Infinite journalism opportunities at San Jose State!

College Focus: San Jose State

The beauty of the campus is one of the many reasons to choose this school.

Are you a passionate writer? Would you be interested in studying journalism at a higher level, but not too far from home? This school is for you!

San Jose State University is a public university in San Jose, and is the founding campus of the CSU (California State University) system. The university offers 143 bachelor’s degrees programs, 95 master’s degrees, as well as 11 different credential programs and 38 certificates, which varies from anthropology to history, and much more. All of this information can be found here: sjsu.edu/

We’re talking in a very general scope, in terms of what majors and careers the university offers, but you’re in luck, as San Jose State has a separate section dedicated to writing and the sort: the “School of Journalism and Mass Communications”. Here, there are more specific areas of study related to the matter, for example journalism, advertising, public relations, and mass communication, like the name dictates.

According to the SJSU School of Journalism and Mass Communication’s website, “…The School of Journalism and Mass Communications prepares future media professionals in all forms of global communications for responsible outreach and inclusion of all people. The School equips students to excel in Advertising, Journalism, and Public Relations by teaching professional skills and advanced information technologies, by developing the capacity for critical and original thinking, and fostering creativity and a passion for communications. We further this mission with our commitment to diversity.”

According to US News.com, the acceptance rate for San Jose State is around 67%, which means they are more selective. Additionally, around half of the applicants admitted had an SAT score between 1030 and 1260, as well as an ACT score between 19 and 26. A student’s GPA is an important factor taken into consideration, but class rank and letters of recommendation aren’t. The application deadline was January 8, and the fee is $70, but if you missed it this year, you can share this information with an underclassman or mark your calendar to prepare for next year.

San Jose State University is ranked at #22 in Regional Universities West, which is a relatively good position. The tuition for in-state is less than $8,000 and less than $20,000 for out-of-state, which is cheaper compared to the national average cost. Keep in mind the cost of tuition and fees, as well as the cost of room and board, books and supplies, transportation and personal expenses. But financial aid is available for students, which can come in the form of student grants, loans, and scholarships. You can also fill out the FAFSA form, which is recommended by many experts, as every year, thousands of dollars are being unclaimed by students.

Some of the most notable alumni from San Jose State University include American actor Omar Benson Miller, American lawyer Christopher Darden, American primatologist and conservationist Dian Fossey, and Chicana poet and activist Lorna Dee Cervantes.