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Journalism, Media and Professional Writing

Northampton Community College's Journalism, Media, and Professional Writing associate degree program gives students the chance to earn a communications degree that can be applied to many different media outlets. With electronics and technology dominating communications, students in Journalism, Media, and Professional Writing don't go to college looking for careers in just print media.  

The program at NCC focuses on newspaper, magazine, television, radio, and the Web, as well as photography, multimedia production, and business communications. These are the skills that are highly marketable and are sought after by editors and executives in the 21st century. Students can join our campus newspaper and work with both local and national organizations through internships.  

This program is offered at our Bethlehem campus, with an additional option to complete the degree partly online. It is open to high school graduates with strong writing skills and an avid interest in current events.

Degree Programs

Semesters: 4
Credits: 63
Program Map: Download PDF
Program Details: View More Information
Campus: Bethlehem
Program Type: Associate in Arts

Northampton's Journalism, Media & Professional Writing Program provides the foundation for a career in the dynamic, digital world of the news media and professional communications in the 21st century. The major prepares students to transfer into a four-year degree program. The program emphasizes practical skills in reporting and writing for print and the web for students with no experience and provides those with some experience an opportunity to enhance their skills.

Semesters: 4
Credits: 63
Program Map: Download PDF
Program Details: View More Information
Campus: Bethlehem|PartiallyOnline
Program Type: Associate in Arts

Northampton's Journalism, Media & Professional Writing Program provides the foundation for a career in the dynamic, digital world of the news media and professional communications in the 21st century. The major prepares students to transfer into a four-year degree program. The program emphasizes practical skills in reporting and writing for print and the web for students with no experience and provides those with some experience an opportunity to enhance their skills.

 

Program Information

As a student in this program, you will become critically aware of the diverse functions of the media and how it affects society and culture. Now more than ever, people expect 24-hour news coverage at their fingertips. At NCC, you'll develop highly professional skills to write informative content in a timely manner. Not only will you learn about traditional media, but you'll learn how to create online content as technology evolves.

The business writing concentration focuses on the application of journalism skills in a corporate public relations setting and other business communications.

Northampton's journalism concentration teaches you the basics of writing for print and online media, with an emphasis on researching and developing content. You will also learn to write engaging articles consistent with AP style guidelines, while understanding your ethical and legal responsibilities as a journalist.

Students in this major's journalism track are required to participate in the college newspaper, The Commuter. Opportunities arise during the semester to engage in discussions with reporters and bloggers both inside and outside the news media. These events, usually held in a community room open to everyone, are sponsored by the Journalism, Media, and Professional Writing program or The Commuter.

 

Career Opportunities

Many types of professional communicators exist, from the local beat newspaper reporter to the corporate communications specialist, the magazine feature writer to the college relations officer -and beyond. It is difficult to pin down the daily routine of an average professional writer, but they all gather information and review data to collect and report information and its implications. In this digital age, many writing professionals are finding work in online content both in journalism and in the business sector.

In just two years, students can graduate and work at an entry-level journalism position or continue their education at a four-year institution. NCC's Career Services office can connect you to internships and other opportunities at local newspapers, PR firms, and organizations during your time at Northampton.

Future Career Paths

  • Journalism
  • College Information
  • Media Relations
  • Corporate Communications
  • Public Relations

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