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M-A in Journalism And Mass Communication at The Oxford College of Arts
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Journalism and Mass Communication at The Oxford College of Arts Bengaluru?
This M.A. Journalism and Mass Communication program at The Oxford College of Arts, affiliated with Bangalore University, focuses on comprehensive media education. It covers traditional and new media, addressing the evolving demands of India''''s dynamic media landscape. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical skills, preparing students for diverse roles in journalism, advertising, public relations, and digital content creation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into the media and communication field, working professionals looking to upskill in specialized areas like digital journalism or corporate communication, and career changers transitioning into media. Candidates should possess a strong interest in current affairs, excellent communication skills, and a zeal for ethical reporting and content creation.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect fulfilling career paths in India as journalists, editors, content writers, PR specialists, advertisers, and social media managers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program aligns with industry demands for multi-skilled media professionals, enhancing growth trajectories in Indian media houses, digital firms, and corporate communication departments.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Reporting & Editing Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in news gathering exercises, practice writing various news formats (lead, inverted pyramid), and meticulously edit copies for grammar and style. Utilize college-level labs for hands-on practice in media production.
Tools & Resources
Newspaper style guides (e.g., AP Stylebook), local English newspapers, college media lab resources
Career Connection
Mastering these basics is crucial for any journalism role, ensuring accuracy and professionalism, which are highly valued by Indian media houses for entry-level positions.
Engage in Media Research and Analysis- (Semester 1-2)
Proactively participate in communication research projects, critically analyze media content, and understand the theories of mass communication. Form study groups to discuss media phenomena and their societal impact.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals on communication, research methodology textbooks, online databases like JGate/Shodhganga for Indian research papers
Career Connection
Develops analytical thinking essential for media planning, content strategy, and academic or market research roles in Indian agencies and think tanks.
Cultivate Digital Media Literacy & Basic Applications- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly practice computer applications for media, focusing on word processing, presentation tools, and basic photo editing. Familiarize yourself with online news platforms and digital content consumption trends.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Office Suite, basic image editing software (e.g., GIMP, Canva), reputable Indian news portals (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express digital editions)
Career Connection
Essential for modern media roles, preparing students for digital content creation, online journalism, and effective use of technology in media production, highly sought after in India''''s digital-first media landscape.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Specialized Practical Production Skills- (Semester 3)
Intensively engage with DTP software for layout design, learn audio production techniques for radio and podcasts, and practice advanced writing for various media. Seek opportunities to produce college publications or podcasts.
Tools & Resources
Adobe InDesign, Audacity/Adobe Audition, college radio/podcast facilities, local community media initiatives
Career Connection
These hands-on skills are directly applicable to roles in publishing, radio production, and digital content creation, making graduates job-ready for production houses and media firms in India.
Network and Seek Industry Mentorship- (Semester 3)
Attend industry workshops, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the college. Connect with alumni and media professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. Seek informal mentorships to understand industry dynamics and career paths in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, college alumni network, local media industry events in Bengaluru
Career Connection
Building a strong professional network is crucial for internships and placements in India''''s competitive media industry, opening doors to valuable opportunities.
Participate in Media Competitions and Projects- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in inter-collegiate media festivals, journalism contests, and advertising/PR campaigns. Volunteer for college events requiring media coverage or communication strategy development.
Tools & Resources
College media club, local media competitions, student-led initiatives
Career Connection
Showcases practical skills and creativity to potential employers, builds a portfolio, and provides experience in real-world project execution, a key differentiator in Indian job market.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Internship- (Semester 4 (as part of PGJMC 405))
Secure an internship at a reputable media house, PR agency, advertising firm, or digital media company. Focus on applying learned theories, gaining practical experience, and understanding organizational culture.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, personal networking, online job portals (e.g., Internshala, Naukri.com)
Career Connection
Internships are paramount for securing placements in India, providing vital industry exposure, skill validation, and often leading to pre-placement offers.
