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MASTER-OF-JOURNALISM-MASS-COMMUNICATION in General at Vidyasagar University
Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is General at Vidyasagar University Paschim Medinipur?
This Master of Journalism & Mass Communication program at Vidyasagar University focuses on equipping students with advanced skills and theoretical knowledge in various facets of media. It is designed to meet the evolving demands of the Indian media industry, covering traditional and new media platforms. The program emphasizes a blend of academic rigor and practical training, preparing students for diverse roles in the dynamic communication sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Journalism or any discipline, who aspire to build a career in media, communication, public relations, or advertising. It also caters to working professionals seeking to upskill in digital media or transition into core media roles. Individuals keen on research or academic pursuits in mass communication will also find the curriculum beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue robust career paths in India as journalists, editors, content creators, public relations executives, advertising professionals, and media researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in news organizations, ad agencies, PR firms, digital media companies, and NGOs, with strong growth trajectories in the burgeoning Indian media landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Communication Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to deeply understand foundational communication and mass communication theories. Utilize university library resources for academic journals and textbooks beyond the syllabus. Form study groups to discuss complex theories and their relevance to real-world media scenarios in India.
Tools & Resources
University Library, Academic Journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for analytical roles in media research, content strategy, and effective communication campaigns, setting a solid foundation for future professional growth.
Build Practical Reporting and Editing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental newsroom simulations, college newspaper/magazine, or community radio initiatives. Practice news gathering, interviewing, writing various news formats, and hands-on editing. Seek feedback from professors and seniors to refine your journalistic craft.
Tools & Resources
Departmental Lab, College Media Outlets, Local News Websites
Career Connection
Proficiency in reporting and editing is directly applicable to roles in print, broadcast, and digital journalism, enabling quick entry into news organizations as reporters or sub-editors.
Develop Digital Literacy and Web Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom instruction, explore online tutorials for advanced MS Office skills, internet research, and basic DTP software. Create a professional online presence (e.g., LinkedIn) and understand digital content curation. This builds essential skills for the modern media environment.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Learn, YouTube Tutorials, LinkedIn
Career Connection
Fundamental digital literacy is non-negotiable for all media roles today, enhancing employability in online journalism, social media management, and content marketing.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Media Production Projects- (Semester 3)
Take initiative to create short audio and video projects, even beyond assignments. Experiment with scriptwriting, camera techniques, and editing software. Collaborate with peers on short documentaries, radio features, or promotional videos to build a portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Audacity/Adobe Audition, DaVinci Resolve/Adobe Premiere Pro, Departmental Equipment
Career Connection
Hands-on experience in production equips you for roles in broadcast journalism, documentary filmmaking, advertising production, and corporate communication, making you a multi-skilled media professional.
Undertake Industry-Focused Electives and Certifications- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose electives like Photojournalism or Media & Human Rights based on career aspirations. Complement your studies with online certifications in areas like Digital Marketing, Google Analytics, or PR tools to gain specialized skills sought by Indian employers.
Tools & Resources
Coursera/edX (for certifications), NPTEL, Industry Workshops
Career Connection
Specialized skills increase your market value in niche areas like PR, advertising, or advocacy, providing a competitive edge in a specific domain of the Indian media industry.
Network and Attend Media Events- (Semester 3)
Actively seek opportunities to attend local media conferences, workshops, and seminars. Connect with industry professionals, alumni, and guest speakers. Participate in media-related competitions or festivals to showcase your talent and expand your professional network.
Tools & Resources
Local Media Associations, University Alumni Network, Industry Conferences (e.g., exchange4media events)
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, mentorships, and direct hiring opportunities, crucial for navigating the Indian media landscape and gaining industry insights.
Advanced Stage
Conduct In-depth Dissertation Research- (Semester 4)
Choose a dissertation topic that aligns with your career interests and offers scope for original research relevant to the Indian media context. Work closely with your supervisor, conduct thorough literature reviews, and execute your research plan meticulously to produce high-quality work.
Tools & Resources
Academic Databases, Statistical Software (e.g., SPSS, R), University Research Ethics Committee
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation demonstrates critical thinking and research skills, valuable for roles in media analytics, policy research, and contributes to academic or think-tank positions.
