COM 4000 MEDIA LAW AND ETHICS

Media Law and Ethics provides a philosophical, legal, and ethical foundation for freedom of speech and press in the United States. Students study the historical and contemporary context of legal and ethical frameworks that define constitutional, statutory, judicial, and ethical standards in communication. The course explores the First Amendment freedoms along with their limitations to make sense of professional ethical codes and principles that might influence the outcome of decision-making.

Credits

4 sh

Prerequisite

Junior or senior standing recommended

Offered

• Fall
• Winter
• Spring
• Summer

Course Outcomes

1. • understand the importance of truth, accuracy, and fairness in advancing democratic values.
2. • distinguish expression that is and is not protected in the United States.
3. • apply legal principles associated with freedom of expression to media issues.
4. • apply ethical principles to professional communication issues.
5. • demonstrate an understanding of the history and role of media and legal systems in the United States.
6. • write and speak with accuracy, clarity, and cultural competency about legal and ethical issues addressed in U.S. cases.