As we gear up for the fall 2010 semester, we’re preparing to roll out an updated curriculum at the Florida A&M University School of Journalism & Graphic Communication.
Some would say this is historic since it’s the first time in more than 20 years that the faculty in the FAMU Divisions of Journalism and Graphic Communication have agreed on a core curriculum. We got some student and alumni input and we welcome more.
Yes, the math adds up so that the Journalism Division meets the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication standards.
We asked what is best for students and will it meet industry needs given the ever changing media landscape? Who knows? Time will tell.
After nearly three years of discussion (and some faculty would argue this discussion has been ongoing for more than 20 years), the revised curriculum is a major step forward because we’re eliminating some silos as well as acknowledging the importance of visual communication and the digital age in the core.
For starters, all incoming students in the FAMU SJGC must take a school-wide core of 21 credit hours of basics such as Introduction to Mass Media (3), Language Skills for Media Professionals (3), Principles of Graphic Design (3), Basic Design and Web Applications (3), Photo Foundations (3), Communication Law (3), Media Ethics (2), Professional Development (1) and a Senior Capstone Colloquium (1).
We’ve witnessed first-hand the decline in traditional newspaper jobs as well as a steep decline in print majors. Three journalism tracks – broadcast, newspaper and magazine production – have been consolidated into a news reporting track. All students majoring in journalism and public relations will be required to take three reporting and writing classes, which will include multimedia reporting, as well as an internship. Yes, writing is fundamental to what we do.
I’m an advocate for internships and Motown’s Smokey Robinson’s “Shop Around” song. Yes, shop around before you wed the industry. Internships give you an opportunity to check out a company and a company to check out you. Make sure it’s a good fit.
In the 21st century, no journalism or communication student should graduate without some multimedia experience and working in student media. Student Media Practicum is now required in the News Reporting Track as well as Broadcast Announcing, Leadership/Media Management and TV News.
At a recent orientation session, one parent asked will there be any newspaper jobs in the future? Newspapers aren’t just on paper. Online operations are part of their brand extensions and most are seeking ways to monetize mobile apps. I explained that communications is the third fastest growing industry in the nation with more than $800 billion in revenue, according to the Veronis Suhler Stevenson Communications Industry Forecast.
In a word, the media business is competitive. Newspaper folks or broadcasters can’t afford to be one-trick ponies. There will be mojos, search engine optimization specialists, social media marketers and certainly other job titles yet to be determined, but there will always be a need for folks with solid journalism skills who will read, write, edit, shoot and compete on multiple platforms.
Students, alumni and other media lovers, what is your take on the curriculum changes?
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
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