Students apply for ONE of the three tracks. They challenge students to report on national, international and economic issues that are developed and shaped by the Congress, the White House, the judiciary, the federal bureaucracy and the diplomatic community. Since many public policy issues involve all three areas of study, students may find themselves reporting and writing in any of these areas. Through the program, students gain a first-hand understanding of the processes of government and the confidence to take on responsible positions covering public affairs anywhere. They will be exposed to a broad perspective that has helped alumni move into editorial and managerial positions where they influence decision-making in the communications industry.
Students choose either the broadcast journalism sequence or print journalism sequence.
Highlights Students begin writing Washington stories the first week of the Fall semester. Assignments for Fall reporting and seminar courses take students out of the classroom and into the executive agencies and the Congress. They learn to tap other resources such as the powerful lobbyists, trade associations, think tanks, academics and other special interest groups outside of government that influence policymakers. Students also learn from guest speakers from the Washington press corps, government and politics. Most students examine the evolution and latest developments in new media law.