Bachelor of Journalism and Digital Media (BAJDM) at IGNOU: Course, Subjects

Bachelor of Journalism and Digital Media (BAJDM) at IGNOU: Course, Subjects

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Aayushi
Aayushi Madavi
Associate Senior Executive
Updated on Oct 11, 2024 16:35 IST

Looking forward to building a career in the digital media space? This might just be the degree course for you. Learn everything about IGNOU's distance learning programme BAJDM on this page.

Bachelor of Arts (Journalism and Digital Media) at IGNOU

Considering the scope of journalism in the online and digital space, IGNOU offers a Bachelor of Arts (Journalism and Digital Media) or BAJDM programme. It’s a four-year degree course focused on the digital aspect of new media, unlike regular BAJMC courses that cover a broader curriculum that includes all print, broadcast and digital media. It’s a good choice for students who specifically want to work in the digital space. BAJDM is a relatively new course. IGNOU only started it in July 2023. Let’s find out what it entails. 

IGNOU BAJDM Highlights

Some important information about the course is provided in the table below. 

Particulars 

Details 

Course Name 

Bachelor of Arts (Journalism and Mass Media) (BAJDM) 

School

School of Journalism and New Media Studies 

Programme Type 

Degree

Medium 

English

Duration 

4 years 

Mode 

Open distance learning

Eligibility 

10+2 or equivalent 

Programme Fee

₹10,600/ year (excluding registration and development fees) 

What is BAJDM?

According to IGNOU’s official website, BAJDM focuses on four core aspects - 

  • Fundamental components of journalistic practices. 
  • Core dimensions of the emerging digital media. 
  • The application of digital media in various media practices. 
  • Online and digital research methods with particular reference to big data analytics. 

The course is meant to teach students the integration of technology with journalism to make them more employable now that most things are digital. All high school graduates (10+2 or equivalent) can apply online for this programme at IGNOU. 

How to Apply for BAJDM at IGNOU?

The steps to apply for this course are provided below - 

  • Go to the official website - ignouadmission.samarth.edu.in.
  • Register by providing your name and contact details. A username and a password will be generated. The same will be sent to you via email and SMS. 
  • Log in again using your username and password.
  • Fill out the application form. 
  • Upload images of your recent passport-sized photograph and signature. 
  • Upload relevant documents like your class 10 mark sheet, class 12 mark sheet, caste certificate (if applicable), etc. 
  • Next up, you will see some instructions and a declaration. Click on the checkbox below these. 
  • Preview the details that you have entered and click on the ‘Confirm’ button.
  • Make payment using debit card, credit card or net banking. You will get a payment confirmation message via email and SMS.
  • Click on the ‘Next’ button. You will now preview your admission application one last time.
  • Now click on ‘Submit’. From here you can download and print your application for future reference. 

BAJDM Semester-Wise Subjects 

There are 8 semesters in this programme. Each semester has several courses or subjects. The same are tabulated below.

IGNOU BAJDM - Semester 1

Course Code 

Course Name 

Type 

Credits 

BNM-021

Introduction to Journalism and Digital Media 

Theory Compulsory 

6

BNM-022

Techniques of Reporting

Theory Compulsory 

4

SEC 1

University Basket

Theory Compulsory 

4

IDC 1

From University Basket

Theory Compulsory 

6

Total Credits 

20

BAJDM - Semester 2 

Q:   Is MSc available in IGNOU?

A:

Yes, the Indira Gandhi National Open University offers a two-year MSc course at the postgraduate level. The PG-level course is offered across different specialisations, including Environmental Science, Food Nutrition, etc. IGNOU MSc admission is granted on a merit-basis. Hence, the aspirants performance in the bachelor's degree course is considered for selection. The minimum eligibility criteria for admission is a valid UG degree with required aggregate as per the chosen specialisation. Eligible candidates can apply through the IGNOU official website.

Q:   Is MBA available at IGNOU?

A:

Yes, IGNOU also offers a two-year MBA programme in General, Banking & Finance, Financial Management, HRM, Marketing Management and Operations Management specialisations. Up until past years, i.e., 2021, IGNOU MBA admission was subject to valid scores obtained by the students in the IGNOU OPENMAT exam. However, for 2023 admission, OPENMAT was not conducted for the January and July sessions. Admission is now being granted on a merit-basis. The programme is offered with English as a medium of instruction and applications for the same can be submitted online on the official website. 

Q:   Is IGNOU good for PG Diploma?

A:
{Source: PG Diploma students & alumni}

Based on the feedback from students and alumni, here's what can be said about IGNOU for PG Diploma:

* Teaching Quality: Some students felt that the teachers were helpful, knowledgeable, and cooperative, while others mentioned that they weren't perfect in their subject area and focused mainly on completing the syllabus within a short timeframe.
* Infrastructure: The infrastructure varies depending on the study center allocated to students. Some students praised the cleanliness and maintenance of the classrooms, while others reported that the facilities were average or lacking.
* Placement: IGNOU is an open university, and students shouldn't expect direct campus placements. Instead, the university facilitates job opportunities through messaging and emailing potential employers. While some students received job offers, the numbers seem to vary.
* Study Material and Assignments: The curriculum is reportedly challenging, with difficult assignments, but this prepares students for industry demands. Online resources and support are available, but students need to be proactive in seeking help.
* Career Prospects: With a PG Diploma from IGNOU, graduates can pursue careers in accounting, finance, business, and more. Salaries typically range from INR2 Lacs to INR5 Lacs per annum, depending on the role and organization.
* Advantages: IGNOU caters to working professionals and those with busy schedules, providing flexibility through online and offline modes of instruction. The university's vast network of study centers and collaborations with organizations facilitate job prospects.

