School of Communication and Media
Undergraduate

Term: Fall 2026
Session: Full Term (Aug 31 - Dec 18)
Start Date: Monday, Aug 31, 2026
End Date: Friday, Dec 18, 2026
Availability: On Campus
Day(s): Tues./Thurs.
Time: 03:30 PM to 04:45 PM

This course challenges students to grasp how powerful forces ? political business legal audience and journalistic ? often come together (or work with differing aims) for a perceived important local national or international news event or concept. Using case studies readings research and class discussions this course explores issues such as media coverage of political campaigns the contrast between media norms and political norms the increased use of social media by politicians to bypass legacy media relevant Supreme Court cases pertaining to money and politics and more. This course demands students see news as more than simply reporting what they see. Students must consider how powerful interests can work together or collide with each other when important events are taking place or ideas are considered.