Handbook

Journalism is the activity and product of gathering, verifying, crafting and presenting news and information to help citizens make the best possible decisions about their lives, communities, societies and governments. The elements that distinguish journalism from other forms of communication make it essential to democratic societies. These include journalistic independence, a discipline of verification, an obligation to the truth and a loyalty to the public – characteristics that separate journalism from an expanding flow of data, as the digital age rewrites the role of the news media in society.

This makes journalism one of the most dynamic programs to study at university. In this minor, you will have the opportunity to gain professional, practical skills across the full range of digital, print and broadcast media platforms and production technologies. You will learn the building blocks of news while developing a critical understanding of the history, power and shifting context of journalism and addressing the vital issues of the news media today. The minor incorporates the concept of constructive journalism, which has a particular focus on finding and presenting solutions to societal issues raised in the stories produced. This unique combination of the practice and study of journalism will equip you to produce high-quality reporting that empowers the informed. In addition, our extensive internships program and publishing opportunities provide you with the industry experience needed to open the door to this exciting profession.

Students from a wide range of disciplines also take journalism units to gain professional skills in communication using cutting-edge approaches and media platforms, which boosts employability.

Availability
Journalism is listed in A2000 Bachelor of Arts at Caulfield as a minor and major, and in A0502 Diploma of Liberal Arts at Caulfield as a major.