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BA-JMC in General at Quest Group of Institutions
Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is General at Quest Group of Institutions Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar?
This Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (BA JMC) program at Quest Group of Institutions focuses on equipping students with essential skills for diverse roles in media, communication, and public relations. Aligned with India''''s rapidly evolving media landscape, the program covers traditional and digital journalism, advertising, public relations, and media production. Its comprehensive curriculum prepares students for the dynamic demands of the Indian communication industry, emphasizing practical application and theoretical knowledge.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative and inquisitive individuals passionate about storytelling, current affairs, and influencing public discourse. It attracts fresh graduates seeking entry into journalism, broadcasting, advertising, or corporate communications. The curriculum also suits aspiring content creators, digital marketers, and PR professionals looking to build a strong foundational understanding of media operations and ethical communication practices in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this BA JMC program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as journalists, content writers, PR executives, advertising professionals, broadcasters, or social media managers in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 Lakhs to 4.5 Lakhs annually, with significant growth potential in metropolitan media hubs. The program fosters critical thinking, research, and communication skills vital for advancing within Indian media houses, digital agencies, and corporate communication departments.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Media Knowledge Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering the foundational theories of communication, history of Indian journalism, and basic reporting techniques. Regularly read major Indian newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and news portals (e.g., NDTV, Times of India) to stay updated on current affairs and understand different reporting styles.
Tools & Resources
News apps, official syllabus readings, media theory textbooks, IKGPTU library resources
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base and awareness of media history are crucial for contextualizing news and developing ethical journalistic practices, essential for any entry-level media role.
Develop Core Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in English Communication Skills classes, focusing on improving written clarity, grammar, and public speaking. Practice news writing and editing exercises diligently. Form study groups to discuss current events and practice debating skills, enhancing articulation and critical analysis.
Tools & Resources
Grammar apps (e.g., Grammarly), English language newspapers, online public speaking tutorials, peer feedback
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are paramount in journalism, PR, and advertising roles, directly impacting interview performance and professional effectiveness.
Master Digital Literacy Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Gain proficiency in basic computer applications, especially MS Office Suite, and understand internet navigation. Utilize these tools for academic assignments, research, and creating digital content. Explore online resources for digital storytelling basics.
Tools & Resources
MS Office 365, YouTube tutorials, basic graphic design tools (e.g., Canva), Quest Group''''s computer labs
Career Connection
Fundamental digital skills are non-negotiable in today''''s media industry, enabling efficient content creation, research, and basic digital publishing.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Hands-on Media Production- (Semester 3-4)
Take every opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in practical subjects like Photography, Radio Journalism, and TV Journalism. Actively participate in producing short news segments, radio programs, and photo stories. Seek feedback from faculty and peers to refine technical skills.
Tools & Resources
College radio/TV studio equipment, photo editing software (e.g., GIMP, Adobe Lightroom basic), audio editing tools (e.g., Audacity)
Career Connection
Practical experience builds a portfolio, essential for demonstrating skills to potential employers in broadcasting, photography, and digital media production.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 3-4)
Attend industry workshops, guest lectures, and media conclaves organized by the institution or local media bodies. Connect with speakers, alumni, and local journalists. Use LinkedIn to build a professional profile and follow key media influencers and organizations in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, college career services, local media associations (e.g., Chandigarh Press Club)
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and future job prospects, which are crucial in the competitive Indian media sector.
Develop Ethical and Legal Acumen- (Semester 3-4)
Deeply engage with subjects like Media Law & Ethics. Analyze real-world case studies of media controversies in India to understand legal boundaries and ethical dilemmas. Participate in discussions and debates to formulate informed opinions on media responsibility.
Tools & Resources
Legal databases, news archives, case studies on media ethics, guest lectures by legal experts
Career Connection
A strong understanding of media law and ethics is vital for responsible journalism and PR, safeguarding careers and maintaining credibility in the Indian media landscape.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Industry-Relevant Projects & Internships- (Semester 5-6)
Dedicate significant effort to the Project Work/Dissertation and Internship. Choose topics that align with your career aspirations (e.g., digital marketing campaign, investigative report on a social issue). Seek out internships with reputable media houses, PR agencies, or corporate communication departments in India.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, industry contacts, project mentors, professional writing guides
Career Connection
A strong project and a successful internship are critical for gaining practical experience, building a professional portfolio, and securing placements in top Indian media companies.
Specialize in a Niche Area- (Semester 5-6)
Utilize elective subjects and project work to delve deeper into an area of interest, such as Digital Media Marketing, Development Communication, or Corporate Communication. Develop expertise by taking online courses or certifications in your chosen niche to enhance your resume for specific roles.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, Google Digital Garage, specialized industry publications
Career Connection
Specialization helps you stand out in the job market, aligning you for specific roles and often higher starting salaries in areas like digital strategy or PR.
