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M-SC in Visual Communication at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Visual Communication at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This M.Sc. Visual Communication program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on equipping students with advanced skills in media production, design, and strategic communication. It integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice, addressing the evolving demands of India''''s dynamic media and entertainment industry. The curriculum is designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and technical proficiency, preparing graduates for leadership roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative graduates holding a Bachelor''''s degree in Visual Communication, Journalism, Multimedia, or related fields who seek to deepen their expertise. It also caters to working professionals aiming to upskill in areas like digital marketing, film production, or graphic design. Career changers with a strong creative aptitude and foundational media knowledge can also benefit from this comprehensive master''''s degree.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Creative Directors, Digital Marketing Managers, Film Producers, UX/UI Designers, and Brand Strategists. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program aligns with industry needs, paving the way for advanced roles in Indian media houses, advertising agencies, and corporate communication departments.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Design & Production Software- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate consistent weekly hours to becoming proficient in industry-standard software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and Audition. Utilize online tutorials (e.g., Adobe TV, YouTube channels like Piximperfect) and campus labs for hands-on practice.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Cloud Suite, LinkedIn Learning, SRMIST Media Lab
Career Connection
Strong software skills are non-negotiable for entry-level roles in graphic design, video editing, and digital marketing, directly impacting portfolio quality and employability in India.
Cultivate Critical Media Literacy- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with current media trends, analyze advertisements, films, and digital content with a critical lens, linking observations to communication theories and ethical considerations taught in class. Participate in departmental discussions and media clubs.
Tools & Resources
Media journals, Industry blogs (e.g., Exchange4Media), Relevant documentaries
Career Connection
Develops analytical and strategic thinking, crucial for roles in media planning, brand strategy, and content creation that resonate with target audiences in the Indian market.
Build a Foundational Portfolio- (Semester 1-2)
Start documenting and curating all practical assignments from photography, graphic design, and video production labs. Focus on quality over quantity, showcasing diverse skills. Seek feedback from professors and peers for refinement and improvement.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Personal portfolio website platforms (e.g., Wix, WordPress), Dribbble
Career Connection
An early, strong portfolio is essential for internships and demonstrates practical aptitude to potential employers in the competitive Indian creative industry, opening doors to opportunities.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Live Industry Projects- (Semester 3)
Actively seek out opportunities for mini-projects or freelance work within the university or local businesses. Apply learned skills in digital marketing, web design, or animation to real-world scenarios, gaining practical exposure and problem-solving experience.
Tools & Resources
University''''s industry collaboration cell, Local small businesses, Networking events
Career Connection
Gains practical experience, builds a professional network, and strengthens the portfolio with tangible project outcomes, highly valued by Indian employers for direct impact and immediate contribution.
Specialize and Deepen Skillset- (Semester 3)
Based on interests and career goals, choose electives wisely and dedicate extra time to mastering specific areas like advanced animation, documentary filmmaking, or UI/UX design. Participate in workshops and certifications in these specialized fields.
Tools & Resources
Online certifications (e.g., Google Digital Garage, Coursera), Specialized workshops by industry experts, Departmental electives
Career Connection
Develops a niche expertise, making graduates more attractive for specialized roles and enabling higher salary potential in fast-growing sectors of the Indian media industry.
Network with Industry Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend media conferences, webinars, and workshops organized by professional bodies or SRMIST. Connect with guest speakers, alumni, and industry leaders on platforms like LinkedIn. Participate in student chapters of professional associations for wider reach.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry events (e.g., FICCI Frames, Kyoorius Designyatra), Alumni network
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internship opportunities, and job referrals, which are crucial for navigating the competitive Indian job market and securing desirable positions in media and communication.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Impact Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Choose a dissertation topic that aligns with career aspirations and allows for in-depth research or a significant practical output (e.g., a short film, a comprehensive digital marketing campaign, a UI/UX prototype). Aim for publishable quality or industry-ready deliverables.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Research methodology tools, Specialized software for project execution
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation/project serves as a capstone portfolio piece, demonstrating advanced skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities to recruiters during placements and future roles.
Prepare for Placements and Interviews- (Semester 4)
Polish your resume and portfolio extensively, ensuring it highlights your specialized skills and project work. Practice interview skills, including technical questions related to your specialization and behavioral questions. Participate in mock interviews and placement workshops.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST Career Services, Mock interview platforms, Professional resume builders, LinkedIn profile optimization
Career Connection
Maximizes chances of securing top placements in leading Indian and multinational companies, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to professional life with a competitive edge.
Develop Entrepreneurial Mindset & Leadership Skills- (Semester 4)
Explore opportunities to lead team projects or organize departmental events. Consider developing a unique media product or service idea. This fosters initiative, problem-solving, and leadership qualities valuable in any professional setting, including startups.
