More students in University of Montana journalism programs than a year ago

By Lacey Hawkins
J-School Web Reporter

The number of students in the University of Montana School of Journalism’s professional program has increased by 19 students, from 175 in 2005 to 194 this year, according to a Fall 2006 survey from the UM Registrar’s Office.

This includes all journalism-program admissions from the 2005 and 2006 school years, including those pursuing their master’s. The additional 19 students, representing an 11 percent increase, are all in either print or photojournalism. The radio-television program has remained at 32 students for both years.

There was also an increase in the number of pre-professional journalism students, according to the registrar’s figures. In 2005, there were 258 pre-journalism students; this year that number has increased by 15, or 5.8 percent, to 273. Pre-radio-television also increased by 8 students this year, or 28.6 percent, from 28 students in 2005 to 36 this year.

Each year the journalism school accepts in its professional programs 30 print students, and 20 students each in photojournalism, broadcast and production, said Dean Jerry Brown.

He said expanding the program depends on three variables: space, equipment, and faculty and staff.

“We’ve taken care of the first step with the new building,” said Brown. The new journalism building is scheduled to be completed and in use for Fall 2007.
There are no specific plans to increase enrollment, said Brown, “but the process has been set in motion.”

The enrollment statistics were taken the third week of the semester and are compared to numbers from the third week of the Fall 2005 semester, said David Micus, UM Registrar.

“We always compare fall to fall because there is always a slight difference in the spring,” said Micus. “This way we are not comparing apples to oranges.”
If the increase in pre-professional students continues, the need to expand the program will become more apparent.

“I hope with time, as demand increases, the professional program will grow and that we'll sustain our commitment to high standards," said Brown. "This school has earned a national reputation for producing graduates who succeed in professional careers."

Back to J-School Main Page