Why study Journalism?

Journalism is both an interdisciplinary field and a distinct knowledge base for the critical study of media and related issues, and the development of writing, editing and observational skills in a liberal arts curriculum. An intellectual review of traditional disciplines and their biases is intrinsic to journalism studies. As such, journalism teaches critical thinking on two different levels: by questioning the view from the center (theories, methods and practices) in any given field or endeavor, and by evaluating and clearly and publicly expressing these views and concerns to either specific or mass public audiences.

Admission Requirements

Students already pursuing a degree in any college at UC can add the certificate to their program. Be sure to submit a declaration of the certificate program using our online form.

In addition, you must meet with the program director so that they are aware that you are pursuing the certificate and can advise you appropriately. Do this early enough to avoid delay in obtaining your certificate.

Students not currently pursuing a degree may declare the certificate after establishing non-matriculated status.

Successful journalists are curious about people, cultures and science, about how political and economic systems work and do not work. They are critical thinkers who know how to observe, listen and ask questions. They are skilled writers, editors and visual communicators. The foundation for a successful career in journalism is a strong liberal arts education.

Graduates with a certificate in journalism from College of Arts and Sciences (A&S) are better prepared for many different career options, including:

  • Writer
  • Reporter
  • Analyst
  • Correspondent
  • Editor for magazines, newspapers and the electronic media
  • Corporate writers
  • Public relations

Students pursuing the certificate in journalism are assigned a faculty advisor upon entering the program. For their contact information, call the English department’s office at 556-5924.

Students in the College of Arts and Sciences enjoy many benefits afforded through study at a research-intensive institution ranked among the nation's top 25 public research universities. UC's urban, Tristate location offers exciting opportunities for global education, research and service learning, while its student-centered focus includes an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, a nationally recognized Center for Exploratory Studies and a highly successful First Year Experience program that teaches critical skills for first-year students and provides connections with important campus resources.

A unique characteristic of the journalism program is the university’s urban environment. The city and neighborhoods become the classroom. The judicial, legislative and executive branches of government are available for real-life reporting experiences. Student journalists can readily cover business, industry, education, medicine, college/professional athletics and the arts in a metropolitan area.

Make sure that you have declared the certificate program online. Next, make sure that the certificate program director is aware of when you are finishing the program. If you are pursuing another bachelor's degree, then your certificate will be reviewed at the time that you submit your separate degree application.

The University of Cincinnati and all regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Contact Information

Sean Hughes, MA
13A Arts & Sciences Hall
Cincinnati, OH 45221-0174
(513) 556-1311
sean.hughes@uc.edu

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Program Code: 15CRT-JOUR-C2