In this information age of instant communication, Joliet Junior College offers four courses designed to introduce students to the world of mass media and journalism.  Journalism 103:  Introduction to Mass Media gives the student an overview of the world of mass media, including television, radio, newspapers, advertising, and public relations.  The course also touches on other aspects of the mass media, including film, recordings, and the Internet.  Two other journalism courses are geared toward preparing the student for both the pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in journalism and the rigors of the professional world.  Journalism 102:  Basic News Editing teaches the principles and techniques of electronic editing, information management, and publication design, emphasizing the copy editing and page design.  Journalism 201:  News Reporting and Writing teaches the principles and practices of gathering information for writing news stories and features. The newest course, Journalism 104: Introduction to Public Relations, focuses on practices and dilemmas in the ever-changing world of public relations.

Although the Blazer is not officially affiliated with the English and World Languages department, students are also encouraged to get involved with this award-winning student newspaper.  The Blazer provides an opportunity for students to put the skills they learn in the classroom to practical use while providing an on-campus voice for students.

Journalism 103:  Introduction to Mass Media—This course traces the development of the mass media and analyzes their current status and their impact on our daily lives.  The evolution of the media and mass communications will be studied—including books, newspapers, radio, television, the recording industry, film, and the Internet.  The impact of the media on mores, the social environment, and the political process also will be discussed.  The ways the law and ethics affect the media also will be discussed.

 Journalism 102:  Basic News Editing—This course is an introduction to the principles and techniques of electronic editing, information management, and publication design, emphasizing the editing of copy and display of type for maximum clarity and impact.  On successful completion of the course, the student will be able to effectively edit and effectively rewrite stories without distorting them, demonstrate basic knowledge of typography, the basics of publication design, and the logic of packaging, and apply AP Stylebook rules.

 Journalism 104:  Introduction to Public Relations—This course is an introduction to the practices, theories, ethics, issues, and problems of public relations. Attention is given to the understanding of theories and practices and the application of these theories and practices, including the handling of public relations crises.

Journalism 201:  News Reporting and Writing—This course teaches the principles and practices of gathering information for writing the news story and news feature.  It provides practice in interviewing, news writing, and the preparation of copy for publication.  It also shows the student the world of professional journalists and describes the tools they use to complete their daily task of providing information to the public in a fair, accurate, and unbiased manner.