How's the Journalism program at Cal Poly SLO?

I've been researching journalism programs and Cal Poly SLO caught my eye. If any current students or alumni can shed light on the hands-on experiences, curriculum, and career opportunities for journalism majors at Cal Poly SLO, that'd be super helpful!

The Journalism program at Cal Poly SLO is well-regarded for its practical, hands-on approach to teaching the subject. The curriculum is rooted in the university's "Learn by Doing" philosophy, which emphasizes real-world application and experience.

In terms of hands-on experiences, journalism students at Cal Poly have access to several on-campus media outlets, such as the Mustang News (print and digital newspaper), KCPR (radio station), and CPTV (TV news station). By participating in these outlets, students have the opportunity to practice skills like reporting, writing, video production, and radio broadcasting. Additionally, the Journalism Department frequently collaborates with local news organizations, giving students a chance to work on projects and internships in the field.

Curriculum-wise, the Journalism program offers a variety of courses that cover different aspects of the field, such as multimedia journalism, broadcast news, public relations, and sports reporting. Students are also required to take an ethics course, which explores the principles and responsibilities of journalism in a democratic society. Throughout the program, there is a strong emphasis on storytelling and engaging audiences through various media formats.

As for career opportunities, Cal Poly SLO's Journalism program has a strong track record of producing successful, industry-ready graduates. The department hosts several career events, such as alumni panels and workshops, to assist students in networking and learning about job prospects. Additionally, Cal Poly's connections to the media industry often result in a healthy pipeline for internships, which can eventually lead to full-time positions.

Many alumni go on to pursue careers in journalism at local, regional, and national news organizations across print, digital, and broadcast platforms. Some graduates also use their skills to enter related fields, such as public relations, marketing, and content creation.

Overall, Cal Poly SLO's Journalism program offers a comprehensive, hands-on approach to learning the craft while providing ample resources and networking opportunities to help students successfully enter the field after graduation.