Secure and Maximize Internship Experience- (Semester 4)
Actively pursue internships with reputed media organizations, PR agencies, or digital marketing firms. Treat your internship as an extended job interview, contributing meaningfully, learning new skills, and building professional relationships. Seek diverse experiences if possible.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, Internshala, Naukri.com
Career Connection
Internships are often the direct pathway to full-time employment in India. Strong performance can lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting your career launch.
Develop a Professional Portfolio and Resume- (Semester 4)
Compile all your best academic projects, practical works (articles, videos, PR campaigns), and internship experiences into a polished digital portfolio. Tailor your resume and cover letter for specific job applications, highlighting skills and experiences relevant to the Indian media market.
Tools & Resources
Behance/Personal Website, Canva (for resume design), Career Services Workshops
Career Connection
A compelling portfolio and a well-crafted resume are essential for showcasing your capabilities to potential employers, significantly increasing your chances of securing desired roles in the competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduate with Hons. in Journalism & Mass Communication or any other subject or Post-Graduate in any subject or any other equivalent degree in related subject with 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC-A/OBC-B/PWD)
Duration: 4 Semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJMC-101 | Communication & Mass Communication - I | Core | 4 | Introduction to Communication, Types of Communication, Theories of Mass Communication, Communication Models, Role of Mass Media in Society |
| MJMC-102 | Reporting | Core | 4 | News Concepts and Values, Sources of News, News Gathering Techniques, Interviewing Skills, Lead Writing and News Story Structure |
| MJMC-103 | Editing | Core | 4 | Principles of Editing, News Desk Functions, Headline Writing and Page Makeup, Proofreading and Photo Editing, Layout and Design |
| MJMC-104 | Media Laws & Ethics | Core | 4 | Indian Constitution and Media, Freedom of Press, Defamation and Contempt of Court, Copyright and Intellectual Property, Media Ethics and Code of Conduct |
| MJMC-105 | Introduction to Computer & Web Technology | Core (Practical) | 4 | Basics of Computer Operation, MS Office Applications, Internet Fundamentals and Web Browsing, Email and Social Media Usage, Introduction to DTP Software |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJMC-201 | Communication & Mass Communication - II | Core | 4 | Development Communication, Rural and Health Communication, Environment Communication, Communication for Social Change, Participatory Communication |
| MJMC-202 | Public Relations & Corporate Communication | Core | 4 | Introduction to Public Relations, PR Tools and Techniques, Crisis Communication and Management, Corporate Social Responsibility, Media and Employee Relations |
| MJMC-203 | Advertising | Core | 4 | History and Types of Advertising, Advertising Appeals and Strategies, Creative Advertising Techniques, Media Planning and Buying, Advertising Ethics and Digital Advertising |
| MJMC-204 | Media Management | Core | 4 | Media Ownership and Structure, Media Economics and Business Models, Organizational Structure of Media Houses, Marketing of Media Products, Financial Management in Media |
| MJMC-205 | Audio Production | Core (Practical) | 4 | Basics of Sound and Acoustics, Microphone Techniques and Recording, Audio Editing Software, Script Writing for Radio, Radio Program Production and Voice Modulation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJMC-301 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design and Types, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques and Data Analysis, Research Report Writing and Ethics |
| MJMC-302 | Introduction to Film Studies | Core | 4 | History of Cinema, Film Genres and Movements, Auteur Theory and Film Language, Indian Cinema and its Evolution, Documentary Films and Film Criticism |
| MJMC-303A | Photojournalism | Elective - I (Option A) | 4 | History of Photography, Camera Techniques and Equipment, Photo Editing Software, Ethics in Photojournalism, Visual Storytelling and Captions |
| MJMC-303B | Folk Media & Communication | Elective - I (Option B) | 4 | Traditional Media Forms, Role of Folk Media in Society, Puppet Shows and Street Theatre, Folk Music and Dance, Communication through Folk Art |
| MJMC-304A | Media & Human Rights | Elective - II (Option A) | 4 | Human Rights Concepts, Role of Media in Human Rights Advocacy, Reporting Human Rights Issues, Media and Vulnerable Groups, International Human Rights Instruments |
| MJMC-304B | Communication for Child & Adolescent Development | Elective - II (Option B) | 4 | Child Development Theories, Communication with Children, Media Effects on Children, Designing Communication for Children, Advocacy for Child Rights |
| MJMC-305 | Video Production | Core (Practical) | 4 | Basics of Video Production, Camera Operation and Lighting, Script Writing for Television, Video Editing Software (Non-Linear), Television Program Production |
