Journalism

Communicating to the Masses

Journalism is the study of mass communication media such as newspapers, television, radio, magazines, and Internet. Journalism is a cornerstone of American society and a guardian of this nation’s freedoms. Journalism develops clear thinking, strong writing, and solid communication skills. The Southwestern College journalism program encourages multidisciplinary study in a variety of areas. The program includes coursework and the award-winning student newspaper, The Southwestern Sun.

Program Awards

Our Journalism programs are included in the Arts, Communication, Design, and Media field of study and offer these awards:

Award	Location	Estimated Completion	Program Map
Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT)	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Associate in Arts Degree: Transfer Preparation	Chula Vista	# Semesters

Common Careers

Below is a sample of the many career options available for the journalism major. A few of these require an associate degree, most require a bachelor’s degree, and some require a graduate-level degree. Possible career options include reporter, copy editor, photojournalist, columnist, public affairs manager, press relations officer, speech writer, critic, public information specialist, broadcaster, magazine writer, high school or college instructor, graphic designer, correspondent, production technician, and technical writer or editor.

The average annual salary in this field is $76,940 for occupations like News Analyst, Reporter or Journalist.

Typical Duties

• Getting Information
  Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Communicating with People Outside the Organization
  Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
• Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
  Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
• Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
• Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
  Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
• Performing for or Working Directly with the Public
  Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
  Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
• Thinking Creatively
  Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
• Documenting/Recording Information
  Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
  Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Working with Computers
  Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
• Analyzing Data or Information
  Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Processing Information
  Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
• Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
• Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
  Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
• Scheduling Work and Activities
  Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
• Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People
  Assessing the value, importance, or quality of things or people.