The Journalism and Mass Communication faculty is committed to an academic and professional program that encompasses the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in 21st century media. The program will emphasize critical thinking, research, writing, and visual communication skills within an ethical framework across all media and professional disciplines.
The JMC faculty recognizes that media throughout the world are changing. New information technologies, media convergence, cross-cultural perspectives and new economic realities are shifting the ways we communicate. At the same time, the principles of journalism and mass communication remain essential to a democratic society. Accuracy and balance in reporting, upholding high ethical standards and a commitment to serving the interests of the public are central to our aims.
The core required courses are the foundation of the program. They provide the theoretical, historical, ethical and cultural background that underlies journalism and mass communication today. The elective courses, presented in two tracks, focus on the skills needed to function in global media. The internship, either professional or academic, further enhances the acquired concepts and skills, as does participation in extracurricular activities on campus (i.e., magazine, online news websites, 24/7 radio station).
JMC students are encouraged to enroll in other courses to expand their cultural and disciplinary perspectives , and also to major or minor in a separate discipline. This opportunity to shape a multi-disciplinary course of study within the liberal arts tradition is an invitation for students to enrich their knowledge base in preparation for further inquiry, research and understanding.
Upon graduation, students are prepared to pursue a range of careers in a variety of fields ranging from media organizations, advertising and public relations agencies, design studios, production houses, and others or continue their education with graduate studies at leading universities around the world.
*understand the history, function, and development of journalism and mass communication in society;
*analyze global media issues and functions;
*develop media and visual communication literacy and awaken creativity;
*integrate liberal arts knowledge in research, study and professional activity;
*understand the role of advertising and public relations;
*apply principles of media law, policies and ethics.
Professional Student Learning Outcomes (elective courses):
*master research methods by learning to evaluate and use documents from a variety of sources;
*learn interviewing techniques and critical thinking and analytical skills;
*learn to write, report and edit content for print and online media platforms;
*learn to respond creatively to challenges and apply principles of design in shaping communications;
*learn to use software programs to design, produce and communicate effectively;
*develop presentation and public speaking skills.
If you’ve never heard of Blagoevgrad, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The Rough Guide to Bulgaria named the town the ‘coolest place in southwest Bulgaria,’ and with good reason.
It’s a small, vibrant university town (20,000 of the 80,000 residents are students!) within easy reach of the capital Sofia (a 1hr drive or easy bus ride away.)
There’s something for everyone in Blagoevgrad; the restored old quarter bustles with cafes and bars in a lively cultural scene set against beautiful architecture.
In town, you’ll be spoilt with 2.5km of leafy park alley for strolling, a fascinating historical museum and a rich program of events. Nightclubs, opera, restaurants and over 100 theater performances per year keep the lively population entertained.
It’s easy to get away and experience some of Bulgaria’s most stunning natural attractions too: the spa town of Sandanski, the Seven Lakes of Rila and two world-class ski resorts are close by. There are biking adventures to be had around town, and fans of hiking can take in some breathtaking views on foot.
For those seeking adventures further afield, you’ll be happy to find Macedonia on the doorstep (30km) and the delights of Greece only an hour’s drive away.
Please note that we do not book flights for our students. If you are researching airfare costs, we recommend using Kayak.com, a search engine that lets you compare flight options from your home country to Blagoevgrad based on your budget, schedule and preferences.
