

MBA-MASS-COMMUNICATION-SIMC-PUNE in Advertising at Symbiosis International University (SIU)


Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Advertising at Symbiosis International University (SIU) Pune?
This Advertising program at Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication (SIMC) Pune focuses on equipping students with strategic and creative expertise in the dynamic Indian advertising landscape. It covers everything from brand strategy to digital campaigns, preparing future leaders for a vibrant industry driven by diverse consumer segments and technological advancements across India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative graduates seeking entry into the advertising industry, as well as marketing professionals looking to specialise in brand communication. It also suits individuals passionate about understanding consumer psychology, brand building, and crafting impactful campaigns across traditional and new media in the Indian market.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths like Account Management, Copywriting, Media Planning, or Brand Strategy roles. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, with significant growth potential to 15-25 LPA for experienced professionals in top agencies and corporates within India.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Concepts & Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong understanding of fundamental marketing, communication theories, and consumer behavior relevant to the Indian context. Actively participate in research methodology courses to build analytical foundations, crucial for future advertising strategy and data-driven decision making.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Consumer insight reports, Nielsen India studies
Career Connection
A solid theoretical and research base helps in strategic planning and understanding target audiences in the diverse Indian market, making you a more valuable asset to agencies.
Engage in Creative Exploration- (Semester 1-2)
Participate in college clubs or personal projects focusing on content creation, copywriting, or design. Attend workshops on creative thinking to develop innovative ideas for campaigns, critically analyzing diverse Indian advertising campaigns for inspiration and learning creative execution.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Behance
Career Connection
Building a portfolio of creative work from early on is essential for roles like copywriter or art director, demonstrating your ability to generate fresh ideas for Indian brands.
Network with Peers and Faculty- (Semester 1-2)
Build a strong network with classmates, seniors, and faculty. Leverage peer learning groups for complex topics and seek mentorship from faculty for career guidance, especially concerning the Indian media industry landscape and specific career opportunities within it.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Campus networking events, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, mentorship, and invaluable industry insights, which are critical for navigating the competitive Indian job market.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Advertising Specialization- (Semester 3)
Focus intently on the core advertising electives like Account Management, Creative Strategy, and Media Planning. Seek out live case studies from Indian brands and agencies to apply theoretical knowledge, enhancing practical understanding of campaign execution and industry best practices.
Tools & Resources
Industry case studies, AdAge India, AFaqs!
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge in these areas makes you highly desirable for roles within specific departments of advertising agencies and brand marketing teams.
Undertake Meaningful Summer Internships- (After Semester 2 (during summer break))
Secure a summer internship (after Semester 2) at a reputable advertising agency or an in-house marketing department in India. Focus on gaining hands-on experience in areas like client servicing, campaign development, or media execution to build a professional portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, Agency websites, Career Services portal
Career Connection
Internships provide crucial real-world experience, industry contacts, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting your employability in India.
Develop a Strong Portfolio of Creative Work- (Semester 3 onwards)
Continuously update and expand a portfolio of advertising ideas, copy samples, and campaign strategies from class projects and internship experiences. This portfolio is critical for showcasing skills and creativity to potential employers in the competitive Indian advertising market.
Tools & Resources
Personal website, Google Drive, Behance
Career Connection
A strong, well-curated portfolio is often the deciding factor in securing interviews and placements, especially in creative and client-facing advertising roles.
Advanced Stage
Master Digital Advertising & Analytics- (Semester 4)
Focus on advanced digital advertising techniques, programmatic buying, and performance analytics. Apply these skills in real-world projects, understanding how to measure ROI and optimize campaigns for Indian online audiences across various platforms.
Tools & Resources
Google Ads, Meta Business Suite, Google Analytics certifications
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital advertising and analytics is a non-negotiable skill in today''''s market, opening doors to digital marketing, media buying, and analytics specialist roles.
Undertake an Industry-Relevant Final Project- (Semester 4)
Choose a final project or dissertation focused on a contemporary advertising challenge or a new trend in the Indian market. This demonstrates problem-solving abilities, specialized knowledge, and thought leadership, serving as a significant resume booster for placements.
Tools & Resources
Industry mentors, Academic advisors, Research databases
Career Connection
A well-executed project highlights your ability to apply learned skills to real-world problems, making you a desirable candidate for strategic roles.
Intensive Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in campus placement drives, mock interviews, and resume-building workshops. Network strategically with industry professionals through alumni events and guest lectures, tailoring applications and interview responses to specific roles in Indian advertising firms.
