Program Overview
Western Michigan University's Digital Media and Journalism program equips students with interdisciplinary media and technology skills for effective communication in the 21st century. The program emphasizes critical thinking, social responsibility, and a deep understanding of the media industry and technology applications. Students can choose from three emphases: Journalism, Digital Media Production, or Media Management and Media Technology. Graduates are prepared for careers in various media and technology fields, including journalism, digital media production, and media management.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
Western Michigan University's digital media and journalism major equips students with the interdisciplinary media and information technology competencies essential for effective 21st-century communication. The program emphasizes critical thinking, social responsibility, and a deep understanding of the current media industry and the application of technology in communication.
Objectives:
- Develop practical skills in journalism, media professions, or media and technology management.
- Foster an understanding of the current media industry and the application of technology in communication.
- Enhance analytical and critical thinking skills related to media messages and media systems.
Outline:
Content and Structure:
The digital media and journalism major consists of a core curriculum that provides a foundation in media theory, history, ethics, and law. Students then choose one of three subdiscipline emphases:
- Journalism: Focuses on reporting, writing, editing, and multimedia storytelling.
- Digital Media Production: Emphasizes digital media creation, production, and distribution.
- Media Management and Media Technology: Explores the business and management aspects of media organizations and the role of technology in media production and distribution.
Course Schedule:
The program typically takes four years to complete and includes a combination of required and elective courses. The specific course schedule may vary depending on the chosen emphasis.
Individual Modules:
Core Curriculum:
- Introduction to Digital Media and Journalism
- Media Theory and History
- Media Ethics and Law
- Media Research Methods
- Media Production Techniques
Journalism Emphasis:
- News Reporting and Writing
- Feature Writing
- Editing and Copyediting
- Multimedia Journalism
- Investigative Journalism
Digital Media Production Emphasis:
- Digital Media Production
- Web Design and Development
- Video Production
- Audio Production
- Social Media Marketing
Media Management and Media Technology Emphasis:
- Media Management
- Media Technology
- Media Law and Regulation
- Media Economics
- Media Innovation
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
- Exams (midterms, finals)
- Quizzes
- Papers and essays
- Projects
- Presentations
- Portfolios
Assessment Criteria:
- Knowledge and understanding of media concepts and theories
- Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Writing and communication skills
- Media production and technical skills
- Professionalism and ethical conduct
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Workshops
- Hands-on projects
- Guest speakers
- Field trips
Faculty:
The program is taught by experienced faculty with expertise in various areas of media and journalism, including:
- Journalism
- Digital media production
- Media management
- Media technology
- Media law and ethics
Unique Approaches:
- Internships: Students have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships in a wide range of media and organizational settings.
- Student Media Group: Students can participate in the Student Media Group, which includes The Western Herald (student newspaper), WIDR (student radio station), and Young Broadcasters of Tomorrow (student television station).
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates with degrees in digital media and journalism are prepared for careers in various fields, including:
- Digital or broadcast journalist
- News editor
- Innovation technology manager
- Broadcast/cable television producer or manager
- Web designer
- Press relations specialist