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So, you want to be a journalist, huh? Reporting I is the first core class that prepares students for what life might be like as a reporter. Students discover how many hours are invested in front of a computer monitor in lab as they learn about the inverted pyramid, news writing skills and how to write concise leads.

When does the class meet?
Timetable Selection

When should I take JOURN 400?
Reporting I is the first core class in the series so you should take it in your first semester as a journalism major. However, you MAY take this class before you officially become a journalism major. This option is suggested if you want to start your core classes early. If you receive permission to take this class early, go for it!

What are the assignments like?
In general, expect to write a few articles during the semester. This class does not focus extensively on reporting, but rather on news writing and all the elements required to write an article. Assignments vary depending on which section you take.

How much time out of class will I spend for this class?
JOURN 400 requires minimum out of class time. Time spent interviewing and writing articles will vary depending on each student.

Are there any exams?
There is a midterm and final based on the lecture section. The best way to prepare for the exams are to attend lecture and complete the readings.

Are there quizzes?
News quizzes are given in labs. To do well you should follow local, national and international news. It is also suggested to read various newspapers.

J. 200: Introduction to Journalism

Whether your journalistic dreams lie in print or broadcast, this is first course you take here at U of I on your path to a degree in journalism. This class is a prerequisite for all journalism majors.

J. 400: Reporting I

J. 405: History of Journalism

History buffs, this is your class. From the muckrakers to Watergate, JOUR 405 explores all things related to the birth and evolution of journalism in this country. Taught by Professor Louis Liebovich, JOUR 405 is a more traditional course in that every class is similar: the professor lectures while the students take notes.

J. 411: Law and Communication

Law is one class in which you must stay awake. Professor Steven Helle is known for his Socratic method of teaching-that is, if you are not prepared, watch out. You might be caught answering questions on last week's court-case readings!

J. 415: Reporting II

Have an ulcer? Is your hair graying yet? If not, then you probably haven't taken JOUR 415 yet. This class has many students tossing and turning before they even enroll in it. But don't worry, the experience you gain makes all your worries worthwhile.

J. 420: News Editing

What is a gerund? Can you spot dangling modifiers? Passive voice? Although much of what you'll learn in JOUR 420 sounds like a repeat of what you should have learned the first time around in grammar school, the techniques you learn will help you become both a better writer and a better editor.

J. 425: Graphics and Design

Feel like you haven't spent enough quality time in Gregory Hall's Beschloss Lab? JOUR 425 will take care of that problem. By the end of the semester, you'll agree with the rest of the JOUR 425 veterans: The white walls are enough to drive you nuts, but at least the chairs are comfortable.

J. 435: Radio Journalism

According to broadcast graduate student Jasmine Scott, JOUR 435 is not hard, it's just a lot of work. Specifically, it's a lot of work done in five-hour blocks with small classes, so take advantage of the class time and get hands-on experience with your teacher.

J. 440: Television Journalism I

Do you want to be a news anchor for a major news network? Or would you rather stay behind the scenes and work the camera? Or maybe you'd like to direct the whole show? Whatever aspect of television you're interested in, you'll learn it in JOUR 440.

J. 445: Television Journalism II

Turn to channel 7 on Urbana cable at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and you just might catch JOURN 445 students broadcasting a live half-hour newscast. Students are in charge of every aspect of the newscast, which they put together on the same day it airs.

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