BA(Hons) Journalism — Public Relations

This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of journalism and public relations principles, practices, and techniques. Students will learn how to gather, analyze, and present news and information through various media platforms. They will also learn how to create and maintain a positive image and reputation for an organization or individual, as well as how to handle crisis communications and media relations. By the end of the course, students will be able to demonstrate their ability to produce high-quality journalism and public relations content, as well as to critically evaluate the ethical implications of their work.

Additional Information

This course is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a career in journalism or public relations. It is recommended that students have some prior experience in writing, reporting, or communication before taking this course.

Discover Your Passion for Journalism and Public Relations at Western Washington University

Western Washington University offers a rigorous and well-rounded education that prepares students for successful careers in journalism and public relations. The university's location in the Pacific Northwest provides ample opportunities for hands-on learning and internships with local media outlets and organizations.

Journalism is the work of supplying content, primarily news, for the ever-expanding world of mass media. Journalists are responsible for gathering information, analyzing and editing it for a mass audience, and dispensing it using some form of media platform. Increasingly the methods of distribution have become more complex, but the basic mission of a journalist remains the same: to serve the public by finding, defining, writing and editing information.

Today’s journalist may be found on traditional publications such as newspapers and magazines, broadcast outlets and specialized publications. They may utilize online delivery or other forms of electronic communication. Trained journalists may use their skills in the expanding field of public relations, working to serve as a bridge between those with a message to communicate and the journalist who seeks information.

Why Consider the Public Relations Sequence of the Journalism Major?

Journalism majors pursue theoretical and practical communication studies in a liberal arts setting. Students of journalism gain practical experience on Western’s award-winning student media, and majors additionally take field internships with newspapers, magazines, broadcast stations, public relations agencies and other professional organizations.

Courses in the public relations sequence follow the news/editorial emphasis, adding communication skills important for careers in this rapidly growing field.

Academic Requirements for freshman students:

The admission requirements for undergraduate courses are given as follows:

• Completed application form

• Academic Transcripts(certified english translations if necessary)

• Relevant High school degree/Grade Report/Certificates

• SAT or ACT Scores (Optional)

• A cumulative GPA of 2.5

• Personal Statement or essay

• One letter of recommendation

• List of extracurricular activities(if any)

• Portfolio