.png&w=1920&q=75)
B-A in Journalism at Richard Almeda Memorial College
Udupi, Karnataka
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Journalism at Richard Almeda Memorial College Udupi?
This Journalism program at Richard Almeda Memorial College focuses on equipping students with essential skills for the dynamic Indian media landscape. It covers traditional and new media, emphasizing practical reporting, editing, and content creation. The curriculum is designed to meet the evolving demands of print, broadcast, and digital journalism, preparing graduates for various roles in India''''s vibrant media industry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 graduates passionate about news, storytelling, and current affairs, seeking an entry into media and communication. It also suits individuals with a keen interest in investigative reporting, content creation for digital platforms, or those aiming to influence public discourse through ethical and impactful journalism. No specific prior media experience is strictly required, just a strong aptitude for communication.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including reporter, editor, content writer, PR specialist, or media manager. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 2.5-4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program aligns with industry demands for skilled journalists in print, TV, radio, and digital sectors, fostering growth in a rapidly expanding Indian media market.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Reporting Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom reporting exercises and undertake small assignments like interviewing local personalities or covering college events. Focus on news values, fact-checking, and clear, concise writing. Read diverse Indian newspapers daily to understand reporting styles.
Tools & Resources
Local newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Deccan Herald), Basic journalism textbooks, Practice interviews with peers
Career Connection
Mastering these basics is crucial for entry-level reporting roles and forms the bedrock for any journalism career in India.
Develop Multilingual Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Since India is multilingual, focus on strong English communication alongside proficiency in Kannada or another regional language. Practice writing and speaking in both, as regional media offers vast opportunities. Join college debating clubs or literary societies.
Tools & Resources
English and Kannada (or chosen regional language) newspapers/magazines, Public speaking groups, Language exchange apps
Career Connection
Bilingual or multilingual journalists have a distinct advantage in Indian media, opening doors to regional news networks and diverse content creation roles.
Engage with Current Affairs Deeply- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly follow national and international news, analyze different perspectives, and engage in informed discussions. Subscribe to news apps and credible Indian news portals. This builds a strong knowledge base essential for any journalist.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu app, Indian Express e-paper, Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha TV, Reputable news analysis podcasts
Career Connection
A strong grasp of current affairs is non-negotiable for journalists, aiding in insightful reporting, editorial judgment, and competitive exams for government media roles.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini Media Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Beyond coursework, initiate personal projects like starting a college newsletter, creating a short documentary, or launching a small podcast series. Focus on practical application of editing, videography, and scriptwriting skills.
Tools & Resources
Basic video editing software (e.g., KineMaster, DaVinci Resolve), Audio recording apps, Canva for design
Career Connection
These projects build a portfolio, demonstrating practical skills to potential employers for roles in digital media, content creation, and broadcast.
Seek Internships in Local Media- (Semester 4-5)
Actively look for short-term internships with local newspapers, radio stations, community TV channels, or digital news startups in Udupi or Mangalore. Gain hands-on experience in reporting, editing, or content management.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, Networking with local journalists
Career Connection
Internships are vital for industry exposure, networking, and often lead to pre-placement offers or valuable experience for future job applications in Indian media houses.
Participate in Media Competitions & Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in inter-collegiate media festivals, journalism competitions, or workshops on specific skills like mobile journalism or data journalism. This enhances practical skills and provides networking opportunities within the broader academic and industry community.
Tools & Resources
Youth festivals with media events, Online courses on niche journalism (e.g., Coursera, Udemy), Industry-led workshops
Career Connection
Winning or participating in such events boosts your resume, showcasing talent and initiative, which is highly valued in the competitive Indian media job market.
Advanced Stage
Develop a Niche & Specialization- (Semester 5-6)
Identify a specific area of interest within journalism (e.g., political, environmental, sports, business, tech) and deepen your knowledge. Start blogging or creating content specifically on this niche to build expertise and a unique voice.
Tools & Resources
WordPress/Blogger, Niche-specific news sources, Expert interviews
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more attractive candidate for specific beats in Indian newsrooms or for specialized content roles in burgeoning sectors like tech or finance journalism.
Build a Professional Digital Presence- (Semester 5-6)
Create a professional portfolio website showcasing your best articles, videos, and projects. Use platforms like LinkedIn to network with media professionals, follow industry leaders, and stay updated on job openings. Curate your online identity.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn profile, Personal website builder (e.g., Google Sites, Wix), Online portfolio platforms
Career Connection
A strong digital presence is crucial for showcasing your work, attracting recruiters, and establishing credibility in the modern Indian media industry.
Intensive Placement & Interview Preparation- (Semester 6)
Prepare rigorously for placement drives, focusing on resume building, mock interviews, and group discussions tailored for media roles. Research potential employers, practice news quizzes, and stay updated on media trends. Seek guidance from college career counselors.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling services, Online interview preparation resources, Daily news updates
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation significantly increases your chances of securing placements in reputable Indian media organizations and public relations agencies immediately after graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in PUC (Pre-University Course) / 10+2 examination or equivalent from a recognized board.