Specialize through Electives and Research Project- (Semester 4)
Deep dive into chosen elective areas like Online Journalism or Corporate Communication. Execute a robust research project, demonstrating advanced analytical and reporting skills.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic resources, industry reports, faculty guidance, statistical software for research
Career Connection
Demonstrates expertise in a specific media domain, making graduates more attractive for specialized roles in growing sectors like digital content or corporate communications in India.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Interview Skills- (Semester 4)
Compile a comprehensive portfolio of written articles, multimedia projects, campaigns, and research. Practice interview skills, group discussions, and aptitude tests tailored for media recruitment drives.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (e.g., Behance, personal blog), mock interview sessions, career guidance workshops
Career Connection
A strong portfolio and polished interview skills are critical for successful placements in Indian media and communication companies, ensuring readiness for campus and off-campus recruitment.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: Internal Assessment (C1 & C2) contributes 30% for theory papers and 50% for practical/project papers, External: Semester End Examination (SEE) contributes 70% for theory papers and 50% for practical/project papers
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGJMC 101 | Mass Communication Concepts & Processes | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Communication, Theories and Models of Communication, Mass Communication Models, Media and Society, New Media Concepts |
| PGJMC 102 | Reporting and Editing | Core | 4 | News Concepts and Values, Sources of News, Reporting Techniques, News Editing Principles, Feature and Article Writing |
| PGJMC 103 | History of Indian Press | Core | 4 | Early Indian Press, Press during Colonial Rule, Post-Independence Press Development, Press Commissions and Laws, Current Trends in Indian Press |
| PGJMC 104 | Communication Research Methods | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Sampling and Measurement, Data Analysis and Interpretation |
| PGJMC 105 | Computer Applications for Media (Practical) | Practical | 4 | Operating Systems & Internet Basics, Word Processing & Spreadsheets, Presentation Software, Basic Photo Editing, Web Page Design Fundamentals |
| PGJMC 106 | Media Practicals - I | Practical | 4 | News Reporting Practice, Feature Writing Practice, Editing and Layout, Interview Techniques, Basic Page Design |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGJMC 201 | Communication Theories | Core | 4 | Nature of Theory in Communication, Historical Development of Theories, Theories of Media Effects, Cultural Theories of Communication, Critical Theories |
| PGJMC 202 | Development Communication | Core | 4 | Concepts of Development, Role of Media in Development, Strategies of Development Communication, Health Communication, Rural and Urban Development Issues |
| PGJMC 203 | Advertising | Core | 4 | History and Evolution of Advertising, Advertising Agencies, Advertising Campaign Planning, Creative Strategy and Copywriting, Media Planning and Buying |
| PGJMC 204 | Public Relations | Core | 4 | Introduction to Public Relations, Ethics in PR, Corporate Communication, Crisis Communication, PR Tools and Techniques |
| PGJMC 205 | Desktop Publishing (Practical) | Practical | 4 | Introduction to DTP, Adobe InDesign Fundamentals, Page Layout and Design, Typography and Graphics, Pre-Press and Printing |
| PGJMC 206 | Media Practicals - II | Practical | 4 | Advanced News Reporting, Opinion and Editorial Writing, Photojournalism, Magazine Design, Online Content Creation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGJMC 301 | Communication Law & Ethics | Core | 4 | Indian Constitution and Media, Freedom of Speech and Expression, Defamation and Contempt of Court, Copyright and Intellectual Property, Media Ethics and Codes |
| PGJMC 302 | Radio & Television Journalism | Core | 4 | History of Radio & TV in India, Radio Programme Production, Television News Production, Reporting for Broadcast Media, Broadcast Media Ethics |
| PGJMC 303 | Media Management | Core | 4 | Media Industry Structure, Financial Management in Media, Marketing Media Products, Human Resource Management in Media, Challenges in Media Management |
| PGJMC 304A | Online Journalism (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Evolution of Online Journalism, Web Journalism Ethics, Content Creation for Web, Social Media Reporting, Digital Storytelling |
| PGJMC 304B | Film Studies (Elective) | Elective | 4 | History of Cinema, Film Theory and Criticism, Indian Cinema Trends, Documentary Film, Film Appreciation |
| PGJMC 305 | Audio Production (Practical) | Practical | 4 | Sound Principles, Microphone Techniques, Audio Editing Software, Radio Programme Production, Podcasting |
| PGJMC 306 | Media Practicals - III | Practical | 4 | Broadcast News Writing, Interview for TV, Photography for Media, Event Reporting, Short Documentary Production |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGJMC 401 | Global Communication | Core | 4 | Theories of Global Communication, International News Flow, Cultural Imperialism, Digital Divide, Role of UN & UNESCO in Communication |
| PGJMC 402 | Research Project | Project | 4 | Topic Selection and Literature Review, Research Design and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethics in Research |
| PGJMC 403A | Corporate Communication (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Role of Corporate Communication, Stakeholder Communication, Reputation Management, Internal Communication, CSR Communication |
| PGJMC 403B | New Media & Web Communication (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Fundamentals of New Media, Social Media Platforms, Web Content Management, Digital Marketing Basics, Cyber Laws and Ethics |
| PGJMC 404 | Video Production (Practical) | Practical | 4 | Camera Operation, Lighting Techniques, Scripting for Video, Video Editing Software, Short Film Production |
| PGJMC 405 | Internship | Internship | 4 | Industry Exposure, Practical Skill Application, Professional Networking, Workplace Ethics, Report Submission |
| PGJMC 406 | Media Practicals - IV | Practical | 4 | Public Speaking and Anchoring, Advanced Interviewing, Event Management, Media Campaign Design, Portfolio Development |
