Bachelor of arts
Journalism and Mass Communication
This major prepares students for the fields of advertising, broadcast and electronic media, print journalism and public relations.
Is This Program for Me?
Are you curious, creative, and passionate about telling stories that matter? Do you enjoy writing, speaking, producing content, or analyzing media trends? Are you drawn to the fast-paced world of journalism, broadcasting, advertising, or public relations?
This program is a great fit for students who are:
- Eager to inform and engage audiences through print, digital, and broadcast media
- Interested in careers in news, advertising, PR, social media, or sports communication
- Driven to use communication skills to impact culture, business, or public policy
- Excited by hands-on experiences that prepare them for real-world media careers
What Makes Us Different?
Samford’s Communication Studies program goes beyond theory. Through research, workshops, internships, and digital portfolios, students gain skills that are immediately transferable to graduate school or the workplace. Our small classes and committed faculty ensure that each student receives meaningful mentorship and personalized academic development.
Award-Winning Program
Ranked #1 journalism program in Alabama and a top 30 “Best Value” program in the U.S.
Alumni Network of Media Leaders
Our graduates work at The Washington Post, ESPN, CBS 42, and beyond.
Deep Internship Integration
Students complete 2–3 internships, often leading to full-time jobs.
Hands-On Experience from Year One
First-year students often publish their first byline or produce their first broadcast within weeks of starting the program.Multiple Concentrations
Choose a focus in Advertising, Broadcast and Electronic Journalism, Print Journalism, or Public Relations.
Shape Your Academic Journey
Our curriculum is designed to equip students with the essential skills, ethics, and versatility required in today’s media landscape. You’ll gain proficiency in writing, editing, production, strategy, and communication design across multiple platforms.
Students Will
- Write and edit for print, broadcast, and web
- Produce video and multimedia content
- Plan and execute advertising and PR campaigns
- Manage social media and digital storytelling
- Understand media law, ethics, and strategic communication
Minors
- Film Production
- Sports Media
Concentrations
- Advertising – Campaign creation and marketing communication
- Broadcast and Electronic Journalism – Radio, television, and video production
- Print Journalism – Writing, editing, magazine, and digital publication
- Public Relations – Crisis communication, brand management, and media relations
Alumni Careers
- Education
- Government and Nonprofit Communication
- Journalism (TV, radio, print, digital)
- Law
- Marketing
- Ministry
- Public Relations and Advertising
- Sales
- Sports and Entertainment Media
Prepare to Succeed
Our JMC graduates leave Samford with a résumé full of real-world experience and a portfolio that proves they’re ready. Whether your goal is a newsroom, agency, nonprofit, or your own startup, you’ll have the tools to thrive.
Internships at Top Organizations
NBC 13, CBS 42, Markstein, SEC Headquarters, American Heart Association, The Washington Post (fellowship), and more.
Portfolio Development
Senior students build a professional portfolio showcasing their best writing, design, and multimedia work.
Mentorship and Job Placement Support
Faculty with industry experience help connect students to opportunities and alumni networks.
“By providing an open floor for people to communicate their perspectives on various topics, the curriculum prepares us well for our future careers.”
— Akeim Thames ’25, Broadcast Journalism
