Mass Communication - Broadcast Journalism

In today’s culture, Broadcast Journalism is a powerful force. Every aspect of human behavior - social, political, and economic - is a potential subject for reporting purposes.

To prepare Southern Arkansas University Broadcast Journalism majors for professional careers, the Department of Theatre and Mass Communication offers a challenging program of study. It includes a wide range of courses covering the history, theory and ethics of broadcasting, as well as in-depth instruction in the specialized techniques essential for success in this complex, dynamic field.

Majors in the program receive a rich cultural background in the humanities along with practical instruction in Broadcast Journalism concepts. Included in the curriculum are several courses that stimulate creativity in ideas and language to enhance writing and speaking skills.

Satisfactory completion of the program leads to a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Mass Communication.

Special Services and Opportunities

Majors in Broadcast Journalism maximize academic instruction with practical training by writing, producing and marketing radio and television programs. SAU Magazine, a news program, is available to radio stations in Arkansas and bordering states. Professional digital stereo facilities are used in the production of audio lab assignments. The SAU Report, an interview program, is available to regional cable television households. A professional quality television studio is used in the production of video lab assignments.

Another opportunity for outside experience is offered to majors in their junior or senior year through internships in cable, commercial or public radio and television facilities, or firms specializing in public relations and Broadcast Journalism. Through integration of academic learning with job-site learning, interns strengthen their technical skills as they gain invaluable professional experience and receive University credit at the same time.

The University has installed the latest in computer equipment and facilities for student use. Various types of PCs and Macs are available in the computer commons and computer lab. These locations are open evenings and weekends for the convenience of all students.

Career Options

The Broadcast Journalism program prepares students for professional work in a variety of fields and media outlets. In addition to the occupations normally associated with television and radio production such as reporter, writer, air personality, newscaster and announcer, Broadcast Journalism graduates have found employment as media buyers, production managers, editors, research assistants, set decorators, program analysts and press relations officers in both the public and private sector.

The Employment Resource Center helps with job placement for students preparing to enter the work force, while the department offers assistance to students pursuing further studies in graduate or professional schools.

Scholarships and Financial Assistance

Many federal, state and institutional programs are available to help students with education costs. In addition to grants, loans and scholarships available University-wide, the College of Liberal and Performing Arts and the Department of Theatre and Mass Communication offer scholarship funds and awards on a competitive basis to academically deserving majors. Students can also help finance their education by working part-time on campus. A Student Employment Office, located in the Donald W. Reynolds Campus and Community Center, assists in finding on-campus jobs.

Additional Information

For more information contact James E. Reppert, Director of Broadcast Journalism.

Emphasis in Broadcast Journalism - 124 hours

General Education - 43 hours

Mass Communication Core - 15 hours

Broadcast Journalism - 21 hours

BJ 2103 Television Production
BJ 3013 Electronic News Gathering
BJ 3103 Broadcast News Writing
BJ 4003 Advanced Electronic News Gathering
BJ 4903 Senior Research Project

6 hours selected from the following:

BJ 2003 Radio Production
BJ 2033 Broadcast Performance
BJ 3023 Advanced Radio Production
BJ 4103 Broadcast Sales and Management
BJ 4913 Broadcast Internship

6-14 hours of foreign language (completion of the second year of a modern foreign language)
Completion of a minor approved by the advisor
Completion of remaining additional hours to total 124 hours

Minor in Broadcast Journalism - 18 hours

BJ 2003 Radio Production
BJ 2103 Television Production
MCOM 1003 Introduction to Mass Communication

9 hours selected from the following:

BJ 3013 Electronic News Gathering
BJ 3023 Advanced Radio Production
BJ 3103 Broadcast News Writing
BJ 4003 Advanced Electronic News Gathering
BJ 4103 Broadcast Sales and Management
BJ 4903 Senior Research Project

Home  |  Degree Plans  |  Faculty & Staff