Cal Poly Journalism Program

Anyone here have info on the Journalism program at Cal Poly SLO? I'm interested in possibly majoring in it and would like to hear about the coursework, professors, and opportunities within the program.

The Journalism program at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo (SLO) is known for its hands-on, learn-by-doing approach, which equips students with practical skills and experiences to prepare them for their careers. The program falls under the College of Liberal Arts and offers various concentrations, such as public relations, news/editorial, and broadcasting.

Coursework throughout the program is designed to provide a strong foundation in journalism principles, along with courses specific to each concentration. Some core courses you might take include Media Law and Ethics, Reporting Across Platforms, and Editing and Design. You'll also have opportunities to take elective courses that align with your interests, such as Investigative Reporting or Multimedia Production.

The Journalism program's faculty members at Cal Poly SLO come from a variety of backgrounds, including industry professionals and academic experts. They bring years of experience to their teaching and place an emphasis on adapting to the constantly evolving media landscape.

In terms of opportunities, Cal Poly SLO's Journalism program is known for its robust student media organizations. These give students the chance to practically apply their skills and gain real-world experience. Some popular student-run organizations you can join include Mustang News, which is the campus newspaper that regularly produces print, digital, and multimedia content. You can also get involved with KCPR, the university's radio station, or work for Central Coast PRspectives, a student-run public relations agency.

There are also opportunities for internships and networking through various organizations and events. The program frequently hosts guest speakers, bringing in industry professionals to share their insights and experiences. Additionally, students have landed internships and jobs with media organizations both regionally and across the nation.

In summary, Cal Poly SLO's Journalism program provides a strong foundation in journalism principles, has dedicated faculty, and offers extensive hands-on experience through student organizations and internships. This combination can help you develop the skills and connections needed to excel in your chosen journalism career path.