Bachelor of Journalism (BA, BJ)

School of Social and Human Studies
CENTRAL STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK (CSUNY)

The Bachelor of American History (BA) program objective is to provide students with a rich and complex understanding of U.S. history, society and cultures of the past and present; focusing on literature, social science or history. The degree prepares students for opportunities in business, politics, law, education, government, journalism and other related careers. The Bachelor of American History (BA) program is offered online via distance learning. After evaluating both academic record and life experience (CSUNY) staff working in conjunction with Faculty and Academic Advisors will assist students in setting up a custom-made program, designed on an individual basis. This flexibility to meet student needs is seldom found in other distance learning programs. Our online program does not require all students to take the same subjects/courses, use the same books, or learning materials. Instead, the online Bachelor of American History (BA) curriculum is designed individually by the student and academic advisor.

It specifically addresses strengths and weaknesses with respect to market opportunities in the student’s major and intended field of work. Understanding that industry and geographic factors should influence the content of the curriculum instead of a standardized one-fits-all design is the hallmark of (CSUNY)’s unique approach to adult education. This philosophy addresses the dynamic and constantly changing environment of working professionals by helping adult students in reaching their professional and personal goals within the scope of the degree program.

Important: Below is an example of the topics or areas you may develop and work on during your studies. By no means is it a complete or required list as (CSUNY) programs do not follow a standardized curriculum. It is meant solely as a reference point and example. Want to learn more about the curriculum design at (CSUNY)? (Course and Curriculum)

Core Courses and Topics in Journalism:

The Elements of Journalism
E-Publishing
Media Languages and Cultures
Community Journalism
Professional Writing
Advertising Strategy and Campaign Planning
Literary Journalism
Introduction to Journalism and Communication
Reporting
Online Journalism
Public Relations Processes
Orientation Courses:

Orientation Courses:

Communication & Investigation (Comprehensive Resume)
Organization Theory (Portfolio)
Experiential Learning (Autobiography)
Academic Evaluation (Questionnaire)
Fundament of Knowledge (Integration Chart)
Fundamental Principles I (Philosophy of Education)
Professional Evaluation (Self Evaluation Matrix)
Development of Graduate Study (Guarantee of an Academic Degree)

Research Project in Journalism:

Bachelor Thesis Project
MBM300 Thesis Proposal
MBM302 Bachelor Thesis (5,000 words)
Publication: Each Bachelor of Journalism graduate is encouraged to publish their research papers either online in the public domain or through professional journals and periodicals worldwide.

Career Center Bachelor of Journalism

Job Description Bachelor of Journalism
Writers work with editors and publishers throughout the writing process to review edits, topics, and production schedules. Editors and publishers may assign topics to staff writers or review proposals from freelance writers. All writers conduct research on their topics, which they gather through personal observation, library and Internet research, and interviews. Writers, especially of nonfiction, are expected to establish their credibility with editors and readers through strong research and the use of appropriate sources and citations. Writers and authors then select the material they want to use, organize it, and use the written word to express story lines, ideas, or to convey information. With help from editors, they may revise or rewrite sections, searching for the best organization or the right phrasing.

Skills for Success

Able to write clear, concise, objective and accurate material quickly –
A good general knowledge –
Interested in current events –
Aptitude to learn keyboard and shorthand skills –
Able to speak clearly when working on radio and television.

Employment Opportunities for Bachelor of Journalism

Admississions Counselor
Advertising Director
Audio-visual Consultant
Biographer
Camera Operator
Columnist
Commentator
Critic
Editor
Entertainment Agent
Film/TV Director
Journalist
Librarian
Media Production Assistant
Photographer
Radio/TV Newscaster
Screen/Script Writer
Station Programmer
Technical Writer

Resources and Tools

Association for Education in  Journalism and Mass – Communication –
National Association of Hispanic Journalists –
The Online News Association