The details
According to a news release, the new degree expands the department's existing courses, which include programs in communication and digital media influence.
The new bachelor’s in journalism is centered around community journalism, multimedia news production and hands-on experiential learning.
Courses will include:
- The Fundamentals of Journalism
- Digital Audiences
- Media Writing and Reporting
- Careers in Community Journalism
The UTSA Department of Communication has assembled a team of faculty members to lead the journalism program.
Faculty members include:
- Pedro Cabrera, communications lecturer
- Mary Dixson, professor of instruction
- Seok Kang, professor and director of Digital Initiatives
- Ryan McPherson, professor of practice
- Charles Wright, associate professor of practice
Quote of note
“Journalists connect people, build trust and amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard,” Dixson said. “This program equips students to craft compelling reporting while working hand-in-hand with the communities they serve.”
The conditions
According to a news release, the degree’s curriculum is designed to address workforce demands and prepare students for diverse career paths, including positions as journalists, technical writers, news producers, communication specialists, marketing specialists and media managers.
Additionally, the journalism advocacy nonprofit Poynter identified San Antonio and other major Texan cities as hotspots for journalism and communication-related careers.
The program aims to address regional market needs, demonstrated by significant job growth projections in areas such as public relations, technical writing and digital media production roles. According to the new release, the field is projected to see an additional 5,000 jobs in the next several years, with a projected 14% growth in the field over the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Lastly, the new degree program is also designed to fill a gap in higher education in the state, with Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio representing one of the few local providers. UTSA's new program will provide opportunities for new students and transfer students from community colleges looking to complete their education with a four-year journalism degree.
“Students who are part of their high school journalism programs now have the option to continue to develop their critical storytelling skills at UTSA,” Cabrera said.
