

B-A-HONS in Mass Communication at Pandit Deendayal Energy University


Gandhinagar, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Mass Communication at Pandit Deendayal Energy University Gandhinagar?
This B.A. Hons. Mass Communication program at Pandit Deendayal Energy University provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education, focusing on theoretical foundations and practical applications across various media platforms. It prepares students for diverse roles in India''''s rapidly evolving communication industry, covering essential areas like journalism, advertising, public relations, and digital media. The curriculum is meticulously designed to equip graduates with critical thinking, creativity, and technical skills, making them highly adaptable to contemporary media challenges and opportunities within the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is meticulously crafted for highly motivated individuals with a keen interest in communication, storytelling, and media production. It is ideal for fresh graduates from any academic stream who possess strong English language skills and aspire to make a significant impact in the media world. Furthermore, it welcomes working professionals seeking to enhance their qualifications or career changers aiming to transition into the dynamic Indian media and entertainment industry, provided they meet the academic prerequisites.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program are exceptionally well-positioned for a multitude of India-specific career trajectories, including roles as accomplished journalists, innovative content creators, strategic public relations specialists, astute advertising professionals, and proficient digital marketing experts. Entry-level compensation in India typically ranges between INR 3.5-6 LPA, with significant growth potential, often reaching INR 9-18 LPA for experienced professionals in leading Indian and multinational media organizations. The program cultivates essential competencies for sustained professional advancement.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Communication Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering core communication theories, English language proficiency, and basic journalism principles. Actively participate in class discussions, debate current media issues, and practice writing clear, concise news reports and features. Utilize online resources for grammar and vocabulary enhancement.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, online news portals (The Hindu, Indian Express), communication theory textbooks, university library resources
Career Connection
A solid foundation in communication and language is essential for any media role, improving writing quality for content creation, reporting, and professional correspondence, which are critical for early career success.
Engage with Practical Media Tools Early- (Semester 1-2)
Take initiative to explore software taught in Computer Applications for Media and practice basic photography skills from Photography for Media beyond classroom assignments. Start experimenting with simple graphic design and digital storytelling tools.
Tools & Resources
Canva, Adobe Express, basic photo editing apps, free online tutorials for design software, personal smartphone camera
Career Connection
Early exposure and hands-on practice with media technology make you more marketable for entry-level roles requiring digital content creation, giving you an edge in internships and job applications.
Develop a Critical Media Consumption Habit- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read, watch, and listen to diverse Indian and international news and entertainment media, critically analyzing content, reporting styles, and ethical considerations. Discuss observations with peers and faculty, fostering an informed perspective on the media landscape.
Tools & Resources
Diverse news apps, documentary channels, media critique blogs, peer study groups
Career Connection
Understanding the nuances and impacts of media is vital for any role, from journalism to PR, enabling you to produce responsible and effective communication strategies for various Indian audiences.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Meaningful Media Internships and Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively pursue short-term internships or volunteer for media-related projects, even small ones, during semester breaks. Focus on applying theoretical knowledge from advertising, PR, and production courses (Radio, TV) in real-world settings. Network with industry professionals during these opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, industry contacts, project-based learning platforms
Career Connection
Practical exposure through internships is paramount in the Indian media industry, providing invaluable experience, building a portfolio, and often leading to future job offers or strong professional recommendations for placements.
Specialize through Electives and Skill Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully choose elective courses that align with your career interests (e.g., Digital Media, Film Studies, Advertising Campaign Planning). Supplement this with online certifications or workshops in niche areas like advanced video editing, data journalism tools, or social media analytics.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, Udemy, NPTEL, Adobe Creative Cloud suite, specific media software workshops
Career Connection
Developing specialized skills makes you a more attractive candidate for specific roles within media and communication, demonstrating a focused career interest and enhancing your competitive advantage in the job market.
Build a Diverse Digital Portfolio- (Semester 3-5)
Consistently create and curate a digital portfolio showcasing your best work: articles, photo essays, short videos, audio clips, ad campaign ideas, or PR strategies. Use platforms like Behance, personal blogs, or dedicated portfolio websites.
