Emphasis is placed on critically analyzing the historical origins and dynamics of public opinion in the policy making process as well as the role of the news media in public opinion. Students then measure people's thinking on any given issue or issues. Techniques and sources are covered in lecture and demonstration and through guest speakers. This is a basic course in the preparation of advertising copy and continuity for all media. It is a combination of lecture and laboratory course.
Enrollment is limited to fifteen upperclass majors per semester.
These courses vary from semester to semester, covering a number of journalism specialties. From time to time they are converted to permanent course numbers. Special topics numbered 481 are offered primarily for upper-level undergraduate students. Opportunities for independent study that goes beyond the usual classroom activities. JN326 A public relations writing class that includes assignments such as releases, features, newsletters, reports, biographies, rewrites, hometown stories, copyediting, interviewing, research, and special projects.