Overview

The Public Affairs Reporting (PAR) option gives students with an interest in government the knowledge and skills needed to provide accurate news coverage of all levels of state and local government. An informed citizenry is essential to the healthy functioning of a democratic society and the news media are essential to that health by keeping the public informed about what elected and appointed officials are doing. PAR students learn about the state legislature, local governments, courts and police, and the impact of national and international events on local affairs. Students learn how to find, interpret and use public records to document government action, organizations, and individuals who operate in the public interest. In our program, students learn to think critically, produce creatively, write precisely, process information quickly, interview thoughtfully, manage people, and develop an excellent work ethic.

Degree: BA

Completion time: 60 semester hours required for the major and 120 hours required for graduation

Accreditation: Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communication

Resources

- Program Information in EIU Catalog

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