Why Major in Journalism?
At Belmont, we believe that journalism is more than just reporting the news; it's about telling compelling stories with accuracy, fairness and integrity. Whether you're dreaming of becoming a news producer, editor, journalist or content creator, our program provides the tools and opportunities to shape your journey and set you on a path toward a rewarding career in the media industry.
In this journey, you'll discover a world of hands-on experiences, state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated faculty with real-world expertise, and a vibrant community of fellow aspiring journalists. From immersive study abroad opportunities to contributing to campus media, you'll have the chance to apply your skills and creativity in a supportive and innovative environment.
Join us as we delve into the heart of journalism, where you'll not only learn the art of storytelling but also gain a deep understanding of journalism ethics, technological advancements and the power of multimedia. We invite you to explore all that Belmont's Journalism program has to offer and embark on a path that will shape your future as a storyteller and journalist. Welcome to the exciting world of journalism at Belmont University.
What You'll Learn
- How to report fairly
- Craft compelling stories for publication across various media platforms
- Master Associated Press (AP) Style
- Navigate ethical challenges in journalism
- Harness the latest audio and video production techniques to create captivating content
Career Possibilities
- News Producers
- Editors
- Journalists or Reporters
- Production Editors
- Video Editors
- Photojournalists
- Data Research Analysts
- Content Writers or Managers
- Grant Writers
- Technical Writers
The home office of Belmont's student newspaper, The Belmont Vision.
Program Details
Curriculum
The journalism major leads to either a bachelor of science or a bachelor of arts. It requires 128 hours of coursework.
- BELL Core requirements: 53 hours
- Major requirements: 36 hours
- Minor requirements: 18 hours
- General electives: 27 hours
Courses You'll Take
- MDS 4110 Media Ethics
A study of the social ethic for mass communication, establishing a system of checks and balances to measure fair and truthful news and diversified entertainment. Coursework involved case study analysis to help understand the roles of the communicator and the audience as individuals and groups. - MDS 1130 Writing for New Media
An introduction to the journalistic field focusing on the structure, purpose and function of news from story inception to completion. Students will also be exposed to storytelling for print, the web and broadcast. Ethics and legal limitations and rights of the journalist will also be introduced. - MDS 1450 Survey of Digital Production
This is a foundational course for creative digital media production and communication across multiple media platforms. The course will introduce students to the Mac OS and Adobe Creative cloud for Audio/Video production and post-production. It will help develop essential content creation and communication skills. - MDS 2300 Entrepreneurial Media
A study of the business of media, startups, mobile application development and marketing. Students will present revenue models focusing on entrepreneurship and the media and develop mobile applications. Legal and ethical issues in the new media world will be addressed. - MDS 1100 Foundations of Journalism
An examination of the craft of journalism, from the required skills of observation, critical thinking and concise writing to the literal aspects of producing journalism for changing platforms. A segment of the course will emphasize grammar, punctuation and style in preparation for Media Writing I and Media Writing II. - MDS 2110 Digital Content Creation
An introduction to the fundamentals of digital content creation from the required skills of building and maintaining a website, blog and vlog to the development of a personal brand on multiple social media platforms. Basic SEO techniques are studies to understand how brands succeed. - MDS 2130 Advance Storytelling for New Media
This course is an in depth writing course focusing on advance storytelling techniques including interviewing, writing and photography. Students will further their own writing voice in this course by reading, analyzing and writing long-form feature stories. Students are also taught how to freelance out. Fieldwork is required. - MDS 4100 Communication Law
Examines governmental regulations affecting news media, advertising, radio broadcasting and telecasting, and the direct effects of such regulations upon management and daily operations.
No doubt, internships are a cornerstone of our program. Our students have interned at network news organizations, local news outlets, newspapers, magazines and renowned podcasts. These opportunities are virtually limitless and prepare you for a successful career in journalism.
Alumni Testimonials
Sarah Maniger
Journalism
News Producer, ABC
"The journalism program at Belmont completely exceeded my hopes and expectations. After transferring here, I learned everything from ethics to broadcasting and production. I was able to put all that into practice through the Vision, where I served as managing editor and later editor."
Gus Sneh
Journalism
"I’ve honed my interview and writing skills, but also the technical aspects of media production like filming, editing and photography. For the Documentary Project course, we’re guided by experienced media industry faculty who afford us the freedom to express ourselves while preparing us for our future endeavors."
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Mike Curb College of Entertainment & Music Business
Natalie Peterson
Admissions Coordinator
615.460.6453
Email Natalie