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B-SC in Visual Communication at GITAM (Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management)
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Visual Communication at GITAM (Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management) Visakhapatnam?
This B.Sc Visual Communication program at GITAM, Visakhapatnam focuses on blending artistic creativity with technical skills for the dynamic media and communication industry in India. It uniquely combines traditional art forms with digital media, preparing students for evolving roles in design, film, advertising, and digital content creation, addressing the surging demand for skilled visual storytellers in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative 10+2 graduates passionate about visual storytelling, media, and design, seeking entry into the vibrant Indian creative industry. It also suits individuals looking to transition into digital media roles or upskill existing artistic talents for professional application in advertising agencies, film production houses, and digital marketing firms within India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including graphic designer, photographer, filmmaker, animator, UI/UX designer, and digital marketing specialist. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The curriculum aligns with industry certifications, providing a strong foundation for rapid career growth in Indian companies and startups.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Design Fundamentals & Software Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Focus diligently on drawing, sketching, and understanding core design principles. Simultaneously, gain proficiency in foundational digital art software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator through dedicated practice and online tutorials.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, SkillShare, YouTube tutorials, Elements of Design by Alex W. White
Career Connection
Strong fundamentals are the bedrock for any visual communication career, making students highly adaptable and proficient in executing design tasks, crucial for entry-level roles.
Develop a Critical Eye for Visual Media- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in film appreciation, analyze media messages, and study historical art movements to cultivate a deep understanding of visual language. Regularly critique visual content (films, advertisements, designs) and discuss observations with peers and mentors.
Tools & Resources
Film analysis websites, Art history books, Media studies journals, Peer critique sessions
Career Connection
This skill enhances problem-solving in design, improves aesthetic judgment, and allows for informed creative decisions, highly valued in roles like art direction and media analysis.
Build an Early Portfolio of Creative Explorations- (Semester 1-2)
Document all creative work, even early experiments and classroom assignments. Start a digital portfolio on platforms like Behance or Dribbble, showcasing progress in drawing, photography, and digital art. Seek feedback for continuous improvement.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Dribbble, Personal blog/website, Google Drive for backups
Career Connection
A strong, evolving portfolio is essential for internships and job applications, demonstrating practical skills and creative potential to Indian recruiters from the very beginning.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Project-Based Learning & Skill Specialization- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in all lab sessions for multimedia and web design. Take initiative to develop personal projects beyond curriculum, focusing on areas of emerging interest like animation, UI/UX, or sound design.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, Figma, Blender, Personal project platforms (e.g., GitHub for web projects), LinkedIn Learning
Career Connection
Specialization makes students competitive for specific roles (e.g., Motion Graphic Artist, Web Developer) and practical projects provide tangible proof of skill, increasing employability in Indian tech and media firms.
Seek Industry Exposure and Network Actively- (Semester 3-4)
Attend media festivals, design conferences, and workshops in cities like Mumbai or Bengaluru. Network with professionals on LinkedIn, participate in student competitions, and proactively seek short-term internships or shadowing opportunities during breaks.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry events calendars (e.g., FICCI Frames, Kyoorius Designyatra), Student design competitions
Career Connection
Industry exposure provides insights into market trends, opens doors for future internships and placements, and builds crucial professional connections in the Indian media landscape.
Master Storytelling Across Diverse Media- (Semester 3-4)
Focus on refining scriptwriting abilities for various formats – film, advertising, web series. Experiment with visual storytelling through short films, animations, and interactive web projects, understanding how narratives adapt to different platforms.
Tools & Resources
Celtx (scriptwriting software), Open-source animation tools, YouTube for storytelling analysis
Career Connection
Excellent storytelling skills are universally sought after in content creation, advertising, film, and digital marketing, allowing graduates to craft compelling narratives for Indian and global audiences.
Advanced Stage
Build an Industry-Standard Professional Portfolio- (Semester 5-6)
Curate and refine a polished portfolio showcasing best works, tailored to specific job roles. Include detailed case studies of projects, demonstrating problem-solving, design process, and measurable impact. Seek mentor feedback rigorously.
Tools & Resources
Professional portfolio websites (e.g., Adobe Portfolio, custom website), Behance Pro, LinkedIn
Career Connection
A strong, targeted portfolio is the most critical tool for securing placements and high-value jobs in leading design studios, agencies, and production houses across India.
Undertake Real-World Projects & Internships- (Semester 5-6)
Maximize the internship opportunity in Semester 6 by actively contributing to challenging projects, taking initiative, and building strong professional relationships. For capstone projects, choose industry-relevant problems and aim for publishable or deployable outcomes.
