The Visual Journalism & Photography program is comprised of two tracks to fit our student’s needs as they pursue their chosen career. The Photojournalism & Documentary track requires 45 semester hours and leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree. The Photography track requires 36 hours and can lead to a Bachelor of Arts degree. Both tracks within the major requires additional coursework within the School of Media & Communication as well as a declared minor outside of the School and Colonnade requirements for a total of 120 hours. 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 list of each class taught within the Visual Journalism & Photography program:
VJP 101 | Influence of the Photograph
[ 3 hours | offered both semesters | this course does not qualify for VJP major]
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.
VJP 131 | Fundamentals of Photography
[ 3 hours | offered both semesters | students seeking PJ&D or Photography tracks are encouraged to take this course their first semester of their freshman year ]
Colonnade Explorations – Arts and Humanities credit
REQUIRED FOR BOTH TRACKS
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).
VJP 261 | Mobile Media Storytelling
[ 3 hours | offered both semesters ]
Colonnade Explorations – Arts and Humanities credit
ELECTIVE FOR PHOTOGRAPHY TRACK
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.
VJP 330 | Short Form Documentary
[ 3 hours | offered fall semesters | VJP 131 prerequisite; or permission ]
REQUIRED FOR BOTH TRACKS
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.
VJP 331 | Photojournalism
[ 3 hours | offered spring semesters | VJP 131 prerequisite; or permission ]
REQUIRED FOR BOTH TRACKS
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.
VJP 332 | VISUAL MEDIA EDITING AND DESIGN
[ 3 hours | offered spring semesters | VJP 131 or VJP 261 prerequisite; or permission ]
REQUIRED FOR BOTH TRACKS
A study of the process of making informed and ethical decisions concerning the publication of still images and video in journalistic and other visual media environments. Topics include picture choice, editing software, traditional, and online presentation design.
VJP 333 | STUDIO LIGHTING
[ 3 hours | offered spring semesters | VJP 330 or VJP 331 prerequisite; or permission ]
REQUIRED FOR BOTH TRACKS
Application of techniques using lighting in the studio and on location. Weekly assignments include portraits, products and illustrations. Ethical implications of lighting techniques discussed. DSLR or mirrorless camera and external hard drive required.
VJP 339 | VISUAL MEDIA BUSINESS PRACTICES
[ 3 hours | offered fall semesters | junior or senior standing ]
ELECTIVE FOR PJ&D and PHOTOGRAPHY
Students will explore strategies and business practices required to be an independent contractor in the visual media profession, including setup costs, pricing, contracts, marketing strategies, and effective client relationships, using hands-on projects and assignments.
VJP 390 | Cultural History of Photography
[ 3 hours | offered fall semester and winter and summer terms | 21 hours of Foundations and Explorations course; or junior status ]
Colonnade Connections – Local to Global
ELECTIVE FOR PJ&D or PHOTOGRAPHY TRACK
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.
VJP 430 | Advanced Short Form Documentary
[ 3 hours | offered fall semesters | VJP 330 & VJP 331 prerequisite; or permission ]
VJP 430 or VJP 431 REQUIRED FOR PJ&D | ELECTIVE FOR PJ&D or PHOTOGRAPHY
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.
VJP 431 | Advanced Photojournalism
[ 3 hours | offered spring semester only | VJP 330 & VJP 331 prerequisite; or permission ]
VJP 430 or VJP 431 REQUIRED FOR PJ&D | ELECTIVE FOR PJ&D or PHOTOGRAPHY
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.
VJP 433 | Advanced Lighting
[ 3 hours | offered spring semesters even years only | VJP 333 prerequisite ]
REQUIRED FOR PHOTOGRAPHY | ELECTIVE FOR PJ&D
On-location lighting and advanced studio techniques. Emphasis placed on portraits, commercial, editorial and illustrative photography. Final project includes a lighting portfolio. Off-campus transportation, small systems strobes, DSLR or mirrorless camera and external hard drive required
VJP 436 | Photojournalism & DOCUMENTARY Projects
[ 3 hours | offered spring semesters | VJP 430 or VJP 431 prerequisite; or permission ]
REQUIRED FOR PJ&D
Capstone for Photojournalism and Documentary 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.