The news media plays an important role in modern society influencing people's lives, opinions, and decisions. Students examine the function, values, and principles of journalism including accuracy, impartiality, and ethics as well as the current challenges facing the media industry. They explore the ways in which news media seeks to enable citizens to make informed decisions in a democratic society and analyze how well it is currently fulfilling that role. This course provides an excellent foundation for students interested in studying journalism, communications, mass media, or pursuing careers in business, law, public service, entertainment, or other professions in the public eye. Note: This course is open to all students.

Prerequisite(s): One of the following: LET 3; LPI with a minimum 26 on the essay and one of 5 in English usage, 5 in sentence structure, or 10 in reading comprehension; a minimum 70% in English First Peoples 12, English Studies 12, Literary Studies 12, or equivalent; a minimum "C" grade in a university-level English course for which Langara College awards transfer credit; a minimum "C" grade in ENGL 1120; an "S" grade in ENGL 1107 or 1110; IELTS 6.5 (no band lower than 6.0); or TOEFL - internet-based (IBT) score of 88 with a minimum 20 in Listening, 20 in Speaking, 20 in Reading, and 20 in Writing; or CAEL 70 (no band lower than 60).