Tools & Resources
Project management tools (e.g., Trello, Asana), Collaboration platforms, Industry mentors
Career Connection
Practical industry experience is invaluable for placements, providing hands-on skills, a professional network, and an understanding of corporate culture, essential for a successful career in India.
Cultivate Entrepreneurial Mindset & Professional Branding- (Semester 5-6)
Explore entrepreneurship in media, learning about business models, funding, and legal aspects. Develop a strong personal brand through consistent online presence, professional networking, and participation in industry panels or events.
Tools & Resources
Business plan templates, Startup incubators (if available), Personal branding guides, LinkedIn
Career Connection
This prepares graduates not only for employment but also for freelancing, starting their ventures, or taking leadership roles, contributing to India''''s growing creative economy.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 with a minimum aggregate of 50% marks in the qualifying examination from a recognized central / state board or its equivalent
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 132 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEL101 | Communication Skills in English | Core | 2 | Introduction to Communication, Listening Skills, Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary |
| GEL121 | Environmental Studies | Core | 2 | Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and Environment, Human Population and Environment |
| GSC101 | Introduction to Visual Communication | Core | 4 | Definition and Scope, Elements of Visuals, Principles of Design, Visual Semiotics, Visual Perception, Visual Culture |
| GSC103 | Drawing and Sketching | Core | 4 | Basic Drawing Techniques, Perspective Drawing, Figure Drawing, Still Life, Landscape Sketching, Shading and Textures |
| GSC105 | History of Art | Core | 4 | Prehistoric to Ancient Civilizations, Classical Greek and Roman Art, Medieval and Renaissance Art, Baroque to Romanticism, Modern and Contemporary Art, Indian Art History |
| GSC107 | Photography - I | Core | 4 | Camera Basics, Exposure Triangle, Composition Rules, Lighting Fundamentals, Digital Workflow, Types of Photography |
| GSC121 | Drawing and Sketching Lab | Lab | 1 | Line Art Exercises, Object Drawing, Perspective Drills, Live Sketching, Portrait Drawing, Creative Sketching |
| GSC123 | Photography - I Lab | Lab | 1 | Camera Operation, Manual Mode Practice, Studio Lighting, Outdoor Photography, Basic Photo Editing, Portfolio Development |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEL102 | Academic Writing Skills | Core | 2 | Principles of Academic Writing, Essay Structure, Paragraph Development, Research Paper Writing, Referencing and Citation, Editing and Proofreading |
| GSC102 | Media and Culture | Core | 4 | Introduction to Media Studies, Media Theories, Cultural Studies, Representation and Ideology, Media Consumption, Global Media and Culture |
| GSC104 | Digital Art - I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Digital Imaging, Raster Graphics (Photoshop), Vector Graphics (Illustrator), Digital Painting Techniques, Image Manipulation, Output and Printing |
| GSC106 | Graphic Design - I | Core | 4 | Principles of Graphic Design, Typography, Layout and Grid Systems, Branding and Identity, Visual Communication Elements, Design Process |
| GSC108 | Film Appreciation | Core | 4 | History of Cinema, Film Genres, Narrative and Storytelling, Cinematography and Editing, Sound and Music in Film, Film Theory and Criticism |
| GSC122 | Digital Art - I Lab | Lab | 1 | Photoshop Tools, Illustrator Techniques, Digital Painting Projects, Photo Retouching, Infographic Design, Digital Collage |
| GSC124 | Graphic Design - I Lab | Lab | 1 | Logo Design, Poster Design, Brochure Design, Magazine Layout, Corporate Identity, Packaging Design |
| GEL241 | Data Analysis for Decision Making | Elective | 4 | Introduction to Data Analysis, Descriptive Statistics, Probability, Inferential Statistics, Regression Analysis, Data Visualization |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GSC201 | Advertising Principles | Core | 4 | History of Advertising, Advertising Theories, Consumer Behaviour, Media Planning, Advertising Appeals, Legal and Ethical Aspects |
| GSC203 | Multimedia Design - I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Multimedia, Digital Audio Production, Digital Video Production, Basic Animation, Interactive Media Design, Storyboarding for Multimedia |
| GSC205 | Web Design - I | Core | 4 | HTML5 Fundamentals, CSS3 Styling, Responsive Web Design, Web Graphics and Imagery, User Interface (UI) Design, Web Hosting Basics |
