Bachelor of Journalism Degree Program

Chairperson:BRENDA THOMPSON, B.A., Hrs., M.A.

Introduction

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) offers an intensive Bachelor of Journalism degree that blends theory and skill development to train students for jobs as journalists and communication specialists. The practical side of the program focuses on writing, editing, interviewing, taking photographs, and working with new technology to produce print and online publications. The theory side of the program emphasizes media law, journalistic ethics, decision-making, and critical thinking. The Degree prepares students for careers in print/online journalism (working for newspapers, magazines, and online publications) and in the communications field (working in the media or public relations departments of government agencies, corporations, and non-profit and advocacy organizations). Students have the opportunity to work with an expert faculty of experienced journalists and state-of-the-art equipment in a program that encourages students to develop the professional and entrepreneurial skills they need to flourish in a changing media environment. There is also the option of a Bachelor of Journalism Degree with a Concentration in Public Relations.

Graduation requirements

The Bachelor of Journalism degree, granted upon the successful completion of 120 credits, includes a minimum of 60 credits of Journalism courses. Most students enter into the Bachelor of Journalism program at the first year and complete four years of study in the program, graduating after completing 20 required Journalism courses, along with 20 elective courses. Journalism students complete 60 Journalism credits over four years, with 12 credits required in each of the first and second years, and 18 credits required in each of the third and fourth years.

The curriculum is designed to encompass the following pedagogical areas: (1) basic journalism skills and understanding of the critical knowledge areas required by journalists and other professional communicators; (2) deadline reporting skills and expertise in common areas of news coverage; (3) familiarity with industry software and the high-level production skills gained by producing publications; (4) theoretical understanding of the problems and challenges faced in the field; and (5) focused knowledge and skill in an area relevant to each student’s career goals.
Students accepted into the program will work out their individual program plans according to their individual objectives and in consultation with the Program Chair, but all students must take the four foundation courses in their year of entry. This foundation year of required courses ensures that all students will:

1. Develop writing, editing, design, layout, and basic photography and desktop publishing skills;
2. Gain a broad, critical understanding of the legal, political, economic, and social issues and circumstances faced by media professionals;
3. Build a knowledge base in media and communications theory and in the historical roles and social purposes of the media.

The program emphasizes the relations between theory and practice and students are encouraged to develop and hone their skills through working with widely-circulated hard copy and electronic publications. The program is also structured to accommodate students with a wide range of educational and practical experience, as well as to provide a broad set of career and educational options for graduates.

Students enter the Journalism programs in September of each year.