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MA in Mass Communication at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Mass Communication at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith Varanasi?
This MA Mass Communication program at Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapith, Varanasi focuses on a holistic understanding of media, communication theories, and practical applications. It prepares students for a dynamic media landscape in India, encompassing traditional and new media platforms. The program emphasizes critical thinking and ethical practices crucial for responsible communication professionals in a diverse Indian society.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into journalism, advertising, public relations, film, or digital media. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upskill or career changers transitioning into the vibrant Indian media industry. Individuals passionate about storytelling, societal impact through media, and technological innovation will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including journalists, content creators, PR executives, advertising professionals, media researchers, and film producers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 lakhs annually, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities abound in national and regional media houses, digital agencies, and corporate communication departments across India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding core communication theories, models, and media concepts. Actively participate in discussions, read extensively beyond textbooks, and connect theories to current Indian media scenarios. Form study groups to discuss complex ideas.
Tools & Resources
University library, academic journals, communication theory textbooks, online academic databases, peer discussion forums
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is essential for analytical thinking and problem-solving, crucial for media research, content strategy, and ethical decision-making in any media role.
Develop Fundamental Media Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to mastering basic journalism skills such as news writing, feature writing, editing, and introductory audio/video production. Utilize campus media labs and volunteer for student publications or radio stations. Practice photography and visual storytelling.
Tools & Resources
Communication labs, university newspaper/magazine, local community radio, basic editing software (Audacity, DaVinci Resolve Lite), smartphone for basic media capture
Career Connection
These foundational skills are directly applicable in entry-level positions like junior reporter, content writer, or media assistant, making graduates job-ready for the Indian media industry.
Cultivate Media Literacy and Critical Analysis- (Semester 1-2)
Actively consume diverse forms of Indian media (news, entertainment, digital content) and critically analyze them for biases, messaging, and societal impact. Engage in debates on media ethics and societal responsibility. Attend workshops on misinformation and fact-checking.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian news portals, academic articles on media studies, workshops by media NGOs, online courses on critical thinking
Career Connection
This practice develops a keen understanding of media dynamics, vital for roles in media research, content moderation, and strategic communication, ensuring graduates contribute responsibly to the Indian public discourse.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Practical Project Work & Elective Specialization- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in course projects, focusing on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios like documentary production, event planning, or corporate communication strategies. Choose electives strategically to align with career interests and gain specialized skills.
Tools & Resources
Project guidance from faculty, specialized software/equipment in labs, industry mentors, professional body workshops for chosen elective area
Career Connection
Demonstrating practical project experience and specialized skills from electives significantly enhances a candidate''''s profile for internships and job roles in specific media sectors in India.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend industry seminars, guest lectures, and media events organized by the department or in Varanasi. Connect with alumni and local media professionals through LinkedIn and university-led networking events. Seek informational interviews to understand industry trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university alumni network, industry events calendar, departmental guest speaker series
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and potential job leads within the competitive Indian media landscape, providing insider perspectives.
Enhance Research and Analytical Capabilities- (Semester 3)
Deepen your understanding of communication research methods by actively participating in research projects. Practice data collection, analysis, and academic writing. Explore minor research topics independently relevant to Indian media trends.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for beginners), academic databases (JSTOR, ResearchGate), university research methodology workshops, faculty guidance
Career Connection
Strong research and analytical skills are highly valued in media analytics, audience research, policy formulation, and academic roles within India, offering a strong foundation for strategic decision-making.
Advanced Stage
Build a Professional Portfolio- (Semester 4)
Compile all practical work, projects, articles, and media creations into a comprehensive digital and physical portfolio. Tailor the portfolio to showcase skills relevant to your target job roles (e.g., journalism, PR, film production).
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (e.g., Behance, personal website), professional design software, high-quality prints of work samples
Career Connection
A strong portfolio is a critical tool for demonstrating capabilities to potential employers in the Indian media industry, often being the deciding factor in securing interviews and job offers.
Prepare for Placements and Career Launch- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with the university''''s placement cell. Participate in mock interviews, resume writing workshops, and group discussions. Research target companies, prepare tailored cover letters, and practice presenting your skills effectively.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, online job portals (Naukri.com, LinkedIn Jobs), career counseling services, interview preparation guides
Career Connection
This dedicated preparation directly leads to securing internships and full-time employment opportunities, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to a professional career in the Indian media sector.
Specialize and Innovate Through Final Project- (Semester 4)
Utilize the final project (Mass Communication Project – II) to delve deep into a niche area of interest within media, demonstrating advanced skills and innovative thinking. Aim for a project that has real-world relevance or a potential for social impact.
