Program Overview

Journalism, Environmental Journalism and Communication Concentration, B.S.

The Bachelor of Science in Journalism with a concentration in Environmental Journalism and Communication is designed to prepare students for careers in environmental journalism, media research, writing, and content creation. This concentration explores the multifaceted ways individuals, communities, and citizens engage with and relate to the biological, physical, and social environment through diverse and mediated forms of communication and culture.

Program Description

Students in this program will critically examine and effectively convey complex environmental information, considering relevant scientific and cultural contexts. The curriculum covers topics such as biodiversity, sustainability, land and water use, environmental conservation, freshwater ecosystems, health communication, urban planning, and rural development. With a wide range of potential career paths, students can tailor their education to specific interests within this rapidly evolving field.

Career Opportunities

Graduates with a concentration in Environmental Journalism and Communication will be prepared for various careers, including:

• Academic researcher
• Climate conservation coordinator
• Climate and environmental advocacy fellow
• Digital content creator
• Environmental media consultant
• Environmental reporter
• Public policy associate
• Sustainability specialist

Curriculum

The program requires 120 hours, including:

• True Blue Core (TBC): 41 hours, which includes courses in Foundational Skills and Knowledge Domains.
• Major Requirements: 50 hours, comprising the School of Journalism and Strategic Media Core, Environmental Journalism and Communication Concentration, Conceptual Requirements, Professional Topics, and a required minor.
• Minor: 15-18 hours, preferably in Global Studies, Environmental Science, or Geology/Earth Science.
• Electives: 11-20 hours, with at least nine hours in liberal arts and sciences beyond the True Blue Core.

School of Journalism and Strategic Media Core (14 hours)

• Introduction to Media and Entertainment (HSSR)
• Media Writing
• Digital Media Practices (Info Lit)
• Professional Development
• Media Law or equivalent
• MC Internship (1 credit hour) or MC Practicum (1 credit hour)

Environmental Journalism and Communication Concentration (12 hours)

• Introduction to Environmental Journalism and Communication
• Principles of Health Communication
• Data Skills for Media Professionals
• Media, Environment, and Climate Change

Conceptual Requirements (12 hours)

Students choose four courses from:

• Community Engagement Journalism
• Digital and Media Literacy
• Strategic Communication Research
• Media and Society
• Scientific Approaches to Media
• Cultural Approaches to Media
• Introduction to Visual Communication

Professional Topics (12 hours)

Students select courses from:

• Interactive Advertising and Social Media
• Video Journalism Practices
• Mobile Storytelling
• Strategic Communication Writing for Public Relations
• Visual Communication Applications
• Digital Storytelling for Journalism
• Information Design

Faculty

The program is led by experienced faculty, including Dr. Sanjay Asthana, who has presented research at the EPA Conference and published articles on environmental topics.

Accreditation

The MTSU School of Journalism and Strategic Media is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication, ensuring a high-quality education that meets national standards.

Mission Statement

The School of Journalism and Strategic Media aims to 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, and prepare students for careers in journalism, communication, and strategic media.

Strategic Plan and Assessment

The school has a strategic plan and assessment plan in place to continuously improve the program and ensure student success.