Case Study: UNC School of Journalism and Mass Communication revamps curriculum and boosts student employability with Adobe Creative Suite 5

Leading journalism school uses Adobe Creative Suite 5 software to revamp its curriculum to prepare students to succeed in an evolving industry

The University of North Carolina School of Journalism and Mass Communication faced a shifting media landscape that demanded graduates with broad digital storytelling skills. Leaders needed to update curriculum and improve student employability by teaching industry‑standard multimedia tools—photo and video editing, animation, web design, and sound—so students could meet employer expectations.

UNC implemented Adobe Creative Suite 5 Web Premium and Design Premium across its programs, building required audio/video courses and a three‑course visual communications mini‑program using Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects, Flash, Dreamweaver, and more. The integrated curriculum produced award‑winning student work, placement on sites like Discovery Education, and stronger job outcomes with graduates hired by outlets such as the New York Times and Chicago Tribune.

UNC School of Journalism and Mass Communication

Terence Oliver

Assistant professor, University of North Carolina