JOUR486

This course will cover skills to help you write accurate, relevant and compelling stories on health science topics. We will explore the challenges in writing accurate health stories, cover basic knowledge of health sciences research and how to interpret studies, and critique media coverage of various health topics. We will also review the basics of storytelling, narrative, interview techniques, journalistic ethics and submitting your articles to publications.

This course will consist of lectures, readings, discussions and writing assignments. You will be writing two short articles to get your feet wet in health science reporting. The final assignment will entail writing a health-based article of 1,500 to 2,500 words. Graduate students will also need to present an in-depth presentation to the class on a health organization.