Welcome to Western Washington University's Department of Journalism. We will be celebrating our 40th anniversary in 2011-2012. Our graduates may be found throughout the United States, writing and editing the news of the region, and serving in public relations agencies and with public and private organizations.

Read our mission statement to learn more about our objectives.

Students of the Journalism Department may choose from three tracks of study: News-Editorial, Public Relations or Visual Journalism. All tracks require the basic writing courses and a supervised internship, as well as specific courses relating to the chosen track. While enrolled in a program, students are offered a number of learning opportunities including: working as a writer, photographer or editor on three University publications, learning from industry professionals that frequently speak in classes, and working hands-on with community organizations to gain experience in the chosen fields.

Our Department is unique because:

• We specialize in writing with award-winning publications.

• We produce excellence in the basics of the English language.

• We trace our roots in journalism principles from the Cato Letters to the best current technology in use.

• We emphasize journalism as a craft that plays a significant political and cultural role in America.

• We stress real-world applications of skills through internships.

• We provide enough intellectual curiosity and challenge that alumni go on to graduate school or other professions.

• We emphasize the role of readers as citizens who need to be informed to take part in a democratic society.

• Despite the fact that we are getting bigger and bigger, we know students face-to-face and by first name. And they know us.