School of Communication and Journalism
With the School of Communication and Journalism, you will be able to receive hands-on practice in the communication and journalism industries. Our students have accessible opportunities in recording studios, newspaper, radio, television production and more.
The Master of Arts in communication and media studies is a broad-based graduate degree for students with an undergraduate degree in communication studies, media studies or related areas. Coursework emphasizes the intersections of academic and professional approaches to understanding, creating and evaluating messages across contexts.
Our MMC program provides personalized learning experiences and world-class instruction from award-winning faculty. Coursework and capstone projects enhance professional development, positioning our graduates for advancement and/or placement in journalism, advertising, public relations, marketing, business, higher education and other fields.
Questions can be directed to:
- Frank Robertson, assistant professor of practice
- Erica Quam, professional advisor
- Joshua Westwick, Ed.D., director of School of Communication and Journalism/professor
Do I need a laptop?
Yes. Students majoring in advertising, agricultural communication, journalism and public relations need a laptop to successfully complete the coursework and be adequately prepared for their professional careers.
When do I need it?
A laptop is a standard tool in higher education, so you should have it on day one of your college experience. You need a laptop and the required software when you take MCOM 210 Basic Media Writing and MCOM 220 Introduction to Digital Media, key skills courses required for our majors. In addition, you鈥檒l use your laptop and accompanying software throughout required, elective and capstone courses in all four majors.
What hardware is recommended?
Apple Macs are the dominant choice in creative industries. We have found Macs are easier to support, tend to last longer and are less subject to attack by spyware and viruses. If necessary, you can install the Windows operating system on your Mac. We recommend the MacBook Pro 14 inch (M3).
A Windows computer is acceptable, but it must be able to run the necessary software.
Chromebooks are not recommended.
What software do I need?
You need Microsoft Word-compatible word processing software, as well as presentation and spreadsheet software. In Microsoft Office, that鈥檚 Word, PowerPoint and Excel. As an 日本av视频 student, you can obtain Microsoft Office at no cost with your Jacks email. Contact the 日本av视频 Support Desk at 605-688-6776 for assistance.
You can also use Apple iWork, which comes at no cost on Mac computers (Pages, Numbers, Keynote).
You also need Adobe Creative Cloud to complete advertising, mass communication and public relations coursework and be successful professionally. Adobe Creative Cloud contains various applications, but you鈥檒l primarily use Acrobat Pro, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, Photoshop and Lightroom.
What is my investment?
Specific prices for the MacBook Pro 14 inch, along with other laptop models mentioned above, can be found directly from the Apple store and other online or in-person stores near you.
Adobe offers students significantly discounted pricing for Creative Cloud All Apps for the first year. There is a price increase for subsequent years, but at a discounted educational price versus the full professional price. You may not want to purchase Creative Cloud All Apps until you need it, typically when you take MCOM 220.
Any student enrolled at 日本av视频 is eligible to participate. Every year there is an audition process for interested students. Students will receive academic credit for their participation in the cocurricular activity.
When you take CMST 101: Fundamentals of Speech at 日本av视频, you are participating in a program that will set you up for success and help you reach your educational and personal goals.
Meet the faculty and staff of the School of Communication and Journalism.
ACEJMC Accredited Programs
The School of Communication and Journalism is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications, a mark of excellence held by only a select number of programs nationwide. This recognition reflects our commitment to top-quality curriculum development, professional ethics and preparing graduates to thrive in today's evolving media industries.
