Photo of students in news studio

Department of Journalism » Photojournalism

Photojournalism Undergraduate Program

The undergraduate degree program is designed to accommodate the needs of a full range of students, from beginning photographers to those with prior experience in photography. The course of study is dedicated to producing photojournalists who will succeed in the competitive market, but allows the flexibility to exercise creative skills and explore other forms of photography and imaging. Students are required to complete courses in the fundamental principles and practices of the profession before beginning the photojournalism sequence. News writing and reporting classes are also required to ensure graduates gain the skills necessary for careers as well-rounded journalists.

Course Offerings

COM JO 305 Basic Photography: Students learn the fundamentals of black and white 35mm photography and darkroom skills, including film processing and traditional printing, and are introduced to the basics of photojournalism and digital technology.

COM JO 312 Introduction to Photojournalism: An introductory course for students interested in pursuing a career in photojournalism. Students photograph assignments under working press conditions, and advance their skills in both digital and film-based 35mm photography.

COM JO 410 Advanced Photography for Non-Majors: A course for students interested in advancing their skills in all forms of photography and imaging.

COM JO 513 Advanced Photojournalism: An intensive course designed to give students the skills to produce professional quality work meeting publication standards. Weekly assignments require students to produce self-generated picture packages, complete with written story and captions.

COM JO 515 Photo Editing: A course introducing students to the responsibilities and duties of the professional picture editor. Students will acquire skills in editing, layout and design, and digital imaging. Class work also includes critiques and discussions of ethical and legal issues.

COM JO 537 Digital Fundamentals: A course enabling students to develop expertise in the use of digital photo technology including digital cameras, image management, remote transmission of photos, output to printers, and use of photos on a web site.

COM JO 502 Professional Portfolio: A course preparing students for entry into a career in photojournalism. Weekly assignment work is designed to build a professional quality portfolio, and to advance critical journalism skills including story development, writing, and meeting deadlines.

Undergraduate Photojournalism Sequence

Required courses:
  • COM JO 305 Basic Photography
  • COM JO 308 Newswriting and Reporting II
  • COM JO 312 Introduction to Photojournalism
  • COM JO 513 Advanced Photojournalism
  • COM JO 515 Photo Editing
Electives:
  • COM JO 410 Advanced Photography for Non-Majors
  • COM JO 502 Professional Portfolio
  • COM JO 537 Digital Fundamentals

Admissions Information

For undergraduate admissions information, please contact admissions@bu.edu.

For graduate admissions information, please contact comgrad@bu.edu.

For specific questions about the program, please contact Associate Professor Peter Southwick at pasouth@bu.edu or 617 353-3463.