

M-A-MASS-COMMUNICATION-MEDIA-STUDIES in Mass Communication Media Studies at Mahatma Gandhi Central University


East Champaran, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is Mass Communication & Media Studies at Mahatma Gandhi Central University East Champaran?
This M.A. Mass Communication & Media Studies program at Mahatma Gandhi Central University focuses on equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of various media forms and their impact. It delves into theoretical frameworks, practical skills, and ethical considerations crucial for the dynamic Indian media industry. The program emphasizes both traditional and new media, preparing graduates for diverse roles across the evolving communication landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into the vibrant media and communication sector, offering a strong foundational and advanced skill set. It also caters to aspiring journalists, content creators, public relations professionals, and individuals passionate about understanding societal communication dynamics. A keen interest in current affairs and digital trends is beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in journalism, public relations, advertising, digital marketing, content creation, and media research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program prepares students for roles in prominent Indian media houses, corporate communication departments, and NGOs, fostering strong growth trajectories.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Communication Theories and News Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on deeply understanding communication models, theories, news values, and ethical reporting principles. Actively participate in class discussions and debate current media issues. Read newspapers and watch news channels daily to analyze reporting styles.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Academic journals, The Elements of Journalism by Kovach & Rosenstiel, Media ethics guidelines
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is essential for analytical roles in media research, content creation, and effective journalistic practice, crucial for critical thinking in Indian media.
Develop Practical Reporting and Editing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in practical workshops for reporting, interviewing, and editing. Write news reports, features, and edit copy regularly. Learn basic journalistic software. Seek opportunities to contribute to student publications or university news portals.
Tools & Resources
University labs, Open-source editing software, Local newspapers, Online news portals like The Wire or Scroll.in for style guides
Career Connection
Hands-on experience in reporting and editing is fundamental for entry-level positions in print, digital journalism, and content writing across India.
Enhance Public Speaking and Basic Tech Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)
Participate in public speaking events, group discussions, and presentations to build confidence and articulate ideas effectively. Simultaneously, gain proficiency in basic computer applications like MS Office and internet usage, which are indispensable in modern media.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters clubs (if available), University debate societies, Online tutorials for MS Office and digital literacy
Career Connection
Strong communication skills and technological literacy are vital for all media roles, enhancing employability for client-facing or tech-reliant positions in the Indian media landscape.
Intermediate Stage
Advanced Stage
Specialize and Apply Industry Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Choose electives wisely based on career interests (e.g., photojournalism, corporate communication). Actively participate in practical workshops focused on advertising, PR campaigns, video editing, or sound mixing. Seek out freelance opportunities or small projects to apply learned skills.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Premiere Pro), PR case studies, Advertising campaign analyses, LinkedIn for networking
Career Connection
Specializing in a particular media domain and applying skills practically is crucial for securing targeted internships and jobs in India''''s competitive media industry.
Network and Gain Professional Exposure- (Semester 3-4)
Attend media conferences, webinars, and workshops. Connect with alumni and industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek an internship in a reputed media organization (e.g., news channel, ad agency, PR firm) to gain real-world experience.
Tools & Resources
Industry events (e.g., India Media Summit), Professional networking platforms, University career services
Career Connection
Networking and internships are paramount for understanding industry dynamics, building contacts, and significantly improving placement prospects in the Indian market.
Prepare for Project/Dissertation & Placements- (Semester 3-4)
Begin working on your final project or dissertation early, focusing on a topic relevant to current media trends or industry challenges. Simultaneously, start preparing for placements by refining your resume, portfolio, and interview skills, leveraging career services.
