(Open to all majors and minors, 18 semester hours)

A large number of LMU graduates have gone on to successful careers or graduate work in Journalism by earning an LMU Journalism Certificate. These students, who have often majored or minored in English, Communication Studies, or other majors, have taken advantage of a number of exciting LMU courses that constitute “The Journalism Certificate.” (Note: Some of the courses you take for the Certificate may also be counted toward your Major or Minor in English, Communication Studies, or the OLD core.)The Journalism Certificate is ideal for students who intend pursuing a Masters or Ph. D. in Journalism, or who plan to work as a Freelance journalist, PR or Advertising, in corporate communications, for a newspaper or magazine or on various new media platform. The Journalism Certificate at LMU offers maximum flexibility as no specific courses are required. The “certificate” appears as a line on the student’s final transcript, and may be referenced in a student’s résumé. (You will not receive a frameable certificate from the Office of the Registrar.) Note: The Journalism Certificate is not a major or minor.

It is important to note that a working journalist often develops a specialization in a particular area, such as sports, entertainment, or politics. Elective courses in these areas would, of course, be useful. The Journalism Curriculum includes Political Science courses specifically since local, state, and national politics have an impact on most news, and politics is considered an important working knowledge base for any journalist. Ethics coursework from the Philosophy Department is also included, as ethics are a concern at the forefront of a career in Journalism. Interdisciplinary Applied Programs contributes a selection of PR and media coursework. A total of 18 units or six courses is required to earn the certificate. Generally Students may elect one course from PHIL, or one course from POLS, or one course from IDAP courses listed.

Five (5) Journalism Certificate courses must be selected from the English courses listed. In some cases where students have other experience as a journalist either on LMU publications, work, or high school, an additional IDAP or other course may be approved, dropping the total of English/Journalism required courses to four (4). Some students will take all six courses from the Journalism/English courses listed. Consult Dr. Linda Bannister to make sure your program fulfills the certificate requirements.