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M-A in Development Communication Extension at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Development Communication & Extension at University of Delhi Delhi?
This M.A. Development Communication & Extension program at the University of Delhi focuses on equipping students with interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills to address social and developmental challenges through effective communication strategies. It blends theories of communication with the realities of development, critically examining how information exchange can foster positive change in diverse Indian contexts, from rural outreach to urban policy advocacy.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from various disciplines like social sciences, humanities, journalism, and communication seeking entry into the development sector. It also suits working professionals from NGOs, government agencies, or CSR departments looking to upskill their communication expertise. Individuals passionate about social impact and community empowerment will find this program deeply rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in development agencies, NGOs, corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, advocacy groups, and government programs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3.5 to 6 lakhs annually, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program prepares students for leadership roles in communication for social change, project management, and policy formulation within the Indian development landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Communication & Development Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong understanding of foundational communication theories, development paradigms, and research methodologies. Actively participate in class discussions, engage with prescribed readings, and form study groups to deepen comprehension.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, J-STOR, Google Scholar, Key textbooks
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for conceptualizing effective development communication strategies and for critical analysis, essential for any role in the sector.
Cultivate Research Skills through Mini-Projects- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond theoretical learning, actively seek opportunities to apply research methods through small-scale surveys, qualitative interviews, or literature reviews. Volunteer for faculty research projects or initiate independent mini-studies on local development issues.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R (basic understanding), NVivo (basic understanding), Google Forms
Career Connection
Strong research skills are indispensable for needs assessment, program evaluation, and evidence-based policy advocacy in development organizations.
Engage with Grassroots Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental field visits, volunteer with local NGOs, or engage in community outreach initiatives. This direct exposure to rural and urban development challenges in India provides invaluable practical context.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs, Community centers, University''''s extension activities
Career Connection
Understanding ground realities is paramount for designing contextually appropriate and impactful communication interventions, enhancing employability in field-based roles.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives & Advanced Research- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with specific career interests, such as CSR, health, or livelihoods. Begin conceptualizing and developing your dissertation topic early, focusing on a real-world development communication challenge.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, Research publications, Networking with industry professionals
Career Connection
Specialization enhances niche expertise, making you a more attractive candidate for specific roles and enabling deeper contributions to your chosen field.
Seek Targeted Internships and Fieldwork- (Semester 3)
Actively pursue internships with leading development organizations, CSR departments of MNCs, government agencies, or international NGOs. Prioritize roles that offer hands-on experience in communication strategy, project implementation, or monitoring and evaluation.
Tools & Resources
University career services, LinkedIn, Direct outreach to organizations
Career Connection
Internships are critical for gaining practical experience, building a professional network, and often lead directly to full-time employment opportunities in the Indian development sector.
Develop Practical Communication Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in workshops on digital content creation, campaign design, advocacy messaging, and public speaking. Practice drafting press releases, social media campaigns, and policy briefs.
Tools & Resources
Graphic design software (Canva), Video editing basics, Social media analytics tools, Public speaking clubs/workshops
Career Connection
Strong practical communication skills are directly applicable to roles in public relations, advocacy, social marketing, and content development for development initiatives.
Advanced Stage
Refine Dissertation for Publication & Presentation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to finalizing your dissertation, ensuring high academic quality and practical relevance. Prepare to present your findings at departmental seminars or national conferences, and consider aiming for publication in relevant journals.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing workshops, Faculty advisors, Peer review groups, Journal submission guidelines
Career Connection
A well-executed and published/presented dissertation showcases your research capabilities and expertise, highly valued in think tanks, research roles, and for higher studies.
Strategic Networking & Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Actively engage in alumni networking events, industry seminars, and professional conferences. Prepare a compelling resume/CV tailored to development sector jobs, practice interview skills, and leverage the university''''s placement cell.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University career services, Alumni network, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Proactive networking and strong placement preparation are critical for securing desirable roles in competitive development communication and extension fields.
