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BACHELOR-OF-ARTS in Journalism Mass Communication at Panchla Mahavidyalaya
Howrah, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Journalism & Mass Communication at Panchla Mahavidyalaya Howrah?
This Journalism & Mass Communication program at Panchla Mahavidyalaya focuses on equipping students with essential skills for India''''s dynamic media landscape. It covers traditional and new media, offering a comprehensive understanding of reporting, editing, production, and communication strategies. The curriculum is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled media professionals across diverse platforms in the Indian market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into journalism, advertising, public relations, or digital media fields. It also suits individuals with a keen interest in media studies and a flair for storytelling. Aspiring communication specialists, content creators, and those looking to understand societal impact of media will find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including journalist, content writer, PR executive, advertising professional, and social media manager. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with significant growth trajectories in Indian media houses and PR firms. The curriculum also aligns with industry demands for ethical and responsible communication.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong News Gathering & Writing Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on understanding news values, reporting techniques, and ethical considerations. Practice writing various news formats daily, including leads, inverted pyramid style, and features. Engage with current affairs and critically analyze news reports from diverse Indian media outlets.
Tools & Resources
Leading Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Online news portals, Journalism textbooks, College news bulletin/community reporting projects
Career Connection
Mastering these basics is crucial for entry-level reporting, content creation, and media analysis roles, forming the bedrock for any journalism career in India.
Develop Effective Communication & Public Speaking- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in debates, presentations, and group discussions to hone verbal communication skills. Seek opportunities to speak publicly, even in small settings, to build confidence. Focus on clear articulation, active listening, and persuasive speaking, essential for media interactions.
Tools & Resources
College literary clubs or debating societies, Online public speaking resources, Self-recorded practice sessions
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are vital for interviews, media interactions, PR roles, and ultimately, effective storytelling and media presence.
Engage Critically with Media Content- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of critically analyzing news, advertisements, and social media content. Question sources, identify biases, and understand the underlying messages and their societal impact within the Indian context. Discuss these observations with peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
Indian fact-checking organizations, Academic articles on media studies, Media journal for reflections
Career Connection
This practice develops analytical thinking, crucial for roles in media research, content strategy, and responsible journalism, preparing students to be discerning media professionals.
Intermediate Stage
Gain Hands-on Experience in Production & Editing- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek out opportunities to work on college magazines, radio shows, or short video projects. Learn and practice basic audio-visual editing software, graphic design for print, and camera operation. Focus on practical application of theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
College media labs, Free software (Audacity, DaVinci Resolve free version, Canva), Departmental projects
Career Connection
Practical skills in production and editing are highly valued in content creation, digital media, and broadcast journalism roles, making graduates industry-ready for technical aspects.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Network- (Semester 3-5)
Start compiling a portfolio of your best written articles, photography, audio clips, or video projects. Attend media workshops, seminars, and guest lectures featuring Indian industry professionals. Actively engage with faculty for guidance and potential contacts.
Tools & Resources
Professional online portfolio platforms (WordPress, Behance), LinkedIn for professional networking, Local industry events in Kolkata/Howrah
Career Connection
A strong portfolio is indispensable for internships and job applications, while networking opens doors to opportunities and mentorship in the Indian media industry.
Explore Specialized Areas through Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Seek internships in specific areas like advertising agencies, PR firms, digital marketing companies, or local news organizations during semester breaks. This helps in understanding real-world challenges and identifying potential career paths within India''''s diverse media sectors.
Tools & Resources
College placement cells, Online internship platforms (Internshala, LinkedIn), Direct applications to companies
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable practical exposure, build industry contacts, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting employability in your chosen specialization.
Advanced Stage
Specialize and Execute a Capstone Project- (Semester 6)
In your final semester, choose DSE papers that align with your career interests (e.g., photojournalism, data journalism, event management). Work on a comprehensive final project or dissertation that showcases your expertise and research capabilities in a chosen niche.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Specialized software relevant to the project (e.g., statistical tools), Faculty mentorship and guidance
Career Connection
A strong capstone project demonstrates your advanced skills and critical thinking to potential employers, positioning you as a specialist in your field.