Tools & Resources
Entrepreneurship cells at SRMIST, Startup incubators, Business plan competitions
Career Connection
Prepares graduates not just for jobs but for future leadership roles or even starting their ventures, contributing to India''''s growing startup ecosystem in the media and creative sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree in Visual Communication, Electronic Media, Journalism and Mass Communication, Multimedia, or any equivalent degree with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 78 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MVC21101 | Communication Theories | Core | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Models of Communication, Mass Communication Theories, Interpersonal Communication, Cultural Studies, Global Communication |
| MVC21102 | Research Methods in Communication | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Quantitative and Qualitative Analysis, Research Ethics and Report Writing |
| MVC21103 | Advanced Graphic Design | Core | 4 | Principles of Design, Typography and Layout, Digital Illustration Techniques, Branding and Identity Design, Print Media Design, Packaging Design |
| MVC21104 | Advertising and Brand Management | Core | 4 | Introduction to Advertising, Advertising Appeals and Strategies, Media Planning and Buying, Brand Building and Equity, Integrated Marketing Communication, Consumer Behavior |
| MVC21105 | Professional Photography | Core | 3 | Camera Controls and Exposure, Lighting Techniques, Composition and Framing, Genres of Photography, Photojournalism and Documentary, Studio Photography |
| MVC21106 | Professional Photography Lab | Lab | 2 | Advanced Camera Operations, Studio Lighting Setup and Application, Digital Image Processing Software, Portrait and Fashion Photography, Product and Food Photography, Outdoor and Street Photography |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MVC21201 | Advanced Video Production | Core | 4 | Pre-production Planning, Cinematography and Camera Movement, Lighting for Video, Sound Recording and Design, Non-linear Editing Techniques, Post-production Workflow |
| MVC21202 | Media Laws and Ethics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Provisions for Media, Press and Publication Laws, Broadcasting Regulations, Cyber Laws and Intellectual Property, Ethical Dilemmas in Media, Regulatory Bodies and Self-Regulation |
| MVC21203 | Digital Media Marketing | Core | 4 | Introduction to Digital Marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Media Marketing (SMM), Content Marketing Strategy, Email Marketing, Web Analytics and Performance Measurement |
| MVC21204 | Film Studies | Core | 4 | History of Cinema, Film Theory and Criticism, Film Genres and Movements, Auteur Theory and Star Studies, Indian Cinema: Evolution and Trends, Narrative Structure and Film Analysis |
| MVC21205 | Audio Production and Broadcasting | Core | 3 | Principles of Sound and Acoustics, Microphone Techniques and Recording, Audio Editing and Mixing, Radio Program Production, Podcasting and Voice-Overs, Sound Design for Visual Media |
| MVC21206 | Advanced Video Production Lab | Lab | 2 | Scriptwriting and Storyboarding, Advanced Camera Operations and Movement, Professional Lighting Setups, Non-linear Editing Software Proficiency, Special Effects and Motion Graphics Integration, Multi-camera Production |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MVC21301 | Animation and Motion Graphics | Core | 4 | Principles of Animation, 2D and 3D Animation Techniques, Character Design and Rigging, Storyboarding and Animatics, Motion Graphics Design, Visual Effects (VFX) Basics |
| MVC21302 | Web Design and Interactive Media | Core | 4 | Introduction to Web Technologies (HTML, CSS), Responsive Web Design, User Interface (UI) Design, User Experience (UX) Principles, Content Management Systems (CMS), Interactive Storytelling |
| MVC21E1X | Professional Elective I (e.g., Event Management / Public Relations and Corporate Communication) | Elective | 4 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective, typically 5-6 key areas for that specialization, E.g., Event Planning, Crisis Communication, Media Relations, Corporate Social Responsibility |
| MVC21303 | Internship / Mini Project | Project/Internship | 4 | Industry Exposure and Application of Skills, Project Planning and Execution, Problem Identification and Solution Development, Data Analysis and Report Writing, Presentation and Viva-voce, Professional Networking |
| MVC21304 | Seminar | Seminar | 4 | Selection of Research Topic, Literature Review, Methodology for Research/Project, Data Interpretation, Scientific Presentation Skills, Critical Thinking and Discussion |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MVC21E2X | Professional Elective II (e.g., Documentary Filmmaking / Game Design and Development) | Elective | 4 | Specific topics depend on chosen elective, typically 5-6 key areas for that specialization, E.g., Game Theory, Level Design, Documentary Research, Production Ethics |
| MVC21401 | Dissertation / Project Work | Project | 8 | Formulation of Research Hypothesis/Project Goal, Comprehensive Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis/Project Implementation, Thesis/Project Report Writing, Innovation and Originality, Presentation and Viva-voce |
