Program Overview
A journalism degree from the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications provides students with the skills, experience, and ethical foundation needed to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving media environment. This undergraduate program prepares students to communicate effectively across platforms through reporting, storytelling, and multimedia production while integrating strong writing traditions with digital media, data, and audience-centered communication strategies. Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications gain both practical training and critical insight into how media shapes public understanding in local, national and global contexts.
Designed for students interested in media, storytelling and strategic messaging, the journalism major emphasizes hands-on learning through student media, internships, classroom projects and collaborative experiences. From day one, students practice researching, reporting, editing and producing content for real audiences through outlets like the University Daily Kansan, the Eudora Times, The Agency and KUJH-TV. Coursework integrates theory and application, ensuring graduates understand not only how to create compelling media, but also why responsible, ethical communication matters in a democratic society.
A degree in journalism and mass communications develops a strong foundation in writing, visual communication, multimedia production, and media law and ethics. Mass communication degrees help students learn to evaluate sources, verify information, analyze data and adapt content for different platforms and audiences. The program also emphasizes emerging tools and technologies that support innovation in storytelling, content creation and audience engagement.
This program offers multiple concentrations, allowing students to tailor their journalism degree to specific career interests:
- Digital Marketing Communications, Advertising, & Public Relations: Centers on creating advertising and public relations messaging and marketing content to engage various audiences, strategy development, public relations and campaign execution.
- Media Arts & Production: Equips students to grow and excel as strategists, creative media producers, storytellers, media and audience researchers, critical thinkers, and enterprise leaders within a constantly evolving media landscape.
- Multimedia Journalism: Focuses on reporting, writing and storytelling for news organizations, emphasizing accuracy, ethics and public accountability.
- Sports Media & Society: Combines mass communication fundamentals with experiential learning in reporting, production, play-by-play, multimedia, marketing, public relations or administration.
Learn more about KU
Undergraduate
For more information about the program, visit the program page below.
Journalism & Mass Communications, BSKU School of Journalism and Mass Communication
The bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communications is part of the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communication, home to tomorrow’s leaders, creators, thinkers and agents of change.Bachelor’s in Journalism and Mass Communications Learning Outcomes
With a degree in journalism and mass communications, graduates will be able to:
- Employ critical and creative thinking in the practices of journalism, mass communications and related disciplines.
- Understand the value of freedom of expression and its importance in society.
- Use theoretical and practical skills in the application of ethical storytelling.
- Understand and use emerging media technologies and their impact on society.
- Incorporate research techniques for analysis, interpretation and reporting.
- Understand the functions of communications organizations, the economic and management issues they face, and how media decisions affect individuals and society.
What Careers Are Possible with a Bachelor’s in Journalism and Mass Communications?
A journalism degree opens doors to a wide range of professional opportunities in media and communication fields. Graduates pursue careers such as:
- News reporting, editing and broadcasting
- Public relations firms
- Marketing communications
- Photography and videography
- Digital media and content creation
- Advertising
According to data from Lightcast, journalism degree jobs span industries including news media, corporations, nonprofits, sports organizations, public relations, advertising and marketing agencies. Journalism major jobs emphasize strong communication, research, and storytelling skills, competencies that remain in demand across sectors. Journalism degree salary outcomes vary by role, experience, and location. Graduates benefit from versatile skills that support long-term career growth and adaptability, and opportunities are expanding in many journalism and mass communications fields.
Tuition and Financial Aid
KU offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. For more information, visit KU Financial Aid & Scholarships.Admission Requirements
Admission to the journalism degree program at KU requires meeting general university freshman and transfer admission standards. Additionally:
Freshman
- 3.25 high school GPA OR
- An official ACT score of at least 21 or an official SAT score of at least 1060 with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale
Transfer
- 2.5+ cumulative GPA
- 2.5+ Journalism GPA AND
- C or higher in JMC 101
For detailed admission requirements, visit KU Admissions.
Student Life and Learning Experience
Beyond the classroom, students gain valuable experience through student-run media organizations, professional associations, internships, and campus activities, such as:
These opportunities allow students to build portfolios, collaborate with peers, and engage with industry professionals. Participation in these experiences strengthens preparation for journalism jobs and related mass communication careers.
Bachelor’s in Journalism and Mass Communications Sample Courses
Students pursuing a journalism degree complete a combination of core and elective coursework. Sample courses may include:
- Media and Society
- Words at Work
- Video Production
- Sports Media
- Visual Storytelling
- Data Storytelling
For a complete list of bachelor’s degree in journalism courses, refer to the KU Catalog.
Bachelor’s in Journalism and Mass Communications Frequently Asked Questions
When should I apply?
Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis.
How long will it take to complete the degree?
Students typically complete this degree in four years.