Academics

The Center for Environmental Journalism is a locus for many academic activities and programs related to the environment and communication. We coordinate an environmental journalism program at the graduate level, collaborate with students and faculty from across CMCI’s different academic units, and engage with the entire University of Colorado community.

Environmental Journalism Area of Expertise

At the core of these activities is the Environmental Journalism Area of Expertise program at the graduate level. This is for master’s students within the Department of Journalism who choose to undertake the Area of Expertise option for their MA degree and want to specialize in environmental issues.

The Department of Journalism’s overall Area of Expertise option is for students wishing not only to acquire advanced journalistic skills but also to complement them with a particular specialty, such as environmental science and policy. This option is designed for students with limited academic or professional expertise in journalism. It can be completed with a minimum of 36 credits and in four semesters. 

Master’s students satisfy the requirements of the Environmental Journalism Area of Expertise option by taking six elective courses. Two of these electives are Science Writing and Reporting on the Environment within the Department of Journalism. Students choose the other four electives in consultation with their academic advisors. These four courses can be chosen flexibly to meet each student’s particular interests. Alternatively, students can choose a graduate certificate consisting of four courses. Currently, one certificate offered by Environmental Studies fits the bill: the Graduate Certificate in Environmental Justice. Please see that program's website for details on requirements, what courses are available, and how to apply. (Also be aware that some of the courses on that certificate’s list can be combined flexibly with others, both inside and outside of CMCI, with guidance from a student’s advisor.)
 
Students in the Professional Practice option wishing to craft an environmental specialization should also take Science Writing and Reporting on the Environment, and then consult with their academic advisors on the other two required electives.
 

Graduate Degrees at CMCI