.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-A in Mass Communication at Central University of Tamil Nadu
Tiruvarur, Tamil Nadu
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Mass Communication at Central University of Tamil Nadu Tiruvarur?
This M.A. Mass Communication program at Central University of Tamil Nadu focuses on developing comprehensive understanding and practical skills across diverse media platforms. It emphasizes the evolving Indian media landscape, covering traditional and new media, with a strong foundation in communication theories, media laws, and ethical practices. The program prepares students for dynamic roles in India''''s booming media and entertainment industry, fostering critical thinking and creative storytelling.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into journalism, public relations, advertising, or digital media fields. It also caters to working professionals looking to upskill in specific media domains or career changers transitioning into the vibrant Indian media industry. Students with a strong interest in societal communication, media ethics, and practical media production will find this program particularly rewarding, providing a solid academic and practical foundation.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as journalists, content writers, PR specialists, advertisers, social media managers, and media researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Growth trajectories often lead to editorial leadership, corporate communication management, or media entrepreneurship. The program''''s comprehensive nature equips students for professional certifications in digital marketing or media analytics, enhancing career prospects.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Base & Media Awareness- (Semester 1)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core communication theories, media laws, and ethical principles taught in Semester 1. Actively read major Indian newspapers, magazines, and news portals daily (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express, Livemint, The Economic Times) to connect theoretical concepts with real-world media practices and contemporary issues. Maintain a media journal to document observations and analyses.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on Media Studies, Press Council of India guidelines, AIR/Doordarshan archives, Institutional library access to communication journals
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for critical media analysis, ethical decision-making, and informed content creation, essential skills for any media professional.
Develop Basic Reporting & Photography Skills- (Semester 1)
Beyond classroom learning in Reporting Techniques and Introduction to Photography, practice news gathering by conducting mock interviews, writing news reports on campus events, and capturing photographs for college activities. Experiment with different camera settings and composition techniques. Seek feedback from peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
Free photo editing software (GIMP, Photopea), Basic DSLR/smartphone camera, Online tutorials for journalistic writing
Career Connection
Practical reporting and visual storytelling skills are fundamental for entry-level roles in print, digital journalism, and content creation.
Engage in Peer Learning & Discussion Forums- (Semester 1)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss complex theories and analyze media case studies. Participate actively in departmental seminars, workshops, and debates. Collaborate on small media projects (e.g., creating a college newsletter, a short photo essay) to apply learned concepts and foster teamwork.
Tools & Resources
WhatsApp/Telegram groups for study, Departmental notice boards for event information, College clubs
Career Connection
Enhances critical thinking, communication skills, and networking, preparing for collaborative industry environments.
Intermediate Stage
Master Production & Design Software- (Semester 2-3)
Proactively learn and practice with industry-standard software for editing, page design, basic video/audio editing (for broadcast media), and graphic design beyond what is covered in Basic Computer Applications for Media and Introduction to Broadcast Media. Seek out tutorials for tools like Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Premiere Pro, or Audacity.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Cloud (student versions), YouTube tutorials, Online courses (Coursera, Udemy) on media software
Career Connection
Hands-on proficiency with media production tools is a direct requirement for roles in print design, broadcasting, and digital content production.
Undertake Mini-Projects & Internships- (Semester 2-3 (especially summer breaks))
Leverage the knowledge from Public Relations, Advertising, and Digital Media to take on mini-projects for campus organizations, local NGOs, or small businesses (e.g., managing social media, designing PR campaigns, creating advertisements). Actively seek short-term internships during semester breaks to gain real-world exposure in media houses or PR firms.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Internshala, University career services, Local business directories
Career Connection
Builds a practical portfolio, develops professional networks, and provides essential industry experience, significantly boosting placement chances.
Develop Specialized Skills through Electives & Workshops- (Semester 3)
Choose electives (Film Studies/Event Management/Film Production/Radio Programme Production in Sem 3) strategically based on career interests. Attend specialized workshops or certification programs in areas like advanced digital marketing, film appreciation, or professional event planning, to deepen knowledge and build a competitive edge in specific media niches.
Tools & Resources
Industry associations (e.g., FICCI FRAMES), Film festivals, Online certifications platforms
Career Connection
Allows for early specialization and builds unique skills highly valued in specific segments of the media industry.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation Quality & Impact- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the Dissertation/Project Work in Semester 4. Choose a relevant and impactful research topic, conduct thorough primary/secondary research, and present findings professionally. Aim for a project that addresses a contemporary media issue or explores an innovative solution, making it a strong portfolio piece.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (JSTOR, EBSCO), Academic writing guides, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Showcases analytical, research, and independent work skills, highly valued in media research, content strategy, and academic roles.
