The Journalism and Media Studies Department (JMS) at the Rutgers School of Communication and Information (SC&I) has announced the launch of a new undergraduate specialization in Media Production, offering students immersive training in content creation, multimedia storytelling, and media ethics. The specialization will officially launch in the summer of 2026, reflecting SC&I’s commitment to preparing students for dynamic careers in journalism, broadcasting, documentary filmmaking, and digital media.
“This new specialization, which is open to all Journalism and Media Studies majors, reflects the core strengths of our department—critical thinking, ethical awareness, and practical skills,” said Lauren Feldman, chair and professor of Journalism and Media Studies. “We are excited to provide students with hands-on opportunities to tell stories across multiple platforms while preparing them for a wide range of professional paths.”
Preparing the Next Generation of Media Professionals
Students will build a toolkit in digital production, audio and video storytelling, and multimedia editing. With a blend of core training and flexible electives, students in this specialization will learn while doing: they will record and edit podcasts, produce and stream live events, film stories for corporate clients, and craft short documentaries about urgent and timely stories. Graduates will leave with professional portfolios demonstrating creative abilities and ethical judgment—skills in demand across today’s fast-evolving media industries.
“The Media Production specialization prepares students for careers in journalism and digital content creation, including social media,” said Steven Miller, teaching professor and director of undergraduate studies in Journalism and Media Studies. “Video is pervasive—in journalism and across industries from education and healthcare to business and advocacy—so these are skills every student should master.”
The specialization in Media Production allows Journalism and Media Studies majors to complete a set of conceptual, practice, and elective courses specifically around the media production industry.
Specialization Requirements (18 credits total, as part of the JMS major requirements)
Required Courses (9 credits):
Elective Courses (choose 3 for 9 credits; at least one 400-level elective)
Industry Expertise Behind the Curriculum
The specialization reflects years of planning and curriculum innovation by JMS faculty. Assistant Professor of Professional Practice Neal Bennett and Assistant Teaching Professor Alyse Shorland bring award-winning professional expertise in documentary filmmaking and multimedia storytelling, while faculty such as Associate Professor Khadijah Costley White and Steven Miller contribute deep experience in journalism and media ethics. Students can further hone their skills through extracurricular opportunities, including Rutgers TV and student-run media outlets, and professional internships.
Curriculum Innovation at SC&I
All new specializations and courses at Rutgers undergo rigorous review by departmental and schoolwide curriculum committees before appearing in Degree Navigator, the university’s official degree audit system. The Media Production specialization advances SC&I’s mission to offer a forward-looking education that keeps pace with technological and cultural change.
How to Declare
For details on eligibility, declaration steps, and advising, visit the Journalism and Media Studies Major page on the SC&I website.
