Mass Communications & Journalism

Kentucky State University offers a dynamic Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication and Journalism (MCJ) that equips students with the skills and knowledge needed for successful careers in journalism, public relations, digital media, and professional communication. MCJ students must complete 120 undergraduate credit hours to graduate. Within those hours, all majors complete a 21-hour MCJ Core Curriculum, followed by additional specialized coursework in one of three concentrations: Multimedia Journalism, Public Relations, or Speech Communication. These concentrations allow students to customize their academic journey in alignment with their interests and professional goals, through courses that emphasize writing, media literacy, critical thinking, and hands-on communication practice.

Students gain real-world experience through internships, media production labs, and student-run outlets like The Thorobred News, as well as opportunities in podcasting, public speaking, and digital storytelling. The program also offers minor programs in both Mass Communication and Journalism and Speech Communication, along with certificate options in Digital Communication, Journalism, Multimedia Journalism, Public Relations, Interdisciplinary Persuasion, Speech Communication, and Sports Communication. These versatile academic pathways prepare graduates to communicate effectively across traditional and emerging media platforms, making them well-positioned for a variety of careers in the ever-evolving communication industry.

Students pursuing a MCJ Bachelor’s degree will choose from one of the three concentrations:

• Multimedia Journalism
• Public Relations
• Speech Communication

MCJ students need 120 undergraduate hours to graduate.  Within the 120 hours, all MCJ majors will complete a 21-hour MCJ Core Curriculum, and then take additional COMcialized courses within his or her area of concentration. 

Requirements

Core Courses 21 hours

JOU 204 Introduction to Journalism

JOU 210 Introduction to Mass Communication

JOU 322 Digital Photojournalism

JOU 364 Visual Design

JOU 365 Public Affairs Reporting

JOU 366 Public Relations Seminar

JOU 367 Video Production

Multimedia Journalism Concentration 15 hours

JOU 302 Student Media Workshop

JOU 362 The Editor’s Desk

JOU 363 Magazine and Feature Writing

JOU 373 Broadcast Announcing

JOU 434 Practicum in Journalism

Public Relations Concentration 15 hours

JOU 308 Media Advertising and Sales

JOU 370 Public Relations Campaigns

JOU 371 Public Events Planning

JOU 375 Advertising Seminar

JOU 436 Practicum in Public Relations