Career Scope and Opportunities in Journalism and Mass Communication
Media is often referred to as the fourth estate and is an indispensable part of modern democracies. A career in journalism and mass communication can be extremely rewarding for individuals with a passion for stories and good communication skills. Notably, one doesn’t necessarily need any particular qualification to join the journalism profession. But, one needs to develop curiosity, good communication skills as well as learn the technical know-how to succeed as a journalist. Furthermore, one must also be willing to work hard and take challenges head-on to survive and thrive in the media industry.
What is the career scope of journalism and mass communication?
Contrary to common belief, a potential career in journalism isn’t just limited to TV anchors and news reporters. One can choose from a diverse range of job roles such as reporting editing, proof-reading, news reading, photojournalism, illustration, feature writing, film critics, columnists, etc. Additionally, a mass communication graduate can further go beyond the premises of news and journalism and join fields such as advertising, corporate communications, public relations, event management, etc. Furthermore, with the emergence of digital media, the field of journalism and mass communication
Is Journalism the right career choice for me?
Journalism is indeed a thrilling profession that fosters creativity and expression with a responsibility to present the truth. It is often an appealing career path to individuals with sound communication skills or writing enthusiasts. Many students who are inclined towards writing, travelling and exploring join journalism courses in hopes to further undertake adventures as a part of their living.
However, making a successful career in journalism isn’t as fun and easy as it may seem from the outside. To be a successful journalist, one needs to have curiosity, patience, a learning attitude, willingness to combat challenges, and the ability to work well under pressure. Therefore, journalism as a profession is most suitable for people who love challenges, enjoy interacting with people and can efficiently present information.
What are the right courses to pursue a career in journalism/mass communication?
Leading media institutions in India offer a range of certification and diploma courses as well as dedicated bachelors, masters and PhD programmes. A course in journalism and mass communication provides you with the requisite knowledge and skills to take on roles in fields such as media, advertising, and public relations.
Following are some of the courses you can take for a career in journalism and mass comm. –
· Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC/BAJMC)
Eligibility — Class- 10+2 in any stream with at least 50% marks
· PG Diploma in Journalism/Mass Communication
Eligibility — Graduation in any stream with at least 50% marks
· Master’s in Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC)
Eligibility — Graduation in any stream with at least 50% marks
Furthermore, leading media universities may also conduct entrance examination, group discussions and personal interviews to shortlist candidates for BJMC, MJMC, and PGDJMC admissions.
Which are the top journalism and mass communication colleges and universities in Himachal Pradesh?
Choosing the right journalism and mass communication college or university is a crucial decision that you should make wisely. One must evaluate the university on a variety of parameters including campus, infrastructure, faculty, accreditation and affiliations, exposure, training opportunities, placement records, rankings, reviews, perception, etc.
Moreover, one must look for the available learning opportunities within the campus such as TV studios, campus radio, university newspapers, etc. before taking the final call. Furthermore, having the guidance of seasoned professionals among the faculty also goes a long way in helping you learn and acquire the requisite skills.
Following are some of the leading institutions for mass communication in Himachal Pradesh –
· Himachal Pradesh University, Shimla
· Shoolini University, Solan (NIRF Rank Band: 101–150)
· M.S. Panwar Group of Institutions, Solan
· Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala
· APG University, Shimla
· Bahra University, Solan
You might not be able to visit the campuses this year due to the spread of COVID-19. However, thanks to the digital era, you can easily research various mass comm. courses and institutions on the internet. Moreover, you can also reach out to the admission team of your prospective university if you have any queries. Subsequently, you can simply apply online through their websites for Admissions 2020.