Duration: 6 Semesters / 3 years
Credits: Typically 136 credits for a full B.A. program (as per Mangalore University CBCS regulations) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJL 101 | Kannada / Other Indian Language | Compulsory Language | 4 | Language skills, Grammar fundamentals, Introduction to literature, Cultural context, Basic communication |
| BAEL 101 | English Language | Compulsory Language | 4 | English grammar, Reading comprehension, Basic writing skills, Functional English, Literary appreciation |
| JO 101 | Introduction to Journalism & Mass Communication | Core (Optional - Journalism) | 4 | Concept of Mass Communication, History of Indian Media, Nature and Scope of Journalism, Functions of Media, Media Ethics |
| BAOP 101 | Optional Subject II (e.g., History, Economics, Political Science) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Foundational concepts of the chosen discipline, Basic theories, Historical perspectives, Key methodologies, Societal relevance |
| BAOP 102 | Optional Subject III (e.g., Sociology, Psychology, Hindi) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Foundational concepts of the chosen discipline, Basic theories, Historical perspectives, Key methodologies, Societal relevance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJL 201 | Kannada / Other Indian Language | Compulsory Language | 4 | Advanced language proficiency, Literary forms, Critical appreciation, Cultural narratives, Creative writing |
| BAEL 201 | English Language | Compulsory Language | 4 | Advanced communication skills, Critical reading strategies, Academic writing, Specific literary genres, Public speaking |
| JO 201 | Reporting | Core (Optional - Journalism) | 4 | News Gathering Techniques, News Values and Elements, Interviewing Skills, Beat Reporting, Reporting for Print and Broadcast |
| BAOP 201 | Optional Subject II (e.g., History, Economics, Political Science) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Intermediate concepts of the chosen discipline, Advanced theories, Methodological approaches, Current issues in the field, Critical analysis |
| BAOP 202 | Optional Subject III (e.g., Sociology, Psychology, Hindi) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Intermediate concepts of the chosen discipline, Advanced theories, Methodological approaches, Current issues in the field, Critical analysis |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJL 301 | Kannada / Other Indian Language | Compulsory Language | 3 | Literary criticism, Modern literary trends, Translation techniques, Cultural discourse, Regional literature |
| BAEL 301 | English Language | Compulsory Language | 3 | Professional communication, Report writing, Academic presentation skills, Literary analysis, Cross-cultural communication |
| JO 301 | Editing & Feature Writing | Core (Optional - Journalism) | 4 | Principles of Editing, Headline Writing, Page Layout and Design, Feature Article Writing, Photo Captioning |
| BAOP 301 | Optional Subject II (e.g., History, Economics, Political Science) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Specialized topics in the chosen discipline, Research methods, Contemporary issues, Advanced theoretical frameworks, Case studies |
| BAOP 302 | Optional Subject III (e.g., Sociology, Psychology, Hindi) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Specialized topics in the chosen discipline, Research methods, Contemporary issues, Advanced theoretical frameworks, Case studies |
| AECC 301 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Natural Resources, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change, Sustainable Development |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAJL 401 | Kannada / Other Indian Language | Compulsory Language | 3 | Advanced literary studies, Cultural history, Comparative literature, Modern prose and poetry, Creative writing workshops |
| BAEL 401 | English Language | Compulsory Language | 3 | Communication for specific purposes, Research paper writing, Argumentative essays, Global literature perspectives, Interview techniques |
| JO 401 | Radio & Television Journalism | Core (Optional - Journalism) | 4 | Principles of Broadcast Journalism, Radio News Production, Television News Production, Script Writing for Broadcast, Anchoring and Presentation |
| BAOP 401 | Optional Subject II (e.g., History, Economics, Political Science) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Advanced topics in the chosen discipline, Policy analysis, Global perspectives, Critical discourse, Interdisciplinary connections |
| BAOP 402 | Optional Subject III (e.g., Sociology, Psychology, Hindi) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Advanced topics in the chosen discipline, Policy analysis, Global perspectives, Critical discourse, Interdisciplinary connections |
| SEC 401 | Indian Constitution | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Preamble and Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union and State Governments, Judiciary in India, Constitutional Amendments |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JO 501 | Public Relations & Advertising | Core (Optional - Journalism) | 4 | Theories of Public Relations, PR Tools and Strategies, Advertising Principles, Media Planning and Buying, Brand Communication |
| JO 502 | Media Laws and Ethics | Core (Optional - Journalism) | 4 | Freedom of Press in India, Defamation and Libel, Copyright and Intellectual Property, Media Regulatory Bodies, Ethical Dilemmas in Journalism |
| BAOP 501 | Optional Subject II (Paper 1) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Advanced theoretical frameworks, Specialized research areas, Comparative studies, Policy implications, Contemporary debates |
| BAOP 502 | Optional Subject II (Paper 2) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Advanced theoretical frameworks, Specialized research areas, Comparative studies, Policy implications, Contemporary debates |
| DSE 501 | Discipline Specific Elective I | Elective | 3 | Specialized topic from one of the core disciplines, In-depth analysis of a sub-field, Application-oriented study, Research methodology, Advanced concepts |
| OE 501 | Open Elective I | Open Elective | 3 | Interdisciplinary knowledge, General interest topic, Skill development, Broaden academic horizons, Basic concepts of chosen field |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JO 601 | Current Affairs & Media Management | Core (Optional - Journalism) | 4 | Major National and International Issues, Media Ownership and Structure, Media Economics and Marketing, Circulation and Readership Studies, Media Entrepreneurship |
| JO 602 (Pr) | Project Work / Dissertation & Viva Voce | Core (Optional - Journalism - Project) | 4 | Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Academic Viva Voce |
| BAOP 601 | Optional Subject II (Paper 3) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Advanced topics in chosen discipline, Independent study methods, Interdisciplinary research, Policy recommendations, Emerging trends |
| BAOP 602 | Optional Subject II (Paper 4) | Core (Optional) | 4 | Advanced topics in chosen discipline, Independent study methods, Interdisciplinary research, Policy recommendations, Emerging trends |
| DSE 601 | Discipline Specific Elective II | Elective | 3 | Advanced specialized topic, Research project or case study, Industry-specific applications, Critical evaluation, Professional skill development |
| OE 601 | Open Elective II | Open Elective | 3 | Broader academic exploration, Personal interest topic, Skill enhancement for diverse fields, Critical thinking, Societal relevance |
