By Eric Freedman
As the MSU Journalism School expands its portfolio of environmental journalism courses, we’re excited about a trio of spring 2014 offerings.
Whether your career or personal focus is journalism and communications, science, health, public policy or business, these courses will build your communication and research skills, as well as your knowledge and understanding of some of the most pressing and compelling issues of today and the future. All three courses are open to undergrads and master’s students regardless of major:
JRN 472/872: Evironmental Reporting Lab
Skulls & Crossbones—Reporting on Hazardous Waste, Nuclear Radiation, Toxic Chemicals and Invasive Species in the Great Lakes
Cover hot-button issues including leaking dump sites, nuclear power plants, pesticide run-off, alien animals and plants, air and water pollution, environmental health hazards, animal diseases and more for Great Lakes Echo, our online environmental news service. Opportunities available for text, photo, video, audio and social media reporting
3 credits: Tuesday & Thursday 4:10-5:30 p.m.
To waive prerequisites, contact Eric Freedman (freedma5@msu.edu, 355-4729)
JRN 473/873: Environmental Reporting Seminar
No Respect for the Boundaries—International Comparisons of Media Coverage of Environmental and Health Issues
Review and analyze some of the major environmental and health issues around the world in recent times, such as climate change, ozone layer hole, hydraulic fracturing, nuclear energy, GMOs, cancer, AIDS and SARS. Learn to apply a comparative cross-national perspective based on differences in culture, values and media systems.
3 credits: Thursday 12:40- 3:30 p.m.
If you have questions, contact Bruno Takahashi (btakahas@msu.edu, 432-2454)
JRN 492/892: Special Topics
Health & Science Writing: Unravel the Mysteries of the Universe
Science and health issues are too important to leave to scientists and policy wonks. Learn to explain fascinating issues that are important to the public. We’ll explore writing venues as diverse as magazines, blogs, brochures, museums, newspapers, broadcast scripts and planetariums.
3 credits: Monday 6-8:50 p.m.
If you have questions, contact Dave Poulson (poulsondavid@gmail.com, 432-5417)
Professionals and students at other colleges and universities are invited as well through MSU’s Lifelong Education program.
Finally, the Knight Center for Environmental Journalism welcomes your suggestions for future courses.