Program Overview

Introduction to the Journalism Program

The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a comprehensive Journalism program, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the field. The program focuses on traditional journalism and multimedia reporting, preparing students to write compelling stories, take digital photos, and record audio and video podcasts, all through an ethical lens.

Program Details

The Journalism program at UMass Amherst provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, including:

• Multimedia classrooms equipped with HD projection and gigabit speed network connections
• A state-of-the-art broadcast studio equipped for television news production with professional cameras and the AP ENPS news production system
• A control room with multi-display of up to 32 video sources, a professional video production switcher, and a professional audio mixer
• Professional camera kits for electronic news gathering
• Portable video, audio, and photography equipment for course-related projects
• Six editing studios with professional microphones in a soundproofed space

Concentrations and Specializations

The Department of Journalism offers several concentrations and specializations, including:

• Sports Journalism: a specialized concentration that combines in-class instruction with hands-on internships with companies like ESPN, teaching students how to cover a beat, craft content, and shoot quality video and photos
• Public Relations: a concentration designed to help students become better communicators and strategic thinkers, preparing them for careers in agency, nonprofit, and government settings

Career Opportunities and Outcomes

Journalism continues to be a solid foundation for those who want to inform the citizens of the world, as well as teaching, law, government, and other fields where communication and critical-thinking skills are paramount. The program provides students with access to great facilities, internships, networking opportunities, and experiential programs like study abroad.

Research and Faculty Expertise

The Department of Journalism is committed to research and faculty expertise, with recent publications and awards including:

• Research on martial law in South Korea
• Columns on immigrant spouses of U.S. citizens obtaining their own citizenship status
• Mid-Career Post-Tenure Fellowships for faculty members

Program Structure and Curriculum

The Journalism program at UMass Amherst offers a range of courses and degree options, including:

• Bachelor of Arts in Journalism
• Certificate in Journalism
  • Discover Sports Journalism
  • Focus on Public Relations