Journalism at University of Maryland

Hi everyone, I want to pursue journalism as a career, and I'm interested in the University of Maryland's journalism program. Can anyone share their experiences or thoughts on the program's quality, resources, and internship opportunities?

The University of Maryland (UMD) has a well-regarded journalism program housed in the Philip Merrill College of Journalism. Many students and alumni have praised the program's quality, resources, and internship opportunities. Here are a few key aspects that may interest you:

1. Curriculum and faculty: UMD's journalism program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers various aspects of journalism such as news reporting, broadcast, multimedia storytelling, and data journalism. The faculty at the Philip Merrill College includes experienced professionals and academics, many of whom have significant industry experience and bring valuable practical insights to their teaching.

2. Resources and facilities: The program provides access to excellent resources, including advanced multimedia labs, a television studio, and a radio station (WMUC). Additionally, students can take advantage of the college's proximity to Washington, D.C., which gives them unique opportunities for reporting on national and international news, politics, and issues affecting the region.

3. Internship and career opportunities: UMD's journalism program places a strong emphasis on gaining practical experience through internships, and students are encouraged to pursue internships at various media organizations in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and beyond. The college has strong connections with various news organizations, including The Washington Post, NPR, and CNN, among others. Many graduates have secured positions in prestigious news organizations across the nation.

4. Extracurricular activities: You can join and participate in various campus media publications and outlets like the Diamondback (the campus newspaper), Stories Beneath the Shell (a student-run multimedia news outlet), and Maryland Newsline (a Capitol News Service television show). These outlets can provide valuable hands-on experience and help you build your journalism portfolio.

Overall, the University of Maryland's journalism program is well-rounded and offers a great foundation for aspiring journalists. You can expect to gain practical experience, learn from experienced faculty, and have access to a wide range of resources and opportunities within and outside the campus.