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B-A-HONOURS in Journalism Mass Communication at Calcutta Girls' College
Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Journalism & Mass Communication at Calcutta Girls' College Kolkata?
This Journalism & Mass Communication program at Calcutta Girls'''' College focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of media landscapes, communication theories, and practical journalistic skills. In the dynamic Indian media industry, this program equips students with the expertise needed for traditional and new media platforms, addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in content creation, reporting, and public relations.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative fresh graduates passionate about storytelling, current affairs, and societal impact. It caters to those aspiring to become journalists, content creators, media researchers, or public relations specialists. Students with a strong command of language, critical thinking abilities, and an eagerness to explore diverse communication channels will thrive in this curriculum.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as reporters, editors, content writers, PR executives, social media managers, and media planners. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 8-15+ LPA for experienced professionals. The program aligns with industry needs, preparing students for opportunities in news organizations, advertising agencies, PR firms, and digital media companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Foundational Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering core communication theories, the history of journalism, and basic media concepts. Actively participate in classroom discussions, read relevant academic journals, and follow major news publications (both print and digital) to understand contemporary media practices.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online academic databases, Major Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Reliable online news portals
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for developing critical analysis skills, essential for all media roles, from reporting to research.
Develop Essential Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Work on improving written and verbal communication. Join college debate clubs, participate in public speaking events, and practice writing news reports, features, and opinion pieces regularly. Seek feedback from professors and peers.
Tools & Resources
College literary societies, Writing workshops, Grammar and style guides, News writing software (e.g., MS Word, Google Docs)
Career Connection
Strong communication is the bedrock of journalism and mass communication, directly impacting success in reporting, editing, and PR roles.
Initiate Media Consumption and Analysis Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of diverse media consumption, including regional and national news, documentaries, and digital content. Critically analyze media messages, biases, and presentation styles. Maintain a media diary to record observations.
Tools & Resources
Reputable news channels (NDTV, Aaj Tak), Streaming platforms for documentaries, Media watch organizations, Personal blog/journal
Career Connection
Understanding media landscape and critical evaluation are vital for informed decision-making and ethical practice in any media profession.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Hands-on Experience with Media Production- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in practical subjects like Reporting, Editing, Radio Journalism, and Television Journalism. Seek opportunities to contribute to college magazines, newsletters, radio shows, or short video productions. Start building a portfolio of practical work.
Tools & Resources
College media lab, Basic audio/video editing software (Audacity, DaVinci Resolve), Smartphone for basic photo/video, Local community radio stations for volunteering
Career Connection
Practical skills are highly valued by employers. A strong portfolio demonstrates capabilities and significantly enhances placement prospects.
Network with Industry Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 3-5)
Attend media workshops, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the college or external organizations. Connect with guest speakers, faculty members, and alumni on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek mentorship and insights into industry trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry events (e.g., Kolkata Literary Meet, media festivals), College alumni network
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, industry insights, and potential job referrals, crucial for navigating the competitive media landscape.
Explore Specializations through Electives and Projects- (Semester 5)
Strategically choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with your career interests (e.g., Film Studies, Data Journalism, Health Communication). Undertake mini-projects or independent research in these areas to deepen your expertise.
Tools & Resources
University syllabus for DSE options, Online courses (Coursera, edX) for supplementary learning, Academic advisors
Career Connection
Specializing early helps in identifying a niche and makes you a more attractive candidate for specific roles within the vast media industry.
Advanced Stage
Secure an Internship and Build a Professional Portfolio- (Semester 6 (during/after))
Actively search for and secure internships with reputed media organizations, PR agencies, or digital marketing firms. Apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios, build a strong professional network, and compile a comprehensive portfolio of your best work, including reports, videos, campaigns, and articles.
Tools & Resources
Online job portals (Internshala, Naukri), College placement cell, Personal website/blog for portfolio display
Career Connection
Internships are often a direct path to full-time employment and provide invaluable experience that recruiters highly prioritize. A strong portfolio is your professional resume.
Master Placement and Interview Skills- (Semester 6)
Participate in mock interviews, group discussions, and resume-building workshops. Research potential employers thoroughly, understand their work culture, and prepare tailored applications. Practice articulating your skills, experiences, and career aspirations clearly.
Tools & Resources
College career services, Online interview preparation platforms, News about current affairs and industry trends
Career Connection
Polished interview skills are critical for converting internship experiences into job offers and securing your desired entry-level position.
Develop an Entrepreneurial Mindset and Digital Proficiency- (Semester 6)
Explore opportunities for independent content creation (blogging, podcasting, vlogging) or freelancing. Continuously update your digital skills in areas like SEO, social media analytics, and digital content strategy. Consider starting a student media venture.
