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MBA-MASS-COMMUNICATION-SIMC-PUNE in Public Relations at Symbiosis International University (SIU)
Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Public Relations at Symbiosis International University (SIU) Pune?
This Public Relations & Corporate Communication program at Symbiosis International University (SIMC Pune) focuses on developing strategic communication professionals equipped to manage corporate reputation, media relations, and stakeholder engagement. It addresses the growing need in the Indian market for skilled PR practitioners who can navigate complex media landscapes and build credible brand narratives in a rapidly evolving digital environment. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications relevant to the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into the dynamic field of public relations, as well as working professionals looking to upskill in corporate communication and reputation management. Individuals with a background in journalism, advertising, marketing, or general communication studies who aspire to lead strategic communication initiatives and contribute to corporate image building in diverse Indian industries will find this specialization particularly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles such as PR Consultant, Corporate Communications Manager, Media Relations Specialist, Digital PR Strategist, and Crisis Communication Expert. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience in the Indian market. The program aligns with industry demands for ethical, impactful communication, positioning graduates for leadership roles in India''''s booming PR sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Communication Acumen- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in discussions on communication theories, marketing fundamentals, and media landscape. Read industry news daily from Indian sources (e.g., Exchange4Media, Afaqs) to connect theoretical knowledge with current trends and identify key players in the Indian media and PR ecosystem.
Tools & Resources
Industry journals, Case studies of Indian brands, Group discussions and debates
Career Connection
A strong theoretical grounding combined with Indian market awareness is crucial for strategic thinking in future PR roles and provides context for unique challenges.
Develop Robust Research & Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Master qualitative and quantitative research methodologies taught in class. Apply these skills by conducting small-scale market surveys or media content analyses on Indian brands. Focus on understanding consumer behavior, market dynamics, and media consumption specific to India.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for data analysis (if applicable), Google Forms/SurveyMonkey, Academic databases
Career Connection
Essential for understanding target audiences, measuring campaign effectiveness, and presenting data-driven insights in Public Relations, a highly valued skill for Indian PR firms.
Enhance Professional Writing & Presentation- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly practice business communication skills through report writing, crafting compelling narratives, and mock presentations. Seek feedback on clarity, conciseness, and impact, focusing on tailoring messages for Indian business contexts, cultural nuances, and diverse stakeholders.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly/similar writing aids, Presentation software, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Crucial for drafting effective press releases, internal communications, client proposals, and impactful presentations, making you job-ready for PR roles in India.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into PR Specialization & Industry Projects- (Semester 3)
Actively engage with specialization subjects like Digital PR, Corporate Communication, and Media Relations. Seek out live projects or internships with PR agencies or corporate communication departments in India during semester breaks to apply classroom learning to real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for industry connections, Networking events, Professional workshops
Career Connection
Hands-on experience solidifies learning, builds a professional portfolio tailored to the Indian PR landscape, and creates vital industry contacts for future placements.
Cultivate Strategic Thinking & Crisis Preparedness- (Semester 3)
Analyze case studies of Indian corporate crises and their communication responses, focusing on cultural sensitivities and media handling. Participate in simulations or role-playing exercises for crisis communication, understanding stakeholder expectations in India.
Tools & Resources
Industry reports on crisis management, Mock press conferences, Case study analyses
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking for managing unforeseen challenges and protecting brand reputation, a high-demand and highly valued skill in Indian corporates and PR firms.
Network with Industry Leaders & Alumni- (Semester 3)
Attend webinars, guest lectures, and industry events hosted by SIMC or external organizations specializing in PR. Actively connect with SIMC alumni on LinkedIn to understand their career paths in India and seek mentorship and industry insights.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, SIMC Alumni Network, Industry association events (e.g., PRAXIS)
Career Connection
Opens doors to internships, job opportunities, and invaluable career guidance from experienced professionals in the Indian PR sector, leveraging the SIMC network.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation for Niche Expertise- (Semester 4)
Select a dissertation topic that aligns with your career aspirations within PR, focusing on an emerging trend or a specific communication challenge in the Indian market (e.g., influencer marketing ethics, CSR communication strategies). Conduct in-depth research to become a subject matter expert.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Research supervisors, Industry experts for interviews
Career Connection
Showcases deep understanding and specialized research capability, positioning you as a knowledgeable specialist in your chosen area during job interviews and future roles.
Hone Interview & Placement Skills- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in mock interviews, group discussions, and resume-building workshops organized by the career services cell. Tailor your application materials and communication style specifically for PR roles in Indian companies and agencies, highlighting relevant projects and internships.
Tools & Resources
SIMC Placement Cell, Online interview platforms, Company websites for research
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for the rigorous placement process, significantly increasing your chances of securing a desired role in the competitive Indian job market.
