Develop your storytelling skills, cultivate their journalistic instincts, and prepare for careers in the fast-paced world of media and communication. Our program focuses on preparing you to produce accurate, ethical, and compelling journalism across a variety of platforms, including print, broadcast, digital, and social media. Our hands-on experience, critical thinking, and storytelling, prepares you to navigate the complexities of the media landscape and make a positive impact through your work.
What is a multimedia journalism degree?
Reduce tuition by up to $24k
Why earn a BA in Multimedia Journalism?
Take a variety of journalism courses that cover topics such as news writing, reporting, media law and ethics, multimedia storytelling, and specialized reporting. Learn from experienced journalism professionals who provide hands-on instruction, feedback, and mentorship. Our program emphasizes experiential learning through internships and student media opportunities.
Student media
Learn by doing. Write for The Buzz, go on-air with KALA Radio, or produce a news broadcast for SAUtv.
Hands-on learning
Industry technology is integrated into our coursework. Learn to edit video, manipulate audio, and write communications for a Content Management System.
Portfolio development
During your senior year, you’ll build a comprehensive portfolio showcasing your strong writing skills and storytelling ability.
Industry-aligned curriculum
We work to make sure our program aligns with industry trends and expectations, ensuring you graduate with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.
Accelerated master's degree
Earn two degrees in five years through our 3+2 program, adding a Master of Public Health from St. Ambrose University.
What you’ll learn in your multimedia journalism program
Once you’ve mastered the basics, you’ll begin to work on in-depth storytelling learning skills and techniques to build a compelling narrative for diverse audiences across multimedia platforms. Learn to use the latest technology alongside classmates in lab spaces designed to not only enhance your technical skills but also equip you with problem-solving and communication abilities essential for success in the workforce.
- Mastery of industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, content management systems, and customer relationship management platforms
- Expertise in storytelling and communication, crafting compelling narratives that engage audiences across diverse platforms
- Proficiency in research and interview techniques
- Ability to apply ethical principles to editorial choices
Explore multimedia journalism courses
- This degree will require you to complete a total of 120 credits.
- You will complete 39 gen ed credits, 22 core communications credits, 21 credits in multimedia journalism, 38 elective credits, and 1 internship.
Sample courses
| Class code | Class title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| COMM 224 | Digital Media Production | 4 credits |
| COMM 332 | The Buzz Student Newspaper | 1-6 credits |
| COMM 333 | Digital Media Writing | 6 credits |
| COMM 337 | Digital Media Practicum | 3 credits |
| COMM 499 | Internship in Communication | 3-6 credits |
How much does a BA in Multimedia Journalism cost?
The cost of your degree will depend on several factors, like scholarships, housing, meal plans, and transfer credits. New students also pay a $100 matriculation fee. You will also need to budget for books, supplies, materials, transportation, personal costs, loan fees, and other expenses. Explore total cost of attendance.
Full-time student living on campus
| Expense | By semester | By year |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time tuition (12-18 credits)* | $18,189 | $36,378 |
| Housing** | $4,019 | $8,038 |
| Food*** | $2,670 | $5,340 |
| Technology fee | $140 | $280 |
| Total direct charges (billable) | $25,018 | $50,036 |
*Based on 2024-2025 tuition and fees. Tuition and fees are subject to change each summer.
**This cost is estimated, actual housing cost will vary by student selections.
***Cost estimate based on 3 meals per day.
How much does housing cost?
When it comes to housing, St. Ambrose University offers diverse options to meet the needs of our students. From traditional dormitories to apartment-style living, there's something for everyone. The cost of your housing will vary based on where you decide to live and the meal plan you choose.
St. Ambrose University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Accreditation and recognitions provide the assurance we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
How does SAU support MMJ students?
St. Ambrose University’s communication and digital media faculty combine expertise with real-world experience. They provide the care and attention of a small school combined with multimedia resources to prepare you for graduation. Armed with a wealth of industry knowledge and passion for student success you’ll be encouraged to ask questions, get involved, and feel confident entering into a career in multimedia journalism.
Multimedia journalism faculty
Other support resources
Student Success Center
At St. Ambrose, we want you to thrive. Access free tutoring, study groups, and supplemental instruction through our Student Success Center.
