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B-A-JOURNALISM-MASS-COMMUNICATION in General at MLA Academy of Higher Learning
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is General at MLA Academy of Higher Learning Bengaluru?
This B.A. (Journalism & Mass Communication) program at Malleswaram Ladies Association Academy of Higher Learning focuses on equipping students with essential skills for the dynamic Indian media industry. It covers traditional journalism, digital media, advertising, and public relations, reflecting the growing demand for versatile media professionals across print, broadcast, and online platforms in India. The curriculum is designed to provide both theoretical understanding and practical exposure to current industry trends.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring journalists, content creators, media researchers, advertisers, and public relations specialists. It caters to fresh graduates seeking entry into the vibrant Indian media and entertainment sector, as well as creative individuals passionate about storytelling and societal impact. Students from diverse academic backgrounds with strong communication skills and a keen interest in current affairs are well-suited for this comprehensive program.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in media houses, advertising agencies, PR firms, and digital content companies across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 Lakhs to 4.5 Lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential as experience and expertise develop. Roles include content writer, reporter, editor, social media manager, PR executive, and ad copywriter. The program also lays a strong foundation for pursuing higher studies in media or communication research.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Communication Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in debates, group discussions, and public speaking events. Focus on improving written communication by regularly writing news reports, features, and essays, and seeking feedback. Utilize language learning apps and online courses to refine grammar and vocabulary.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International (local clubs), Grammarly, Coursera/edX communication courses
Career Connection
Strong communication is the bedrock of all media roles, enabling effective storytelling and professional interaction. This directly impacts clarity in reporting, compelling content creation, and successful interviews for placements.
Cultivate Media Literacy and Current Affairs Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a habit of reading multiple newspapers (English and regional), watching news channels critically, and following reputable online news sources. Maintain a detailed current affairs journal and discuss contemporary issues with peers and faculty to broaden perspectives.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, The Times of India, BBC News, All India Radio
Career Connection
A deep understanding of current affairs and media landscape is crucial for journalists and communicators to produce relevant, informed content and excel in interviews for media organizations.
Engage in Early Content Creation- (Semester 1-2)
Start a personal blog, podcast, or social media page to practice writing, editing, and multimedia content creation. Experiment with different storytelling formats like short videos, infographics, or photo essays on topics of interest to build a portfolio from an early stage.
Tools & Resources
WordPress, Blogger, Anchor (for podcasts), Canva, basic video editing apps
Career Connection
Practical experience in content creation demonstrates initiative and hands-on skills to potential employers, making you a more attractive candidate for entry-level roles in digital media and journalism.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Internships and Field Exposure- (Semesters 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships or volunteer opportunities at local newspapers, radio stations, advertising agencies, or PR firms during semester breaks. This provides invaluable real-world experience and helps bridge the gap between academic learning and industry demands.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, Naukri.com, LinkedIn, college placement cell
Career Connection
Internships are critical for networking, understanding industry processes, and gaining practical skills. They significantly boost resume strength and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong references for future jobs.
Develop Multimedia Production Skills- (Semesters 3-5)
Enroll in workshops or online courses to learn practical skills like video editing, graphic design, basic photography, and audio production. Participate in college media clubs, fests, or create multimedia projects for college events to apply learned skills.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Premiere Pro/DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Photoshop/GIMP, Audacity, college AV labs
Career Connection
Proficiency in multimedia tools is highly sought after in today''''s convergent media landscape, making graduates versatile and capable of handling various aspects of content creation, which is a major advantage for placements.
Network and Participate in Media Events- (Semesters 3-5)
Attend media conferences, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the department or other institutions. Connect with media professionals, alumni, and industry experts. Join professional bodies or online groups relevant to journalism and mass communication.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, industry association websites (e.g., Press Club), college alumni network
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities. Industry insights gained are invaluable for understanding career trends and making informed decisions about specialization and job applications.
Advanced Stage
Build a Professional Portfolio and Resume- (Semester 6)
Compile all your best work – articles, reports, advertising campaigns, PR plans, multimedia projects, and research papers – into a well-organized online portfolio. Tailor your resume to highlight relevant skills and experiences for specific job applications, focusing on impact and results.
Tools & Resources
Clippings.me, Journo Portfolio, Behance, Canva for resume design
Career Connection
A strong, well-presented portfolio and a targeted resume are essential for showcasing your capabilities and securing interviews, demonstrating concrete evidence of your skills to recruiters during placement drives.
