Joliet Junior College offers four courses designed to introduce students to the world of mass media and journalism:
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 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 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.
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.