Accessibility Resource Center
Whether you need classroom accommodations, alternative exam arrangements, or disability support strategies, our Accessibility Resource Center is here to help.
Career services
Our Academic and Career Planning Center is ready to help you polish your resume and land the job or internship that will launch your career.
Are there scholarships available for BA in Multimedia Journalism?
At St. Ambrose University, we believe that education should be accessible to all. That's why we offer a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for our students. We are committed to providing our students with the resources they need to succeed academically and financially.
Ambrose Advantage Scholarship
Through the Ambrose Advantage Scholarship program, a tuition-free education at St. Ambrose University is available to any Pell Grant-eligible Loans. Learn more about the Ambrose Advantage.
Merit-based and institutional scholarships
St. Ambrose offers excellent scholarships and grants based on your strong academic performance, your talent in fine arts or athletics, or your community involvement. Explore SAU scholarships.
Transfer credits
You may be able to transfer previous college credit to cover up to 25% of your degree, saving you significant time and money. Learn how to transfer credits.
Outside scholarships
We accept scholarships from outside sources, and there are tons of options out there. Start by searching for scholarships with criteria that match your specific talents or background. Need help? Here are a few websites to begin researching your options: Fastweb, College Board Scholarship Search, Scholarships.com, Peterson's Award Database, Scholly (app download)
Don’t let cost hinder your future
"Cost is obviously a big thing for anybody going to college. When I found out about the Ambrose Advantage, it took the stress off me and my family. Now I can focus on my classes and getting a start on my career."
-Bailey Hird, Fairfield, Iowa
What’s on campus for multimedia journalism students?
If you’re looking for an immersive experience in convergent media St. Ambrose is the place for you. The best part? You can access each of these opportunities on your first day on campus. Join The Buzz, St. Ambrose’s independent student newspaper. Choose editorial content, report stories, publish newsletters, take photos, and sell and design advertising. Go on the air-waves with KALA Radio. Host a music show, run board for a live sports broadcast, or produce your own podcast. You’ll learn to operate soundboards and audio equipment inside a 24/7 FM broadcast station. Produce a news or sports show for SAUtv. Write show segments, gather on-camera interviews, or anchor a show. You can learn to operate studio equipment including a switcher, lights, and cameras, or get a feel for what it’s like to present in front of a camera.
See challenges as opportunities
“Being a part of SAUtv challenged me. But I knew not to give up, and I put my all into this course. I later fell in love with telling stories through video. I was very used to writing and being behind the scenes. But with SAUtv, I was thrown in front of the camera and was able to share those stories in a whole new way, which was very refreshing.”
-Katie Link ‘23, BA in Multimedia Journalism
What are the admission requirements for a BA in MMJ?
Here are the admissions requirements for our multimedia journalism program.
- You must have graduated from an accredited high school or earned a GED
- You must have a minimum cumulative, unweighted GPA of 2.5
- You must provide an official high school transcript
International student requirements
If you live outside of the U.S. there are different admissions requirements. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Official transcripts from secondary education
- A minimum 2.5 CGPA out of a 4.0 scale, or equivalent
- Proof of English language proficiency (minimum scores: TOEFL - 79, IELTS - 6.0)
- Copy of your passport and other documentation
What can I do with a multimedia journalism degree?
Your education and degree can help you reach your professional goals. St. Ambrose University can never promise a career or particular outcome upon graduating. We encourage you to explore potential jobs and employment settings. Here is a list of potential job titles, traits, and settings a graduate in our Multimedia Journalism program could achieve.
Potential job titles
- Broadcast journalist
- Newspaper editor
- Communications strategist
- Media consultant
- Documentary filmmaker
- Photojournalist
Potential employment settings
- Sports media company
- Marketing agency
- Corporate office
- Broadcasting companies
- Newspaper office
- Non-profit organizations
Top traits of a multimedia journalist
- Writing
- Reporting
- Public speaking
- Video production
- Publishing
- Copywriting
Industry Facts
- The median annual wage for news analysts, reporters, and journalists was $57,500 in May 2023.
- The median annual wage for editors was $75,020 in May 2023.
For more information on financial employment and wages, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook for both Reporters and Editors.
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