

MA in Mass Communication And Journalism at Gautam Buddha University


Gautam Budh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Mass Communication and Journalism at Gautam Buddha University Gautam Budh Nagar?
This Mass Communication and Journalism program at Gautam Buddha University focuses on developing skilled media professionals for India''''s dynamic landscape. It covers traditional, electronic, and new media, emphasizing practical skills alongside theoretical foundations. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for ethically sound and technically proficient communicators across various media sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative graduates passionate about media, news, and storytelling, seeking entry into journalism, broadcasting, advertising, or public relations. It also suits working professionals aiming to upskill in digital media or transition into communication leadership roles. Individuals with a strong analytical bent and a desire to impact public discourse will find this specialization enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as journalists, PR specialists, advertising executives, content creators, and media researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program prepares students for leadership in media houses, corporate communication departments, and digital agencies, fostering growth trajectories in a rapidly evolving industry.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Media Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core theories of communication, journalism ethics, and media history. Supplement classroom learning by regularly consuming diverse news sources across print, broadcast, and digital platforms to understand different journalistic styles and biases.
Tools & Resources
Reputable news websites (The Hindu, Indian Express), Academic journals, GBU library resources, Peer discussion groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for analytical thinking and ethical decision-making, essential for responsible media professionals and future leadership roles.
Master Basic Reporting & Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice news reporting and feature writing by covering campus events, local news, and community stories. Seek regular feedback from professors and peers on your writing, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and accuracy.
Tools & Resources
Campus newspaper/magazine, Local community news platforms, Style guides (e.g., AP Stylebook), Online grammar checkers
Career Connection
Exceptional writing and reporting skills are non-negotiable for any media role, directly impacting placement chances in newsrooms and content agencies.
Explore Digital Media Tools & Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Familiarize yourself with fundamental digital media tools beyond basic computer applications, such as basic photo editing software, content management systems (like WordPress), and social media platforms for content dissemination.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Photoshop/GIMP basics, Canva, WordPress tutorials, Social media analytics tools (built-in platform analytics)
Career Connection
Early exposure to digital tools makes you more versatile and prepared for roles in online journalism, digital marketing, and content creation, which are high-demand areas in India.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Practical Production Experience- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in university radio/TV initiatives or media labs. Take on roles in scriptwriting, camera operation, editing, and program production. Seek out short-term projects or internships in local production houses.
Tools & Resources
University media labs, Audio/video editing software (Audacity, DaVinci Resolve), Professional cameras and microphones, Local production studios
Career Connection
Hands-on experience builds a robust portfolio and demonstrates technical proficiency, making you a more attractive candidate for broadcast journalism and media production roles.
Develop Public Relations & Advertising Campaigns- (Semester 3)
Work on simulated PR campaigns for campus events or local NGOs, designing communication strategies and press kits. Analyze successful and unsuccessful advertising campaigns in the Indian market, presenting your insights.
Tools & Resources
Case studies of Indian PR/Ad campaigns, Industry journals, Design tools (Canva), Presentation software
Career Connection
Practical experience in strategic communication and creative advertising is vital for roles in PR agencies, corporate communication departments, and advertising firms.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 3)
Attend media seminars, workshops, and industry events in Delhi-NCR. Connect with alumni and media professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance and industry insights.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry associations (e.g., Press Club of India), GBU alumni network, Industry meetups
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship and placement opportunities, provides mentorship, and keeps you updated on industry trends and job openings.
Advanced Stage
Specialize Through Electives and Projects- (Semester 4)
Choose electives strategically to build expertise in a specific area (e.g., digital media, broadcast, print). Use your dissertation/major project to delve deeply into a topic of career interest, showcasing advanced research and analytical skills.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Specialized software for chosen field, GBU faculty mentors, Industry experts for project guidance
Career Connection
Deep specialization makes you a subject matter expert, highly desirable for niche roles and competitive job markets, and strengthens your profile for advanced research or specific industry segments.
Refine Interview & Portfolio Preparation- (Semester 4)
Regularly practice mock interviews focusing on media-specific questions, ethical dilemmas, and current affairs. Develop a professional portfolio showcasing your best journalistic pieces, production work, and campaign designs.
Tools & Resources
Career services, Alumni mentors, Mock interview platforms, Online portfolio builders (e.g., Behance, personal website), Professional resume builders
Career Connection
A well-prepared interview approach and a compelling portfolio are critical for impressing potential employers and securing desirable placements in top media organizations.
Stay Updated with Industry Trends- (Semester 4)
Continuously monitor emerging trends in media technology (e.g., AI in journalism, VR/AR), changing consumption patterns, and new ethical challenges. Subscribe to industry newsletters and attend webinars to remain current.
