Journalism

How do you share news when information is consumed in a variety of ways and at all hours of the day? That’s the challenge journalists confront in a hyperconnected world and a 24/7 news cycle. It’s also why journalism is one of the best majors for students who love to communicate and are looking for exciting career options in print, broadcast and digital media. Common career paths: reporter, photographer, photojournalist, multimedia journalist, videographer, anchor, news director, editor, sports commentator, blogger.

As a journalism student at Canisius, you’ll understand what makes a story newsworthy and how best to tell it. You’ll keep up with a field that’s constantly changing by learning the latest technologies and platforms, including podcasting. You’ll also learn how freedom of the press is one of the fundamental features of a functioning democracy. By the time you earn your degree, you’ll have a versatile skillset that will enable you to launch a career in journalism or a related area such as public relations or advertising. 

An Interdisciplinary Approach

To be a good journalist is to be well-rounded. In fact, journalism and the broader area of liberal arts have a lot in common. Both demand critical thinking and the ability to synthesize information from diverse sources. Our Bachelor of Science in Journalism program will arm you with the tools needed to thrive as a professional. You’ll have a set of transferable skills, including written and oral communication, teamwork, problem-solving and critical thinking. Guided by Jesuit values, you’ll also understand how journalism can play a key role in advancing justice.

Multiple Interests and Unique Paths

As a journalism major, you can choose from 3 concentrations: narrative journalism, multimedia journalism or sports broadcasting and journalism. You might also consider pairing the major with a related discipline such as digital media arts, communications or marketing. Whatever combination you choose, you’ll have a unique path that’s flexible enough to accommodate multiple interests.

Learning from Experts

In addition to our full-time faculty, you’ll learn from part-time faculty who currently work in the field. We’re proud to have a roster of adjunct faculty that includes these local experts:

Bruce Andriatch, Assistant Managing Editor, The Buffalo News
James Caskie, News Producer, WGRZ-TV
Claudine Ewing, Weekend Anchor and Reporter, WGRZ-TV
Tim Graham, Sports Journalist for The Athletic and Co-Host of TSN Drive on 1050-AM
John Gurtler, Sports Announcer, National Lacrosse League Buffalo Bandits

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Learning By Doing

Whether you’re a writer, a photographer or even a podcaster, there’s something for every journalism student to try at Canisius—from a variety of clubs to our campus newspaper, The Griffin. If your passion is sports broadcasting, you can take advantage of our partnership with ESPN.

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Professional Internships

To understand the life of a working journalist, even the most creative assignments can’t compete with a meaningful internship. Gaining invaluable hands-on experience at newspapers, television stations, radio stations and digital media outlets will help you apply classroom concepts and sharpen your journalism skills.

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A New Generation of Professional Journalists

In 2020 Adam Gorski ’22 and Mike Pesarchik ’21 each received a scholarship from the Greater Buffalo Society of Professional College Journalists. Their achievement reflects not only their hard work but also the strength of the journalism program at Canisius.

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Distinctions

Students can apply for a summer internship with the award-winning Pittsburgh Post-Gazette through the Maria Scrivani ’76 Journalism Fellowship.