Journalism
Develop the critical skills necessary to identify complex stories and present them in their contexts.
Journalism, Investigative Journalism, B.S.
Journalists with a background in investigative journalism are ready to report on some of the most complex issues facing the world today. Students will learn how to understand and convey complicated information in a nuanced manner, keeping in mind key context, as they examine stories that might otherwise be underserved by mainstream media. This concentration will show students the best practices for investigative journalism and how these core tenets can apply to a variety of topics, from crime and courts to sports and food writing.
News Briefs
MTSU’s School of Journalism and Strategic Media celebrates 50 years of telling stories, breaking news
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University’s School of Journalism and Strategic Media is celebrating its 50th year of teaching students reporting, storytelling, breaking news and everything in between.
Approved in 1972, the program began when Ed Kimbrell started the Department of Mass Communications, which included sequences in advertising and public relations, news-editorial, graphics and photography, and broadcasting.
A Recording Industry major was added in 1973. The department became a school as it added radio and TV courses before becoming the College of Mass Communications in 1989 and later renamed the College of Media and Entertainment in 2015. [Read More]
News Briefs
MTSU’s School of Journalism and Strategic Media celebrates 50 years of telling stories, breaking news
MURFREESBORO, Tenn. — Middle Tennessee State University’s School of Journalism and Strategic Media is celebrating its 50th year of teaching students reporting, storytelling, breaking news and everything in between.
Approved in 1972, the program began when Ed Kimbrell started the Department of Mass Communications, which included sequences in advertising and public relations, news-editorial, graphics and photography, and broadcasting.
A Recording Industry major was added in 1973. The department became a school as it added radio and TV courses before becoming the College of Mass Communications in 1989 and later renamed the College of Media and Entertainment in 2015. [Read More]
Journalism, Investigative Journalism, B.S.
Graduates with an Investigative Journalism degree may use their knowledge to become exemplary, informed communication professionals. Possible career paths include:
- Arts and entertainment critic
- Business communications specialist
- Digital content specialist
- Editor
- News reporter
- Nonprofit communications
- Online or multiplatform journalist
- Public relations/marketing manager
MTSU’s Career Development Center
MTSU offers a comprehensive Career Development Center that serves students throughout the full student experience and beyond. They collaborate with faculty and staff to equip students with the tools to be marketable to the world of work and continuing education.
Students can schedule an appointment or check online resources and job boards at mtsu.edu/career.
Students can find current internship opportunities by talking to faculty and visiting the University job and internship board called Handshake.
Wondering what you can do with your major? Check out our What Can I Do with A Major In guides.
Degrees
MTSU’s School of Journalism and Strategic Media offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a major in Advertising and Public Relations or Journalism.
Concentrations within Advertising and Public Relations include:
Concentrations within Journalism include:
- Entertainment Journalism
- Environmental Journalism and Communication
- Investigative Journalism
- Media Design
- Media Studies
- Sports Media
For complete curriculum details, click on REQUIREMENTS.
Undergraduate or graduate students outside the College of Media and Entertainment may choose to minor in Mass Communication with an emphasis in any of the School of Journalism and Strategic Media’s concentrations.
A Master of Science (M.S.) degree is available in Media and Communication.
Accreditation Equals Excellence
About 1,000 schools across the US offer study in journalism, public relations or some form of media. Only 112 of these are accredited journalism and media programs. We’re proud that MTSU is one of these.
Accreditation is a voluntary self-assessment and external review by educators and media professionals. The reviewers examine program resources, classes and student success. Every six years, MTSU’s program is measured against national standards to ensure that we’re offering the best, most up-to-date experience we can provide. Accreditation provides an assurance of quality to students, parents, and the public.
The MTSU School of Journalism and Strategic Media was found in full compliance on all nine accreditation standards.
Go to the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication for more information about the value of accreditation.
Our Mission Statement
The School of Journalism and Strategic Media’s mission statement is comprised of five key points:
- Provide an undergraduate education combining contemporary media instruction with hands-on professional experience.
- Educate students about the role and responsibilities of a free press and media in a democratic and diverse society.
- Prepare students for careers in journalism, communication, and strategic media in an ever-evolving media environment.
- Contribute to the body of knowledge in journalism, communication, and strategic media through research, scholarship, creative, and professional activity.
- Create an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity in its curriculum, organizations, and community engagement through its students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
A PDF copy of the Mission Statement can be downloaded here.
Our Strategic Plan
The SoJSM’s Strategic Plan can be viewed here.
Our Assessment Plan
The SoJSM’s Assessment Plan can be viewed here.
Data
In the spirit of sharing information related to the program’s performance with the public, the following data is provided:
- New Freshmen Fall-to-Fall Retention
- Undergraduate Fall-to-Fall Retention
- 4-year Graduation Rates
- 6-year Graduation Rates
- Degrees Awarded by Academic Year
- Student Learning Outcomes
Contact Information
Jennifer Woodard
[email protected]
615-898-2766
Who is My Advisor?
Janell Fisher (A-B)
[email protected]
615-494-7999 | BRAGG 230E
Leann McBride (C-J; N-Z)
[email protected]
615-898-5499 | BRAGG 230I
Josh Douglas (K-M)
[email protected]
615-494-4997 | BRAGG 230F
Related Links
Mailing Address
Middle Tennessee State University
MTSU Box 64
1301 East Main Street
Murfreesboro, TN 37132
CONTACT US