Prepare for Career Entry with Portfolio Development- (Semester 5-6)
Systematically compile your best work – articles, photographs, audio/video productions, campaign plans, and project reports – into a professional portfolio. Practice interview skills, focusing on articulating your experiences and demonstrating your understanding of the Indian media industry.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (e.g., WordPress, Behance), mock interviews, resume and cover letter workshops
Career Connection
A compelling portfolio and strong interview skills are crucial for securing desired positions and negotiating better compensation in the competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 with minimum 45% marks (40% for SC/ST) or equivalent qualification (as per Quest Group of Institutions website)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 116 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJM C-101 | Introduction to Journalism & Mass Communication | Core | 4 | Concept & Scope of Mass Communication, Types of Communication, Theories & Models of Communication, Media Landscape in India, Role of Mass Media |
| BAJM C-103 | History of Indian Journalism | Core | 4 | Early Indian Press, Press During Pre-Independence Era, Press Post-Independence, Role of Press in Freedom Struggle, Major Personalities & Publications |
| BAJM C-105 | Introduction to Computer | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Computer, MS-Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet & Email Concepts, Basic Multimedia Applications, Computer Networks |
| BAJM C-107 | English Communication Skills | Core | 4 | Grammar and Usage, Vocabulary Building, Writing Skills (Paragraph, Essay), Reading Comprehension, Public Speaking & Presentation |
| BAJM P-109 | Computer Practical | Practical | 2 | MS-Word Document Creation, MS-Excel Spreadsheet Operations, MS-PowerPoint Presentation Design, Internet Browsing & Research, Email Management |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJM C-102 | Reporting | Core | 4 | News Concepts & Values, News Sources & Beats, Types of Reporting, Interviewing Techniques, Investigative Reporting & Ethics |
| BAJM C-104 | Editing | Core | 4 | Principles of Editing, News Desk Functions, Headline Writing, Page Layout & Design, Proofreading Symbols & Practices |
| BAJM C-106 | Introduction to Public Relations | Core | 4 | Concepts & Scope of PR, Types of PR, PR Tools & Techniques, Corporate Communication, Crisis Management |
| BAJM C-108 | Current Affairs | Core | 4 | National & International Issues, Political & Economic Developments, Social & Cultural Trends, Environmental Concerns, Science & Technology Updates |
| BAJM P-110 | Reporting & Editing Practical | Practical | 2 | News Writing Exercises, Feature & Article Writing, Headline & Caption Practice, Page Designing & Layout, Basic Editing Tasks |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJM C-201 | Advertising | Core | 4 | Types of Advertising, Advertising Media, Ad Campaign Planning, Copywriting & Visualization, Ethics in Advertising |
| BAJM C-203 | Radio Journalism | Core | 4 | History of Radio in India, Radio News Reporting, Radio Program Formats, Audio Production & Editing, Voice Modulation & Presentation |
| BAJM C-205 | Basic Photography | Core | 4 | History & Types of Cameras, Lighting & Composition, Photojournalism, Digital Photography Basics, Image Editing Software |
| BAJM C-207 | Media Law & Ethics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Provisions for Media, Press Laws (e.g., Press and Registration of Books Act), Cyber Laws & IT Act, Defamation & Contempt of Court, Journalistic Ethics & Codes |
| BAJM P-209 | Photography Practical | Practical | 2 | Camera Operation & Settings, Outdoor & Indoor Photography, News Photography Techniques, Photo Editing Basics, Creating Photo Stories |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJM C-202 | Television Journalism | Core | 4 | History of TV in India, TV News Production, Script Writing for TV, Anchoring & Reporting for TV, Broadcast Technology & Formats |
| BAJM C-204 | Event Management | Core | 4 | Concept & Scope of Event Management, Event Planning & Execution, Budgeting & Marketing for Events, Sponsorship & Logistics, Post-Event Evaluation |
| BAJM C-206 | Communication Research | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Sampling Methods, Content Analysis, Survey Research & Report Writing |
| BAJM C-208 | Cyber Journalism | Core | 4 | Online News Writing, Blogging & Podcasting, Social Media Journalism, Web Design Basics, Digital Ethics & Credibility |
| BAJM P-210 | TV Production Practical | Practical | 2 | Camera Operation & Shot Composition, Video Editing Software, News Bulletin Production, Interviewing for Television, Studio Operations |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJM C-301 | Media Management | Core | 4 | Media Ownership & Structure, Media Economics, Human Resources in Media, Marketing of Media Products, Media Convergence & Business Models |
| BAJM C-303 | Advertising and Public Relations Campaigns | Core | 4 | Campaign Planning & Strategy, Creative Brief Development, Media Buying & Scheduling, Campaign Evaluation, Case Studies of Successful Campaigns |
| BAJM C-305 | Global Communication | Core | 4 | International News Flow Theories, Global Media Systems, Cultural Imperialism & Hybridity, Public Diplomacy, Cross-Cultural Communication |
| BAJM E-307 | Media Ethics & Professionalism | Elective | 4 | Ethical Theories in Media, Freedom of Press vs. Responsibility, Censorship & Self-Regulation, Privacy & Public Interest, Objectivity & Bias in News |
| BAJM P-309 | Project Work/Dissertation | Project | 6 | Research Proposal Development, Data Collection & Analysis, Academic Writing & Citation, Project Presentation, Time Management for Research |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJM C-302 | Development Communication | Core | 4 | Concept of Development & Media Role, Health Communication, Rural & Agricultural Communication, Social Change through Media, Participatory Communication Models |
| BAJM C-304 | Folk & Traditional Media | Core | 4 | Forms of Folk Media (e.g., Puppet, Theatre), Role in Society & Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Indigenous Communication Systems, Cultural Preservation |
| BAJM C-306 | Corporate Communication | Core | 4 | Corporate Identity & Image Building, Internal & External Communication, Brand Management, Crisis Communication, Investor Relations & CSR |
| BAJM E-308 | Digital Media Marketing | Elective | 4 | Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Media Marketing (SMM), Content Marketing Strategy, Email Marketing, Web Analytics & Reporting |
| BAJM P-310 | Internship (4-6 weeks) | Internship | 6 | Industry Exposure & Learning, Application of Academic Skills, Professional Networking, Internship Report Writing, Career Exploration |