Tools & Resources
Google Analytics, Social media platforms, Basic graphic design tools (Canva), Online courses on digital marketing
Career Connection
In today''''s media landscape, an entrepreneurial approach and strong digital skills offer flexibility, open up freelance opportunities, and make you an adaptable asset to any organization.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A candidate taking up Honours in a subject must have obtained (i) a minimum of 50% marks in the aggregate and 45% marks in the subject or related subject at the previous qualifying examination, OR (ii) 55% marks in the subject or related subject at the previous qualifying examination, OR (iii) 50% marks in the aggregate when the candidate has not studied the subject in her previous qualifying examination provided all other clauses are satisfied. (As per Calcutta Girls'''' College admission criteria for B.A. Hons)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Typically 10 marks (approx. 13.33%) for a 6-credit theory paper (out of 75 total marks), External: Typically 65 marks (approx. 86.67%) for a 6-credit theory paper (out of 75 total marks)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JORA-A-CC-1-1-TH | Journalism as a Discipline | Core | 6 | Concept of Journalism, Forms of Journalism, Journalism in India, Role of Journalist, Ethics and Responsibilities |
| JORA-A-CC-1-2-TH | Introduction to Mass Communication | Core | 6 | Concept of Mass Communication, Models and Theories of Communication, Forms of Mass Communication, History of Mass Communication, Impact of Mass Communication |
| BA-A-GE-1 | Generic Elective - I | Generic Elective | 6 | |
| BA-A-AECC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JORA-A-CC-2-3-TH+PR | Reporting Methods | Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Concept of Reporting, News Gathering Techniques, Types of Reporting, Interviewing Skills, Report Writing |
| JORA-A-CC-2-4-TH+PR | Editing Methods | Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Concept of Editing, News Desk Operations, Headline Writing, Page Layout and Design, Proofreading |
| BA-A-GE-2 | Generic Elective - II | Generic Elective | 6 | |
| BA-A-AECC-2 | English/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Theories of Communication, Language of Communication, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Effective Speaking |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JORA-A-CC-3-5-TH+PR | Introduction to New Media | Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | Digital Media Landscape, Online Journalism, Social Media, Mobile Journalism, Cyber Laws and Ethics |
| JORA-A-CC-3-6-TH | Media and Cultural Studies | Core | 6 | Culture and Communication, Media Theories (Cultural Studies), Globalization and Media, Popular Culture, Media Representation |
| JORA-A-CC-3-7-TH+PR | Radio Journalism | Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | History of Radio in India, Radio News Writing, Radio Programme Production, Voice Culture and Presentation, Radio Advertising |
| BA-A-GE-3 | Generic Elective - III | Generic Elective | 6 | |
| JORA-A-SEC-A-3-1-TH | Photography | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Basics of Photography, Camera Operations, Principles of Composition, Digital Photography, Photojournalism |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JORA-A-CC-4-8-TH+PR | Television Journalism | Core (Theory + Practical) | 6 | History of Television in India, TV News Production Process, Camera and Lighting Techniques, Video Editing, Anchoring and Interviewing for TV |
| JORA-A-CC-4-9-TH | Public Relations and Corporate Communication | Core | 6 | Concept of Public Relations, PR Tools and Techniques, Corporate Communication Strategies, Crisis Communication, Ethics in PR |
| JORA-A-CC-4-10-TH | Advertising | Core | 6 | History of Advertising, Types of Advertising, Advertising Agency Structure, Advertising Campaign Planning, Media Planning and Buying |
| BA-A-GE-4 | Generic Elective - IV | Generic Elective | 6 | |
| JORA-A-SEC-A-4-2-TH | Web Designing | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Introduction to Web Technologies, HTML Basics, CSS Fundamentals, Web Publishing, Content Management Systems |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JORA-A-CC-5-11-TH | Media Laws and Ethics | Core | 6 | Indian Constitution and Media, Press Laws in India, Broadcast Laws, Cyber Laws, Media Ethics and Accountability |
| JORA-A-CC-5-12-TH | Communication Research | Core | 6 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing |
| JORA-A-DSE-5-1-TH | Discipline Specific Elective - I | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Choices: Film Studies / Data Journalism / Communication for Development |
| JORA-A-DSE-5-2-TH | Discipline Specific Elective - II | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Choices: Film Studies / Data Journalism / Communication for Development (must be different from DSE-I) |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JORA-A-CC-6-13-TH | Media Management | Core | 6 | Media Organization Structure, Media Economics, Marketing of Media Products, Human Resources in Media, Media Entrepreneurship |
| JORA-A-CC-6-14-TH | International Communication | Core | 6 | Theories of International Communication, Global Media Flow, Media Imperialism, Peace Journalism, Role of UN in Communication |
| JORA-A-DSE-6-3-TH | Discipline Specific Elective - III | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Choices: Project Work / Health Communication / Environment Communication |
| JORA-A-DSE-6-4-TH | Discipline Specific Elective - IV | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Choices: Project Work / Health Communication / Environment Communication (must be different from DSE-III and previous DSEs) |
