Writing for Social Change

In this course we will learn to write essays and editorials addressing current political, social, and cultural issues. Drawing from recent conflicts and protest about labor, the environment, education, healthcare, foreign policy, elections, and other arenas, students will draft compelling essays, written for publication in mainstream and alternative outlets. The class encourages experimentation with a variety of styles and formats—journalism, long-form nonfiction, personal essays, research-based reports, and public advocacy writing. Students will also learn about pitching their writing to magazines or newspapers as well as the editorial process, from original concept to final draft. The course is team-taught by an investigative journalist and a sociologist, both of whom have experience writing for major American and international outlets.