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MTH in Communication at Serampore College
Hooghly, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Communication at Serampore College Hooghly?
This Communication program at Serampore College focuses on equipping theological students with advanced communication skills for diverse ministry contexts and societal engagement. It integrates theological perspectives with contemporary media theories, addressing the critical role of communication in a rapidly evolving Indian information landscape. The program emphasizes ethical media practices, digital communication strategies, and communication for social and spiritual development within India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) graduates seeking to specialize in communication for ministry, academic research, or non-profit sectors. It also suits working professionals in religious organizations, NGOs, or media houses who wish to integrate theological insights with advanced communication strategies. Individuals transitioning from a journalism or mass communication background to faith-based communication roles will also find this program highly relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as media officers for religious bodies, communication specialists for NGOs, theological educators, digital content creators for faith-based initiatives, or researchers in media ethics. In India, initial salaries for such roles might range from INR 3.5 to 7 LPA, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals. The program also prepares candidates for advanced doctoral studies and positions in theological institutions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Strengthen Research & Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the ''''Research Methodology and Hermeneutics'''' course. Utilize library resources, academic databases, and writing centers. Practice critical analysis and structured essay writing, crucial for the thesis and future academic/professional communications.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Grammarly, Academic journals
Career Connection
Essential for thesis writing, proposal development, and producing high-quality professional documents in any sector.
Deep Dive into Core Theological Principles- (Semester 1-2)
While focusing on Communication, ensure a robust understanding of the core M.Th. papers (Biblical Studies, Theology, History). These provide the essential theological grounding for ethical and contextually relevant communication. Form study groups to discuss complex theological concepts.
Tools & Resources
Theological dictionaries, Commentaries, Peer discussion groups
Career Connection
Ensures a strong theological foundation for communicating faith effectively and responsibly in diverse Indian contexts.
Initiate Media Consumption Analysis- (Semester 2)
Start critically analyzing various forms of media (news, social media, films, advertisements) through a theological and ethical lens, especially focusing on Indian media. Apply theories learned in ''''Communication Theories and Ethics'''' to real-world examples. Begin building a portfolio of media critiques.
Tools & Resources
Media monitoring tools, Academic articles on media studies, Critical thinking frameworks
Career Connection
Develops critical media literacy, essential for roles in media analysis, content creation, and communication strategy.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Practical Communication Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek out opportunities for practical application, such as creating content for college events, assisting church communication teams, or contributing to local NGO media initiatives. Focus on applying skills learned in electives like ''''Digital Communication'''' or ''''Communication for Development.''''
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Suite (Audition, Premiere, Photoshop), Canva, Local community organizations
Career Connection
Builds a practical portfolio, crucial for demonstrating skills to potential employers in the Indian media and development sectors.
Network with Communication Professionals and Theologians- (Semester 3-4)
Attend webinars, workshops, and conferences focused on media, communication, and theology in India. Connect with faculty, guest lecturers, and professionals in fields like journalism, digital media, and social advocacy. Leverage platforms like LinkedIn.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic conferences, Guest lectures
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internships, and future job opportunities within the niche of faith-based communication in India.
Start Dissertation Topic Formulation and Research- (Semester 3)
Begin brainstorming potential dissertation topics early, aligning them with personal interests and emerging communication trends in India. Engage with faculty advisors to refine the topic and start preliminary literature reviews.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Serampore College library, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation enhances academic credibility and can serve as a strong portfolio piece, demonstrating expertise in a specific area.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Dissertation Writing and Presentation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to the dissertation, focusing on rigorous research, coherent argumentation, and professional writing. Practice presenting your research findings, preparing for academic and professional presentations. Seek peer and faculty feedback.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (if applicable), Presentation software (PowerPoint/Google Slides), Peer review sessions
Career Connection
A strong dissertation demonstrates high-level research, analytical, and communication skills, vital for academic roles or advanced communication strategy positions.
Build a Professional Online Presence- (Semester 4)
Create and maintain a professional website or portfolio showcasing your communication projects, research, and skills. Curate your LinkedIn profile to highlight your specialization in communication and theology, focusing on your unique value proposition in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
WordPress/Wix, LinkedIn, Personal blog platforms
Career Connection
Essential for personal branding, attracting employers, and showcasing capabilities in digital communication and theological scholarship.
Explore Post-M.Th. Opportunities and Career Planning- (Semester 4)
Actively research job opportunities, Ph.D. programs, or further professional development courses relevant to your specialization. Attend career counseling sessions, mock interviews, and workshops on resume building and job search strategies tailored for the Indian non-profit and media sectors.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Job portals (NGO, academic, media specific), Alumni network
Career Connection
Facilitates a smooth transition into the desired career path or further academic pursuits, maximizing the impact of the M.Th. degree.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.D. degree of the Senate of Serampore College or its equivalent from a recognized University with B grade or 55% marks, or a Post-graduate Degree (M.A. etc.) in a cognate subject with an average of B grade or 55% marks. For M.Th. in Communication, a candidate should have obtained at least B grade (55%) in Communication related subjects in his/her B.D. degree or has passed an M.A. degree in Journalism/Mass Communication/Media Studies/Communication with at least B grade (55%) from a recognized university.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years (Full-time)
Credits: 52 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTH 101 | Research Methodology and Hermeneutics | Core | 4 | Nature of Research, Types of Research, Research Process, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Writing, Hermeneutical Principles |
| MTH 102 | Ecclesiastical History | Core | 4 | Early Church History, Medieval Christianity, Reformation Era, Indian Church History, Ecumenical Movement |
| MTH 103 | Advanced Biblical Studies (Old Testament) | Core | 4 | Old Testament Introduction, Pentateuch, Prophetic Literature, Wisdom Literature, Hermeneutics of Old Testament |
| MTH 104 | Advanced Biblical Studies (New Testament) | Core | 4 | New Testament Introduction, Synoptic Gospels, Pauline Epistles, Johannine Literature, Hermeneutics of New Testament |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTH 105 | Advanced Christian Theology | Core | 4 | Nature of Theology, Christology, Pneumatology, Ecclesiology, Soteriology, Contemporary Theological Issues |
| MTH 201 | Communication Theories and Ethics | Core (Specialization) | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Communication Models, Mass Communication Theories, Interpersonal Communication, Communication Ethics, Media Law, Global Communication |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTH 202 | Media and Society | Elective (Specialization) | 4 | Role of Media, Media Effects, Media and Culture, Media and Religion, Media Representation, Public Opinion, Social Change |
| MTH 203 | Digital Communication and New Media | Elective (Specialization) | 4 | Digital Media Landscape, Social Media, Online Journalism, Web Design, Mobile Communication, Digital Storytelling, Internet Ethics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTH 204 | Communication for Development | Elective (Specialization) | 4 | Development Communication Theories, Participatory Communication, Health Communication, Environmental Communication, Advocacy, Social Marketing |
| MTH 205 | Intercultural and Cross-cultural Communication | Elective (Specialization) | 4 | Culture and Communication, Cultural Dimensions, Verbal and Non-verbal Communication, Intercultural Conflict, Cross-cultural Adaptation, Globalisation |
| MTH 206 | Dissertation | Project | 12 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing, Academic Presentation |
