MAMJ Program Presented at AUA CHSS Open House Event
YEREVAN, Armenia — On February 21, the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) at the American University of Armenia (AUA) hosted an Open House event, welcoming prospective students interested in exploring the college’s academic programs, including the Master of Arts in Multiplatform Journalism (MAMJ) program. The event gave visitors the opportunity to learn more about each graduate program individually, receive detailed program information, meet faculty and students, and become familiar with the university environment through presentations, discussions, and a campus orientation.
Before the sessions began, guests participated in a campus orientation and tour, where they were introduced to the university, its facilities, and the academic environment at AUA.
As part of the Open House, the MAMJ program organized a dedicated session for attendees interested in journalism and media studies. Dr. Shawn McIntosh, MAMJ Program Chair and Director of the Center for Excellence in Journalism, led the discussion and presented the structure, goals, and opportunities offered through the program.
Dr. McIntosh highlighted the program’s emphasis on hands-on learning and professional preparation, noting that students receive practical training using media equipment while developing their storytelling, writing, and reporting skills. He also spoke about the role of visiting international and local journalists, guest speakers, and professors who contribute to the learning experience, as well as opportunities for students to publish stories in The Brief, the student-led news platform launched by the program.
“The program is designed to give students in 14 months the kind of experience and practical knowledge that can otherwise take years to gain in a professional newsroom,” Dr. McIntosh said. He also discussed the value of earning a master’s degree in journalism, opportunities for U.S.-based internships, and the collaborative learning environment students experience throughout the program.
Current MAMJ students joined the session and shared their experiences studying in the program, offering insights into coursework, newsroom simulations, and student projects. Through personal stories and open discussion, they answered questions from prospective students and presented the program from their own perspectives, helping create an engaging and lively conversation.
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) of the American University of Armenia (AUA) was awarded USD 2,171,462.49 by the United States (U.S.) Department of State to establish an M.A. Program in Multiplatform Journalism and a Center for Excellence in Journalism within AUA’s CHSS. The Program has also established a partnership between AUA and Edward R. Murrow College of Communication at Washington State University to collaborate on continuously improving the quality and content of journalism education and practice in Armenia.
Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) in the United States. AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.