Develop Professional Brand & Digital Presence- (Semester 4)
Build a strong online portfolio showcasing your projects, articles, and internships. Maintain a professional LinkedIn profile, actively sharing insights and engaging with industry content to establish your personal brand as a budding PR professional in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Personal website/blog (if applicable), Online portfolio tools
Career Connection
A strong professional brand makes you more visible and attractive to recruiters in the Indian communication industry, demonstrating your understanding of modern PR practices and digital fluency.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s Degree with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST) or equivalent grade from any Statutory University.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 88 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MC101 | Communication Theories & Models | Core | 4 | Introduction to Communication Theories, Models of Communication, Mass Communication Theories, Persuasion and Attitude Change Theories, Ethics and Regulations in Communication |
| MC102 | Advertising & Branding Fundamentals | Core | 4 | Evolution of Advertising, Branding Concepts and Strategies, Advertising Process and Functions, Media Landscape for Advertising, Consumer Insights and Target Audience |
| MC103 | Media Landscape & Business | Core | 4 | Structure of Indian Media Industry, Media Ownership and Regulation, Economics of Media Business, Global Media Trends, Emerging Media Technologies and Platforms |
| MC104 | Consumer Behavior & Market Research | Core | 4 | Consumer Decision Making Process, Market Segmentation and Targeting, Research Design and Methodologies, Data Collection Techniques, Qualitative and Quantitative Research |
| MC105 | Marketing Management | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Marketing, Marketing Mix Strategies (4Ps), Product Life Cycle, Pricing and Distribution Channels, Promotion and Marketing Communication |
| MC106 | Business Communication | Core | 2 | Principles of Effective Business Communication, Written Communication (Reports, Emails), Oral Communication (Presentations, Meetings), Interpersonal and Cross-Cultural Communication, Conflict Resolution and Negotiation Skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MC201 | Digital Marketing & Analytics | Core | 4 | Digital Marketing Strategy, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing and Email Marketing, Web Analytics and Performance Measurement |
| MC202 | Media Law & Ethics | Core | 4 | Indian Media Laws and Regulations, Intellectual Property Rights, Defamation, Privacy and Censorship, Ethical Dilemmas in Media Practice, Regulatory Bodies and Codes of Conduct |
| MC203 | Strategic Communication Management | Core | 4 | Strategic Communication Planning, Stakeholder Identification and Engagement, Reputation Management, Crisis Communication Strategies, Integrated Communication Planning |
| MC204 | Integrated Marketing Communications | Core | 4 | IMC Principles and Process, Advertising and Sales Promotion, Public Relations and Publicity, Direct Marketing and Personal Selling, Brand Communication and Storytelling |
| MC205 | Research Methodology & Data Visualization | Core | 4 | Advanced Research Design, Sampling Techniques and Hypothesis Testing, Statistical Tools for Data Analysis, Data Interpretation and Report Writing, Principles of Data Visualization and Infographics |
| MC206 | Financial Management for Media | Core | 2 | Introduction to Financial Management, Financial Statements Analysis, Budgeting and Cost Control, Investment Appraisal for Media Projects, Revenue Models and Funding in Media Industry |
| MC207 | Foreign Language (French/German/Spanish) | Core | 4 | Basic Grammar and Vocabulary, Conversational Skills, Cultural Aspects, Reading and Writing, Professional Communication in Foreign Language |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MC301 | Media Economics & Global Media | Core | 4 | Global Media Landscape, Media Ownership and Mergers, Economic Models of Media Production, International Communication Policies, Impact of Digitalization on Media Economy |
| MC302 | Media Planning & Buying | Core | 4 | Media Planning Process, Media Metrics and Tools, Budget Allocation and Scheduling, Digital Media Planning and Buying, Campaign Evaluation and Optimization |
| MC307 | Public Relations - Concepts & Theories | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Evolution and Models of Public Relations, Stakeholder Relations and Engagement, Media Relations and Publicity, Internal Communication Strategies, Ethical Frameworks in PR |
| MC308 | Corporate Communication & Reputation Management | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Corporate Identity and Image, Issues Management and Advocacy, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Communication, Brand Reputation Building, Stakeholder Communication and Engagement |
| MC309 | Digital PR & Social Media Management | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Digital PR Strategies, Social Media Platforms and Tools, Influencer Marketing, Online Reputation Management, Content Creation and Distribution for Digital |
| MC310 | Public Relations Writing & Campaigns | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Press Releases and Media Kits, Fact Sheets and Backgrounders, Feature Writing and Speech Writing, PR Campaign Planning and Execution, Event Management and Promotions |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MC401 | Dissertation / Project | Core | 6 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Research Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
| MC404 | Advanced Media Relations & Advocacy | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Advanced Media Relations Strategies, Journalist Engagement and Collaboration, Advocacy and Lobbying, Government Relations and Public Affairs, Media Training and Spokesperson Management |
| MC405 | Integrated Communication Strategies | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Holistic Communication Planning, Cross-functional Communication Alignment, Brand Storytelling and Narrative Development, Measurement and Evaluation of Communication Campaigns, Budgeting and Resource Allocation |
| MC406 | Crisis Communication & Issues Management | Elective (Specialization) | 3 | Types of Organizational Crises, Crisis Preparedness and Communication Plans, Media Monitoring and Response Protocols, Post-Crisis Recovery and Evaluation, Issues Lifecycle and Proactive Management |
| MC407 | Open Elective (Industry/Cross Functional) | Elective (Open) | 3 | Specialized industry topic, Cross-functional management concept, Emerging trends in media/communication, Advanced business strategy, Entrepreneurship in media |
