welcome to CMA

Where College Media Advisers Find Support and Community

The College Media Association is the nation’s leading organization dedicated to serving college media advisers and the students they support. With a long-standing history of advocating for student press rights and strengthening journalism education, CMA brings together a diverse community of professionals who guide, teach and inspire the next generation of media leaders.

Student media encompasses a wide range of platforms, including news publications, broadcast and radio stations, podcasts, literary and feature magazines, and yearbooks. CMA supports advisers across all of these formats, recognizing that each plays a vital role in developing student voices and building strong campus communities.

CMA membership provides access to exclusive benefits, including specialized trainings, peer-to-peer support, networking opportunities and practical tools that help advisers succeed in their roles. From members-only webinars and certification programs to in-depth workshops on media law, leadership and newsroom management, CMA’s training opportunities are designed to equip advisers with the skills and knowledge to lead strong, inclusive and forward-thinking student media programs.

CMA is also committed to First Amendment advocacy, working year-round to defend the independence of student media and support advisers and students facing censorship or institutional pressure.

Whether you're looking for professional development, a community of fellow advisers or new ways to enhance learning for your student journalists, CMA is here to support you every step of the way.

Professional Development to Support Advisers

CMA offers a range of professional development opportunities designed to help advisers lead stronger, more effective student media programs. From New Adviser Trainings on topics like media law, recruiting and policies, to Summer Trainings that dive deeply into narrow topics, to free monthly confabs on a vast array of critical and timely subjects — our offerings keep you informed, connected and empowered throughout the year.

Read More →

National Conventions that Inspire and Elevate

CMA’s conventions bring together student journalists and advisers from across the country for immersive, hands-on learning. Our fall and spring gatherings feature sessions led by media professionals, educators and industry leaders, offering invaluable training, networking and collaboration. Conventions also spotlight student excellence through national contests, awards and recognition—celebrating the vital work being done in college media newsrooms every day.

Read More →