Tools & Resources
Specialized software for advanced media production, expert mentorship, access to industry resources for data/equipment, ethical review board for sensitive topics
Career Connection
A well-executed final project showcases advanced expertise and initiative, making graduates highly competitive for specialized roles and entrepreneurial ventures in India''''s evolving media landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline from a recognized University.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 74 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (for theory papers) / 50% (for practical papers), External: 70% (for theory papers) / 50% (for practical papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMCC 101 | Communication Theories and Models | Core | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Models of Communication, Theories of Communication, Mass Communication Theories, Indian Theories of Communication |
| MMCC 102 | Print Media & Journalism | Core | 4 | History of Print Media, News Values and Reporting, Editing Techniques, Photo Journalism, Media Laws for Print |
| MMCC 103 | Electronic Media | Core | 4 | Evolution of Radio, Television Production, Broadcasting Policies, News Gathering for Electronic Media, Radio and TV Programming |
| MMCC 104 | Advertising & Public Relations | Core | 4 | Basics of Advertising, Advertising Planning, Public Relations Concepts, PR Tools and Techniques, Ethics in Advertising and PR |
| MMCC 105 | Communication Lab – I | Lab | 2 | News Writing, Feature Writing, Page Designing, Radio News Bulletin, TV Script Writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMCC 201 | Communication Research Methods | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling, Data Analysis and Report Writing |
| MMCC 202 | Media Ethics & Laws | Core | 4 | Ethics in Journalism, Media Regulations, Press Laws, Cyber Laws, Intellectual Property Rights |
| MMCC 203 | New Media Technology | Core | 4 | Introduction to New Media, Digital Journalism, Social Media Platforms, Web Design Principles, Mobile Communication |
| MMCC 204 | Rural & Development Communication | Core | 4 | Concept of Development, Rural Communication, Health Communication, Agricultural Communication, Role of Media in Development |
| MMCC 205 | Communication Lab – II | Lab | 2 | Audio Production, Video Editing, Photography Skills, Desktop Publishing, Online Content Creation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMCC 301 | Film Studies & Appreciation | Core | 4 | History of Cinema, Film Language, Genres of Film, Indian Cinema, Film Criticism |
| MMCC 302 | Media Management | Core | 4 | Introduction to Media Management, Media Economics, Human Resource Management in Media, Marketing of Media Products, Media Entrepreneurship |
| MMCC 303 (A) | Event Management | Elective | 4 | Event Planning, Event Marketing, Event Logistics, Risk Management, Post-Event Evaluation |
| MMCC 303 (B) | Radio Production | Elective | 4 | Radio Programming, Script Writing for Radio, Voice Modulation, Sound Recording, Radio Jingles |
| MMCC 303 (C) | Corporate Communication | Elective | 4 | Corporate Image, Internal Communication, Crisis Communication, Corporate Social Responsibility, Media Relations |
| MMCC 304 | Mass Communication Project – I | Project | 4 | Project Proposal, Research Methodology, Data Collection, Report Writing, Presentation |
| MMCC 305 | Communication Lab – III | Lab | 2 | Documentary Production, Short Film Making, Corporate Video, Public Service Announcements, Multi-media Presentation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MMCC 401 | International Communication | Core | 4 | Globalization of Media, International News Flow, Cultural Imperialism, Public Diplomacy, Role of International Organizations |
| MMCC 402 | Folk & Traditional Media | Core | 4 | Types of Folk Media, Role in Social Change, Traditional Theatre, Folk Music and Dance, Indigenous Communication Systems |
| MMCC 403 (A) | Media Entrepreneurship | Elective | 4 | Entrepreneurial Mindset, Business Plan Development, Funding for Media Startups, Marketing Strategies, Legal Aspects |
| MMCC 403 (B) | Political Communication | Elective | 4 | Political Campaigns, Role of Media in Politics, Election Coverage, Propaganda, Media and Governance |
| MMCC 403 (C) | Media Psychology | Elective | 4 | Audience Behavior, Persuasion Theories, Impact of Media, Cognitive Processing of Media, Media and Society |
| MMCC 404 | Mass Communication Project – II | Project | 6 | Advanced Research, Data Analysis, Comprehensive Report, Practical Application, Thesis Defense |
| MMCC 405 | Communication Lab – IV | Lab | 2 | Portfolio Development, Resume Building, Interview Skills, Professional Networking, Media Campaign Design |
