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M-A-MASS-COMMUNICATION in General at Pondicherry University
Puducherry, Puducherry
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About the Specialization
What is General at Pondicherry University Puducherry?
This M.A. Mass Communication program at Pondicherry University focuses on equipping students with comprehensive theoretical knowledge and practical skills in various facets of media. It explores the evolving Indian media landscape, covering traditional and new media platforms, and emphasizes ethical practices and social responsibility relevant to the country''''s diverse communication needs. The program differentiates itself by integrating interdisciplinary approaches with a strong foundation in communication theories and media production.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into the dynamic field of media and communication in India. It also suits working professionals looking to upskill in specialized media areas like digital journalism, public relations, or advertising. Individuals passionate about storytelling, critical analysis of media, and aspiring to make a mark in journalism, broadcasting, or corporate communication will find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in journalism (print, electronic, digital), public relations, advertising, content creation, media research, and development communication. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 8-15 LPA in Indian companies. The program prepares students for growth trajectories in publishing houses, TV channels, digital agencies, and NGOs, aligning with industry demand for versatile media professionals.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Communication Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong theoretical foundation by diligently studying communication models, mass media theories, and their historical context. Actively participate in classroom discussions, read academic journals, and connect theories to contemporary Indian media scenarios.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, NPTEL courses on communication, Discussions with professors, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for analytical roles in media research, content strategy, and effective communication planning, giving students an edge in discerning media trends.
Develop Foundational Reporting and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice news reporting, feature writing, and editing by engaging with campus journalism or local community media initiatives. Focus on clarity, objectivity, and ethical considerations in news gathering and presentation, using local events for practical assignments.
Tools & Resources
Student newspaper/magazine, Local news outlets for observation, Online style guides, Feedback from faculty
Career Connection
Essential for all journalism roles (print, electronic, digital), content writing, and corporate communications, enhancing immediate employability.
Explore Basic Media Software & Digital Tools- (Semester 1-2)
Gain hands-on experience with fundamental computer applications relevant to media, including word processing, presentation software, and basic graphics tools. Learn to utilize these for academic projects and early content creation tasks, exploring free online alternatives.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Office Suite (or equivalents), GIMP (for image editing), Canva for basic design, University computer labs
Career Connection
Equips students with indispensable digital literacy for any media profession, making them proficient in creating and presenting media content.
Intermediate Stage
Advanced Stage
Engage in Practical Media Production- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in departmental media production projects, focusing on video, audio, and digital content creation. Seek opportunities for short film making, documentary production, or creating podcasts, emphasizing teamwork and technical proficiency.
Tools & Resources
University studio facilities, Video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve), Audio recording equipment, YouTube tutorials
Career Connection
Develops practical skills for careers in broadcasting, film production, content creation, and digital media agencies, directly applicable in the Indian production ecosystem.
Undertake Industry Internships- (Semester 3-4)
Secure and complete internships with media organizations, PR firms, advertising agencies, or NGOs. Focus on gaining real-world exposure, understanding industry workflows, and building professional networks within the Indian media industry.
Tools & Resources
University career services, LinkedIn, Personal networking, Preparing a strong resume and portfolio
Career Connection
Provides invaluable industry experience, often leading to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations, significantly boosting job prospects.
Specialise in New Media Trends & Research- (Semester 3-4)
Deep dive into the rapidly evolving landscape of new media, digital journalism, and social media marketing. Experiment with creating content for various digital platforms, understanding analytics, and adapting communication strategies for online audiences. Additionally, undertake the compulsory project work diligently, choosing a relevant and impactful research topic.
Tools & Resources
Google Analytics, Social media scheduling tools, Online courses on digital marketing, Academic databases, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Crucial for roles in digital marketing, social media management, online content creation, and digital strategy, which are high-demand areas in India, while research skills prepare for analytical roles and higher studies.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized University.
Duration: 2 Years / 4 Semesters
Credits: 78 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCAC 401 | Communication Theory | Core | 4 | Communication Concepts and Process, Models of Communication, Mass Communication Theories, Communication Ethics, Development Communication Theories |
| MCAC 402 | History of Indian Press and Broadcasting | Core | 4 | Evolution of Press in India, Nationalist Press and Colonial Rule, Press in Post-Independence Era, History of Radio in India (All India Radio), History of Television in India (Doordarshan) |
| MCAC 403 | Communication Research Methods | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design and Hypothesis, Sampling Techniques, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Content Analysis), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Ethics in Communication Research |
| MCAC 404 | Computer Applications in Media | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Computers, Word Processing Software (MS Word), Presentation Software (MS PowerPoint), Spreadsheet Applications (MS Excel), Basic Graphics and Multimedia Software |
| MCEE 405 | Elective I | Elective | 4 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCAC 406 | News Reporting and Editing | Core | 4 | News Values and Elements, Reporting Techniques and Sources, Interviewing Skills, News Writing Styles (Hard News, Features), Principles of Editing, Layout and Design for Print Media |
| MCAC 407 | Media Laws and Ethics | Core | 4 | Indian Constitution and Media, Press Laws (Press Council Act), Broadcasting Laws, Cyber Laws and IT Act, Intellectual Property Rights, Ethical Frameworks in Media |
| MCAC 408 | Development Communication | Core | 4 | Concepts of Development, Models of Development Communication, Health Communication, Rural and Agricultural Communication, Role of NGOs and Government in Development Communication |
| MCAC 409 | Advertising: Principles and Practices | Core | 4 | History and Evolution of Advertising, Advertising Theories and Models, Advertising Campaign Planning, Copywriting and Visualization, Media Planning and Buying, Advertising Ethics and Regulations |
| MCEE 410 | Elective II | Elective | 4 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCAC 501 | Public Relations: Principles and Practices | Core | 4 | Concepts and Theories of Public Relations, PR Models and Strategies, Corporate Communication, Crisis Communication and Management, Media Relations and Event Management |
| MCAC 502 | Electronic Media Production | Core | 4 | Pre-production Techniques, Video Camera Operations, Audio Production and Sound Recording, Lighting for Electronic Media, Video Editing Principles and Software |
| MCAC 503 | New Media and Digital Communication | Core | 4 | Internet Fundamentals and Web 2.0, Social Media Platforms and Strategies, Digital Journalism and Online Content Creation, Online Marketing and SEO Basics, Mobile Communication, Cyber Culture and Ethics |
| MCAC 504 | Media Management | Core | 4 | Structure of Media Industry, Business Models in Media, Financial Management in Media Organizations, Marketing and Branding for Media, Human Resource Management in Media, Media Policy and Regulation |
| MCEE 505 | Elective III | Elective | 4 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MCAC 506 | Global Communication | Core | 4 | Theories of International Communication, Media Imperialism and Cultural Hegemony, Global News Flow and Imbalance, Cross-cultural Communication, Role of International Organizations (UN, UNESCO) |
| MCAC 507 | Film Studies | Core | 4 | History and Evolution of Cinema, Film Genres and Narrative Structures, Auteur Theory and Film Critics, Indian Cinema: History and Trends, Documentary Film Making, Film Appreciation and Analysis |
| MCAC 508 | Project Work & Viva-Voce | Core | 6 | Research Proposal Development, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Project Management, Viva Voce Preparation |
| MCEE 509 | Elective IV | Elective | 4 |
