Journalism Curriculum

Journalism at Columbus State entered a new era with the February 2005 debut of Cougar News, the college's first student newspaper in more than 30 years. Cougar News is published weekly during Autumn, Winter and Spring quarters, and is written, edited and designed by Columbus State students. Cougar News is funded through advertising sales, giving the paper editorial independence from the college.

Students with a background in journalism--or who want to build their credentials--are invited to participate in Cougar News. Students who wish to earn college credit for working on the paper may enroll in ENGL 280, although ENGL 280 is not required for Cougar News participation.

Students who want to develop their journalism skills are invited to enroll in ENGL 208, Communication for the Mass Media. ENGL 208 introduces students to the fundamentals of journalism, and explores public relations and marketing.

For more information about ENGL 208, ENGL 280 or Cougar News, contact Bob Stein.

- Courses -

ENGL 208 Communication for the Mass Media
(W,SP)
3 credits
This course prepares students to communicate effectively with the mass media including newspapers, magazines, radio, and television through press conferences, news releases, feature stories, research reports, and statements. Students will prepare and present a portfolio that may include news and feature stories, brochures, flyers, research and other assignments completed for the course.
Lecture: 3 hours – Lab: 0 hours
Prerequisite: ENGL 102 or ENGL 111
Corequisite: COMM 105 or equivalent is recommended
Lab fee: $7.00

ENGL 280 Publishing Practicum
(SP)
2 credits
Students who have satisfactorily completed ENGL 215 or who have comparable training and experience from another context learn magazine production techniques using Springstreet or another college publication as a production laboratory. This practicum may be repeated once and normally taken immediately after completing ENGL 215.
Lecture: 0 hours – Lab: 4 hours
Prerequisite: ENGL 215 or instructor's permission
Lab fee: $3.00

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