

B-A in Journalism Political Science Economics Jpe at Dr. B.B. Hegde First Grade College


Udupi, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Journalism, Political Science, Economics (JPE) at Dr. B.B. Hegde First Grade College Udupi?
This Journalism, Political Science, Economics (JPE) program at Dr. B.B. Hegde First Grade College, Udupi, focuses on providing a multidisciplinary understanding of media, governance, and economic systems in India. It integrates critical analysis of political structures with an in-depth study of economic policies and the role of journalism in a democratic society. This program addresses the growing demand for professionals who can analyze complex socio-political and economic landscapes.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into media, public policy analysis, or economic research sectors in India. It also suits individuals passionate about civic engagement, public discourse, and understanding the mechanisms that shape Indian society. Aspiring civil servants, journalists, policy analysts, and economists will find this curriculum particularly beneficial, often requiring strong analytical and communication skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in journalism, public relations, market research, government administration, and non-profit organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in policy consulting or senior media roles. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical abilities, highly valued in India''''s competitive job market.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Interdisciplinary Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with all three core subjects – Journalism, Political Science, and Economics. Understand how they interrelate; for example, how economic policies influence political decisions and how both are reported by the media. Focus on conceptual clarity and critical analysis across these disciplines.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks for foundational knowledge, Reputable Indian news sources (The Hindu, Indian Express), Introductory economics and political science journals accessible online, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong interdisciplinary base is crucial for roles requiring holistic understanding of societal dynamics, such as policy analysis or comprehensive news reporting, laying groundwork for future specialization.
Enhance Communication and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Utilize compulsory English and Indian language courses to refine written and verbal communication. Practice essay writing, public speaking, and active listening. Begin developing basic research skills by exploring library resources and credible online databases for project work.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Grammarly/Hemingway App for writing improvement, TED Talks for public speaking inspiration, Online research portals like JSTOR (if available)
Career Connection
Excellent communication is paramount for journalists, policy advocates, and economists presenting findings. Strong research skills are the backbone of credible analysis and reporting, leading to better opportunities in media and research.
Cultivate Media Literacy and Awareness- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond academics, regularly consume diverse Indian media, including print, digital, and broadcast. Analyze news critically, identify biases, and understand different journalistic approaches. Participate in college debates and discussions on current affairs.
Tools & Resources
Subscription to diverse Indian newspapers/magazines, Reputable news channels and online portals, College debating societies, Public lectures on media and current affairs
Career Connection
Deep media literacy is essential for aspiring journalists and informed citizens. It sharpens analytical skills and prepares students for roles in media critique, content creation, and public relations.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Practical Exposure through Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships or volunteer opportunities in local news agencies, NGOs working in policy, or research firms during semester breaks. This hands-on experience in journalism, political campaigning, or economic survey work is invaluable.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell guidance, Online internship platforms (Internshala, LinkedIn), Networking with faculty and alumni, Local media houses and policy advocacy groups
Career Connection
Internships translate theoretical knowledge into practical skills, creating a professional network and significantly boosting employability for entry-level positions in relevant industries.
Develop Specialized Analytical Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on skill-enhancement courses (SEC) and delve deeper into quantitative methods for economics or media analysis techniques for journalism. Learn basic data analysis tools relevant to social sciences and policy studies.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel for data management, Basic statistics software (R/Python for beginners), Online courses on data analysis (Coursera, NPTEL), Specialized workshops
Career Connection
Specialized analytical skills are highly sought after in market research, policy evaluation, and data journalism roles in India, providing a competitive edge in various sectors.
Participate in Academic and Extracurricular Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in inter-college debates, essay competitions, quiz contests, and student journalism festivals. Present research papers at college seminars or local conferences. This builds confidence, hones public speaking, and demonstrates subject mastery.
Tools & Resources
College cultural/academic clubs, University-level events, Online platforms for debates and quizzes, Faculty mentorship for paper presentation
Career Connection
Such participations enhance leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, making students stand out during recruitment drives for diverse roles in media, public service, and corporate communications.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Capstone Projects/Dissertations- (Semester 6-8)
In the final year, choose a significant research project or dissertation related to your JPE specialization. This allows for deep dives into specific topics, applying all learned knowledge and contributing original analysis, ideally with a practical component.
Tools & Resources
Academic supervisors/mentors, Advanced research databases, Statistical software packages, Fieldwork and primary data collection
Career Connection
A well-executed capstone project showcases advanced research capabilities, critical thinking, and subject matter expertise, highly valued for postgraduate studies, research roles, and specialized policy/journalism jobs.
