Overview: Journalism at Fairfield University

Journalism programs at colleges and universities have been under attack for committing a variety of sins, real and imagined. Some of the common criticisms include:

• Many traditional journalism programs are seen as too practical and too applied, serving as little more than trade schools.
• In contrast, programs housed in Communication Departments are sometimes criticized as too theoretical. They mandate courses that may be less relevant to journalists (i.e., human communication, interpersonal communication, organizational communication) than other courses in politics, sociology, history, economics and English might be.
• Veteran TV newsman Walter Cronkite and others warn that some student journalists spend too much time taking journalism, communication and other media-oriented courses. They should spend more time taking a broad variety of liberal arts classes where they can develop a greater understanding of what to write about, instead of just learning the techniques of writing.
• In a scathing overview of the field, Rolling Stone criticized it for attracting too many public relations majors, diluting journalism's attempt to ferret out the truth, and for allegedly turning the field into little more than a training ground for paid corporate liars.

Fairfield University's approach to journalism has avoided most of these problems. Like many Ivy League schools, Fairfield does not have a single program housed in a sole department. Instead, through its core curriculum, it mandates the kind of broad liberal arts education stressed by Cronkite.

Students can take specific courses in news writing, broadcast production, political and government reporting, and many related areas. But instead of focusing solely on a set of technical skills that may soon become outdated, students also are encouraged to take coursework in areas like politics, American Studies, sociology and history so they can learn a body of knowledge and do a better job of communicating it to an audience. They develop the kind of critical thinking skills needed to cope with the inevitable changes in the journalism world.

Simply put, students don't just learn how to write and broadcast; they also learn what to write about. Students can pursue journalism in at least five different ways, based on their interests.

• Major in English and take the journalism sequence to fulfill some of the requirements of the major. Contact: Prof. Simon, ext. 2792.
• Minor in English/Journalism, and major in a related area. Contact: Prof. Simon, ext. 2792.
• Major in Communication  and take journalism courses in English to help fulfill the requirements of the major. Contact: Prof. Ryan, ext. 2566.
• Complete a dual major in English and a related area (politics, American Studies, communication, sociology, economics, history).
• Major in New Media in the Visual and Performing Arts Department, taking broadcast journalism courses, and also complete a major or minor in English/Journalism.  Contact: Prof. Mayzik, ext. 2268

Recommended in all cases: join The Mirror campus newspaper (ext. 2533), The Ham Channel on-campus TV channel (ext. 4118) or WVOF-FM (ext. 4111) and complete at least one journalism internship.  Two literary magazines - The Sound and Dogwoods  also provide excellent editing experiences; contact Prof. Bridgford,  ext. 2795

The Journalism Concentration in the English Department

The Journalism sequence is designed for students interested in pursuing careers in newspapers, magazines, radio/TV news and publishing. Many students interested in careers in public relations also find it useful.

English majors can take the normal five literature courses to fulfill their department core requirements, plus the five-course journalism sequence outlined below to complete their field electives.

English minors  can complete the five-course formal English/Journalism minor listed below. Or they can take the general English minor and take whatever journalism courses they wish toward the electives needed.

The Journalism sequence includes:

Introductory courses; students take both:

• EN/W 220 News Writing (must be taken before any other journalism course)
• EN/W 222 Journalism Editing and Design (may take any time)

Specialized courses; students take at least two:

• EN/W 221 Contemporary Journalism
• EN/W 320 Writing the Feature Story
• EN/W 321 Broadcast News Writing
• EN/W 322 Sports Reporting
• EN/W 323 Literary Journalism
• EN/W 324 Political and Government Reporting
• EN/W 325 Environmental Reporting

Capstone course: students take at least one:

• EN/W 345/346 Internship
• EN/W 347/348 Independent Writing project

Students can use any ENW course of their own choosing as their fifth and final journalism course.

Students can start the journalism sequence as early as freshman year. After completing EN11 (the freshman writing course), they can take EN/W220 News Writing simultaneously with taking EN12 (the freshman literature course). This makes it easier for students to complete all journalism coursework by end of junior year and concentrate on internships and campus media experience in senior year.