| GSC207 | Cinematography | Core | 4 | Camera Systems, Lenses and Optics, Lighting Techniques, Shot Composition, Camera Movement, Visual Storytelling |
| GSC209 | Script Writing | Core | 4 | Story Concepts, Character Development, Plot Structure, Dialogue Writing, Screenplay Format, Writing for Short Films and Documentaries |
| GSC221 | Multimedia Design - I Lab | Lab | 1 | Audio Editing Software (Audacity/Premiere), Video Editing Software (Premiere Pro), Basic Motion Graphics, Interactive Presentations, Short Multimedia Projects |
| GSC223 | Web Design - I Lab | Lab | 1 | HTML/CSS Coding Exercises, Building Layouts, Implementing Responsive Design, Web Banner Creation, Portfolio Website Development |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GSC202 | Public Relations | Core | 4 | Foundations of PR, PR Tools and Techniques, Media Relations, Crisis Communication, Corporate Social Responsibility, PR Ethics |
| GSC204 | Multimedia Design - II | Core | 4 | Advanced Animation (2D/3D), Motion Graphics, Visual Effects (VFX) Compositing, Game Design Principles, Augmented/Virtual Reality Concepts, Sound for Multimedia |
| GSC206 | Web Design - II | Core | 4 | JavaScript Programming, UI/UX Principles, Content Management Systems (CMS), E-commerce Website Development, Web Analytics, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Basics |
| GSC208 | Sound Design | Core | 4 | Principles of Sound, Audio Recording Techniques, Sound Editing and Mixing, Foley and Sound Effects, Music Production for Media, Audio Post-Production |
| GSC210 | Animation Principles | Core | 4 | 12 Principles of Animation, Character Design and Rigging, Traditional Animation, Stop Motion Animation, 2D Digital Animation, Introduction to 3D Animation |
| GSC222 | Multimedia Design - II Lab | Lab | 1 | Advanced Animation Projects, VFX Shot Creation, Game Prototyping, AR/VR Demos, Interactive Installation Design |
| GSC224 | Web Design - II Lab | Lab | 1 | JavaScript Interactions, UI/UX Prototyping Tools, CMS Customization (WordPress), E-commerce Platform Integration, SEO Implementation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GSC301 | Media Production | Core | 4 | Pre-production Planning, Production Management, Post-production Workflow, Budgeting and Scheduling, Crew Management, Distribution Strategies |
| GSC303 | Broadcast Journalism | Core | 4 | News Gathering and Reporting, TV News Production, Radio Journalism, Anchoring and Interviewing, Documentary Filmmaking, Media Laws and Ethics |
| GSC305 | Digital Marketing | Core | 4 | Introduction to Digital Marketing, Search Engine Marketing (SEM), Social Media Strategy, Content Marketing, Email Marketing, Digital Advertising |
| GSC307 | Portfolio Design | Core | 4 | Portfolio Strategy, Content Selection and Curation, Visual Presentation, Online Portfolio Platforms, Personal Branding, Resume and Cover Letter |
| GSC321 | Media Production Lab | Lab | 1 | Short Film Production, TV Commercial Production, Radio Program Production, Documentary Editing, Multi-camera Studio Setup |
| GSC323 | Portfolio Design Lab | Lab | 1 | Creating Digital Portfolio, Personal Website Building, Mock Interviews, Presentation Skills Practice, Professional Networking |
| GSEV101 | VFX and Compositing | Elective | 3 | Introduction to VFX, Green Screen Technology, Rotoscoping and Tracking, Matte Painting, Compositing Techniques, Digital Visual Effects |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GSC302 | Advertising Campaign Management | Core | 4 | Campaign Planning and Strategy, Media Planning and Buying, Creative Brief Development, Ad Copywriting, Campaign Execution, Performance Measurement |
| GSC304 | Research Methodology in Media | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Content Analysis, Report Writing |
| GSC306 | Entrepreneurship in Media | Core | 4 | Idea Generation and Validation, Business Plan Development, Funding and Investment, Marketing and Branding, Legal Aspects, Media Start-up Ecosystem |
| GSC308 | Internship / Project | Internship | 4 | Industry Immersion, Practical Skill Application, Project Planning and Execution, Report Writing, Professional Networking, Problem-solving in real-world scenarios |
| GSC399 | Project | Project | 2 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology Design, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Project Report Writing, Viva Voce |
| GSEV102 | Game Design Fundamentals | Elective | 3 | History of Gaming, Game Design Process, Game Mechanics, Level Design, Character and Storytelling in Games, Game Development Tools |
