Journalism and Professional Writing

Program Overview

Northampton Community College's Journalism, Media, and Professional Writing program offers an associate degree with concentrations in Journalism and Business Writing. The program equips students with essential communication skills for various media outlets, including print, online, and multimedia. Graduates are prepared for careers in journalism, corporate communications, and other professional writing fields. The program also provides opportunities for internships and professional networking.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: Northampton Community College's Journalism, Media, and Professional Writing associate degree program equips students with a multifaceted communication degree applicable to various media outlets.
The program caters to the evolving media landscape, encompassing traditional media like newspapers and magazines, as well as contemporary platforms like television, radio, web, photography, multimedia production, and business communications. By honing essential skills highly sought after by editors and executives, graduates stand poised to excel in the competitive media industry.
• Objectives: The program's primary goal is to cultivate critically aware individuals who deeply comprehend the diverse functions of the media and its profound impact on society and culture.
Within this framework, students develop highly professional writing abilities, enabling them to produce timely and informative content. By embracing technological advancements, the program empowers students to navigate the evolving media landscape and create impactful online content.
• Description: The Journalism, Media, and Professional Writing program offers two distinct concentrations: Journalism and Business Writing, catering to students' specific interests and career aspirations.
The Journalism concentration immerses students in the fundamentals of writing for print and online media, emphasizing research, content development, and adherence to AP style guidelines. They develop a profound understanding of ethical and legal responsibilities inherent to journalism. The concentration features hands-on experience through involvement in the college newspaper, The Commuter, providing opportunities to engage with industry professionals and participate in discussions on contemporary media issues. The Business Writing concentration, on the other hand, focuses on leveraging journalism skills within corporate public relations and other business communication settings. Students gain expertise in crafting persuasive and engaging written content designed to effectively convey key messages and foster positive relationships with stakeholders. The program prepares students for seamless transition into four-year degree programs and successful careers in the dynamic media and communications industry.

Careers:

• Career Paths: Graduates of the Journalism, Media, and Professional Writing program embark on diverse career trajectories in the realm of professional communications.
Potential career paths include local newspaper reporters, corporate communications specialists, magazine feature writers, college relations officers, and a myriad of other roles. Within the ever-evolving digital landscape, many graduates find employment in online content creation, both in journalism and the business sector.
• Opportunities: NCC's Career Services office plays a pivotal role in connecting students with internships and professional opportunities at local newspapers, PR firms, and organizations, providing invaluable experience during their academic journey.
• Outcomes: The program prepares graduates for entry-level journalism positions or further education at four-year institutions.
Students who successfully complete the program are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional network necessary to make meaningful contributions to the media and communications industry.