Media Law

Catalog description

This course introduces students to foundational legal principles that inform the work of media professionals such as entrepreneurial content creators, public relations specialists, and journalists. Students study the legal system generally and gain exposure to the constitutional, statutory and regulatory environment wherein lawful communications are distinguished from those that violate the law. To understand the judicial process, students engage with such relevant common law torts as defamation and invasion of privacy, exploring the potential for liability and the nature of court-imposed damages. In addition, an examination of the constitutional right to freedom of expression under the First Amendment offers students the framework under which governing statutory law and administrative regulations may permissibly occur. Coverage of copyrights and trademarks, journalistic privilege, obscenity, and media ownership provides the context for appreciating the tensions between government regulation of media and the First Amendment. Throughout the course, students rely heavily on their developing ability to think critically and communicate clearly about complex issues.