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M-SC-HOME-SCIENCE in Extension And Communication Management at College of Rural Home Science, Dharwad
Dharwad, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Extension and Communication Management at College of Rural Home Science, Dharwad Dharwad?
This Extension and Communication Management program at College of Community Science, Dharwad, part of UAS Dharwad, focuses on equipping professionals with skills to facilitate rural development and social change. In the Indian context, effective communication and extension services are crucial for disseminating agricultural innovations, health practices, and livelihood enhancements. This program distinguishes itself by integrating theoretical knowledge with practical field experience, preparing graduates to address the unique challenges of diverse communities and leverage traditional and modern communication tools.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from B.Sc. Home Science, Agriculture, Rural Development, or Social Sciences seeking entry into the development sector, NGOs, government extension agencies, or corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. It also suits working professionals who wish to upgrade their skills in communication, project management, and community outreach. Individuals passionate about rural transformation and sustainable development will find this specialization particularly rewarding, provided they have a foundational understanding of social sciences or agricultural sciences.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths as Extension Officers, Rural Development Managers, Communication Specialists, Program Coordinators, or Social Mobilizers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15 LPA in NGOs, government projects, or corporate firms. The program aligns with professional demands for development practitioners, offering robust skills in community engagement, program design, and impact assessment, crucial for roles in both public and private sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Base and Research Acumen- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering core extension theories, communication models, and fundamental statistical methods. Regularly participate in group discussions, clarify concepts with professors, and utilize the university library''''s resources for in-depth reading. Attend introductory workshops on research methodology and data analysis software like SPSS or R, which are often offered by departments or student clubs.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, NPTEL courses on statistics and social sciences, Group study sessions, Academic mentors
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is essential for understanding the ''''why'''' behind extension strategies, enabling effective program design and evidence-based decision-making in future roles. Research acumen is vital for program evaluation and impact assessment.
Develop Effective Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in seminars, classroom presentations, and debates. Seek feedback on your oral and written communication from peers and faculty. Practice public speaking by volunteering for college events or community outreach programs. Utilize tools like Canva for creating visually engaging presentations and practice delivering complex information clearly and concisely.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International (if available), University communication workshops, Presentation software (Canva, PowerPoint), Peer feedback groups
Career Connection
Excellent communication skills are paramount for extension professionals who need to convey critical information to diverse rural audiences, build rapport, and advocate for community needs.
Engage in Field Visits and Community Interaction- (Semester 1-2)
Actively seek opportunities for field visits to nearby villages, agricultural extension centers, or NGOs, even if not formally part of the curriculum. Observe extension activities, interact with beneficiaries, and understand local community structures and challenges. Document your observations and reflect on how theoretical knowledge applies to real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs, University extension wings, Faculty contacts, Field visit reports/journals
Career Connection
Early exposure to ground realities helps bridge the gap between theory and practice, fostering empathy, cultural sensitivity, and practical problem-solving skills crucial for effective community work.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake an Applied Internship or Field Project- (Semester 3)
Secure an internship with an NGO, government development agency, or a CSR wing of a company focusing on rural development or community outreach. Actively engage in project planning, implementation, and monitoring. Take initiative in data collection, community mobilization, and report writing, applying the concepts learned in Management of Development Programmes and Entrepreneurship.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Online internship platforms (Internshala, LinkedIn), Faculty network, NGO databases
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable practical experience, industry exposure, and opportunities to build professional networks, significantly enhancing employability and understanding of organizational dynamics in the development sector.
Develop Specialized Skills in Digital Extension and Data Analysis- (Semester 3)
Beyond basic computer applications, pursue advanced training in specific digital tools for extension, such as mobile-based apps for agricultural advisory, social media for advocacy, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for rural planning. Enhance data analysis skills using advanced statistical software and qualitative research tools. Look for online certifications in these areas.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, NASSCOM FutureSkills Prime, Dedicated workshops on GIS or advanced statistics, YouTube tutorials
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital extension and data analysis is increasingly demanded by development organizations for efficient outreach, impact monitoring, and data-driven decision-making, opening doors to specialized roles.