Journalism Courses (ENW) at Fairfield

EN/W 200 Creative Writing
This course is fosters creativity and critical acumen through extensive exercises in the composition of poetry and fiction. Formerly EN/W 300. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 202 Creative Writing: Poetry I
This workshop course concentrates on the analysis and criticism of student manuscripts, devoting a portion of the course to a discussion of major trends in contemporary poetry and significant movements of the past. The course considers traditional forms, such as the sonnet and villanelle, as well as modern experimental forms and free verse. Students learn how to prepare and submit manuscripts to publishers. Formerly EN/W 302. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 204 Creative Writing: Drama
This course teaches the writing of one-act plays for the stage in a workshop format that involves envisioning, writing/drafting, and regular revision of see-ideas and subjects. The process requires skillful, imaginative handling of the formative elements of drama, including plot, character, language or speech-action, envisaged staging, and form. It also involves timely submission of assignments and drafts of scenes and whole plays for periodic in-class readings and feedback. Students are expected to submit at specified times midterm and final drafts that demonstrate the technique or art of playwriting as well as conform to the general requirements of the course. Formerly EN/W 304. (Prerequisite: EN 12 that includes a section on drama and/or theatre or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 205 Creative Writing: Fiction I
This course is for the student who seeks an intensive workshop approach to fiction composition emphasizes the short story and focuses on the analysis of student manuscripts. It includes some discussion of the work of significant authors (past and present) as a way of sharpening the student's awareness of technique and the literacy marketplace for fiction. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 209 Classical Rhetoric and Contemporary Applications
Throughout the centuries, rhetoric-study and practice of effective communication - has been a cornerstone of liberal education. In this course students examine classical rhetorical theory and apply its insights to their own writing. Students read selections from the Sophists, Plato, Aristotle, Cicero, Quintillian, and others, and practice skills essential for persuasive writing and speaking, such as audience analysis, invention, arrangement, and the development of style. Formerly EN/W 307. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 214 Professional Presentations: Writing and Delivery
The ability to speak confidently and convincingly is an asset to everyone who wants to take an active role in his or her workplace and community. This interdisciplinary and writing-intensive course provides audience-centered presentations and develops critical-thinking skills. It also introduces the techniques of argumentation and persuasion, and the use of technology in presentations. (Prerequisite: EN 12 to equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 220 News Writing
This introductory course emphasizes the techniques used by reporters to collect information and write stories for newspapers, magazines, the internet and broadcast outlets. Students learn how to gather information, interview sources, write leads, structure a story, and work with editors. Students analyze how different news organizations package information, hear from guest speakers, and visit working journalists in the field. Students develop a higher level of media literacy and learn how to deal with the news media in their career. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 222 Journalism Editing and Design
Editing skills are in high demand in today's journalism job market, both for traditional and on-line sources of information. This intermediate level course emphasizes conciseness, precision, accuracy, style, and balance in writing and editing. The course includes researching and fact-checking, basic layout and design, headline and caption writing, and on-line editing. (Prerequisite:EN/W 220 or permission of instructor) Three credits.

EN/W 290 Writing and Responding
This course introduces the field of contemporary composition theory. Composition theorists consider ways of responding to the words of other people in a manner that is thoughtful, careful, and provocative. At the same time, they learn that by responding to the work of others, they ultimately become better writers and better thinkers themselves. This course focuses specifically on the response types appropriate for one-to-one work with writers. Students also gain hands-on experience in the course by writing extensively, sharing texts, and engaging in trial tutoring sessions. This course is a prerequisite for anyone wishing to apply for a paid position as a peer tutor in the Fairfield University Writing Center. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 295 Composition and Style
This intermediate course in basic non-fiction prose expands the writing skills gained in EN 11, emphasizing cultivation of an individual style in short essays on everyday topics. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 302 Creative Writing: Poetry II
In a workshop setting, the class discusses six assignments - writing about a painting or writing in a structured form such as a sestina or sonnet. In addition to looking at models that illustrate individual assignments, the class reads collections by six poets and discusses a book of traditional forms. (Prerequisite: EN/W 202). Three credits.