Tools & Resources
WordPress, Medium, Behance, personal website builders, YouTube/Vimeo
Career Connection
A strong, diverse portfolio is critical for demonstrating your capabilities to potential employers in India, acting as a live resume that directly illustrates your practical skills and creative potential.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Your Internship and Dissertation- (Semester 6-8)
Treat your Semester 6 internship as a full-time job. Network extensively, take initiative, and deliver high-quality work. For the Project Work/Dissertation (Semesters 7-8), choose a topic relevant to industry trends, conduct rigorous research, and aim for publishable quality to showcase expertise.
Tools & Resources
Industry mentors, academic supervisors, advanced research databases, professional networking events
Career Connection
A successful internship often directly converts into a job offer, while a strong dissertation demonstrates research acumen and critical thinking, highly valued by employers and for potential higher studies in India or abroad.
Refine Placement and Interview Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Actively participate in campus placement drives, mock interviews, and resume-building workshops offered by the university. Tailor your resume and cover letters to specific job descriptions. Practice group discussions and personal interviews, focusing on media-specific questions and industry knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Career services department, online interview prep platforms, peer practice groups, industry news updates
Career Connection
Mastering placement skills is directly linked to securing desirable job roles in India. Effective communication and presentation during interviews are crucial for conveying your competence and securing employment in competitive media sectors.
Cultivate Professional Networking and Mentorship- (Semester 6-8)
Attend media conferences, seminars, and alumni events. Connect with industry leaders on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek out mentors who can provide guidance on career paths, industry insights, and job opportunities within the Indian media landscape.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, industry associations (e.g., AAAI, PRCAI), university alumni network, media events
Career Connection
Networking is vital for long-term career growth in the media industry. Mentors can open doors to opportunities and provide invaluable advice, accelerating your professional journey in India''''s diverse media ecosystem.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Minimum 50% aggregate marks (45% for SC/ST candidates) in 10+2 or equivalent in any stream with English as a compulsory subject. Applicants appearing for the qualifying examination can also apply.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 160 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (Theory), 50% (Practical), External: 70% (Theory), 50% (Practical)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUL101 | Introduction to Mass Communication | Core | 4 | Communication models, History of mass media, Media theories, Functions of mass media, Global media landscape |
| HUL102 | English Language and Communication Skills | Core | 4 | Grammar and usage, Vocabulary building, Reading comprehension, Public speaking, Presentation skills |
| HUL103 | Introduction to Journalism | Core | 4 | News values, Reporting techniques, Interviewing skills, News writing, Ethics in journalism |
| HUL104 | Computer Applications for Media | Core (Practical) | 4 | MS Office applications, Internet usage, Digital media tools, Data management, Basic graphic design |
| HUL105 | Introduction to Social Sciences | General Elective | 4 | Concepts of society, Culture and civilization, Social institutions, Social change, Research methods |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUL106 | Media Laws and Ethics | Core | 4 | Indian Constitution and media, Press laws, Broadcasting regulations, Cyber laws, Media ethics |
| HUL107 | Reporting and Editing for Print Media | Core | 4 | News gathering, Feature writing, Investigative journalism, Editing techniques, Page layout |
| HUL108 | Introduction to Public Relations | Core | 4 | PR concepts, PR tools, Media relations, Crisis communication, Corporate social responsibility |
| HUL109 | Photography for Media | Core (Practical) | 4 | Camera basics, Composition, Lighting, Digital image editing, Photojournalism |