Participate in National-Level Conferences and Workshops- (Semester 3)
Attend national or regional conferences, seminars, and workshops related to rural development, gender studies, or communication. Present a research paper or a poster based on your minor research work or internship experience. Network with academics, policymakers, and practitioners to gain diverse perspectives and identify emerging trends in the field.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations (e.g., Indian Society of Extension Education), University event calendars, Social media groups for development professionals
Career Connection
Participation in such events builds confidence, provides exposure to cutting-edge research, facilitates networking for future collaborations and job opportunities, and hones professional presentation skills.
Advanced Stage
Conduct High-Quality Thesis Research with Practical Relevance- (Semester 4)
Choose a thesis topic that addresses a real-world problem in extension or community development, ideally in collaboration with an external organization. Focus on rigorous methodology, ethical data collection, and robust analysis. Seek regular guidance from your advisor and strive to produce a research output that can potentially inform policy or practice.
Tools & Resources
Research advisory committee, Statistical software, Field survey tools, Academic databases (JSTOR, ResearchGate)
Career Connection
A well-executed and relevant master''''s thesis demonstrates deep expertise, critical thinking, and independent research capabilities, which are highly valued in research roles, policy advocacy, and senior program management positions.
Prepare for Placements and Government Exams- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell for job opportunities in NGOs, government projects, and CSR. Tailor your resume and cover letter to specific roles, highlighting relevant skills and experiences. Simultaneously, prepare for competitive government examinations like UPSC Civil Services, State Public Service Commissions (especially for rural development/extension roles), or NABARD, which often have relevant syllabi.
Tools & Resources
University placement services, Mock interview sessions, Online job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn), Government exam coaching materials
Career Connection
Strategic placement preparation ensures smooth transition into professional roles, while preparing for government exams opens avenues for impactful public service careers in development.
Build a Professional Online Presence and Network- (Semester 4)
Create and maintain a professional LinkedIn profile, showcasing your academic achievements, internships, projects, and skills. Connect with faculty, alumni, and professionals in the development sector. Share relevant articles and insights, and actively engage in online discussions to establish your expertise and expand your professional network beyond the campus.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional networking events (online/offline), Alumni platforms
Career Connection
A strong online professional presence enhances visibility to potential employers and collaborators, facilitates continuous learning, and opens doors to mentorship opportunities and future career advancements.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. (Home Science/Community Science) or equivalent courses from a recognized university with minimum OGPA/percentage, as per University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad regulations.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 75 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXT 501 | Fundamentals of Extension Education | Core | 4 | Concepts and Philosophy of Extension Education, Principles and Functions of Extension, History of Rural Development and Extension in India, Extension Approaches and Systems, Role of Extension in Agricultural and Rural Development, Challenges and Future of Extension |
| EXT 502 | Communication and Diffusion of Innovations | Core | 4 | Communication Theories and Models, Elements and Process of Communication, Diffusion and Adoption of Innovations, Innovator Categories and Adoption Process, Barriers to Communication and Diffusion, Strategies for Effective Communication |
| EXT 503 | Extension Teaching Methods and Audio Visual Aids | Core | 4 | Classification and Selection of Teaching Methods, Individual, Group, and Mass Contact Methods, Planning and Execution of Extension Teaching Methods, Role of Audio-Visual Aids in Extension, Preparation and Use of Various AV Aids, Digital Tools and Technologies in Extension |
