Policy Journalism and Media Studies

The DeWitt Wallace Center offers over 20 undergraduate and graduate courses designed to give students a thorough understanding of the role of the news media in the policymaking process, through an applied, interdisciplinary approach that focuses on topics relevant to the challenges of our time. Through instruction and internships, students learn about the principles and the practice of journalism, while mastering the broader background of studies in public policy, politics, economics, history and other liberal arts subjects. With support from Duke’s Trinity College of Arts & Sciences, the Center hosts an undergraduate certificate program for students who want to deepen their understanding of media policy and practice, and those aspiring to become future journalists or private and public sector leaders who will interact with the media.

The faculty includes research scholars as well as professional journalists, editors, and media experts. In addition to teaching, faculty members are involved in a multitude of individual, interdisciplinary, and inter-university research projects. We invite students to become involved in this research and join the dialogue by attending events and getting to know our faculty, staff, alumni and visiting speakers.

PJMS Faculty Chair: Professor Ken Rogerson directs the Center’s undergraduate teaching program and serves as the faculty advisor to all students enrolled in the Policy Journalism and Media Studies Certificate Program.

The Policy Journalism and Media Studies Certificate program for undergraduates supplements work in a major area of study and requires 6 courses and an internship in a media-related area.

The course listing provides a full list of classes currently offered, for undergraduates and graduate students.

Internships are an essential part of the media studies curriculum. The Center has enlisted alumni, faculty and current students to identify and evaluate internship opportunities, and we encourage students to join our email lists to receive notices about internship opportunities as they arise. The Center has some funding to support unpaid internships. Contact Professor Rogerson or Shelley Stonecipher if you have any questions, need guidance or funding, or can offer internship leads or support.

Beyond internships, additional resources available to students through the Center include awards, career counseling, alumni networking and research assistant positions.