Cultivate Leadership & Advocacy Skills- (Semester 4)
Take initiative in organizing departmental events, leading student groups, or participating in advocacy campaigns. Develop strong verbal and written advocacy skills, focusing on translating complex development issues into actionable communication.
Tools & Resources
Public speaking opportunities, Debate clubs, Leadership training workshops, Case study analyses
Career Connection
Leadership and advocacy skills are essential for career progression in NGOs, government, and international organizations, enabling you to drive change and influence policy.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (3 or 4 years) from a recognized Indian or foreign university (with equivalence), with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MADC 101 | Communication Theories and Models | Core | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Models of Communication, Classical Theories of Communication, Contemporary Communication Theories, Critical Perspectives in Communication |
| MADC 102 | Introduction to Development and Communication | Core | 4 | Concepts and Paradigms of Development, Role of Communication in Development, Communication for Social Change, Global Development Issues, Ethical Considerations in Development |
| MADC 103 | Research Methods in Development Communication | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design and Methodologies, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis Techniques, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| MADC 104 | Rural and Urban Development Issues in India | Core | 4 | Rural Development Policies and Programs, Urbanization Trends and Challenges, Poverty, Inequality, and Livelihoods, Health and Education Disparities, Sustainable Development Goals in India |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MADC 201 | Strategies and Approaches to Development Communication | Core | 4 | Participatory Communication Approaches, Advocacy and Lobbying Strategies, Social Marketing for Development, Behavior Change Communication, Digital Communication for Development |
| MADC 202 | Media and Development | Core | 4 | Role of Traditional Media, Mass Media and Development, New Media Technologies and Impact, Media Advocacy for Social Change, Media Ethics and Regulations |
| MADC 203 | Gender and Development | Core | 4 | Gender Concepts and Theories, Gender Mainstreaming in Development, Women''''s Empowerment and Rights, Gender and Health Issues, Addressing Gender-based Violence |
| MADC GE 204 | Generic Elective (Extension Education: Theories and Practices) | Elective | 4 | Concepts of Extension Education, Principles and Approaches of Extension, Extension Programme Planning, Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA), Monitoring and Evaluation in Extension |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MADC 301 | Programme Planning, Implementation & Evaluation in Development | Core | 4 | Project Cycle Management, Needs Assessment Techniques, Logical Framework Approach, Monitoring and Evaluation Frameworks, Impact Assessment Methodologies |
| MADC 302 | Communication for Health and Environment | Core | 4 | Health Communication Models, Public Health Campaigns, Environmental Communication Strategies, Climate Change Communication, Risk and Crisis Communication |
| MADC DSE 303 | Discipline Specific Elective (Corporate Social Responsibility and Communication) | Elective | 4 | Concepts and Theories of CSR, Ethical Frameworks in Business, Stakeholder Engagement, CSR Communication Strategies, Sustainable Business Practices |
| MADC 304 | Dissertation/Project Part-I | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review and Gap Analysis, Developing Research Objectives, Methodology Design, Data Collection Planning |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MADC 401 | International Development Communication | Core | 4 | Global Development Institutions, Cross-Cultural Communication, Development Aid and Cooperation, Digital Divide and Global Equity, Communication for Peace and Conflict Resolution |
| MADC 402 | Communication for Social Advocacy and Change | Core | 4 | Advocacy Communication Frameworks, Public Awareness Campaign Design, Social Mobilization Strategies, Policy Advocacy and Influence, Citizen Engagement for Change |
| MADC DSE 403 | Discipline Specific Elective (Communication for Livelihood and Entrepreneurship) | Elective | 4 | Livelihood Promotion Strategies, Entrepreneurship Development, Microfinance Communication, Skill Development and Vocational Training, Value Chain Communication |
| MADC 404 | Dissertation/Project Part-II | Project | 4 | Data Analysis and Interpretation, Discussion of Findings, Report Writing and Structure, Conclusion and Recommendations, Presentation and Viva-Voce Preparation |
