A major in Photojournalism requires 45 semester hours and leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree. The Photojournalism minor requires 21 hours. The Photojournalism major requires additional coursework within the School of Media as well as a declared minor outside of the School and Colonnade requirements. A complete list of all required courses and a four-year plan for the major can be viewed on the WKU website. Below is a breakdown of each class within the Photojournalism program:
PJ101 | Influence of the Photograph
[ 3 hours | this course does not qualify for PJ major or minor credit ]
Colonnade Explorations – Arts and Humanities credit
A study of the prevalence and impact of photographs that are disseminated throughout social media and traditional publications. Beyond analyzing the creation and structure of photographs, special emphasis and discussion will focus on how these images inform and persuade society.
PJ131 | Fundamentals of Photography
[ 3 hours | students seeking PJ as a major are encouraged to take this course their first semester of their freshman year ]
Required for Major and Minor | Colonnade Explorations – Arts and Humanities credit
Introduces students to the principles of photography, including exposure, composition, light, and moments, through demonstrations, field assignments, and class critiques. A DSLR, mirrorless camera, or high-quality, adjustable point-and-shoot camera is required (no cell phone cameras).
PJ261 | Mobile Media Storytelling
[ 3 hours | this course does not qualify for PJ major credit ]
Elective for Minor | Colonnade Explorations – Arts and Humanities credit
Online journalistic storytelling using photographs, words, audio, video, screen design, and data visualization. Weekly assignments explore the context of visual outlets, including social media and community engagement. Smartphone required.
PJ330 | Short Form Documentary
[ 3 hours | offered fall semester only | PJ131 prerequisite; or permission ]
Required for Major | Elective for Minor
Analysis and hands-on application of visual storytelling, editing techniques, and story structure, primarily used in the documentary video genre. Requires off-campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless equipment with video capabilities, audio equipment, and an external hard drive.
PJ331 | Photojournalism
[ 3 hours | offered spring semester only | PJ131 prerequisite; or permission ]
Required for Major and Minor
The practice of photojournalism as a means of storytelling through multiple-picture fieldwork projects in the community, caption writing, presentation, portfolio development, and ethical decision-making. Off-campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless camera, and external hard drive required.
PJ333 | Lighting Technologies
[ 3 hours | offered spring semester only | PJ330 or PJ331 prerequisite; or permission ]
Required for Major and Minor
Application of techniques using flash and video lighting in the studio and on location. Weekly assignments include portraits, features, and illustrations. Ethical implication of lighting techniques discussed. On-location lighting equipment, off-campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless camera, and external hard drive required.
PJ336 | Picture Editing
[ 3 hours | offered spring semester only | SOM102 & PJ131 prerequisite; or permission ]
Elective for Major | Required for Minor
A study of the process of making informed and ethical decisions concerning the publication of still images and video. Topics include picture choice, traditional and online presentation design, and the role of the picture editor in media management.
PJ390 | Cultural History of Photography
[ 3 hours | offered fall semester and winter and summer terms | 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations course; or junior status ]
Elective for Major | Required for Minor | Colonnade Connections – Local to Global
Students will gain an understanding of the impact of the photographic image in different media, how photography has played a significant role in recording history since the 19th Century, and how the evolution of visual media has changed our perception of the world.
PJ430 | Advanced Short Form Documentary
[ 3 hours | offered fall semester only | PJ330 & PJ331 prerequisite; or permission ]
Required for Major
An advanced, project-based application of documentary storytelling, editing, narrative structure, and journalistic ethics, with peer review and critique. Weekly assignments direct the student to understand a structured approach to the genre. Requires off-campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless equipment with video capabilities, audio equipment, and an external hard drive.
PJ431 | Advanced Photojournalism
[ 3 hours | offered spring semester only | PJ330 & PJ331 prerequisite; or permission ]
Required for Major | Elective for Minor
Application and development of advanced visual storytelling skills, including multiple-picture projects; covering news, features, sports, and portraits; writing; online presentation; interpersonal communication; and ethical decision-making. Off campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless camera, and external hard drive required.
PJ436 | Photojournalism Projects
[ 3 hours | offered spring semester only | PJ430 & PJ431 prerequisite; or permission ]
Required for Major
Emphasis on long-term projects based on critical thinking and journalistic ethical discussion. A student portfolio is presented to reflect mastery of skills. Guest lecturers from the visual industry enhance student learning. Requires off-campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless equipment with video capabilities, audio equipment, and an external hard drive.
PJ439 | Advanced Lighting and Contract Photography
[ 3 hours | offered spring semester even years only | PJ333 prerequisite ]
Elective for Major | Elective for Minor
Advanced lighting techniques applied to contract photography, as well as business practices related to a working studio. Final project includes a lighting portfolio and a business plan. Off campus transportation, DSLR or mirrorless camera, and external hard drive required.