This is an upper division course that is a core requirement for all communication students.

This course focuses on both general issues and professional media concerns. Communication students with junior standing that have taken at least one communication course, or those with media experience that have devoted thought to major legal issues concerning communication, will be adequately prepared for this course. Upper-class non-majors with an interest in media, law, or public administration/business are also encouraged to participate.

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Communication Law I (3 units). Pre-requisite: Junior standing or permission of instructor. Study of legal systems of state and nation as related to media, including libel, privacy, copyright, access, contract, and First Amendment issues. Emphasis ongender, religion, and ethnic diversity issues as they apply to communication law.

REQUIRED TEXTBOOK: Thomas L. Tedford and Dale A. Herbeck (authors); Freedom of Speech in the United States, 5th edition. ISBN-10: 1891136100 2005 / 496 pages / paperback.

Fall 2008 Course Syllabus