Among the most notable additions to the curriculum is a capstone course requiring students to produce a fully operational digital news outlet over the course of one semester. This project-based learning model, faculty say, will equip graduates with hands-on experience that mirrors professional newsroom environments in ways that traditional coursework cannot replicate.

Student reaction to the announcement has been largely positive, though some raised concerns about the pace of implementation. Journalism student council president Andres Bautista welcomed the changes but urged the administration to ensure adequate resources — including updated equipment and faculty training — are in place before the new curriculum launches.

The decision comes on the heels of a comprehensive study conducted by an independent panel of media professionals, educators, and alumni, who submitted their recommendations to the board in February. Their report noted a growing gap between what journalism graduates know and what employers actually require in contemporary newsroom settings.

Industry representatives who participated in the review process expressed strong support for the curriculum shift. Editors from several regional broadsheets and digital news platforms cited difficulty finding new hires who possess both traditional reporting instincts and digital production capabilities in equal measure.

The university has also announced plans to establish a new digital journalism laboratory equipped with broadcast-quality video and audio recording facilities. Construction on the new lab is expected to begin by the start of the second semester, with an anticipated completion date in early 2027.