Program Learning Resources and Facilities
Journalism Program Requirements
Journalism as a craft and as an industry is undergoing massive change. Much of that change is technology-driven which is why it will be important for Journalism students to have access to certain specialized equipment for class assignments and to become proficient in their use.
| Equipment | Specifications | Comments |
| Laptop and Software | Recommended:
MacBook Pro 13-inch, 8GB RAM or a Laptop with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 2010, or higher version.
Adobe Software Suite |
Hardware can be bought at educational prices directly from the vendor or through the bookstore at Centennial College.
Software is also available through the vendor. Some Microsoft software is available to students for download through myCentennial.
Adobe Creative Cloud, including Photoshop, Audition, and Premiere Pro products are required. These can be bought /subscribed (through iCloud) individually, or as a package. Note that this software is available on all journalism school lab computers, but due to COVID-19, access to the campus may be limited. |
| Smartphone | Any, but with a minimum of 64 GB internal storage | The smartphone is an essential journalism tool. You’ll use your phone often over the course of your studies for gathering, producing and distributing content. |
| LumaFusion editing app for iPhone or Android |
Editing software app for mobile phones. |
For shooting and editing high quality video on your smartphone.
Find in the App Store or Google Play store. |
| Earbuds / Ear phones | Any | |
| Microphone
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Students will need a simple external lavalier (lapel) microphone and cable that fits their smartphone and DSLR camera.
A simple phone gimbal or grip may also be useful.
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Some mobile journalism kits with good microphones are normally available as free loaners from campus. However, due to COVID-19, access to the campus may be limited.
Any basic smartphone grip will work, even this inexpensive one from Walmart.
(Or you can use a selfie-stick.)
The lavalier microphone should have the correct plug (ending) for your smartphone. Newer Apple iPhones need a mic with the lightning port ending. Androids use a mic with the 3.5 mm ending (headphone jack style).
Make sure the mic’s cable is long enough to be used safely, under social-distancing conditions. It should be around 5-6 feet/2.5-3 metres long.
Some recommended lavalier mic examples are here, but students are free to find ones that meet their budgets. The mics start around $25.
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| A large capacity USB key /external, portable hard drive | Any | Required for file storage and transfer. You can use your laptop for storing large files if access to campus is limited due to COVID.
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| Dropbox or Google Drive | Make sure you have Dropbox or Google Drive set up to store/share your large files. | |
| DSLR camera and equipment | Students should look for a DSLR that offers the following key functions and technologies:
Recommended entry level DSLRs from Nikon and Canon:
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We require students to purchase their own DSLR, which you’ll be able to use throughout your coursework — and beyond. (You will need the DSLR in your second semester.)
Students will become familiar with the operation and handling of digital cameras (DSLRs) in mainstream newsroom use. Point-and-shoot and film cameras are not acceptable for course assignments.
The Centennial imaging department has a limited supply of Nikon D-7000, D-5100 and D-70 DSLR cameras available for short-term loan. Booking is on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is high demand. However, due to COVID-19, access to campus may be limited.
What is a digital SLR (DSLR)? The body-equivalent of a traditional film-based 35mm camera, this model accepts interchangeable lenses and possesses most of the features you will need. A camera such as this is an investment, not just a cost.
Final note, re: cameras — While we emphasize Canon and Nikon, please note that Sony mirrorless cameras are quickly becoming a preferred choice of many industry professionals.
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| Textbooks
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Required:
The Canadian Press Stylebook, by The Canadian Press (17th or 18th edition) The Canadian Press Caps and Spelling, (20th or 21st Edition). Media Law For Canadian Journalists, (3rd) by Dean Jobb (Required in semester 2)
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Most or all these books can be bought through the Centennial College Bookstore website, in hard copy form or as e-versions.
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Instructors may make course readings available online through the eReserves service in eCentennial or as physical items that can be borrowed from a campus library on short-term loan. If your instructor is using eReserves, you will see a module in the course content on eCentennial. The list may include links to library resources like databases, articles, and eBooks; book chapters; web links; and open educational resources. Check your course outline or contact your instructor for information about where your assigned course readings are located.