Intensive Placement Preparation- (Semester 6)
Dedicate time to perfecting your resume, cover letter, and interview skills. Participate in mock interviews and group discussions. Research target companies and roles within the Indian media and communication industry. Prepare to discuss your portfolio and project work confidently.
Tools & Resources
College career services, Online interview preparation platforms, Peer review groups, Industry trend reports from India
Career Connection
Focused preparation directly translates to higher success rates in securing placements with reputable Indian media organizations, PR agencies, or corporate communication departments.
Develop Professional Ethics and Media Responsibility- (Semester 6)
Deepen your understanding of media laws, ethical dilemmas, and responsible journalistic practices specific to the Indian context. Engage in discussions about media''''s role in public discourse, misinformation, and its impact on society.
Tools & Resources
Reports from Press Council of India, Broadcasters Association, Case studies of ethical challenges in Indian media, Workshops on media ethics
Career Connection
Upholding strong ethical standards is paramount for a credible and respected career in media, essential for building trust and ensuring long-term success in the Indian industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per Calcutta University and Panchla Mahavidyalaya admission norms for B.A. Honours courses (typically 10+2 qualification with required marks)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 144 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Varies by course type (e.g., 15 marks for 6-credit papers, 10 marks for 2-credit papers), External: Varies by course type (e.g., 65 marks for 6-credit papers, 40 marks for 2-credit papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Semester 4
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JORA-A-CC-5-11-TH | New Media and Digital Communication | Core | 6 | Internet Journalism, Hypertext and Multimedia Content, Web Design Principles, Data Visualization for Media, Online Ethics and Cyber Laws |
| JORA-A-CC-5-12-TH | Global Media & International Relations | Core | 6 | International News Flow, Media and Conflict Reporting, Cultural Imperialism through Media, Global Communication Systems, Media Diplomacy and Propaganda |
| JORA-A-DSE-A-5-TH | Development Communication | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Models of Development, Role of Media in Development, Health Communication, Rural Development Communication, Participatory Communication for Social Change |
| JORA-A-DSE-B-5-TH | Film Studies | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | History of Cinema, Film Genres and Movements, Auteur Theory, Indian Cinema: Evolution and Impact, Film Analysis and Criticism |
| JORA-A-DSE-A-5-PR | Research Methodology | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Sampling Procedures, Quantitative and Qualitative Research, Report Writing and Ethics |
| JORA-A-DSE-B-5-PR | Print Media Production | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Page Layout and Design, Typography Principles, Newspaper and Magazine Production, Desktop Publishing Software, Printing Process and Technology |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JORA-A-CC-6-13-TH | Radio Journalism & Production | Core | 6 | Radio News Reporting, Scriptwriting for Radio, Voice Modulation and Presentation, Interviewing for Audio Media, Radio Program Production and Podcasting |
| JORA-A-CC-6-14-TH | Television Journalism & Production | Core | 6 | TV News Reporting and Anchoring, Scripting for Television, Camera Operations and Lighting, Video Editing for Broadcast, Live Broadcast Production |
| JORA-A-DSE-A-6-TH | Photojournalism & Visual Communication | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Ethics in Photojournalism, Visual Storytelling, Composition and Framing, Image Editing Software, Photo Essay and Documentary Photography |
| JORA-A-DSE-B-6-TH | Brand Communication | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Branding Principles and Identity, Consumer Behavior, Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC), Digital Branding Strategies, Brand Equity and Management |
| JORA-A-DSE-A-6-PR | Event Management | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Event Planning and Design, Logistics and Operations, Budgeting and Sponsorship, Event Marketing and Promotion, Risk Management in Events |
| JORA-A-DSE-B-6-PR | Data Journalism | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Data Collection and Sourcing, Data Cleaning and Analysis, Data Visualization Tools, Storytelling with Data, Ethical Considerations in Data Journalism |
