This course introduces students to the world of journalism: The culture, commerce, ethics, history, working conditions, rights, responsibilities, standard practices and effects of evolving technology.

Students will learn the terms and concepts of the journalism, including the history of the field and the ethics of journalism. Students will be collaborating in groups on research projects. Classes will include discussions, workshops, group and individual meetings, writing, revising, and publishing. Students will read and discuss recently published articles that have appeared in print or online, and will also read and evaluate some examples of creative journalism.

Students will learn about the nature of a journalism career and gather information that will serve as a foundation for their future journalism skills as well as for their lecture and seminar courses in media and communications.

After successfully completing this course, students should be able to:

1.  Work in a media related discipline with a level of professionalism that encompasses critical thinking, excellent expression orally and in writing, carry out journalistic research, prepare news content, meet deadlines and use technology appropriately for efficiency.
2. Adhere to journalistic professional codes of ethics, and apply them in the field of journalism.
3. Explain the principle of freedom of the press, and the role of journalists as the watch dog in societies.
4. Present information on contemporary media issues being cognizant of the dangers and issues now facing journalists globally.
5. Work in an environment where an appreciation of diversity and our multi-cultural world is important in overcoming challenges in truth and accuracy of information.