Master Interview and Group Discussion Skills- (Semester 6)
Practice mock interviews and group discussions with career counselors, faculty, and peers. Focus on articulating your knowledge of media trends, ethical considerations, and practical experiences clearly. Prepare for common HR questions and industry-specific scenarios.
Tools & Resources
College career services, online interview prep platforms, peer practice groups
Career Connection
Excellent interview and GD skills are crucial for converting placement opportunities. They help you stand out in competitive recruitment processes by effectively demonstrating your communication abilities and industry readiness.
Undertake a Capstone Project or Advanced Internship- (Semester 6)
Engage in a significant final year project that applies theoretical knowledge to a real-world media problem, or pursue a long-term advanced internship in your area of interest (e.g., investigative journalism, digital marketing strategy). Focus on delivering measurable outcomes.
Tools & Resources
Industry mentors, academic supervisors, specific media organizations
Career Connection
A robust capstone project or extended internship provides deep specialized experience, enhances problem-solving skills, and demonstrates your ability to manage and execute complex tasks, directly contributing to securing advanced roles post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed PUC / 10+2 / Pre-University Board of Karnataka or any other equivalent examination
Duration: 3 Years / 6 Semesters (extendable to 4 years for Honours degree)
Credits: Minimum 120 credits (as per NEP 2020 guidelines for a 3-year degree) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JMC C1 | Introduction to Communication | Core (Major/Minor Discipline Specific) | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Types and Models of Communication, Mass Communication, Communication Theories, Media Effects |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JMC C2 | Introduction to Journalism | Core (Major/Minor Discipline Specific) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Journalism, News and News Values, Reporting and Feature Writing, Interviewing Techniques, Photojournalism Basics |
| JMC SEC1.1 | Web Design for Journalists | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Introduction to Web Design, HTML and CSS Fundamentals, Content Management Systems (CMS), Website Structure and Navigation, Online Portfolio Creation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JMC C3 | Media Management | Core (Major/Minor Discipline Specific) | 4 | Media Ownership and Structure, Media Laws and Ethics, Media Economics and Marketing, Human Resource Management in Media, Challenges in Media Industry |
| JMC C4 | Advertising | Core (Major/Minor Discipline Specific) | 4 | Introduction to Advertising, Advertising Agencies, Creative Strategies and Appeals, Media Planning and Buying, Advertising Ethics and Regulations |
| JMC SEC2.1 | Video Production | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Basics of Video Camera Operation, Scriptwriting for Video, Editing Software Fundamentals, Lighting and Sound Techniques, Short Video Creation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JMC C5 | Public Relations | Core (Major/Minor Discipline Specific) | 4 | Introduction to Public Relations, Tools and Techniques of PR, Corporate Communication, Crisis Communication Management, Media Relations |
| JMC C6 | New Media | Core (Major/Minor Discipline Specific) | 4 | Digital Media Landscape, Social Media Platforms, Online Journalism and Blogging, Citizen Journalism, Media Convergence |
| JMC SEC3.1 | Event Management | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Concepts of Event Management, Planning and Budgeting Events, Marketing and Promotion, Logistics and Execution, Post-Event Evaluation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JMC DSC1 | Reporting & Editing | Discipline Specific Core (Major Only) | 4 | Advanced Reporting Techniques, Investigative Journalism, Feature and Editorial Writing, News Desk Operations, Page Design and Layout |
| JMC DSC2 | Radio & Television Journalism | Discipline Specific Core (Major Only) | 4 | Radio News Production, Television News Gathering, Script Writing for Broadcast, Anchoring and Presentation, Broadcast Media Ethics |
| JMC DSE1 | Media Research | Discipline Specific Elective (Major Only) | 3 | Introduction to Research Methods, Qualitative and Quantitative Research, Content Analysis, Audience Research, Ethics in Media Research |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JMC DSC3 | Cyber Journalism & Media Ethics | Discipline Specific Core (Major Only) | 4 | Online News Writing and Reporting, Blogging and Podcasting, Social Media Storytelling, Cyber Laws and Regulations, Ethical Dilemmas in Digital Media |
| JMC DSC4 | Communication for Development | Discipline Specific Core (Major Only) | 4 | Theories of Development Communication, Health Communication Campaigns, Rural Development Initiatives, Participatory Communication, Advocacy and Social Change |
| JMC DSE3 | Film Studies | Discipline Specific Elective (Major Only) | 3 | History of Indian Cinema, Global Film Movements, Film Theory and Criticism, Documentary and Short Films, Aesthetics of Film |
| JMC VC1 | Project Work / Internship | Vocational Course (Project/Internship) | 3 | Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Industry Exposure and Application, Professional Networking |
