Welcome from the Dean

A Critical Role in Society

“In education, we are striving not to teach youth to make a living, but to make a life.”

-- William Allen White

William Allen White’s sentiment continues to guide our mission more than a century after the founding of the KU School of Journalism and Mass Communications.

Since 1903, we’ve been preparing students not just to enter the workforce, but to make meaningful contributions to a greater society. We certainly teach journalism and mass communications, but we also teach curiosity, resilience, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to facts. Students learn to think critically, communicate clearly, and engage with the world around them in ways that make a difference.

The foundation of our curriculum is built upon the core principles of journalism and mass communications -- writing, editing, and storytelling. But we’ve never stopped evolving. Today, we are recognized nationally for our innovation. Students learn to write across platforms, produce compelling videos, analyze and visualize data, and develop digital marketing communication plans. They leave KU equipped to navigate – and shape – the rapidly changing media landscape.

The School’s academic programs reflect an innovative and expansive media environment: Digital marketing communication, public relations, advertising, sports broadcasting, multimedia journalism, creative video production, and research. Our programs are designed to challenge students and prepare them for leadership. 

We believe it’s not enough to graduate skilled professionals, but individuals who value integrity, accuracy and public service as they enter newsrooms, agencies, studios, boardrooms, and beyond.

Jayhawk Journalists can be found across the globe: Francesca Chambers, White House Correspondent, USA Today; Annie Gowen, National Correspondent, The Washington Post; Kevin Harlan, NFL and NBA play-by-play announcer, CBS Sports; Laura Okmin former NFL sideline reporter, founder GALvanize; Brian Hanni, Voice of the Jayhawks; Mandy Matney, Creator of Murdaugh Murders podcast; Katie Briscoe, President, MMGY Global; to name a few.

Wherever our graduates go, or what they choose to do, they represent the best of KU: thoughtful, ethical, and engaged professionals who understand the critical role their work plays in society.

We’re proud of our students and alumni. They certainly have earned their degrees, but more importantly, they gain an education. Throughout life, many items can be lost or taken, but no one can take your education. 

If you’d like to learn more about the School of Journalism and Mass Communications at KU, please contact the dean’s office at 785-864-4755 or email us at jschool@ku.edu. We’d like to hear from you!