Tools & Resources
Research databases, Academic supervisors, University placement cell, Online resume builders, Mock interview platforms
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates research and analytical capabilities, while strong placement preparation directly leads to securing desirable roles post-graduation in media companies.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation in any discipline with 50% marks in aggregate or equivalent grade (45% for OBC/SC/ST/PwD categories) from a recognized Indian or Foreign University
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAC-C-101 | Introduction to Communication | Core | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Models and Theories of Communication, Types of Communication, Mass Communication, Development Communication, Barriers to Communication |
| MAC-C-102 | Reporting Techniques | Core | 4 | Introduction to Reporting, News Values and Elements, Types of Reporting, Interviewing Techniques, Source of News, Ethics of Reporting |
| MAC-C-103 | Editing Techniques | Core | 4 | Introduction to Editing, Principles of Editing, Types of Editing, Headline Writing, Proof Reading, Page Design and Layout |
| MAC-C-104 | Communication Skills (Practical) | Core | 4 | Public Speaking, Group Discussion, Interviewing Skills, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Media Production Skills |
| MAC-C-105 | Basic Computer Application (Practical) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Computers, Operating Systems, MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet and Email, Data Handling, Cyber Security Basics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAC-C-201 | Communication Theories | Core | 4 | Early Communication Theories, Media Effects Theories, Cultivation Theory, Agenda Setting Theory, Uses and Gratification Theory, New Media Theories |
| MAC-C-202 | Media Laws & Ethics | Core | 4 | Introduction to Media Laws, Indian Constitution and Media, Press Council of India, Copyright and IPR, Defamation and Libel, Media Ethics |
| MAC-C-203 | Radio & TV Production | Core | 4 | History of Radio & TV in India, Radio Program Formats, TV Program Formats, Script Writing for Radio & TV, Production Techniques, Studio Operations |
| MAC-C-204 | Media Research | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis, Research Report Writing |
| MAC-C-205 | Graphics & Visualization (Practical) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Graphic Design, Image Editing Software (e.g., Photoshop), Vector Graphics Software (e.g., Illustrator), Layout Design, Infographics, Visual Communication Principles |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAC-C-301 | Advertising & Public Relations | Core | 4 | Introduction to Advertising, Types of Advertising, Advertising Appeals, Brand Management, Introduction to Public Relations, PR Tools and Techniques, Crisis Communication |
| MAC-C-302 | Web Designing & Online Media | Core | 4 | Introduction to Internet, Web Technologies (HTML, CSS), Content Management Systems (CMS), Social Media Marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Online Journalism |
| MAC-C-303 | Films & Documentaries | Core | 4 | History of Indian Cinema, Genres of Films, Documentary Film Making, Script Writing for Films, Direction and Cinematography, Film Appreciation |
| MAC-E-304 | Photojournalism (Elective I - Example) | Elective | 4 | Introduction to Photojournalism, Camera Techniques, Photo Editing, Ethics in Photojournalism, Types of Photography, Photo Story |
| MAC-E-305 | Folk & Traditional Media (Elective I - Option) | Elective | 4 | Traditional Media Forms, Folk Theatre, Puppetry, Street Plays, Role of Traditional Media in Development, Modern Adaptations |
| MAC-E-306 | Development Communication (Elective I - Option) | Elective | 4 | Introduction to Development, Theories of Development Communication, Participatory Communication, Health Communication, Environmental Communication, Advocacy |
| MAC-C-307 | Practical/Workshop-I (Advertising/PR/Photography) | Core | 4 | Campaign Planning, Press Release Writing, Photography Assignments, Event Management, PR Case Studies, Advertising Copywriting |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAC-C-401 | Media Management | Core | 4 | Introduction to Media Management, Media Economics, Marketing of Media Products, Human Resource Management in Media, Media Organizations, Regulatory Framework |
| MAC-E-402 | Corporate Communication (Elective II - Example) | Elective | 4 | Corporate Identity, Internal Communication, External Communication, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Brand Reputation, Crisis Management |
| MAC-E-403 | Cross Cultural Communication (Elective II - Option) | Elective | 4 | Culture and Communication, Intercultural Communication Theories, Cultural Dimensions, Global Communication, Communication Barriers, Cultural Adaptation |
| MAC-E-404 | Media Entrepreneurship (Elective II - Option) | Elective | 4 | Entrepreneurship Basics, Business Planning for Media, Funding and Investment, Media Startups, Innovation in Media, Legal Aspects |
| MAC-P-405 | Project/Dissertation/Internship | Project | 8 | Research Methodology, Project Proposal, Data Collection, Report Writing, Presentation, Internship Report |
| MAC-C-406 | Practical/Workshop-II (Video Editing/Sound Mixing/Film Production) | Core | 4 | Video Editing Software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro), Sound Mixing Techniques, Script to Screen Production, Post-Production Workflow, Special Effects, Documentary Production |




