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Accreditation sought for C&J's journalism, mass comm programs

A number of initiatives and changes have been implemented at the Department of Communication and Journalism as it seeks accreditation for its journalism and mass communication programs.

There will be a site visit in January 2008 by a team from the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications (ACEJMC) to review the department's application.

Accreditation does not affect the department's programs for undergraduate and graduate communication students, but the faculty and administration decided to seek accreditation for its Journalism (print and broadcast) and Mass Communication (public relations and advertising) programs. Many of the nation's journalism programs are accredited by ACEJMC.

A major advantage for C&J's application is the $5.8 million renovation completed in the fall of 2007 of the C&J building.

C&J Chair John G. Oetzel and the faculty are working to ensure that its journalism and mass communication programs meet ACEJMC standards, including improvements to previously inadequate facilities. The interior renovation of C&J's historic 1948 building was completed after a year-long closure, with the project converting more than 10,000 square feet of previously unused space for the department's use.

Instructional improvements already implemented include a reorganization of the C&J advising and internship programs; creation of an advisory committee composed of professionals in the fields of print, broadcast, advertising and public relations; publication of departmental newsletters for alumni and supporters and an enhanced website; increased emphasis on fund-raising; a more diverse faculty; new classes in writing and media planning; reduced class sizes for some lab courses; improved student record-keeping; and new policies on governance ensuring the independence of the department's "C" and "J" sides.

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