.png&w=1920&q=75)
BA-LIBERAL-ARTS-HONS-SSLA in Media Studies at Symbiosis International University (SIU)
Pune, Maharashtra
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Media Studies at Symbiosis International University (SIU) Pune?
This Media Studies program at Symbiosis International University, Pune, focuses on understanding media''''s profound impact on society, culture, and politics. It delves into traditional and new media forms, critical theories, and practical applications essential for navigating the complex communication landscape. The Indian media industry, a vibrant and rapidly expanding sector, demands skilled professionals capable of ethical and effective communication, a core emphasis of this program.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for curious high school graduates passionate about communication, journalism, and digital trends. It caters to those seeking a comprehensive understanding of media''''s role in India and globally. Aspiring journalists, content creators, PR professionals, advertising strategists, and media researchers will find this program enriching, providing both theoretical depth and practical skills for a dynamic career in the evolving Indian media ecosystem.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in journalism, public relations, advertising, content creation, digital marketing, and media research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, with significant growth potential (INR 8-15+ LPA for experienced professionals) in media houses, ad agencies, and corporate communications. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills highly valued in India''''s competitive job market.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Robust Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with Foundation courses like Academic Writing and Research Methodology. Focus on developing clear, concise, and well-structured arguments. Practice critical reading and information synthesis, essential for humanities and social sciences. Utilize the university''''s library resources and academic support centers for essay writing and citation guidance.
Tools & Resources
SSLA Library Database, Plagiarism checker tools, Academic support workshops, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management
Career Connection
Strong academic writing and research are foundational for any media role, from journalistic reporting to analytical media research, ensuring credibility and professional communication in the Indian context.
Engage with Interdisciplinary Perspectives- (Semester 1-2)
As a Liberal Arts student, leverage the interdisciplinary nature of the program. Connect concepts from Quantitative Reasoning, Digital Skills, and Ethics with your evolving understanding of media. Participate in discussions that bridge different fields, enhancing your holistic understanding of societal issues impacting media. Attend guest lectures from various disciplines.
Tools & Resources
Open-access journals in humanities, Cross-departmental seminars, University clubs/societies focusing on diverse interests
Career Connection
A broad, interdisciplinary outlook is highly valued in the Indian media landscape, enabling professionals to cover diverse beats, understand complex societal narratives, and contribute to multifaceted campaigns.
Develop Foundational Digital and Critical Thinking Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively apply concepts from Digital Skills and Critical Thinking in everyday academic tasks. Explore basic photo/video editing software, social media analytics tools, and online content creation platforms. Regularly practice analyzing information critically, identifying biases, and constructing logical arguments, vital for media literacy and production.
Tools & Resources
Canva, basic video editing apps, news analysis websites, critical thinking exercises
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital tools and critical evaluation are non-negotiable for success in India''''s digital-first media industry, preparing students for roles in digital journalism, social media management, and content strategy.
Intermediate Stage
Build a Strong Portfolio with Media Production Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond theoretical Major courses, actively seek opportunities to apply your learning. Join student media clubs (e.g., college newspaper, radio, film society) to gain hands-on experience in journalism, filmmaking, or digital content creation. Start building a portfolio of your work, even if it is academic assignments, to showcase practical abilities.
Tools & Resources
College media clubs, Photography/Videography equipment, Adobe Creative Suite (student versions), WordPress for blogging
Career Connection
A robust practical portfolio is crucial for securing internships and entry-level roles in the Indian media industry, demonstrating your ability to produce tangible media outputs.
Seek Early Industry Exposure through Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively look for internships during summer breaks or academic recesses, even short-term ones, with local newspapers, digital media startups, PR agencies, or production houses in Pune or major Indian cities. This practical exposure helps connect theoretical knowledge with industry realities and builds a professional network. Attend career fairs and alumni events.
Tools & Resources
Internship portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), SSLA Career Services, Alumni network contacts
Career Connection
Early internships are vital for understanding the Indian media landscape, building professional contacts, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations, significantly boosting career prospects.
Deepen Specialization and Network with Professionals- (Semester 3-5)
Engage deeply with your Media Studies Major courses. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences related to specific media fields (e.g., documentary filmmaking, digital marketing, public relations). Actively network with faculty, visiting professionals, and alumni in your areas of interest. Participate in media-related competitions or festivals.
Tools & Resources
Industry events/webinars, LinkedIn for professional networking, SSLA faculty advisors, Media industry publications
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and a strong professional network are key differentiators for securing roles in competitive fields like broadcast media, film production, or strategic communications in India.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Internship and Research Project- (Semester 6-8)
Treat your mandatory Internship and Research Project as capstone experiences. Strive for excellence in your internship performance, taking initiative and seeking feedback. For the research project, choose a topic relevant to the Indian media industry, conduct rigorous research, and aim for publishable quality. These are significant CV builders.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Research ethics guidelines, Mentorship from faculty and industry professionals, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Outstanding performance in these capstone experiences directly enhances your resume, providing concrete examples of your abilities and often leading to direct job offers or strong recommendations for higher studies/roles in India.
Tailor Skills for Industry Readiness and Placements- (Semester 6-8)
Align your elective choices and project work with specific career goals within the Indian media industry (e.g., choose electives in content strategy if aiming for digital marketing, or advanced journalism if targeting reporting). Update your resume, LinkedIn profile, and portfolio regularly. Participate in mock interviews and placement preparation workshops offered by the university.
