The Bachelor of Arts Degree in Journalism is an interdisciplinary program designed to prepare students to gather, write, edit, package and produce news in the information age. The study of journalism allows students to develop and apply their critical thinking, research and communication skills. In addition, the program stresses the social, ethical and legal contexts within which journalism is practiced in the United States.

Students learn about the unique role the press plays among institutions in a democratic society and the rights and responsibilities of journalists. They study the concise, objective style of journalistic writing and the investigative methods that are central to modern reporting. They explore the different forces that shape the news on television and radio and the demands of writing news in broadcast style. Finally, they learn how and why graphic design plays an increasingly critical role in effectively communicating the news.

An effective journalism education is broad-based. Journalists are required to do much more than pass along the latest information on world events. They must rely on their knowledge of social and political science, history, psychology, science and technology to interpret a complex world. Whether students are preparing for a journalism career or enhancing their abilities as members of an informed news audience, they will need to study the disciplines that give insight into the human condition.

Within the design of the journalism program is a continuous thread of commitment to public service. This dimension meets Joseph Pulitzer's injunction: "It will be the object of College journalism programs to make better journalists, who will make better newspapers, which will better serve the public."

For more information about Journalism contact:
Professor Eileen Gilligan, Program Director
2 Lanigan Hall
Telephone: 315.312.2729 Email: egilliga@oswego.edu