Program Overview
Introduction to the Journalism Program
The Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Journalism from Ball State University offers a comprehensive, hands-on learning experience that prepares students for a dynamic and rapidly evolving profession. Emphasizing immersive projects and internships, the program focuses on real-world reporting and uncovering the truth.
Program Overview
The Journalism program at Ball State University's School of Journalism and Strategic Communication allows students to develop a diverse set of multimedia storytelling skills while specializing in one area through concentrations. Students gain practical experience using state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology in student media organizations, professional student groups, and a working newsroom lab.
Concentration Areas
All students in the School of Journalism and Strategic Communication are required to complete 27-33 credits of core courses. In addition to these core credits, each major or concentration requires an additional 15-18 credits. Consequently, students can pursue multiple majors or concentrations within the school's three main fieldsJournalism, Media Design and Development, and Strategic Communicationacross 8 different concentrations, while fulfilling the 120-credit university requirement for graduation.
Within the Journalism major, students can further develop their expertise in one of four specialized areas:
- Writing and Multimedia Storytelling
- Mass Communication
- Photographic Storytelling
- Sports Writing and Multimedia Storytelling
Related Programs
Related programs include:
- Major in Journalism BA/BS with a Sports Writing and Multimedia Storytelling Concentration
- Visual Effects and Motion Graphics Production Concentration
- Major in English-Literature Concentration
Academic Details
The program is offered as a Bachelor's degree, on-campus, through the College of Communication, Information, and Media. The academic year office hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday through Friday, and summer hours are 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Research and Community Engagement
Students in the program engage in community-focused journalism, participating in projects such as exploring the Muncie area's food needs, diversity, and heritage. They also have opportunities to cover significant events, such as the Winter Olympics, for professional media outlets.
