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Journalism · MS elective · 3 credit hours · 16 sessions

Editorial Writing & Editing

There is a difference between having an opinion and constructing an argument. This course sharpens the student’s ability to persuade, criticize, and influence public opinion through the written word. Simultaneously, it trains students in the rigorous art of Editing—ensuring clarity, accuracy, and flow. Students will learn to write commanding editorials and Op-Eds, while also mastering the “Red Pen” skills of a Copy Chief.

§ 01 By the end you can
  1. Master the structure of persuasive writing: Thesis, Evidence, and Rebuttal
  2. Differentiate between news reports, analysis, editorials, and Op-Eds
  3. Apply standard Style Guides (AP Style/Chicago) to ensure consistency
  4. Execute "Substantive Editing" (content) vs. "Copy Editing" (grammar/mechanics)
  5. Write headlines and captions that drive engagement without clicking-baiting
§ 02 Sixteen sessions

The whole semester.

  1. 01The Role of the Opinion Desk
  2. 02Structuring an Argument: The Syllogism
  3. 03Writing the Editorial: The Institutional Voice
  4. 04The Op-Ed: Personal Branding & Expertise
  5. 05Arts & Culture Criticism (Reviews)
  6. 06Column Writing: Developing a Niche
  7. 07Legal Issues: Libel in Opinion Writing
  8. 08 · MidtermMidterm Examination
  9. 09Copy Editing I: Grammar & Mechanics
  10. 10Copy Editing II: Style Guides (AP Style)
  11. 11The Art of the Headline & SEO
  12. 12Fact-Checking & Verification
  13. 13Editing for Tone and Voice
  14. 14Layout & Design Basics for Editors
  15. 15The Editor-Writer Relationship
  16. 16Final Project: The Op-Ed Page Layout

Midterm around session 8. Final project briefed at session 8 or 9 and developed in stages until the juries.

§ 03 Final project

Final Project: The Op-Ed Page Layout

How it’s judged

Recommended reading
  1. The Art of the Editorial by David E. Boeyink
  2. The Subversive Copy Editor by Carol Fisher Saller
  3. Eats, Shoots & Leaves by Lynne Truss
  4. The Elements of Journalism (Opinion Section) by Kovach & Rosenstiel
  5. Associated Press Stylebook (Current Edition)
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