EN/W 305 Creative Writing: Fiction II
This advancedworkshop further develops skills begun in EN/W 205 by looking closely at the craft of fiction. Students produce a substantial body of quality work such as several full-length short stories or substantial revisions, a novella, or several chapters of a novel. In addition to reading selections from published fiction writers, students read and comment extensively on their peers' work. (Prerequisite: EN/W 205 or permission of instructor) Three credits.

EN/W 309 Topics and Techniques for Women Writers
In response to feminist commentaries on the problems encountered by women writers, students seek to understand those problems through selected readings from eminent critics and contemporary authors, and to overcome them in weekly writing assignments with a gender orientation. These may be familiar essays, personal memoirs, fictional vignettes, persuasive argument, or literary criticism. Ultimately they are encouraged to develop their special assets as writers on feminist topics. The seminar consisting of workshop discussions in which peers evaluate each other and themselves in terms of their individual writing goals and their techniques for achieving them, encourages students to develop their special assets as writers on feminist topics. Students may seek clarification of this course's purpose from the instructor if desired. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 310 Advanced Composition
This course develops mature writing skills through intense study of the essay and other non-fiction forms. Students read and write a broad range of non-fiction forms including personal narratives, "familiar" essays, argument, and humor. Formerly EN/W 311. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 311 Advanced Composition for Secondary School Teachers
This course has helps students to develop mature writing skills through intense study of the essay and other non-fiction forms, while introducing students to research in composition that will help them teach writing in their own classrooms. Students read and write a broad range of non-fiction forms - including personal narratives, "familiar" essays, argument, and humor. Students will also read articles on composition theory. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 317 Traditional and Structural Grammar
This course provides students with a solid background in traditional and structural grammar. Students can apply this background to what they write and how they write it. Therefore, apply to their own writing what they learn about the parts of speech and about phrases, clauses, and sentences. To achieve greater linguistic sensitivity and mastery, students also learn how to analyze the smaller components of language (sounds and word segments) and the more complex and elusive elements of style. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 320 Writing the Feature Story
Students learn how to generate and develop feature story ideas, including human-interest stories, backgrounders, trend stories, personally profiles and other softer news approaches for use by newspapers, magazines, and web sites. The course stresses story-telling techniques and use of alternative leads. Interviewing, web research and rewriting techniques are stressed. (Prerequisite: EN/W 220 or permission of instructor) Three credits.

EN/W 321 Broadcast News Writing
Students learn how to plan, write and edit hard news and feature news stories for radio and television. Topics include the difference between writing for broadcast and print, story structures, teasers and lead-ins, copy preparation and style, broadcast terminology; and writing a package with narration, visuals and interviews. Students hear from broadcast professionals and visit radio and television news operations. Previous journalism or broadcast experience is recommended. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 322 Sports Reporting
Students learn how to capture the drama of sports events, on and off the field. They write traditional game stories and profiles while also strengthening skills in interviewing, writing under deadline pressure, and analyzing statistics. Students go beyond spot stories to explore and write about the bigger picture, newer issues, and the overall allure of sports. (Prerequisite: EN/W 220 or permission of instructor.) Three credits.

EN/W 324 Political and Government Reporting
Students gain experience in reporting on campus and local government events, state and federal government activities, public opinion polls, school board meetings, state and federal government activities, public opinion polls, and political campaigns. Guest speakers from politics and journalism help students deepen their understanding of the role of the press as a government watchdog. (Prerequisite: EN/W 220 or permission of instructor.) Three credits.

EN/W 325 Environmental Reporting
From land use disputes to problems with air, land, and water pollution, environmental concerns touch the lives of everyone. This course gives students experience in reporting and writing about the environment and related science and health concerns. Students meet with environmental reporters for newspapers and magazines, visit environmental sites, and write about environmental issues to examine the challenges of covering this field. Students interested in this course are encouraged to complete some coursework in journalism, environmental science, environmental studies, or an environmental course in applied ethics prior to enrolling. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 326 Contemporary Journalism
This course sharpens student news-gathering, writing, and editing skills and prepares them for the demands of journalism jobs in the 21^st century. Students write longer story packages in conventional print formats and in HTML language for World Wide Web distribution. Students cover on-campus and off-campus events and discuss libel and ethical concerns that can affect their writing and careers. (Prerequisite: EN/W 220 or permission of instructor) Three credits.

