Introduction to Opinion Journalism

Opinion journalism is a way to express judgement and fuel public deliberation on salient themes in a world full of strong takes. Ranging from op-eds to newspaper columns, it is fused with words of voice, advocacy, and story--all of which support a greater concept of truth. This course covers the history, ethics, and societal importance of opinion journalism with a focus on editorial writing. Students will explore the writing techniques and rhetorical devices commonly employed in effective opinion pieces, enhance their research skills, master their thesis-writing abilities, and strengthen the presence of their voice in their writing. Ultimately, they will learn how to better articulate their thoughts along their writing journey. With the individualized feedback and multiple writing exercises that this course has to offer, students will be able to craft their own opinion pieces on topics that they are passionate about with depth, concision, and spirit.