Communication and Journalism
Academic Department
Students in Communication Studies learn how people talk and share ideas with others in different situations, like with family, friends, at work, in government, and with people from other cultures.
Journalism & Media Studies teaches students how media is changing and helps them get ready to do well in the future. As a student majoring in Journalism and Media Studies, you will learn how to write, record, edit, and create content for newspapers, tv, social media, and websites.
Telling Stories, Sharing Voices
If you decide to study Communication Studies you will take classes that show how people share messages in many situations – like with family, friends, at work, in politics, and with different cultures.
Create. Connect. Communicate
The University of Northern Colorado’s Journalism Department helps students learn how to become storytellers. Students get hands-on experience and support from teachers to succeed in today’s changing media world.
Celebrating Our Department's Achievements
Students Recognized at 2025 Honors Convocation
Congratulations to Mason Palagyi, Dale Bodine, Conlan Moe, Sophia Tavanello, Jaeden Nelson, and Anders Wolle for being recognized at the 2025 Honors Convocation!
National Association of Broadcasters and Broadcast Education Association
In April 2025, the students went to NAB (National Association of Broadcasters) and BEA (Broadcast Education Association) conferences in Las Vegas
Students attend the Online News Association
The Online News Association's yearly conference brings together top leaders in journalism and technology to share ideas, learn new skills, and connect with others.
Department News
Careers in Communication & Journalism
A degree from UNC’s Communication and Journalism Department can help you get a job in news, social media, marketing, TV, and more. You’ll learn how to tell stories, share information, and work with others to communicate in today’s busy media world.
UNC Alumni Careers
Media and Communications: Many UNC graduates find jobs in media and communication. They work as writers, journalist, and public relations professionals, and have built successful careers in these fields.
Education: Many students who earn communication degrees become teachers, but some use what they’ve learned in other jobs, like creating lessons or helping with school programs.
Management and Operations: UNC graduates are ready to take on leadership and management roles in nonprofit organizations, schools, and both private and public companies.
Alumni Highlights
Class of 2025
"You are doing what you are doing. You are making your ends meet. You are doing your goals You are going to cross that finish line. You got this far - keep going." Check out Journalism graduate, Sophia Tavanello's incredible experience and journey at UNC.
Sophia Tavanello
Journalism
Class of 2022
"The UNC Journalism department was instrumental in shaping me as a journalist and young professional, helping me find my voice and discover my passions. Every single one of the professors is supportive and genuinely invested in our success, offering guidance on internships, careers and personal development."
Matilda Preisendorf
Journalism with a minor in Political Science
Staff Writer/ Journalist for Local Profile, located in Plano, Texas
Class of 2024
"In my current role, I apply the knowledge and skills I gained through Communication Studies major on a daily basis. Thank you for your dedication to students and for the meaningful impact you have had on my educational journey."
Ty Lamm
Communication Studies with a minor in Leadership Studies
Collective Impact Coordinator, United Way of Weld County
Bear in Mind Podcast
"Bear in Mind" is a regular podcast made by the University of Northern Colorado. It talks about important topics in the community and the country, and includes voices from UNC teachers, staff, and former students.
Bear News
Bear news is created with guidance from the Journalism & Media Studies program. The show's focus is the campus, but reporters also cover city, state and national events that affect the campus community.
The Mirror
The Mirror is the student-run newspaper at the University of Northern Colorado. It covers many different topics about campus life. The mirror is printed once a month during the school year and is always available.
Internships
Students interested in internships should read the important documents and forms below.
Internship Forms for Supervisors
Journalism & Media Studies Scholarships
JMS offers a variety of scholarship opportunities. All are handled through the Office of Financial Aid. For more information about these opportunities, please refer to the brochure linked below.
The Colorado Broadcasters Association offers three $2,000 scholarships each year. You can download the application form the association’s website. Be sure to note the early February deadline.
The Society of Professional Journalists Colorado Pro Chapter offers two scholarships of up to $2,000 each year. Details are available on the organization’s website. Note the Jan. 31 deadline.