| EXT 504 | Programme Planning and Evaluation in Extension | Core | 4 | Concept and Principles of Programme Planning, Steps in Programme Planning Process, Programme Evaluation: Types and Approaches, Tools and Techniques for Evaluation, Monitoring and Reporting Extension Programs, Impact Assessment of Extension Interventions |
| STAT 501 | Statistical Methods | Supporting | 3 | Basic Statistical Concepts and Measures, Probability and Probability Distributions, Sampling Techniques and Hypothesis Testing, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), Correlation and Regression Analysis, Experimental Designs |
| EXT 591 | Seminar I | Seminar | 1 | Literature Review and Presentation Skills, Scientific Writing and Communication, Seminar Topic Selection, Data Interpretation and Discussion, Question and Answer Session |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXT 505 | Social Psychology for Extension Professionals | Core | 4 | Introduction to Social Psychology, Attitudes, Beliefs, and Values, Group Dynamics and Leadership, Motivation and Human Behavior, Social Learning and Persuasion, Conflict Resolution and Interpersonal Communication |
| EXT 506 | Research Methods in Extension Education | Core | 4 | Types of Research and Research Design, Problem Identification and Hypothesis Formulation, Sampling Methods and Data Collection Tools, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation of Findings, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| EXT 507 | Rural Sociology and Development | Core | 4 | Basic Concepts of Rural Sociology, Social Structure and Stratification in Rural India, Rural Institutions and Leadership Patterns, Theories of Rural Development, Rural Poverty and Unemployment, Government Programs for Rural Development |
| EXT 508 | Gender and Development | Core | 4 | Concepts of Gender, Sex, and Patriarchy, Gender Roles and Relations in Society, Gender Mainstreaming in Development, Women Empowerment and Self-Help Groups, Gender Analysis in Agriculture and Rural Livelihoods, Policies and Programs for Gender Equity |
| EXT 509 | Computer Applications in Extension | Core | 1 | Introduction to Computer Hardware and Software, MS Office Suite for Data Management and Presentation, Internet and Email Usage for Communication, Statistical Software Packages, Digital Content Creation for Extension, Online Platforms for Learning and Outreach |
| EXT 599 | Seminar II | Seminar | 1 | Advanced Literature Review, Research Proposal Development, Critical Analysis of Scientific Papers, Effective Oral Presentation Techniques, Academic Discussion and Argumentation, Feedback Incorporation |
| COMP 599 | Comprehensive Viva-Voce | Core | 1 | Overall Subject Knowledge Assessment, Understanding of Extension Principles, Ability to Integrate Concepts, Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking, Oral Communication Skills, Preparedness for Research |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXT 510 | Entrepreneurship Development in Home Science | Core | 4 | Concepts and Theories of Entrepreneurship, Identification of Entrepreneurial Opportunities, Business Plan Formulation and Project Management, Financial Management and Marketing Strategies, Government Schemes for Entrepreneurs, Challenges and Success Factors for Women Entrepreneurs |
| EXT 511 | Management of Development Programmes | Core | 4 | Principles of Development Management, Project Cycle Management, Planning, Implementation, and Monitoring, Resource Mobilization and Fund Raising, Stakeholder Analysis and Partnership Building, Challenges in Managing Development Projects |
| EXT 512 | Organizational Behavior and Human Resource Management | Core | 4 | Foundations of Organizational Behavior, Individual Behavior: Perception, Learning, Motivation, Group Dynamics, Team Building, and Leadership, Human Resource Planning and Recruitment, Training and Development, Performance Appraisal, Organizational Change and Development |
| EXT 513 | Professional Ethics and Values in Extension | Core | 3 | Introduction to Ethics and Values, Ethical Dilemmas in Extension Work, Professional Conduct and Accountability, Social Responsibility and Equity, Integrity and Transparency in Development, Legal and Regulatory Frameworks |
| EXT 514 | Internship | Elective | 1 | Field Placement in Extension Organizations, Practical Application of Extension Principles, Observation and Participation in Programs, Report Writing on Internship Experience, Skill Development in Real-World Settings, Networking with Professionals |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EXT 599 | Master’s Research (Thesis) | Research | 20 | Identification of Research Problem, Development of Research Proposal, Data Collection and Analysis, Interpretation of Results, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Defense of Research Work |