Maximize Internship Learning for Placements- (Semester 4)
Treat the compulsory internship in Semester 4 as a gateway to full-time employment. Proactively seek challenging tasks, network with professionals, and demonstrate strong work ethic and media skills. Develop a comprehensive internship report and integrate lessons learned into your career strategy and interview preparation.
Tools & Resources
Internship supervisor, Professional networking events, University placement cell
Career Connection
Often leads to pre-placement offers, provides critical professional references, and sharpens interview skills for immediate post-graduation roles.
Prepare a Comprehensive Media Portfolio & Job Applications- (Semester 4)
Compile a professional portfolio showcasing all practical work (news reports, photographs, design layouts, video/audio projects, PR campaigns, research excerpts) from the entire program. Tailor your resume and cover letters for specific job roles in the Indian media industry, actively applying to relevant companies through university placements and job portals.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (Behance, personal website), LinkedIn profiles, University career counseling, Job portals (Naukri, Indeed)
Career Connection
A strong portfolio and targeted applications are essential for securing desired job roles and internships post-graduation in the competitive media market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline with at least 50% marks or an equivalent grade from a recognized University/Institution (as per general CUTN PG admission criteria)
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAMC101 | Introduction to Communication | Core | 4 | Nature and process of communication, Models of communication, Types of communication, Barriers to communication, Role of communication in society |
| MAMC102 | Reporting Techniques | Core | 4 | News values, Sources of news, Interviewing techniques, Types of reporting, Feature writing |
| MAMC103 | Theories of Mass Communication | Core | 4 | Early communication theories, Media effects theories, Critical theories, Development communication theories, New media theories |
| MAMC104 | Media Laws & Ethics | Core | 4 | Freedom of speech and expression, Indian media laws, Defamation, Obscenity, Intellectual property rights, Ethical dilemmas in journalism |
| MAMC105 | Introduction to Photography | Core | 4 | Basics of camera, Elements of photography, Photo composition, Digital photography, Photo editing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAMC201 | Editing and Page Designing | Core | 4 | Principles of editing, Copy editing, Headline writing, Page layout and design, Graphics and visuals |
| MAMC202 | Public Relations and Corporate Communication | Core | 4 | Nature and scope of PR, PR tools and techniques, Crisis communication, Corporate social responsibility, Public Relations in India |
| MAMC203 | Introduction to Broadcast Media | Core | 4 | History of radio and television, Broadcast journalism, Programme production, Radio and TV formats, Broadcast media in India |
| MAMC204 | Advertising: Principles & Practices | Core | 4 | History of advertising, Types of advertising, Advertising appeals, Media planning, Advertising ethics |
| MAMC205 | Basic Computer Applications for Media | Core | 4 | Operating systems, MS Office tools, Internet and web search, Data management, Basic design software |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAMC301 | Digital Media & Online Journalism | Core | 4 | Evolution of digital media, Online news portals, Social media journalism, Mobile journalism, Web analytics |
| MAMC302 | Media Research Methods | Core | 4 | Research design, Data collection methods, Sampling techniques, Data analysis, Research report writing |
| MAMC303 | Development Communication | Core | 4 | Models of development, Role of media in development, Health communication, Environmental communication, Rural development |
| MAMC304A | Film Studies | Elective | 4 | History of cinema, Film language, Genres of film, Indian cinema, Film criticism |
| MAMC304B | Event Management | Elective | 4 | Principles of event management, Event planning, Budgeting, Marketing events, Event production |
| MAMC305A | Film Production | Elective | 4 | Film pre-production, Cinematography, Sound recording, Editing techniques, Post-production |
| MAMC305B | Radio Programme Production | Elective | 4 | Radio scriptwriting, Voice modulation, Studio operations, Radio formats, Audio editing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAMC401 | Television Production | Core | 4 | TV studio setup, Camera movements, Lighting, Scriptwriting for TV, Non-linear editing |
| MAMC402 | Media Management | Core | 4 | Media ownership, Media economics, Marketing strategies for media, Revenue models, Media policy |
| MAMC403 | Dissertation / Project Work | Core | 8 | Research proposal, Data collection, Analysis, Report writing, Presentation |
| MAMC404 | Internship | Core | 4 | Practical work experience, Industry exposure, Skill application, Professional development, Report submission |
