In the journalism graphics sequence, you learn how to tell stories through visual presentation. Regarded by many in the industry as a premier journalism graphics program, our program stresses design as it relates to print and multimedia journalism and is different from a traditional graphic design program. We place special emphasis on two primary concepts: graphics reporting and visual editing.
Graphics reporting covers the process of researching, writing, editing, and designing informational graphics—everything from charts, maps, and diagrams to complex, in-depth informational graphics.
Visual editing focuses on the reviewing and designing of the editorial portions of newspapers and magazines. Your visual editing courses will cover topics such as typography, color theory, news judgment, photo editing, design principles, and layout strategies.
As a journalism graphics student, you might find it helpful to double-major in a second journalism sequence, but it is not required. News-editorial, photojournalism, and magazine are the most appropriate choices for a second major.
A wide range of student media opportunities provide hands-on experience for journalism graphics majors, including the Ball State Daily News, expo magazine, Ball Bearings online magazine, and the student-run, professional public relations agency Cardinal Communications.