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School of Journalism and Mass Communication
Home   >  School of Journalism and Mass Communication   >  About   >  Core Competencies

Core Competencies

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SJMC graduates should be able to:

  • Apply the principles and laws of freedom of speech and press in a global context and in the United States.

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the multicultural history and role of professionals and institutions in shaping communications.

  • Demonstrate culturally proficient communication that empowers those traditionally disenfranchised in society, especially as grounded in race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and ability domestically and globally across communication and media contexts.

  • Present images and information effectively and creatively, using appropriate tools and technologies.

  • Write correctly and clearly in forms and styles appropriate for the communications professions, audiences, and the purposes they serve.

  • Demonstrate an understanding of professional ethical principles and work ethically in pursuit of truth, accuracy, fairness, and diversity.

  • Apply critical thinking skills in conducting research and evaluating information by methods appropriate to the communications professions in which they work.

  • Effectively and correctly apply basic numerical and statistical concepts.

  • Critically evaluate their own work and that of others for accuracy and fairness, clarity, appropriate style, and grammatical correctness.

  • Apply tools and technologies appropriate for the communications professions in which they work.

  • Take ownership of their own academic experience.

  • Be engaged with Drake University, the local community, and professional groups.

  • Cope and thrive in the workplace.

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