| HUL110 | Principles of Marketing | General Elective | 4 | Marketing mix, Consumer behavior, Market research, Product strategies, Promotion strategies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUL201 | Introduction to Advertising | Core | 4 | Advertising history, Ad agencies, Advertising theories, Media planning, Creative strategies |
| HUL202 | Radio Production | Core (Practical) | 4 | Radio formats, Scriptwriting, Voice modulation, Sound editing, Broadcast production |
| HUL203 | Print Media Design and Layout | Core (Practical) | 4 | Design principles, Typography, Page layout software, Magazine design, Newspaper design |
| HUL204 | Introduction to Research Methods | Core | 4 | Research types, Data collection, Sampling, Data analysis, Report writing |
| HUL205 | Basics of Film Studies | General Elective | 4 | History of cinema, Film theory, Narrative structures, Genres, Auteur theory |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUL206 | Television Production | Core (Practical) | 4 | TV formats, Scriptwriting, Camera techniques, Editing, Studio production |
| HUL207 | Communication for Development | Core | 4 | Development theories, Role of media, Communication strategies, Social change, Health communication |
| HUL208 | Corporate Communication | Core | 4 | Internal communication, External communication, Reputation management, Employee communication, Crisis PR |
| HUL209 | Introduction to Event Management | General Elective | 4 | Event planning, Budgeting, Logistics, Marketing events, Risk management |
| HUL210 | Advertising Campaign Planning | Core | 4 | Campaign objectives, Target audience, Media strategy, Creative brief, Evaluation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUL301 | Digital Media and Web Journalism | Core | 4 | Online journalism, Social media, Content creation, SEO, Web analytics |
| HUL302 | Media Management | Core | 4 | Media ownership, Business models, Revenue streams, Marketing strategies, Regulatory framework |
| HUL303 | Advanced Reporting and Editing | Core | 4 | Investigative reporting, Data journalism, Opinion writing, Advanced editing, Feature writing |
| HUL304 | Elective Course - Group A (e.g., Media Psychology) | Elective | 4 | Media effects, Audience psychology, Persuasion, Cognitive processing, Behavioral impact |
| HUL305 | Elective Course - Group B (e.g., Radio Jockeying and Anchoring) | Elective | 4 | Voice culture, Scripting, Interviewing skills, Live broadcasting, Show production |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUL306 | Internship | Core | 8 | Practical media experience, Industry exposure, Skill application, Professional networking, Report writing |
| HUL307 | Elective Course - Group C (e.g., Broadcast Journalism) | Elective | 4 | News gathering for TV/Radio, Live reporting, Anchoring, Field production, News presentation |
| HUL308 | Elective Course - Group D (e.g., Media Entrepreneurship) | Elective | 4 | Business plan development, Funding strategies, Media startups, Marketing media ventures, Legal aspects |
| HUL309 | Open Elective | Open Elective | 4 | Subject chosen from another department, Interdisciplinary learning, Skill diversification, Broader academic exposure, Personal interest exploration |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUL401 | Project Work / Dissertation - I | Core | 8 | Research proposal, Literature review, Methodology, Data collection, Preliminary analysis |
| HUL402 | Elective Course - Group E (e.g., Data Journalism) | Elective | 4 | Data visualization, Data analysis tools, Storytelling with data, Ethical considerations, Public records |
| HUL403 | Elective Course - Group F (e.g., Social Media Marketing) | Elective | 4 | Social media platforms, Content strategy, Influencer marketing, Campaign analytics, ROI measurement |
| HUL404 | Open Elective | Open Elective | 4 | Subject chosen from another department, Interdisciplinary learning, Skill diversification, Broader academic exposure, Personal interest exploration |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUL405 | Project Work / Dissertation - II | Core | 12 | Final data analysis, Interpretation, Report writing, Presentation, Viva-voce |
| HUL406 | Elective Course - Group G (e.g., Advanced Public Relations) | Elective | 4 | Strategic PR planning, Reputation management, Stakeholder engagement, Digital PR, Global PR |
| HUL407 | Elective Course - Group H (e.g., Media Law and Policy) | Elective | 4 | Intellectual property, Censorship, Regulatory bodies, Broadcasting policies, Internet governance |
| HUL408 | Open Elective | Open Elective | 4 | Subject chosen from another department, Interdisciplinary learning, Skill diversification, Broader academic exposure, Personal interest exploration |




