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Updated in [May 25th, 2023]

This course, Introduction to Journalism and Reporting, provides an overview of the history of journalism and explores key forms of journalism. Participants will learn about the pillars of good journalism, headlines and introductions, legal and ethical frameworks, and the concept of 'public interest journalism.' The course will also cover the fundamentals of news writing, interviewing, and selecting good quotes.

Participants will gain insight into the news creation process from experts at the University of Kent, and learn best practises from industry experts to help hone their skills as budding journalists. They will also learn how to find reliable and relevant sources, as well as techniques to improve their communication and interviewing skills.

The course will also assist participants in exploring ethical quandaries that journalists may face as they consider what they would do in specific situations. Before learning about the ethical and legal frameworks for journalists, participants will consider their perceptions of news and the behaviour of some publications.

By the end of the course, participants will have a better understanding of the history of journalism, key forms of journalism, and the pillars of good journalism. They will also have the skills to write news stories, select good quotes, and find reliable and relevant sources.

[Applications]
Students who have completed the Introduction to Journalism and Reporting course will be able to apply their knowledge to their own journalistic pursuits. They will be able to identify reliable and relevant sources, hone their communication and interviewing skills, and understand the ethical and legal frameworks that apply to journalists. They will also be able to apply best practises from industry experts to their own work. Additionally, they will be able to consider their own perceptions of news and the behaviour of some publications, and explore ethical quandaries that journalists may face.

[Career Paths]
1. Reporter: Reporters are responsible for researching, writing, and editing news stories for print, broadcast, and digital media. They must be able to work quickly and accurately under tight deadlines. As the media landscape continues to evolve, reporters must stay up-to-date on the latest technology and trends in order to remain competitive.

2. Editor: Editors are responsible for overseeing the content of a publication or broadcast. They review and edit stories for accuracy, clarity, and style, and ensure that the content meets the publication's standards. As the media landscape continues to evolve, editors must stay up-to-date on the latest technology and trends in order to remain competitive.

3. Producer: Producers are responsible for overseeing the production of a broadcast or digital media project. They coordinate the various elements of a production, such as the script, the talent, the crew, and the equipment. They must be able to work quickly and accurately under tight deadlines. As the media landscape continues to evolve, producers must stay up-to-date on the latest technology and trends in order to remain competitive.

4. Social Media Manager: Social media managers are responsible for managing a company's social media presence. They create content, monitor conversations, and engage with followers. As the media landscape continues to evolve, social media managers must stay up-to-date on the latest technology and trends in order to remain competitive.

[Education Paths]
1. Bachelor of Arts in Journalism: This degree program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of journalism, including news writing, interviewing, and selecting good quotes. Students will also learn about the legal and ethical frameworks that apply to journalists, as well as the history of journalism and the concept of 'public interest journalism.' This degree program is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in journalism and reporting.

2. Master of Arts in Media and Communication: This degree program focuses on the development of media and communication skills, with an emphasis on the ethical and legal frameworks that apply to journalists. Students will learn about the history of journalism, the concept of 'public interest journalism,' and the fundamentals of news writing, interviewing, and selecting good quotes. This degree program is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in media and communication.

3. Doctor of Philosophy in Journalism: This degree program provides students with an in-depth understanding of the fundamentals of journalism, including news writing, interviewing, and selecting good quotes. Students will also learn about the legal and ethical frameworks that apply to journalists, as well as the history of journalism and the concept of 'public interest journalism.' This degree program is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in journalism and reporting, and who want to gain a deeper understanding of the field.

4. Master of Science in Digital Journalism: This degree program focuses on the development of digital journalism skills, with an emphasis on the ethical and legal frameworks that apply to journalists. Students will learn about the history of journalism, the concept of 'public interest journalism,' and the fundamentals of news writing, interviewing, and selecting good quotes. This degree program is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in digital journalism and reporting, and who want to stay up-to-date with the latest trends in the field.

Course Syllabus

Exploring journalism and reporting

Vital ingredients of good journalism

How free are journalists and what controls are there on them?

What makes a good interview or quote?