May 17, 2021

Central Washington University students interested in becoming expert writers in their field have a new option for specialization this fall with the introduction of the Entertainment and Lifestyle Writing Certificate, housed in the newly renamed Media & Journalism program of the Department of Communication.

Applications are now being accepted for the 15-credit certificate, which forms part of the newly revamped Media & Journalism major, available in a large plan (62 credits) or a small plan (47 credits) format. The Department of Communication will also begin offering a 28-credit Minor in Journalism this fall. 

Another 63-credit Communication BA, also new this fall, completes the set of majors offered by the Department of Communication, which include the BA in Media & Journalism and a BA in Public Relations.

Francesco Somaini, chair of the Department of Communication, explained that the smaller number of credits required for the two new BAs allows students interested in communication and mass media to more easily double-major with another discipline without having to extend their undergraduate studies beyond the canonical four years.

“The media and communication professionals of today and tomorrow have better chances of succeeding in the job market and their long-term careers if they can complement their expertise in the delivery of messages to broad audiences with knowledge in at least another specialized field,” Somaini said. “Conversely, experts in any discipline could use the transferable skills learned in communication, journalism and public relations programs to become more effective professionals, managers, leaders and advocates.”

Students interested in any of the majors, minors and certificates offered by the Department of Communication can apply online. Email Francesco.Somaini@cwu.edu with questions.