Media writing and visual storytelling form the core of the undergraduate major in journalism and mass communication. Students are required to take both professional and conceptual courses offered by the school; they develop professional skills while studying the historical, legal, cultural, and institutional roles of media in society. They also complete extensive academic work outside the school, consistent with the University's commitment to the liberal arts and sciences.

The major prepares students for careers in the field. Graduates find employment in a variety of areas, such as public relations, advertising, marketing, political communication, health communication, philanthropy and fundraising communication, newspapers, magazines, radio, television, online communications and social media, publication design, photojournalism, and media research.