Along with gaining a broad background in media theory and history, you’ll learn to research, write, analyze, and present content through a range of media platforms. We offer classes in video production, photography, graphic design, web design, journalism, public relations, public speaking, and radio broadcasting—and you’ll gain practical experience in these areas through a variety of on-campus opportunities. You’ll also gain work experience through a required internship at a company or organization in the U.S. or abroad.
Major and Minor Offered
- Mass Communication—Journalism Concentration (BA major)
- Mass Communication—Multi-platform Concentration (BA major)
- Mass Communication (minor)
Why Study Mass Communication at Principia College?
- Our students learn to make values-based contributions in the mass communication field through critical thinking and professional proficiency across a range of media platforms.
- Our students use their skills and experience for the betterment of others in journalism, broadcasting, nonprofit and business organizations, and creative media.
- Our faculty emphasize integrity, honesty, generosity of spirit, and an exemplary work ethic—along with the unique contributions Christian Scientists can make to the profession.
- Our students regularly interact with media professionals.
- Our faculty lead field trips to local media organizations and public relations agencies.
- Our students develop transferable skills such as writing, editing, media reporting, and broadcasting.
- Our students put theory into practice in a variety of hands-on learning opportunities: hosting radio shows, producing podcasts, providing live radio coverage of elections, publishing a student magazine, editing the yearbook, and producing a student-run television news program.
- Our faculty have developed career-related internships with media organizations and businesses, and stipends are available.
- Our students hear from current Christian Science Monitor writers and editors every year.
- We prepare students to continue their studies at top graduate schools.
- Our students travel to Los Angeles during spring break to meet with film producer and Principia alum David Lovegren and other entertainment industry professionals.
- Students can earn credit over spring break in San Francisco on our photography field study program with former Christian Science Monitor editor and photojournalist Paul VanSlambrouck.
Abroads
Principia abroad programs are open to all majors, and students are encouraged to apply for any abroad program that interests them. All abroads involve individual research that students can tailor to their interests. The Argentina Abroad, with a focus on media and culture, is especially popular with mass communication students.
Note: See the College Catalog for more detailed information about our program and departmental learning outcomes.
