College of Arts and Sciences
Journalism and Media Studies
College of Arts and Sciences
Journalism and Media Studies
Tell the Stories That Shape the World:
Major in Journalism & Media Studies
Explore your passion for storytelling with New Mexico State University's Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies. Learn to write, shoot, edit, and produce across platforms while building a strong foundation in media ethics, law and theory. Whether you're into broadcast, photojournalism, or strategic communication, you'll gain hands-on experience through student media and internships that prepare you for a successful career in today’s fast-moving media world.
Admission Deadlines
There are no fixed deadlines*
- Total classes: 40
- Total credit hours: 120
- Cost per credit hour: $223.58**
Delivery Format
In-person
Career Pathways
Graduates of the journalism and media studies program at NMSU are skilled in multimedia storytelling, ethical reporting, critical analysis, and effective communication across diverse platforms and audiences, preparing them for dynamic careers in journalism, digital media and strategic communication.
- Reporter
- News Anchor
- Multimedia Producer
- Public Relations Specialist
- Communications Director
- Media Relations Coordinator
Degree questions, answered
Have questions about the Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies? Fill out our inquiry form.
Why Study Journalism and Media Studies at NMSU?
The journalism and media studies program at NMSU focuses on hands-on learning and real-world experience that empower students to develop the skills needed to succeed in a dynamic media landscape. This degree appeals to students who are curious, creative, and passionate about storytelling, enjoy staying informed about current events, and are eager to use media to inform, engage and influence diverse audiences.
There are four areas of study that allow students the flexibility to focus their efforts on what they’re most passionate about:
- Broadcast Journalism: Learn the skills needed to excel in live reporting, news production, and on-air performance.
- Multimedia Journalism: Prepare to cover the stories that matter most across digital, print, and social media platforms.
- Photojournalism: Get expert instruction on how to capture compelling images that tell powerful stories.
- Strategic Communication: Learn to craft messages for public relations and advertising that move target audiences to action.
Gain Media Industry Experience
From local media outlets to national brands, students have interned at top organizations that set the stage for successful careers.
Scholarships Available
Get up to 100% of tuition covered with the New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship.**
The Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies consists of 120 credits. To earn this degree, you need to complete all Department of Journalism and Media Studies core courses, and all university degree requirements, which include General Education requirements, Viewing a Wider World requirements, and elective credits with 48 credits in courses numbered 300 or above. There is a one year second language requirement for this program.
Take classes like:
- JOUR 105G - Media and Society
- JOUR 210 - Copyediting
- JOUR 300 - Introduction to Advertising
- JOUR 493 - Media Law
- JOUR 384 - Public Relations Storytelling
- JOUR 377V - Mass Media Ethics
At NMSU you do not need to complete a minor to graduate. While having a minor can be beneficial, it's not mandatory for earning a degree. Minors can complement a major, broaden one's knowledge, and potentially enhance job prospects or graduate school applications.
There are three minors available in the journalism and media studies department:
- Journalism and Media Studies: Explores the forces that shape the media and learn how to create compelling content across platforms. This minor is for non-journalism majors. Students may not earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies and a minor in Journalism and Media Studies.
- Strategic Communication: Learn how to craft messages that resonate, inspire action and drive results. A student may earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies and a minor in Strategic Communication.
- Social Media Management: Go beyond posting to learn how to plan, create and manage digital content that makes an impact. A student may earn both a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Media Studies and a minor in Social Media Management.
Ready to take the next step?
"I would’ve never thought that I would work on one of the biggest sporting events in the world. It all comes down to trusting yourself, taking that leap of faith and seeing where it takes you."
Request Information
Scholarships and Financial Aid
At NMSU, we strive to offer competitively priced tuition to keep your tuition costs affordable. If you need financial aid, we’re ready to work with you to determine the best ways to finance your education.
Financial assistance includes loans, grants, and scholarship opportunities. To apply, use NMSU’s convenient Scholar Dollar$ one-stop scholarship application, which serves all students in the NMSU system.
NMSU students are also eligible for loans and grants. The first step in applying for financial aid is to complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Learn more about financial aid opportunities at NMSU.
Contact Financial Aid
Phone: 1-888-729-6678
Email: financialaid@nmsu.edu
Accreditation
New Mexico State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Specialized accreditation from other accrediting agencies is also granted for some programs. NMSU’s accreditation ensures that your education meets high-quality standards and that your credits are transferable.