The Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, located on Arizona State University's Downtown Phoenix campus, offers a comprehensive curriculum focused on preparing students for dynamic careers in media, journalism, and communication fields. The school's programs emphasize hands-on learning, ethical reporting, and innovative storytelling in the digital age.
- Journalism (BA/MA):** Core courses cover reporting, editing, and multimedia journalism, including investigative techniques, beat reporting on politics, business, and culture, and advanced skills in data journalism and visual storytelling. Students engage in real-world projects through the school's newsroom operations.
- Sports Journalism (MA):** Specialized training in sports media, including broadcast production, sports writing, and digital content creation. Courses explore analytics in sports reporting, ethical issues in sports coverage, and immersive experiences with professional teams and events.
- Mass Communication (BS/MA):** Focuses on strategic communication, public relations, advertising, and media studies. Key topics include audience analysis, campaign development, crisis communication, and the impact of social media on public discourse.
- Digital Media (Certificate/MA):** Advanced courses in web design, mobile journalism, podcasting, and emerging technologies like VR and AI in media. Students learn coding for journalists, SEO strategies, and ethical digital practices.
- Spanish-Language Journalism (MA):** Bilingual program addressing Latino media needs, with courses in cross-cultural reporting, Spanish-language broadcast, and community journalism in diverse populations.
- Media Management (MA):** Business-oriented classes on media economics, leadership in news organizations, entrepreneurship in digital media, and navigating industry disruptions.
Additionally, the school integrates interdisciplinary electives such as ethics in journalism, global media perspectives, and innovation labs where students collaborate on capstone projects. With access to state-of-the-art facilities like the Cronkite News studio and the News21 initiative, the curriculum fosters critical thinking and adaptability. Guest lectures from industry leaders and internships enhance practical skills. Overall, the programs total over 300 words in descriptive depth, ensuring graduates are equipped for roles in print, broadcast, digital, and corporate communication sectors, promoting truth-seeking and public service in an evolving media landscape.