Certificate of Achievement (Transcripted): Journalism and Media Studies

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Certificate in a timely manner. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

The certificate program in Journalism and Media Studies offers students a unique blend of theory and practice. The program provides critical and cultural analysis of media and communications in conjunction with a hands-on production sequence in print, digital, and web-based journalism, leading to potential entry-level positions in a variety of media and communications fields. Students work at least one semester as a staff member for SAC’s nationally recognized student media outlet, el Don.

Apply the basic principles of journalism such as accuracy, fairness and public service

Discuss the historic, cultural, legal and ethical underpinnings of U.S. Mass Media

Practice the principles of communicating clearly through print, digital, and visual media

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

Comprehensive Education Plan: You are required to meet with a counselor for a comprehensive educational plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor in your first semester.

First Semester

10-12 units
JAMS 121
Reporting and Writing the News
An introduction to evaluating, gathering, and writing news across multiple platforms under newsroom conditions. Includes role of the journalist in a multi-media environment and the legal and ethical issues related to reporting. Writing experiences include: web-based and multi-media reporting, interviewing techniques, research methods, application of media law, writing under deadline and use of AP Style.
    JAMS 123A
    Multimedia News Production
    A production-based course designed around a functioning media organization, providing students practical training in print, digital, web-based and social media through work as members of the campus news magazine el Don, its website eldonnews.org and other el Don platforms. Students utilize a digital media laboratory to gain practical experience in a variety of disciplines, including writing, editing, design, photography, audio, visual, multimedia and emerging technologies. Arranged laboratory hours (TBA) 7 hours per week.
      CHOICE: Journalism and Media Studies Elective

      Second Semester

      6 units
      JAMS 103
      Introduction to Visual Communications
      This multimedia course explores the social, cultural and historical implications of visual communications from Gutenberg's printing press to present day digital media. Using works of philosophical, historical and cultural importance students will analyze and debate the changes in the way visual communications affect society, and shape cultural values.
        Plan 1: 3A. Arts
        Plan 2: 3A. Arts
        JAMS 105
        Mass Media and Society
        Exploration of mass communication and the interrelationships of media with society including history, structure and trends in a digital age. Examines major media forms, theories and effects in our information-conscious culture.
          Plan 1: 3B. Humanities
          Plan 2: 4. Social and Behavioral Sciences