Communication Law and Ethics

Catalog description

In this course, students review the history, development, and interpretation of the First Amendment in the U.S. by our court system. Emphasis is placed on the amendment’s impact upon media professionals, journalists, and citizens and includes legal and ethical principles that underpin effective communication practices. Topics include privacy, defamation, press freedom, copyright, media regulations, and the laws of emerging technologies. Students will learn to apply statutes, case law, and ethical principles to First Amendment issues and disputes.