EN/W 332 Business Writing
This course investigates the demands of business writing, including designing documents that visually display information and invite readers to read either quickly or thoroughly. The course stresses theoretical issues as well as practical skills. Students practice writing skills on a variety of projects including memos, proposals, reports, collaborative writing, and writing in business and industry, writing with a clear sense of audience, becoming familiar with document design and electronic communication, ethical and cross-cultural issues, and reviewing scholarly writing and research in this academic field. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 335 Technical Writing
This course investigates the theory and practice of writing in technical fields, introducing students to types of oral, written, and hypertext communication that technical writers use in workplace settings. In-class writing activities, workshops, and lengthier projects familiarize students with the styles, organizations, and formats of various documents, and prepare students for the special demands of technical writing. The course also introduces students to research and scholarly writing in the academic field. This course is suitable for advanced undergraduate school, as well as technical writing professionals and practitioners who wish to plan, research, and write more effectively. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 336 Issues in Professional Writing
This course investigates a variety of issues relevant to contemporary professional writing. In addition to surveying theoretical positions in the discipline, the course emphasizes preparing effective written products for academic and professional settings. In-class writing activities, workshops, and lengthier projects prepare students to think critically in this dynamic and ever-changing profession while familiarizing them with the writing styles, organizations, and formats of various documents. Topics include international technical writing; gender, writing, and technology; and technical and professional editing. This course is suitable for advanced undergraduate school, as well as professional writing practitioners who wish to plan, research, and write more effectively and efficiently. Students may take this course twice under different subtitles. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or the equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 338 Persuasive Writing
This course strengthens student skills in argument and encourages development of a clear forceful prose style. Students write to a variety of audiences in a variety of forms, including editorials and proposals and persuasive Web pages. The class, which emphasizes revision, includes some workshops and peer-editing sessions. (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 340 The World of Publishing: Working on Fairfield's Dogwood Magazine
This course introduces students to the field of publishing, particularly book and magazine publishing. It provides students with a solid foundation in the publishing field (e.g., selecting and editing manuscripts, book/magazine production, and marketing) and offers students practical hands-on experience similar to that of an internship position at a magazine or publishing house. In addition to attending lectures and participating in discussion, students work on the University's national literary magazine, Dogwood. (Prerequisite: EN12 or equivalent) Three credits.

EN/W 345 (Fall) or EN/W 346 (Spring) Internships
The internship program allows students to gain on-site experience in the fields of journalism, publishing, and public relations through supervised work for local newspapers, magazines, publishers, and news agencies. These positions are available upon recommendation of the department intern supervisor, under whose guidance the students assume the jobs, which require 10 to 15 hours a week. Students may take one internship for credit toward the English major. Students may take a second internship for elective credit. (Prerequisites: intern supervisor) Three credits.

EN/W 347 (Fall) or EN/W 348 (Spring) Independent Writing Project
Students undertake Individual tutorials in writings and can obtain credit for writing for The Mirror, The Sound, or for other projects of personal interest. Only one independent writing project can be counted towards fulfilling the five field electives required to complete an English major. The department will consider exceptions only if multiple Independent Writing Project courses cover totally different subject areas and approval in advance is obtained. (Prerequisites: EN 12 or equivalent and permission of instructor) Three credits.

EN/W 350 Special Topics: Writing
This course is an umbrella under which a variety of courses can be taken on an experimental or temporary basis, exploring different writing styles and approaches.  (Prerequisite: EN 12 or equivalent) Three credits.

Any questions? See Dr. Simon, coordinator of journalism courses, DMH106; ext. 2792; e-mail jsimon@mail.fairfield.edu

Other courses useful to potential journalists

This somewhat arbitrary list contains courses that are ideal:

• to fill out your core requirements, or
• to use as electives, or
• to use in fulfilling the requirements of your major.

Not all courses are offered every semester. There may be prerequisites; see the course catalog.