Mass communication is the study of spreading information to a large audience through the various means of communication. Journalism is the activity of writing about recent developments for newspapers, magazines etc. It has enveloped reporting done through radio and television.

We all are connected through a web of different means of communication. Whether it’s the latest scores of Cricket matches or news on natural calamities, we get to know about them, thanks to the technology and the mass media. Mass communication is nothing but dispersing information to a huge number of people, i.e., the whole country or the world.

It is said that journalism is the first draft of history. If mass communication is the activity of dispersing news, journalism is concerned with collection and dissemination of news through the print media as well as the electronic media. This involves various areas of works like reporting, writing, editing, photographing, broadcasting or cable casting news items.  Journalism includes investigating, analysing and reporting local as well as world events, trends, current affairs, and so on.

Top Colleges

Mass Communication is a field that examines the processes, institutions and effects of the media at both the national and international platforms. It typically falls under the umbrella of Art and Social Sciences streams. The course duration varies in different countries.

INDIA

Symbiosis Institute of Mass Communication

Christ University, Bangalore

 Manipal Institute of Communications, Manipal

Amity School of Communication, Noida

Many colleges in India offer a BA in Journalism. Some also have a B.Sc in Journalism and Mass Communication. Similarly, at the Master’s level, an M.A or an M.S in Communication are the degrees awarded.
To become a journalist, one can complete a Bachelor’s in mass communication/ mass media/journalism after class 12. After completion in a related graduation field, one may complete a Master’s in journalism or mass communication. However, it is not mandatory to do a Master’s in journalism in order to get a job. In fact, the best way to learn journalism is by getting on the field. Those who want to get a better understanding of various communication theories, research techniques and an in depth knowledge of various other fields related to communication, Master’s degree is advisable.
Some qualities and skills that are needed to become a journalist:

• Inquisitive nature
• Investigative mind
• Alert demeanour
• Adaptive and tolerant of changing and difficult situations
• Good communication skills
• Good command over languages
• Confident
• Enthusiast
• Patient
• Ability to differentiate between fact and f
• Ability to adhere to dead
• sensitivity to different views and life
• Interested to know about various fields such as politics, culture, religion, social and current affairs

Most often people think journalism is all about writing well. While that is true, most good professors will tell you that the course is also about a lot of reading. Good writing is developed only if you are an avid reader. Journalism is for people who are ready to explore various opportunities 24/7, without the constraints of cultural upbringing, gender, and are also ready to go beyond geographical boundaries.

Career Prospects

Graduates of Mass Communication & journalism courses programs work in a variety of fields in traditional news media and publishing, advertising, public relations and research institutes.

Following are the various job profiles offered to graduates in mass communication:

• Journalist/News reporter
• Fashion Photographer
• TV Correspondent
• Producer
• Radio Jockey/ RJ
• Public Relations Officer
• Content Writer

Jobs & Salary

Thanks to mass media, there will never be a dearth of job opportunities for students majoring in mass communication. News and entertainment job opportunities are in abundance for trained professionals in various roles – particularly in journalism and films. India being the largest producer of films in the world creates ample opportunities for media specialists in the movie business. Technically qualified media professionals can work for TV channels, production houses or can make documentaries on their own.

Compensation per Annum

Initial salary may vary between 2- 6 lakhs per annum, with experience, there is no limit to the growth in terms of position as well as salary.

Following are the top companies in India which hire mass communication experts:

• Hindustan Times Group of Publication
• NDTV Network
• Zee TV Network
• Times of India Publication Group
• Viacom

In order to get hired in the best firms, besides pursuing a journalism courses from a mass communication institute, you will need to possess certain specific skills or interests. You should have keen interest and sound knowledge of news and current affairs. A global perspective on various issues will also help you in obtaining the desired position. Similarly, if you are interested in electronic media, you must have hands on experience and practical knowledge on video editing. Most of the mass media training institutes offer internship programs with news channels or entertainment channels which will help you get a job after completion of the journalism course.

Pros & Cons

Like any other career option, studying mass communication too has its positives as well as a flip side.

Advantages:

• Recognition, fame and money
• Challenging work opportunities
• Travel as you work
• Job satisfaction

Disadvantages:

• Hectic schedule and erratic timings
• Personal life may get affected
• Stress and pressure (journalists often face political or social pressure)