Departments & Programs

The Media School

B.A. in Journalism

B.A.J. Learning Objectives

Students pursuing the Bachelors of Arts in Journalism degree learn to read, think, and communicate clearly, critically, and creatively. The program is committed to liberal education in the arts and sciences as well as to professional training in the skills of journalism and mass communication. To achieve this balance, the B.A.J. requires students to complete at least 72 credit hours in coursework outside the disciplines of journalism and mass communication. The Media School believes that both breadth and depth of learning must characterize the undergraduate journalism experience. To this end, the Bachelor of Arts in Journalism degree emphasizes:

• development of strong skills in writing, critical thinking, independent learning, mathematics, foreign language, computers, and new information technologies;
• exposure to a broad range of coursework in the liberal arts and sciences, both in the College of Arts and Sciences and in the liberal arts courses within IU Journalism;
• understanding of cultures outside the United States and of minority cultures within the United States;
• training in the professional skills of journalism and mass communication, including reporting, writing, editing, visual communication, new communications technology, and collaborative group work;
• training in statistical analysis and quantitative and qualitative research methods;
• awareness of the institutions, processes, and effects of mass media in society;
• in-depth exploration of a subject other than journalism and mass communications;
• preparation for a lifetime of learning.