Journalism as Civic Media
Eugene Lang College Lib Arts: Journalism + Design
CRN: 17017
Credits: 4
In an era when everyone creates and consumes information, journalism has to rethink its habitual relationship with the communities it serves. Journalists must now learn how to engage, equip, and empower people to strengthen participation in civic life and governance. Civic media builds on journalism’s best traditions—giving voice to people without institutional power, listening to communities—to help historically marginalized groups gather and improve the places where they live and work. In this course, students will collaborate with community partners in New York City, including mutual aid societies, neighborhood youth organizations and affordable housing groups, to develop practical resources that empower residents and advance social change. The course focuses on equipping students to identify and address local information needs using digital tools, and develop initiatives that have a direct impact on daily life. By its conclusion, students will have designed and implemented a civic media project in partnership with a community group.
College: Eugene Lang College Lib Arts (LC)
Department: Journalism + Design (JND)
Campus: New York City (GV)
Course Format: Seminar (R)
Modality: In-Person
Max Enrollment: 18
Add/Drop Deadline: February 3, 2026 (Tuesday)
Online Withdrawal Deadline: April 14, 2026 (Tuesday)
Seats Available: Yes
Status: Open*
* Status information is updated every few minutes. The status of this course may have changed since the last update. Open seats may have restrictions that will prevent some students from registering. Updated: 4:58pm EDT 10/18/2025