Journalism, Minor
About This Program
Combining a minor in journalism with your current major is a gratifying endeavor that opens up a world of possibilities. Through journalism classes and hands-on experience, you'll not only develop essential skills in research, ethics, production, writing, and editing, but also enhance your ability to communicate effectively across diverse platforms.
Even though the minor does not cover the full curriculum of a journalism major, it does offer enterprising graduates with the minor many of the same career opportunities, as they are guaranteed freedom of the press pursuant to the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
FAMU SJGC Journalism Minor Course Requirements
Required Total Credits: 18 Credit Hours | Program Code: 61103MINOR | Effective Spring 2024
Section 1
JOU 1040 Language Skills for Media Professionals (3 cr)
prerequisites: ENC 1101 & ENC 1102 and may enroll w/ 2.0 - 2.5 GPA
MMC 2000 Introduction to Mass Media (3 cr)
prerequisites: ENC 1101 & ENC 1102 and may enroll w/ 2.0 - 2.5 GPA
JOU 2100 Reporting and Writing I (3 cr)
prerequisite: JOU 1040 w/ 2.5 GPA or Higher
JOU 3101 Reporting and Writing II (3 cr)
prerequisite: JOU 2100 w/ 2.5 GPA or Higher
Section 2
JOU 4342 Reporting and Writing III (3 cr)
prerequisite: JOU 3101
JOU 3308 Magazine Article Writing (3 cr)
prerequisite JOU 3101
MMC 3254 Entrepreneurship, Leadership & Innovation ( 3 cr)
prerequisite: JOU 3101
RTV 2230 Multimedia Oral Engagement (3 cr)
prerequisite: JOU 2100 [*** RTV 2230 replaced RTV 3601 Broadcast Announcing]
RTV 3320 TV News (3 cr)
prerequisite: JOU 3101
RTV 3681 Advance TV News (3 cr)
prerequisite: RTV 3320
Why Minor in Journalism?
Engaging in a minor degree program signifies an extra commitment beyond the basic requirements. When you're job hunting post-graduation, this additional effort can make a positive impression on potential employers. Possessing a minor in a relevant area can be an advantageous bonus for them.
Personal Interest and Passion: Many individuals have a genuine interest in storytelling, investigative reporting,
or media production. A minor in journalism allows students to pursue this passion
alongside their primary academic focus.
Enhanced Communication Abilities: Journalism cultivates strong communication skills, including concise writing, effective interviewing techniques, and the ability to convey complex information in a clear and engaging manner. These skills are invaluable in numerous professions, from public relations to corporate communications.
Networking Opportunities: Journalism programs often offer opportunities to connect with professionals in the field through guest lectures, workshops, and networking events. These connections can lead to internships, mentorships, and job opportunities, providing valuable insights and guidance for future career endeavors.
Versatility in Career Paths & Opportunities: While some may pursue a career directly in journalism, the skills acquired through a minor in this field are highly transferable. A minor in journalism can open opportunities in diverse industries for several media-related career paths, including news production, sports journalism, media relations, public relations, communications, digital media, content creation, marketing, and more.
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Examples of career paths with a minor in journalism include combining it with a major in...
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Public Relations (PR): A minor in journalism paired with a major in public relations can offer graduates a strong foundation in effective communication, storytelling, and media relations. With this combination, graduates can pursue careers as PR specialists, media coordinators, or communication consultants. They can excel in crafting compelling narratives, managing social media platforms, and coordinating publicity campaigns for various organizations, companies, or individuals. |
Graphic Design: Pairing a minor in journalism with a major in graphic design can provide graduates with a unique skill set blending visual communication and storytelling. They can pursue careers specializing in editorial design, infographics, or multimedia storytelling. These professionals can work for publishing houses, advertising agencies, or media organizations, creating visually engaging content for print publications, digital platforms, or marketing campaigns |
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Political Science: Pairing a minor in journalism with a major in political science offers graduates a strong foundation in research, critical analysis, and communication within the realm of politics and government. This combination allows graduates to pursue careers as political analysts, communication specialists, or government relations professionals. They can shape public opinion or influence policy decisions by merging journalistic inquiry with political insight to inform and educate the public on critical political issues and events. |
Environmental Science: Combining a minor in journalism with a major in environmental science provides graduates with a strong foundation in scientific research, environmental policy, and communication. They can pursue careers as environmental journalists, science communicators, or sustainability advocates, translating complex scientific concepts into accessible narratives for the public, and raising awareness about environmental challenges, promoting conservation efforts, and influencing policy decisions through compelling and informed reporting. |
Minor in Journalism Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Qs)
Q: Do I need prior experience in journalism to pursue a minor?
A: No prior experience is usually required, although a passion for storytelling, curiosity
about the world, and strong communication skills are beneficial.
Q: What if my schedule is already full with my major requirements? Can I still fit
in a journalism minor?
A: Depending on your program and course availability, it may be possible to fit in
a journalism minor even with a full schedule. Speak with your academic advisor to explore options such as summer courses, online classes, or creative scheduling
to accommodate both your major and minor requirements.
Q: Will a minor in journalism help me if I want to pursue graduate studies?
A: Yes, a minor in journalism can be beneficial for graduate studies, particularly if
you're interested in fields like communication, media studies, or journalism itself.
It demonstrates your proficiency in writing, critical thinking, and understanding
of media, which are valuable in many graduate programs.
Q: Can I pursue freelance opportunities with a minor in journalism?
A: Absolutely! A journalism minor provides you with the skills needed to write articles,
produce content, and pitch stories to various publications or platforms. It can be
a great foundation for a freelance writing career.
Program Faculty
| Name | Phone | |
|---|---|---|
| Mr. William Jiles, Division Director | william.jiles@famu.edu | (850) 412-5393 |
| Dr. Felicia McGhee, Professor | ||
| Mr. Kenneth Jones, Professor | (850) 561-2779 | |
| Dr. Jeffrey Wilkinson, Professor | (850) 561-2796 | |
| Dr. Valerie White, Associate Professor | (850) 599-3650 | |
| Dr. Leah Hunter, Associate Professor | (850) 599-3840 | |
| Mr. Douglas Blackburn, Assistant Professor | (850) 412-5385 | |
| Ms. Venise Toussaint, Visiting Professor | (850) 599-3379 | |
| Mr. Clarence Fowler, Visiting Professor | N/A | |
| Ms. Chandra LaNier, Adjunct instructor | (850) 412-6587 | |
| Ms. Glyndell Presley, Adjunct Instructor | N/A | |
| Ms. Ranata Hughes, Internship Coordinator and Adjunct Professor | N/A |
