“High potential for success in the major” is the standard that faculty committees apply when considering applications that have a 2.89 or lower UO GPA (2.69 or lower if the student became a pre-major before Fall 2011). In addition to the major application form (also available in Student Services), students should provide a statement of intent and supporting materials. Guidelines for the statement are on the application form. Download a pdf of the full major application form: 2011 version / 2009 version.
The admissions committee looks for the following:
- Improving overall grades and solid journalism grades. The committee can forgive a lower GPA if they were a result of the wrong major choice or a one-time emergency situation. However, they will want to see that you've made adjustments and moved "onward and upward." The committee will also want to see solid journalism grades. A student who earns a C- in J350 Principles of Public Relations, for example, will face an uphill battle trying to convince the committee that he/she will be successful as a Public Relations major.
- Letters of recommendation. A letter of support from a journalism faculty member is ideal. Letters from sources outside of the school will also be considered. There is no set number. Students are advised to consider "quality over quantity." One or two solid letters will be much better than three or four mediocre letters.
- Portfolio materials. The portfolio should consist of materials that are relevant to the student’s major: published newspaper or magazine clips, layout work, photography, news releases, radio or TV broadcasts, blogs, podcasts, etc. Students are advised to attached a brief explanation on each materials explaning why they have chosen these particular pieces to highlight.
- Other materials. These could be portfolio materials that have not been published or anything else the student feels would help strengthen the petition.
- Extra-curricular activities. Participation in media-related internships are good indicators, as are membership or leadership in student media organizations. Participation in these activities should be described in the statement.
DEADLINE: All petitions are due in Student Services by the last day of term. Students may not begin full major work (including starting the Gateway to Media series) without being admitted to the school. If a petition is denied, the student must withdraw from any full major course(s) he/she may be registered for.