Tools & Resources
Career Services cell, Mock interview platforms, LinkedIn
Career Connection
Thorough preparation for placements significantly increases your chances of securing desirable positions in top advertising agencies and brand teams across India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduate from any recognised University/Institution of National Importance with a minimum of 50% marks or equivalent grade (45% for Scheduled Castes/ Scheduled Tribes). Candidates appearing for their final year examinations can also apply. Admission through SNAP Test.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 100 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 101 | Principles of Management & Mass Communication | Core | 3 | Management functions, Communication process, Media landscape, Theories of Mass Communication, Indian media scenario |
| 102 | Introduction to Business Analytics | Core | 3 | Data management, Statistical analysis, Data visualization, Predictive modeling, Business decision-making |
| 103 | Media Economics & Management | Core | 3 | Media markets, Revenue models, Media policy, Financial management, Strategic planning |
| 104 | Consumer Behaviour & Marketing Management | Core | 3 | Consumer decision process, Market segmentation, Marketing mix, Product life cycle, Branding strategies |
| 105 | Professional Writing & Communication | Core | 3 | Business correspondence, Report writing, Presentation skills, Digital communication, Ethical communication |
| 106 | Communication Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Research design, Data collection, Sampling, Data analysis, Research ethics |
| 107 | Creative & Critical Thinking | Core | 3 | Problem-solving, Ideation techniques, Logical reasoning, Argumentation, Innovation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 201 | Digital Marketing & Media Analytics | Core | 3 | SEO/SEM, Social media marketing, Content marketing, Email marketing, Web analytics |
| 202 | Brand Management & Integrated Marketing Communication (IMC) | Core | 3 | Brand identity, Brand equity, Integrated marketing communication, Brand positioning, Brand measurement |
| 203 | Production & Design for Mass Communication | Core | 3 | Graphic design principles, Video production, Audio production, Web design basics, Visual storytelling |
| 204 | Media Laws & Ethics | Core | 3 | Media legislation, Defamation, Copyright, Press council, Ethical dilemmas in media |
| 205 | Entrepreneurship & New Media Ventures | Core | 3 | Startup ecosystem, Business plan development, Funding strategies, Digital business models, Innovation management |
| 206 | Financial Management for Media Organizations | Core | 3 | Financial statements, Budgeting, Investment appraisal, Working capital, Project finance |
| 207 | Leadership & Organisational Communication | Core | 3 | Leadership theories, Team building, Conflict resolution, Change management, Internal communication |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 301 | Cross-Cultural Communication | Core | 3 | Cultural dimensions, Intercultural communication, Global communication strategies, Diversity, Cross-cultural branding |
| 302 | Media Operations & Supply Chain Management | Core | 3 | Media logistics, Content distribution, Production planning, Inventory management, Digital asset management |
| ADV 301 | Advertising & Account Management | Specialization Elective | 3 | Advertising ecosystem, Agency structure, Client servicing, Campaign planning, Budgeting |
| ADV 302 | Creative Strategy & Copywriting | Specialization Elective | 3 | Creative brief, Ideation, Headline writing, Body copy, Visuals in advertising |
| ADV 303 | Media Planning & Buying | Specialization Elective | 3 | Media landscape, Audience research, Media objectives, Media selection, Campaign execution |
| ADV 304 | Integrated Marketing Communication | Specialization Elective | 3 | IMC planning, Public Relations, Sales promotion, Direct marketing, Digital integration |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 401 | International & Global Media Operations | Core | 3 | Global media markets, Transnational media corporations, International regulations, Cross-border content, Global communication strategies |
| 402 | Public Policy & Media Governance | Core | 3 | Government policies, Regulatory frameworks, Freedom of speech, Media ownership, Digital governance |
| ADV 401 | Digital Advertising & Analytics | Specialization Elective | 3 | Programmatic advertising, Search advertising, Social media ads, Mobile advertising, Performance analytics |
| ADV 402 | Brand & Advertising Research | Specialization Elective | 3 | Brand tracking, Ad effectiveness, Consumer insights, Qualitative methods, Quantitative analysis |
| ADV 403 | Experiential Marketing & Activations | Specialization Elective | 3 | Event marketing, Sponsorship, Brand experiences, Consumer engagement, ROI measurement |
| ADV 404 | Advanced Creative Thinking & Campaigns | Specialization Elective | 3 | Advanced ideation, Campaign development, Portfolio building, Pitching, Award-winning strategies |




