Why Journalism Majors Should Study Abroad
By James Tidwell, Ph.D.
Chair, Journalism
 |
"The critical thinking, writing, communication, leadership and other skills that EIU journalism students learn in their major and liberal arts classes are demonstrable assets when applying for jobs after graduation. These skills help assure advancement and success throughout their careers. The stories on which journalists report and the career opportunities available to journalism majors are increasingly affected by sweeping global political, social, economic, technological and other changes. The best prepared journalism majors who aspire for success and advancement throughout their careers have broadened their knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the world and have “been there and done that.” There is no substitute for spending time in another culture and place to do so. Journalism majors are encouraged to spend at least one semester (an academic year is even better) in a study abroad program. At a minimum, journalism majors should participate in a short-time study abroad program led by a member of the EIU faculty. Your journalism major adviser and the department chair welcome an opportunity to assist you in planning a study abroad experience that is right for you. Journalism majors may qualify for a study abroad scholarship. Contact the department chair for details." |
Recommended Study Abroad Programs for Journalism Majors
Australia
Central Queensland University
Rockhampton
Semester or Year
CQUniveristy's main campus is located in Rockhampton, a city of about 60,000. "Rocky", as it is most commonly called, has a small town feel. It is known as the city "where the Outback meets the Reef". CQUniversity has many course options that will help you connect with Australian culture, such as Asian Pacific tourism, scuba diving lessons at the Great Barrier Reef, and indigenous Australian culture courses. While at CQU, Journalism majors can take lower-division core, core-option and elective courses.
Ireland
Dublin City University
Dublin
Semester or Year
Established in 1980, DCU has already grown to a student population of over 9,500. Dublin's population has reached over one million people, but the city still retains its charm and village feel. There are many museums, sights, shops, restaurants, theatres, and pubs scattered throughout the city. Additionally, the small coastal towns that many associate with Ireland are easily reached by traveling just outside the city. Core-option courses are offered for Journalism majors at Dublin City University.
Germany
Universität Lüneburg
Lüneburg
Semester or Year
The majority of courses taught at Lüneburg are taught in German, but you will be able to choose from some courses taught in English as well. Lüneburg not only has a rich history but a lively present. With numerous museums, theatres, cinemas, pubs, bistros, cafes, and discos, you will find plenty to do and see. Stop by the city markets on Wednesdays or Saturdays to experience the mixing of old and new in modern Lüneburg. JOU 3952 is an example of a course offered for Journalism majors at Universität Lüneburg.
Greece
Odyssey in Athens
Athens
Summer, Semester or Year
Odyssey in Athens is designed to afford college students a rich cultural experience in the birthplace of Western civilization while they take accredited, upper-level courses in their chosen fields of study. Odyssey in Athens is based in the facilities of the University of Indianapolis, Athens Campus in the heart of downtown - footsteps away from the Plaka, the old section of Athens at the base of the Acropolis.
Italy
Palazzi: Apicius and FUA
Florence
Summer, Semester or Year
Against the backdrop of Florence, a vibrant city layered in Renaissance art and history, you will experience an outstanding cultural environment where students will be able to nurture their talents. Both schools, Apicius and FUA, are located within walking distance of such landmarks as the Uffizi Gallery museum, the Palazzo Vecchio and The Accademia. Palazzi offers upper-division and general education courses for Journalism majors.
Japan
Kansai Gaidai University
Hirakata, Osaka
Semester or Year
Learn how Japanese journalists report the news differently from their Western counterparts. Since all courses in Kansai Gaidai University's Asian Studies Program, aside from those focusing on the Japanese language, are conducted in English, it is possible for students with no previous Japanese training to pursue an in-depth study of Japan and Asia.
North Cyprus
Eastern Mediterranean University
Famagusta
Summer, Semester or Year
Eastern Mediterranean University is located on an island in the Mediterranean Sea in the midst of three continents, which makes it easy and economical to travel to Greece, Turkey, the Middle East, and Egypt. EMU is a comprehensive university with strong programs in many subject areas. All EIU students receive a free room at EMU. Literary Styles in Journalism is an upper-division course offered at Eastern Mediterranean University.
United Kingdom
University of Westminster
London
Summer, Semester or Year
Located in the center of London, Westminster students have easy access to London's world class theatres, libraries, museums, shops, and other entertainment venues. London is a city of 8 million people with enough museums, social and cultural events, gardens, shopping, and sight-seeing to keep you busy for months, if not years! You will never be bored as a student studying in London. JOU 4771, among others, is a course offered at the University of Westminster.
University of Winchester
Winchester, England
Semester or Year
Winchester prides itself on being a very student-centered campus, and its small student body will help you feel at-home. Winchester was once the site the mythical Round Table of King Arthur. Today, you will find plenty of activities in and around Winchester to keep you busy; Stonehenge is just a stones-throw away while the seaside resort towns of Bornemouth and Poole are just an hour away. London is also an hour by train. Investigative Journalism (The Innocence Project) is a course offered at the University of Winchester for Journalism majors.
University of Glamorgan
Treforest, Wales
Semester or Year
Glamorgan is located in the small town of Treforest. Treforest is only minutes from the larger Pontypridd and just north of the Welsh capital, Cardiff. World class theatres, museums, galleries, and great football (soccer) matches are all within easy reach of Treforest. Glamorgan's location offers the best of both worlds: a small town feel with big city opportunities available at your doorstep. Journalism majors can take upper-division electives and ones with concentrations in Photojournalism, New and Emerging Media and Broadcast News will find core classes at the University of Glamorgan.
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