USC and NYTimes Logo Cardinal.jpgThe New York Times Knowledge Network and USC have joined forces to establish and offer a new online continuing education program. As part of this new program, the USC Annenberg Center on Communication Leadership & Policy will be offering courses in journalism and public relations beginning in October 2011. Led by Mark Latonero, CCLP’s director of research and instruction, courses will be taught by CCLP instructors with journalists from The New York Times.

A series of six courses in journalism for high school students will be offered beginning in October 2011. Students may enroll in any of the two week courses taught by Latonero (pictured below) and Larry Wilson, an award-winning journalist, editor and highly rated USC Annenberg lecturer, with participation by journalists from The New York Times. Students who enroll and complete all six courses will earn a certificate. Schools may also be able to purchase seats in the courses for their students.

mark_latonero2.pngCCLP will also be offering a course in crisis communications management taught by veteran media strategist and USC Annenberg adjunct professor Jonathan Wilcox. This course is designed to help communication leaders manage the shifting landscape in both legacy and new media.

“This is a truly innovative way to offer a comprehensive continuing education program that will feature a broad course catalogue and exceptional faculty. Together we will establish a global online resource for students who are interested in maximizing their education regardless of geographic location,” said Felice Nudelman, executive director for education at The New York Times Company.

The launch of this partnership is part of USC’s strategic priority to expand access to its educational programs.

“Higher education does not start with an acceptance letter or stop with a diploma. As the world changes, new information and new challenges are created. A lifelong quest for knowledge, truth, and innovation is the best way to meet these challenges head-on,” says Elizabeth Garrett, USC Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs.