mass communications in a global society;
- understand concepts and apply theories in the use and presentation of images and information;
- demonstrate an understanding of professional ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness and diversity;
- think critically, creatively and independently;
- conduct research and evaluate information by methods appropriate to the communications professions in which they work;
- write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences and purposes they serve;
- critically evaluate their own work and that of others for accuracy and fairness, clarity, appropriate style and grammatical correctness;
- apply basic numerical and statistical concepts;
- apply current tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work, and to understand the digital world.
Academic Requirements
Journalism majors must have a “C” or better in ENGL 101; must have a grade point average of 2.5 in required courses for the major; take a minimum of 72 credit hours outside of the ADV, MCOM, and PUBR prefix, and must have grades of “C” or better in all major courses.
Accreditation, Certification, and Licensure
The Department is accredited by the national accrediting body of journalism and mass communication, the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC).
Equipment and Supplies
Students are required to have a laptop (Apple Mac preferred) and software appropriate for the discipline.
Course Delivery Format
The Department offers coursework in classroom, studio, online, and field-based settings.
