Jonathan Kotler

Jonathan Kotler is an Associate Professor of Journalism at the USC Annenberg School of Journalism, where he has taught since 1983. A USC School of Journalism graduate (1967), he holds additional degrees from UCLA School of Law and USC in liberal arts and history. His expertise spans media law, ethics, history, and policy, with research interests in culture and media industries.

He served as Associate Dean, Dean of the USC Graduate School, and Director of Graduate and Professional Programs in the Office of the Provost. He has advised media clients at all judicial levels, including the U.S. Supreme Court, and lectured widely on higher education law through organizations like the Western Association of Graduate Schools, which he led as president (2000–2001).

His awards include the Freedom of Information Award (1982) and the President’s Circle Faculty Award (1989). He teaches courses on media law, foreign reporting, and international journalism. Beyond academia, he is an avid sports fan and enjoys time with his family.