Academic Program: Sports Journalism
At The Ohio State University, students interested in sports journalism gain hands-on experience, professional mentorship and access to one of the most robust athletics environments in the country. Through coursework, student media and co-curricular opportunities, students learn to tell meaningful stories that go beyond the scoreboard.
Academic Pathways
Sports Communication Certificate
Ohio State offers an undergraduate Sports Communication Certificate through the School of Communication for students who want to build expertise in sports media, storytelling, and strategic communication.
The certificate provides a foundation in:
- Sports journalism and storytelling
- Sports media relations and strategic communication
- Ethics, audience engagement and media production
- Real-world application through projects and experiential learning
Students from any major can add the certificate to complement their academic and career goals.
Courses in Sports Journalism and Media
Students can take specialized courses that prepare them for careers in sports media, including:
- Sports writing and reporting
- Feature writing and storytelling
- Sports media relations and public relations
- Broadcast and video storytelling
- Media ethics and interviewing
Courses emphasize hands-on learning, preparing students to report, produce and publish work in real time.
Student Organizations and Experiential Learning
Ohio State students don’t just learn sports journalism—they practice it.
Key student organizations include:
- Scarlet and Gray Sports Radio: Live broadcasts, play-by-play, talk shows and production opportunities
- Associated Press Sports Editors: Professional development, networking and industry exposure
- Sports and Society Club: Conversations and programming around the intersection of sports and society
- Sports Analytics Association: Fosters student interest in applying analytical methods to sports, broadens the scope of sports analysis, and provides opportunities for students to develop a broad range of analytical tools.
Students also contribute to student media outlets and cover Ohio State athletics, gaining real clips and portfolio experience.
Why Ohio State?
- Access to a major Division I athletics program
- Opportunities to cover nationally relevant teams and events
- Strong connections to industry professionals and alumni
- Integration with the Sports and Society Institute for events, internships and career development
Get Involved
Students interested in sports mdia and journalism are encouraged to explore courses, join student organizations and connect with SSI programming.