Description
Journalism is the process of gathering, writing, documenting, editing and delivering content to an audience. It is fundamentally a democratic art, a way in which a free society engages in conversation about what is noteworthy or important to its people. In part, the study of journalism enables students to both understand the practices and analyze the impact of traditional, digital, and new media.
PCC offers courses in journalism that focus on media and information literacy and develop skills needed to be media practitioners. Students who take journalism courses develop critical thinking skills and effective research and writing techniques for various media. Students also enhance their understanding of the role and responsibilities of journalists and the effects of all types of media on culture and society. PCC journalism courses are transferable to any Oregon college or university; select courses fulfill General Education requirements for the AAOT and ASOT-BUS degrees.
J201 and J204 are options for completing the Communication Studies Focus Award. This award recognizes students who have gained considerable knowledge in Communication Studies by completing four courses and earning 15-16 COMM (Communication Studies) or J (Journalism) credits. For more information and specific requirements, please see the Focus Award section of the catalog.
J 102. Introduction to Information Gathering. 4 Credits.
Surveys methods and strategies for acquiring information for the various mass media. Examines records, databases, sources and interview methods. Prerequisite: (WR 115 and RD 115) or IRW 115 and MTH 20 or equivalent placement. Audit available.
J 103. Introduction to Media Writing. 4 Credits.
Introduces the basic process and practice of writing media. Discusses style and story structure for print and electronic media and the rights and responsibilities of the public communicator. Emphasizes journalistic style and format, accuracy and clarity in writing. Recommended: Concurrent enrollment in J 102. Prerequisite: WR 121Z. Audit available.
J 201. Mass Communication and Society. 4 Credits.
Explores mass media and the social, cultural and political influences and effects on society and the individual. Introduces the history, development and technological advances of mass communication systems. Includes an analysis of print and broadcast journalism, advertising, public relations, television, film, new media and digital convergence. This course is also offered as COMM 228; a student who enrolls in this course a second time under either designator will be subject to the course repeat policy. Prerequisite: (WR 115 and RD 115) or IRW 115 and MTH 20 or equivalent placement. Audit available.
This course fulfills the following GE requirements: Arts and Letters/AL
J 204. Visual Communication for Media. 4 Credits.
Studies the theory and application of visual communication in media. Develops visual literacy and media skills for message creators/consumers. Critically examines visual message components, goals, effects and ethical practices. Analyzes cultural and societal impact of visual media messages. This course is also offered as COMM 204; a student who enrolls in this course a second time under either designator will be subject to the course repeat policy. Prerequisite: (WR 115 and RD 115) or IRW 115 and MTH 20 or equivalent placement. Audit available.
This course fulfills the following GE requirements: Arts and Letters/AL