Network and Prepare for Placements/Higher Education- (Semester 6-8)
Actively network with professionals in journalism, public policy, and economics through seminars, workshops, and alumni events. Tailor your resume and prepare for interviews, focusing on showcasing your interdisciplinary strengths and practical experiences.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, College placement cell workshops, Mock interview sessions, Career guidance counselors
Career Connection
Proactive networking opens doors to career opportunities. Focused placement preparation ensures readiness for competitive roles in Indian government, media houses, think tanks, or successful admission to master''''s programs.
Engage in Professional Certifications/Workshops- (Semester 6-8)
Consider pursuing additional certifications or workshops that complement your JPE specialization, such as advanced data analytics, digital marketing for media, public policy analysis tools, or specific journalism software. This enhances specific job-ready skills.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Online platforms (Coursera, edX) for specialized certifications, Industry-led workshops, Government skill development programs
Career Connection
These certifications provide tangible evidence of advanced skills and a commitment to continuous learning, making graduates more competitive for specialized roles in the rapidly evolving Indian job market, particularly in digital and analytical domains.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 (Pre-University Course/Higher Secondary Certificate) examination or equivalent from a recognized board
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters (Honours with Research, with multiple exit options: Certificate after 1 year, Diploma after 2 years, Bachelor Degree after 3 years, Bachelor Honours/Research after 4 years)
Credits: Minimum 40 credits for Certificate, 80 for Diploma, 120 for Bachelor Degree, 160 for Bachelor Honours/Research Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-J-1 | Introduction to Communication and Journalism | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Types and Models of Communication, Mass Communication, Communication Theories, Introduction to Journalism and News |
| DSC-PS-1 | Indian Constitution and Government | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | Making of the Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union and State Executive, Judiciary and Federalism |
| DSC-EC-1 | Microeconomics – I | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | Introduction to Economics, Consumer Behaviour, Demand and Supply Analysis, Elasticity, Production and Cost Analysis |
| AECC-E-1 | Communicative English I | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Listening and Speaking, Communicative Strategies |
| AECC-IL-1 | Indian Language I (e.g., Kannada/Hindi/Sanskrit) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Basic Grammar and Vocabulary, Prose and Poetry, Communicative Drills, Cultural Context, Translation Practice |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-J-2 | Reporting and Editing | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | News and News Values, Sources of News, Reporting Techniques, Interviewing and Observation, Principles of Editing, Headline Writing |
| DSC-PS-2 | Political Theory | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | Meaning and Approaches of Political Theory, Concepts of Liberty and Equality, Justice, Rights and Duties, Democracy and Citizenship, Sovereignty and State |
| DSC-EC-2 | Macroeconomics – I | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | National Income Accounting, Classical Theory of Employment, Keynesian Theory of Employment, Consumption and Investment Functions, Inflation and Deflation |
| AECC-E-2 | Communicative English II | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Advanced Grammar and Vocabulary, Formal and Informal Communication, Public Speaking Skills, Critical Reading, Report Writing |
| AECC-EV-2 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Ecology and Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources Management, Sustainable Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-J-3 | Media Laws and Ethics | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | Indian Constitution and Media, Press Freedom and Restrictions, Defamation and Contempt of Court, Cyber Laws and Media, Media Ethics and Code of Conduct |
| DSC-PS-3 | Public Administration | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | Introduction to Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy and Governance, Financial Administration, Personnel Administration and E-governance |
| DSC-EC-3 | Indian Economy – I | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | Features of Indian Economy, Economic Planning in India, Agriculture Sector Reforms, Industrial Development and Policies, Poverty, Inequality and Unemployment |
| SEC-GEN-1 | Digital Fluency | Skill Enhancement Course (Generic) | 2 | Digital Literacy Fundamentals, Internet and Web Technologies, Cybersecurity Basics, Digital Communication Tools, Productivity Software |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-J-4 | Photojournalism and Basic Photography | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | History of Photography, Camera Types and Functions, Exposure, Lighting and Composition, Photojournalism Ethics, Image Editing Basics |
| DSC-PS-4 | International Relations | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | Concepts and Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations and International Organizations, Disarmament and Arms Control, Indian Foreign Policy |
| DSC-EC-4 | Development Economics – I | Discipline Specific Core (Major/Optional) | 4 | Concepts of Development and Underdevelopment, Theories of Economic Growth, Human Development Index, Poverty Alleviation Strategies, Sustainable Development Goals |
| SEC-GEN-2 | Entrepreneurship Development | Skill Enhancement Course (Generic) | 2 | Introduction to Entrepreneurship, Idea Generation and Business Planning, Sources of Finance, Marketing Strategies, Legal Aspects of Business |