Tools & Resources
SSLA Placement Cell, Career counselling services, Online courses for specific software/skills, Professional development workshops
Career Connection
Focused skill development and proactive placement preparation are critical for securing desired roles in India''''s competitive media job market upon graduation, ensuring a smooth transition from academia to industry.
Develop Leadership and Communication Acumen- (Semester 6-8)
Take on leadership roles in student organizations, collaborative projects, or community initiatives. Practice effective oral and written communication, presentation skills, and teamwork. These soft skills are highly valued by Indian employers in the media sector, where collaboration and client interaction are frequent. Seek feedback on your communication style.
Tools & Resources
Public speaking clubs, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Group project opportunities, Communication skill workshops
Career Connection
Strong leadership and communication skills differentiate candidates, enabling faster career progression into managerial roles, client-facing positions, and strategic decision-making roles within Indian media organizations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 (or equivalent) examination with a minimum of 50% aggregate marks (45% for Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribes).
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 160 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAL001 | Academic Writing | Foundation Course | 4 | Academic Genres and Conventions, Developing Research Questions, Citation and Referencing Styles, Essay Structure and Argumentation, Effective Thesis Statement |
| BAL002 | Reading the World | Foundation Course | 4 | Textual Analysis Techniques, Cultural and Historical Contexts, Interpreting Diverse Perspectives, Global Issues and Narratives, Critical Comprehension Strategies |
| BAL003 | Quantitative Reasoning | Foundation Course | 4 | Data Interpretation and Representation, Basic Statistical Concepts, Problem Solving with Numbers, Logical and Numerical Reasoning, Application of Quantitative Methods |
| BAL004 | Digital Skills | Foundation Course | 4 | Digital Literacy and Citizenship, Productivity Software Applications, Online Collaboration Tools, Data Security and Privacy Practices, Information Retrieval and Management |
| BAL005 | Introduction to Ethics | Foundation Course | 4 | Major Ethical Theories, Moral Dilemmas and Decision Making, Applied Ethics in Society, Values, Virtues and Character, Social and Professional Ethics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAL006 | Environmental Studies | Foundation Course | 4 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution and Control, Climate Change and its Impacts, Sustainable Development Principles, Conservation and Resource Management |
| BAL007 | Performing Arts | Foundation Course | 2 | History of Theatre and Drama, Dance Forms and Traditions, Music Appreciation and Genres, Elements of Performance, Cultural Significance of Arts |
| BAL008 | Visual Arts | Foundation Course | 2 | Art History and Movements, Aesthetics and Art Criticism, Visual Culture and Representation, Artistic Mediums and Techniques, Contemporary Art Practices |
| BAL009 | Critical Thinking | Foundation Course | 4 | Logic and Argumentation, Fallacies in Reasoning, Cognitive Biases, Problem Solving Methodologies, Effective Decision Making |
| BAL010 | Research Methodology | Foundation Course | 4 | Fundamentals of Research Design, Data Collection Techniques, Qualitative Research Methods, Quantitative Research Methods, Ethical Considerations in Research |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAMSD01 | Introduction to Media and Communication | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | Communication Models and Theories, Evolution of Mass Media, Functions and Forms of Media, Audience Analysis and Effects, Societal Role of Media |
| BAMSD02 | Media History and Criticism | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | Historical Development of Media, Critical Approaches to Media Texts, Media and Cultural Studies, Power and Representation in Media, Media Analysis Techniques |
| BAMSD03 | Global Media | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | International Communication Theories, Media Globalization Processes, Transnational Media Corporations, Cultural Flows and Hegemony, Global Media Policies and Governance |
| BAMSD04 | Media Laws and Ethics | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | Press and Broadcasting Laws in India, Cyber Laws and Digital Regulations, Ethical Frameworks in Journalism, Media Accountability and Responsibility, Freedom of Speech and Expression |
| BAMSD05 | Digital Media and Culture | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | Social Media Platforms and Dynamics, Online Communities and Identity, Digital Convergence and Interactivity, Cyberculture and its Impact, User-Generated Content |
| BAMSD06 | Media Research Methods | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | Quantitative Research in Media, Qualitative Research in Media, Survey Design and Implementation, Content Analysis Techniques, Data Interpretation and Reporting |
| BAMSD07 | Film Studies | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | Film Theory and Criticism, Narrative and Genre in Cinema, Aesthetics and Visual Storytelling, World Cinema and Indian Cinema, Film Analysis and Interpretation |
| BAMSD08 | Journalism | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | News Reporting and Writing, Feature Writing and Editorials, Investigative Journalism, Photojournalism and Visual Reporting, Broadcast and Digital Journalism |
| BAMSD09 | Public Relations | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | PR Theories and Models, Media Relations Strategies, Crisis Communication Management, Corporate Communication and Branding, PR Campaign Planning and Execution |
| BAMSD10 | Advertising | Major Course (Media Studies) | 4 | Principles of Advertising, Advertising Campaign Strategy, Consumer Behavior in Advertising, Creative Design and Copywriting, Media Planning and Buying |
| BAL047 | Internship | Mandatory Core Component | 6 | Practical Industry Exposure, Application of Academic Skills, Professional Development, Workplace Ethics and Culture, Industry Networking and Mentorship |
| BAL048 | Research Project | Mandatory Core Component | 10 | Formulating Research Questions, Comprehensive Literature Review, Designing Research Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Writing and Presentation |