Tools & Resources
Media industry news websites (e.g., Exchange4Media, Afaqs), Professional development webinars, Industry reports, Expert podcasts
Career Connection
Demonstrating awareness of future trends shows initiative and adaptability, positioning you as a forward-thinking candidate ready to tackle the evolving demands of the media industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline with a minimum of 45% marks (40% for SC/ST candidates) or equivalent grade from a recognized University/Institution.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCMJ101 | Introduction to Communication & Journalism | Core | 4 | Nature of Communication, Models of Communication, Mass Communication Theories, History of Indian Journalism, Global Media Landscape |
| MCMJ103 | Reporting & Editing for Print Media | Core | 4 | News Concepts, News Sources, Reporting Techniques, News Writing Style, Interviewing, Editing Principles, Headline Writing |
| MCMJ105 | Communication Research | Core | 4 | Research Types, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling, Data Analysis, Report Writing, Ethics in Research |
| MCMJ107 | Basics of Radio & Television | Core | 4 | History of Radio, Radio Formats, Radio Production, History of Television, TV Formats, TV Production Basics |
| MCMJ109 | Introduction to New Media & Cyber Journalism | Core | 4 | Digital Media Evolution, Online News Portals, Blogging, Social Media, Web Content Writing, Cyber Ethics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCMJ202 | Electronic Media Production | Core | 4 | Radio Production Techniques, TV Camera Operations, TV News Production, Scriptwriting for Electronic Media, Lighting, Sound Recording |
| MCMJ204 | Public Relations & Corporate Communication | Core | 4 | PR Principles, Tools of PR, Media Relations, Crisis Management, Corporate Social Responsibility, Event Management |
| MCMJ206 | Advertising: Principles & Practices | Core | 4 | History of Advertising, Advertising Agencies, Consumer Behavior, Ad Campaign Planning, Media Planning, Creative Strategy |
| MCMJ208 | Media Law & Ethics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Provisions, Press Laws, Broadcast Laws, Cyber Laws, Defamation, Copyright, Ethical Codes |
| MCMJ210 | Photography & Visual Communication | Core | 4 | Camera Functions, Composition, Lighting, Digital Photography, Photojournalism, Visual Aesthetics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCMJ301 | Development Communication & Social Change | Core | 4 | Theories of Development, Communication for Development, Health Communication, Rural Communication, IEC Strategies, Participatory Communication |
| MCMJ303 | Media Management | Core | 4 | Media Economics, Media Ownership, Business Models, Marketing of Media Products, Human Resource Management, Financial Management |
| MCMJ307A | Advanced Digital Media Production | Elective (Group A) | 4 | Video Editing, Motion Graphics, Web Design Principles, UI/UX for Media, Content Strategy, Digital Storytelling |
| MCMJ307B | Advanced Broadcast Journalism | Elective (Group B) | 4 | Live Reporting, Anchoring, Documentary Production, Program Packaging, Field Reporting, News Production |
| MCMJ307C | Advanced Print Journalism | Elective (Group C) | 4 | Feature Writing, Investigative Journalism, Magazine Production, Column Writing, Editorial Writing, Photo Feature |
| MCMJ311A | Social Media Marketing & Analytics | Elective (Group A) | 4 | Social Media Platforms, Content Marketing, Influencer Marketing, Social Media Analytics, Campaign Management |
| MCMJ311B | Documentary Film Making | Elective (Group B) | 4 | Documentary History, Research and Scriptwriting, Production Stages, Editing Techniques, Distribution Strategies |
| MCMJ311C | Magazine and Specialized Writing | Elective (Group C) | 4 | Magazine Journalism, Niche Writing, Freelancing Skills, Travel Writing, Fashion Journalism |
| MCMJ313 | Summer Internship / Project | Core | 4 | Practical Industry Exposure, Industry Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Project Implementation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCMJ402 | Dissertation | Core | 8 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review, Research Methodology, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing, Viva Voce |
| MCMJ404 | Global Media & International Relations | Core | 4 | Global Communication Flows, Media and Diplomacy, Cultural Imperialism, International News Agencies, Peace Journalism |
| MCMJ406 | Media & Society | Core | 4 | Media Effects, Audience Studies, Cultural Studies, Gender and Media, Media Representation, Consumerism |
| MCMJ410A | Mobile Journalism & Apps | Elective (Group A) | 4 | Mobile Devices for Reporting, Mobile Apps for Media, Live Streaming, Citizen Journalism, Visual Storytelling |
| MCMJ410B | Film Studies & Appreciation | Elective (Group B) | 4 | Film History, Film Genres, Auteur Theory, Indian Cinema, Film Criticism, Aesthetics |
| MCMJ410C | Photo Journalism | Elective (Group C) | 4 | Ethics in Photojournalism, News Photography, Feature Photography, Sports Photography, Digital Workflow |




