Program Overview
Fairfield University's Digital Journalism program is a rigorous 36-credit program that equips students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital media landscape. Emphasizing investigative and explanatory journalism, the program fosters excellence in communication, ethical practices, and civic engagement. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in journalism, communications, and related fields.
Program Outline
Digital Journalism Program at Fairfield University: An Extensive Analysis
Degree Overview:
The Digital Journalism program at Fairfield University is a rigorous 36-credit, 12-course program designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to thrive in today's rapidly evolving digital media landscape. It emphasizes investigative and explanatory journalism, prioritizing civic engagement and empowering students to become changemakers through their reporting. The program draws inspiration from the Jesuit ideal of "eloquentia perfecta," fostering excellence in communication and ethical practices.
Outline:
Required Courses (36 credits):
- News Writing: Fundamental principles of news gathering, reporting, and writing for various platforms.
- News Writing II: Digital Design: Applying digital tools and design principles to present news effectively online.
- Big Data Storytelling: Utilizing data journalism techniques to analyze and visualize complex data for compelling storytelling.
- Three (3) Literature courses: Expanding critical thinking and writing skills through engaging with diverse literary works.
- Two (2) Production Component Courses: Practical experience in digital media production, including video editing, audio production, and social media communication.
- Ethics of Communications: Exploring ethical considerations and responsibilities in the digital journalism landscape.
- One (1) or more Tier I: Digital Journalism Creation Courses: Specializing in areas like multimedia reporting, digital storytelling, or documentary filmmaking.
- Up to one (1) Tier II: Media Theory Course: Deepening understanding of media theories and their impact on society.
- One (1) Capstone Course: Integrating knowledge and skills learned throughout the program through a culminating project.
Assessment:
Assessment methods in the program vary depending on the course and may include:
- Traditional written assignments: Essays, reports, and critical analyses.
- Digital media projects: Websites, podcasts, multimedia presentations, and documentary films.
- Class participation and discussions: Active engagement and critical reflection on course content.
- Exams and quizzes: Assessing knowledge of key concepts and theories.
Teaching:
The program boasts a dedicated faculty of experienced professionals and academic experts in digital journalism and related fields. Teaching methods are diverse and engaging, promoting interactive learning through:
- Lectures and seminars: Sharing knowledge and facilitating discussions on relevant topics.
- Workshops and hands-on training: Acquiring practical skills in digital media production and storytelling.
- Guest speakers and industry professionals: Gaining insights from real-world experience and perspectives.
- Mentorship and individual guidance: Personalized support and feedback from faculty members.
Careers:
Graduates of the Digital Journalism program are prepared for diverse career paths in:
- Print and online journalism: Reporters, editors, content creators, and multimedia journalists.
- Broadcast journalism: Television and radio reporters, anchors, and producers.
- Technical writing: Creating clear and concise technical documentation.
- Online writing: Content writers, copywriters, and social media managers.
- Public relations and communications: Crafting strategic messages and managing communication strategies.
- Social media marketing: Developing and managing social media campaigns and communities.
- Law and other fields: Leveraging research, writing, and communication skills in various professions.
Other:
- Internship opportunities: Internships with diverse organizations like media outlets, non-profit institutions, and government agencies provide valuable practical experience.
- Publications: Dogwood literary journal and The Inkwell student magazine offer platforms for showcasing student work.
- The Mirror: The student-run newspaper provides hands-on experience in news reporting and publication.
- Career services: Dedicated support from the University's Career Center helps graduates connect with employment opportunities and prepare for successful careers. For further details and current program information, please refer to the official website of Fairfield University.
Fairfield University
Overview:
Fairfield University is a private Jesuit Catholic university located in Fairfield, Connecticut. It boasts a stunning campus on the Connecticut coast, just an hour from New York City. The university offers a liberal humanistic approach to education, emphasizing critical thinking, free and open inquiry, and fostering ethical and religious values. Fairfield University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1 and over 330 full-time faculty members.
Services Offered:
Fairfield University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
The university provides academic advising, tutoring, and writing centers to help students succeed in their studies.Career Services:
The Career Center assists students with career exploration, job searching, and internship opportunities.Financial Aid:
Fairfield University offers various financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students afford their education.Health and Wellness:
The university provides comprehensive health and wellness services, including a health center, counseling services, and fitness facilities.Student Life:
Fairfield University offers a vibrant student life experience with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Fairfield University provides a dynamic campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can participate in a variety of activities, including:
Athletics:
Fairfield University is a member of the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) and offers a wide range of Division I sports.Arts and Culture:
The Quick Center for the Arts hosts a variety of performances, lectures, and exhibitions throughout the year.Campus Ministry:
The university offers a variety of spiritual and religious programs and services.Student Organizations:
Students can join a variety of clubs and organizations, including academic, cultural, and service-oriented groups.Key Reasons to Study There:
Jesuit Education:
Fairfield University's Jesuit heritage emphasizes intellectual rigor, ethical development, and service to others.Strong Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, nursing, engineering, and the arts and sciences.Experiential Learning:
Fairfield University encourages students to engage in hands-on learning experiences, such as internships, research, and study abroad.Location:
The university's location on the Connecticut coast provides easy access to both the vibrant city of New York and the beautiful natural surroundings of New England.Career Success:
Fairfield University graduates have a high rate of employment and graduate school placement.Academic Programs:
Fairfield University offers a variety of academic programs across five schools:
Charles F. Dolan School of Business:
Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business administration, accounting, finance, and marketing.College of Arts & Sciences:
Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.Egan School of Nursing & Health Studies:
Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing, health sciences, and public health.School of Education and Human Development:
Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in education, counseling, and human development.School of Engineering & Computing:
Offers undergraduate and graduate programs in computer science, engineering, and data science.Other:
Fairfield University is committed to sustainability and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The university also has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion and has a diverse student body and faculty.
