By Alicia Cook

Broadcast journalism, once a concentration under English in the Humanities Division of the College, is now its own major

“Now more than ever, Broadcast Journalism requires professionals with skill, knowledge, wisdom, and integrity. Our new program in recognizes this need and will help prepare our students for careers in an industry that is rapidly changing and increasingly demanding,” said Dr. Tresmaine Grimes, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean of Faculty. “Elevating broadcast journalism from a concentration to a major will improve our students’ preparation for this important career.”

The broadcast journalism program at Bloomfield College will prepare students for professional careers in electronic and print news gathering, analysis, and reporting.

This major is also for those who prefer to be “behind the camera.” Students will learn how to operate microphones, recording equipment, and other devices. Students will also learn how to edit, produce, and/or direct the news.

Along with taking journalism courses, students will receive practical experience by providing content for the College’s internet-based radio station, WBCR, attending special events on and off campus, and national conferences. Last year, students were provided opportunities to visit various news offices, including NBC, as well as interview Gayle King, co-host of "CBS This Morning" and Editor-at-Large of the award-winning O, the Oprah Magazine, when she visited Bloomfield College.

For over 10 years, the program has had a thriving internship program with students working at such institutions as: NBC, ESPN, WBGO, BET, WBLS, Pfizer, CBS-Sports, MTV, and DKNY.

For six years, the broadcast journalism program has been the only program on campus that is iPad-based. Upon entering the program, students receive an iPad, keyboard, microphone, and specialized apps. They use this equipment daily in their writing and productions classes.

In addition to the broadcast journalism courses already offered at the College, further courses have been added, including journalism I, journalism II, sports journalism, media ethics, mass communications research,  broadcast journalism elective, and utilizing tablet computers.

Teaching in the program are Dr. Jeanne Nutter, Coordinator of Broadcast Journalism and Professor of Broadcast Journalism; Esther Dillard, Assistant Professor of Broadcast Journalism and former reporter and anchor in several television markets; Doug Doyle, award-winning journalist and news director of WBCR; and Karyn Collins, award-winning journalist and adjunct professor.

"The addition of the new Broadcast Journalism program expands the offerings in the Division of Humanities," said Dr. Nutter, whose list of accomplishments include nothing short of publishing books, creating exhibits, producing films that place in film festivals, and chairing and championing different organizations. "This program is unique because it offers students a background in radio, television, and print media. No other major offers this combination of courses."

Currently the broadcast journalism program is the largest program under the Division of Humanities at the College.

Bloomfield College is now accepting applications for Spring 2018 and Fall 2018 entry terms. Please direct any questions to Nicole Cibelli, Director of Admission, at 973-748-9000 ext. 1230 or nicole_cibelli@bloomfield.edu.