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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 knowledge and practical skills in media production, design, and strategic communication. In the dynamic Indian media landscape, there''''s a growing demand for visual communication professionals who can blend creativity with technology and strategic thinking, making this program highly relevant.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative graduates with a background in Visual Communication, Media, Journalism, or English literature, seeking entry into diverse media and design roles. It also suits working professionals aiming to upgrade their skills in digital media, advertising, or film production, and career changers transitioning into the rapidly evolving visual communication industry in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths as media strategists, content creators, film producers, graphic designers, digital marketers, or visual journalists. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program aligns with industry needs, fostering skills for high-growth roles in Indian and international media companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Portfolio & Digital Presence- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in all lab sessions and projects (Digital Photography Lab, Graphic Design Lab) to create high-quality work. Document every project meticulously and start building an online portfolio on platforms like Behance or a personal website. Consistently update it with your best pieces.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Adobe Portfolio, Figma, Canva
Career Connection
A strong, diverse portfolio is critical for visual communication roles, showcasing your skills to potential employers for internships and entry-level positions in India''''s creative industries.
Master Core Communication Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond memorizing, deeply understand the foundational theories of Human, Mass, and Visual Communication. Participate actively in discussions, read extensively, and apply these theories to analyze real-world media content, from advertising campaigns to film narratives.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, industry blogs (e.g., A&M, Brand Equity), case studies
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base provides the analytical framework needed for strategic roles in media planning, content strategy, and effective visual storytelling, crucial for navigating India''''s complex media landscape.
Develop Academic Writing & Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Leverage the ''''Academic Writing & Research'''' course to refine your report writing, referencing, and presentation abilities. Practice summarizing complex ideas clearly and structuring research papers effectively. Seek feedback on every assignment to improve.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, university writing center
Career Connection
Essential for academic success, these skills are also vital for industry roles requiring market research reports, content strategy documents, and client presentations, fostering professional communication.
Intermediate Stage
Leverage Internship for Real-world Exposure- (Summer after Sem 2, early Sem 3)
Actively seek and maximize your summer internship experience (after Sem 2). Choose an internship that aligns with your specific career interests (e.g., advertising agency, production house, digital marketing firm). Network diligently, absorb industry best practices, and contribute meaningfully to projects.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, industry-specific job portals, company websites, faculty mentors
Career Connection
Internships are often direct pathways to placements in India. They provide invaluable practical experience, industry contacts, and a stronger resume for securing full-time roles.
Specialize through Electives and Applied Projects- (Semester 2-3)
Thoughtfully select electives (Production Design, Documentary, Digital Marketing) that deepen your expertise in a chosen area. Actively pursue practical projects in these specialized fields, whether it''''s creating a short documentary, designing a full ad campaign, or developing a UX prototype.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Suite, industry-standard software for specific specializations (e.g., DaVinci Resolve, Google Ads)
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more attractive candidate for specific roles in the Indian market. Practical projects demonstrate your capability beyond theoretical knowledge, setting you apart.
Master Digital Tools & Analytics- (Semester 2-3)
Go beyond basic software knowledge learned in labs. Independently explore and gain proficiency in advanced digital tools for graphic design, web development, video editing, and especially digital marketing analytics. Pursue certifications in Google Analytics, HubSpot, or similar platforms.
Tools & Resources
Google Analytics Academy, HubSpot Academy, online tutorials (e.g., Coursera, Udemy)
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital tools and data analytics is non-negotiable in today''''s media industry in India. It empowers you for roles in digital marketing, content strategy, and performance-based campaigns.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Project Work/Dissertation- (Semester 4)
Treat your final project or dissertation as your capstone experience. Choose a topic that genuinely interests you and showcases your accumulated skills. Engage regularly with your mentor, adhere to deadlines, and strive for original, impactful research or a high-quality production.
Tools & Resources
Research databases, academic literature, industry case studies, professional-grade production equipment/software
Career Connection
A strong project/dissertation highlights your ability to conduct independent research, problem-solve, and execute a complex task – highly valued by Indian employers for advanced roles and further academic pursuits.
Network Strategically & Build Industry Mentorships- (Semester 3-4)
Attend media industry workshops, seminars, and conferences (both online and offline) in India. Actively connect with professionals on LinkedIn, seek informational interviews, and try to secure a mentor in your desired field. Leverage SRMIST''''s alumni network.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, industry associations (e.g., AAAI, FICCI Frames), alumni portals
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to hidden job opportunities, valuable insights, and mentorship, significantly aiding placement efforts and career growth in the competitive Indian media landscape.
