Inform. Entertain. Design. Engage.

In the MTSU School of Journalism and Strategic Media, students get to learn from experts in their fields and gain real-world experience by partaking in exciting opportunities. Whether it’s joining our student-run newsroom, calling games for ESPN+, or joining our in-house advertising agency, the SoJSM offers something for every student looking for a career in media!

MTSU’s internationally recognized and accredited School of Journalism and Strategic Media equips students with the professional knowledge and hands-on experience necessary for success in a dynamic media landscape. Our education model balances professional skills with a broader understanding of key concepts related to traditional and emerging media. Through our core classes, all students gain a solid foundation in digital skills, professional writing, and relevant technologies, going hands-on with top-of-the-line equipment as they learn how to use video, audio, photography, and social media to tell stories, build audiences, and design portfolios.

A Flexible Degree

The School of Journalism and Strategic Media offers two degrees: a B.S. in Journalism, with classes tailored by concentration, and a B.S. in Advertising and Public Relations, with a focus in either area. Furthermore, we are working to develop online and mixed methods for pursuing a degree; for example, students in the Media Studies concentration can take in-person classes, online classes, or a mix of both!

What Can You Study?

The School of Journalism and Strategic Media is part of the broader College of Media and Entertainment. Our college includes the Center for Innovation in Media, bringing together the University’s two campus radio stations, WMOT and WMTS, and the school newspaper, Sidelines, along with TV broadcasting facilities used by our Middle Tennessee News team. This space enhances the student experience with further opportunities to acquire and use digital media skills!

These concentrations provide practical skills and experience through classes, lab courses, fieldwork, and internships, all while acquainting students with knowledge of the history, theory, ethics, and law of media communication. No matter what path students choose, they’ll receive a well-rounded education that gives them the tools to succeed in an ever-evolving media environment!

The College of Media and Entertainment offers a graduate program leading to a Master of Science degree in Media and Communication.

Students may minor in the School of Journalism and Strategic Media. Options include Journalism, Public Relations, Advertising and Media Design.

Leaders in Understanding Media

Faculty draw from extensive professional experience and internationally-recognized research to teach the latest skills and concepts in award-winning, innovative ways. The MTSU Social Media Insights Lab is just one example, providing students with real-time information about what’s happening on social media! With industry-leading technology, the SMIL serves as the definitive learning environment for topics such as social media management, influencer engagement, and more – all essential for budding professionals looking to navigate and thrive in an increasingly online, increasingly connected world.

See and Hear What Our Students Say

The SoJSM is Hiring!

The School of Journalism and Strategic Media is seeking candidates for two tenure-track positions in our Media Design and Sports Media concentrations! For more information about degree and work experience requirements, and to apply, click on the links below.

Media Design, Tenure-Track Faculty

Sports Media, Tenure-Track Faculty

Mission Statement

The mission of the School of Journalism and Strategic Media is to:

• Provide an undergraduate education combining contemporary media instruction with hands-on professional experience.
• Educate students about the role and responsibilities of a free press and media in a democratic and diverse society.
• Prepare students for careers in journalism, communication, and strategic media in an ever-evolving media environment.
• Contribute to the body of knowledge in journalism, communication, and strategic media through research, scholarship, creative, and professional activity.
• Create an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity in its curriculum, organizations, and community engagement through its students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

A PDF copy of the Mission Statement can be downloaded here.

Our Strategic Plan

The SoJSM’s Strategic Plan can be viewed here.

Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan

The SoJSM’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Plan can be viewed here.

Our Assessment Plan

The SoJSM’s Assessment Plan can be viewed here.

Retention Information

The SoJSM’s retention information can be viewed here.