School of Journalism and Mass Communication

Drake’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication strives to educate tomorrow’s leaders in the exciting world of journalism and mass communication. Graduates have mastered basic skills common to all media: writing, gathering information and effectively communicating information to others. They work around the world in a variety of professions that involve planning, message or program production, publication and evaluation. The school welcomes students from other Drake majors who want to take a class or two to sharpen their critical thinking skills as media consumers.

The program is based on a series of core competencies that students are expected to have.

Our students will:

1. Understand and apply First Amendment principles and laws of freedom of speech and press, including the right to dissent, to monitor and criticize power, and to assemble and petition for redress of grievances.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of groups in a global society in relationship to communications.
4. Understand concepts and apply theories in the use and presentation of images and information.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of professional ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness and diversity.
6. Conduct research and evaluate information by methods appropriate to the communications professions in which they work.
7. Think critically, creatively and independently.
8. Write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences and purposes they serve.
9. Critically evaluate their own work and that of others for accuracy and fairness, clarity, appropriate style and grammatical correctness.
10. Apply basic numerical and statistical concepts.
11. Apply tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work.
12. Take ownership of their own academic experience.
13. Be engaged with the community: the University, the local community and professional groups.
14. Cope and thrive in the workplace.

The Drake University School of Journalism and Mass Communication awards the Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. In all its programs, the school is committed to a philosophy of professional education that emphasizes liberal arts studies.

College Vision Statement

The Drake School of Journalism and Mass Communication provides professional experience in a media-rich environment and professional mentors for life.

College Mission Statement

Drake’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication strives to educate strategic, global thinkers with diverse media and communication skills and a solid ethical underpinning who are prepared to respond to a rapidly changing media environment.

• Areas of Study
• Graduation Requirements
• Academic Regulations
• Faculty