Prepare for Placements with Mock Interviews- (Semester 3-4)
Systematically prepare for interviews by researching companies, practicing common HR and technical questions, and conducting mock interviews with career services or faculty. Refine your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant projects, internships, and specialized skills.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST Career Development Centre, online interview preparation platforms, resume builders
Career Connection
Thorough preparation increases your chances of securing desirable placements in India''''s top media and communication companies, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to professional life.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc Visual Communication/ B.Sc Visual Media/ B.A. Journalism & Communication / B.A. English ( with Communication related papers) / B.A. Multimedia & Animation with an aggregate of 50% marks.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 71 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (Theory), 60% (Practical/Project), External: 50% (Theory), 40% (Practical/Project)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVS21101 | Human Communication | Core | 3 | Nature of Communication, Models and Theories of Communication, Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication, Interpersonal Communication, Group Communication |
| PVS21102 | Mass Communication | Core | 3 | Introduction to Mass Communication, Theories of Mass Communication, Print Media, Broadcast Media, New Media |
| PVS21103 | Theories of Visual Communication | Core | 3 | Elements of Visual Communication, Semiotics, Aesthetics, Gestalt Psychology, Visual Perception |
| PVS21104 | Principles of Photography | Core | 3 | Evolution of Photography, Camera Types and Lenses, Exposure Control, Lighting Techniques, Composition, Digital Photography |
| PVS21105 | Visual Culture | Core | 3 | Understanding Visual Culture, Visual Representation, Image and Ideology, Art and Popular Culture, Global Visual Culture |
| PVS21106 | Digital Photography Lab | Lab | 2 | Camera Handling, Basic Photo Editing, Studio Lighting, Outdoor Photography, Portfolio Development |
| PVS21107 | Academic Writing & Research | Core | 2 | Fundamentals of Academic Writing, Research Process, Referencing Styles, Report Writing, Presentation Skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVS21201 | Computer Graphics | Core | 3 | Introduction to Computer Graphics, Vector and Raster Graphics, Image Manipulation, Digital Painting, 2D Animation Principles |
| PVS21202 | Media Laws and Ethics | Core | 3 | Indian Constitution and Media, Press Laws, Broadcast Regulation, Cyber Laws, Ethical Theories in Media |
| PVS21203 | Advertising | Core | 3 | History of Advertising, Types of Advertising, Advertising Agencies, Media Planning, Brand Management, Advertising Ethics |
| PVS21204 | Global Media and International Relations | Core | 3 | Global Communication Landscape, Media and Diplomacy, Cultural Imperialism, International News Flow, Role of NGOs |
| PVS21205 | Graphic Design Lab | Lab | 2 | Principles of Graphic Design, Logo Design, Brochure Design, Poster Design, Magazine Layout, Typography |
| PVS21206 | Elective I | Elective | 3 | PVS212E1 Production Design (Introduction to Production Design, Art Direction, Set Design, Costume Design, Props Management), PVS212E2 Creative Writing for Media (Principles of Creative Writing, Script Writing, Copywriting, Content Creation, Feature Writing) |
| PVS21207 | Internship | Core | 2 | Industry Exposure, Practical Skill Application, Professional Networking, Report Writing, Presentation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVS21301 | Media Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Introduction to Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis, Report Writing |
| PVS21302 | Film Studies | Core | 3 | History of Cinema, Film Genres, Narrative Structure, Cinematography, Sound Design, Film Theories |
| PVS21303 | Digital Advertising & Media Management | Core | 3 | Digital Marketing Landscape, SEO/SEM, Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing, Analytics and Metrics |
| PVS21304 | Web Design & UI/UX Lab | Lab | 2 | HTML/CSS Fundamentals, Responsive Web Design, User Interface Design, User Experience Principles, Wireframing |
| PVS21305 | Elective II | Elective | 3 | PVS213E1 Documentary Film Production (Documentary History, Research and Scripting, Cinematography for Documentary, Editing, Distribution), PVS213E2 Audio Production (Principles of Sound, Microphone Techniques, Audio Editing, Sound Mixing, Radio Production) |
| PVS21306 | Elective III | Elective | 3 | PVS213E3 Public Relations & Corporate Communication (PR Concepts, Media Relations, Crisis Communication, Corporate Social Responsibility, Internal Communication), PVS213E4 Photography for Print Media (Photojournalism, Editorial Photography, Commercial Photography, Image Licensing, Legal Aspects) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PVS21401 | Project Work / Dissertation | Project | 10 | Research Proposal, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing, Viva Voce |
| PVS21402 | Elective IV | Elective | 3 | PVS214E1 Social Media Management (Social Media Platforms, Content Strategy, Community Management, Social Media Analytics, Influencer Marketing), PVS214E2 Advanced Advertising Techniques (Integrated Marketing Communications, Creative Strategy, Digital Campaign Planning, Programmatic Advertising, Marketing Automation) |
| PVS21403 | Elective V | Elective | 3 | PVS214E3 Digital Marketing & Analytics (SEO/SEM Advanced, Google Analytics, Email Marketing, Mobile Marketing, Performance Marketing), PVS214E4 Broadcast Journalism (Broadcast News Reporting, Anchoring, Interviewing, TV Production, Documentary for Broadcast) |