In conclusion, while IGNOU has its strengths and weaknesses, it seems to offer a viable option for students seeking a PG Diploma in Commerce-related fields. By being aware of the university's limitations and focusing on developing industry-ready skills, students can maximize their chances of success after graduating.

Here's a summary of key takeaways:

* Focus on developing industry-ready skills through challenging coursework and assignments
* Leverage online resources and support for academic and professional growth
* Network with peers and professors to expand career opportunities
* Utilize the university's vast network of study centers and partnerships with organizations
* Prioritize flexibility and adaptability, given the online and offline nature of the program

Course Code 

Course Name 

Type 

Credits 

BNM-023

Media and Information Literacy

Theory Compulsory 

6

BNM-024

News Writing and Editing

Theory Compulsory 

4

BEVAE-181

Environmental Studies

Theory Compulsory 

4

VAC 1

From the University Basket

Theory Elective 

6

Total Credits

20

Exit 1: VOC (University Basket) Undergraduate Certificate (40+4 = 44 credits).

IGNOU BAJDM - Semester 3

Course Code 

Course Name 

Type 

Credits 

BNM-025

Types of Journalistic Writings

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-026

Media Ethics and Regulations

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-027

Digital Photography

Theory Compulsory

4

AEC 2

English / Hindi / Urdu / Sanskrit Communication

Theory Elective 

4

Total Credits 

20

BAJDM - Semester 4

Course Code 

Course Name 

Type 

Credits 

BNM-029

Audio Podcast

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-030

Persuasive Communication Strategies

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-028

Digital Media Literacy

Theory Compulsory

4

BNML-021

Practical - News Portal Creation and Production

Theory Compulsory

4

Total Credits 

20

Exit 2: VOC (University Basket) Undergraduate Diploma (80+4 = 84 credits). 

IGNOU BAJDM - Semester 5 

Course Code 

Course Name 

Type 

Credits 

BNM-031

Data Journalism

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-032

Audio Visual Production

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-033

Health and Environmental Journalism

Theory Compulsory

4

BNM-038

ICT for Development

Theory Compulsory

4

Total Credits 

20

BAJDM - Semester 6

Course Code 

Course Name 

Type 

Credits 

BNM-039

Digital Journalism and Research Tools

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-040

Social Media And Society

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-037

Marketing Communication

Theory Compulsory

4

BNMP-023

Project: Internship/ Portfolio

Theory Compulsory

4

Total Credits 

20

Exit 3: Undergraduate Degree (120 credits).

IGNOU BAJDM - Semester 7

Course Code 

Course Name 

Type 

Credits 

BNM-041

Theorising Digital Communication

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-042

Data Science and Big Data

Theory Compulsory

6

BNM-043

Data Analysis & Interpretations

Theory Compulsory

4

BNML-024/ BNML-025

Data Mining through R/ Big Data Analytics

Practical Elective 

4

Total Credits 

20

BAJDM - Semester 8 

Course Code 

Course Name 

Type 

Credits 

BNM-045

Internet Research Methods

Theory Compulsory

4

BNM-046

Digital Media Economics

Theory Compulsory

4

BNM-044

Statistical Applications

Theory Compulsory

6

BNML-026/ BNMP-024

Research Practical/ Project or Dissertation

Practical Elective/ Project Elective

6

Total Credits 

20

Total Credits = 160

IGNOU BAJDM Programme Objectives 

Through their brand new BAJDM programme, IGNOU aims to achieve the following objectives -

  • Teaching students mainstream journalistic skills like writing, editing, reporting and publishing techniques. 
  • Teaching the applications of journalistic skills and digital media understanding to news gathering and presentation. Primarily focusing on 3 skill sets - forms, methods and techniques. 
  • To teach them the process involved in specialised subject-based reporting.
  • Making students understand the concepts and characteristics of digital media platforms like their growth, cross-nation dynamics, their merits, limitations, relations with other social institutions, and the nature of their audiences. 
  • Teaching students research methods focusing on big data, data mining, data analytics and a sound understanding of statistics. 

Contact Details

Programme Coordinators - 

  • Prof. K.S. Arul Selvan
  • Dr. Shikha Rai
  • Dr. Amit Kumar

Phone Numbers - 

  • 011-29571601
  • 011-29571602
  • +919319922711

Email - bajdm@ignou.ac.in

For fee payment-related issues call the Centralised Student Registration Cell at 

  • 011-29571301
  • 011-29571528 

Or email csrc@ignou.ac.in mentioning the transaction details including your name, mobile number, the programme that you opted for, the amount paid, etc. 

Q:   Is M.A. at IGNOU a good choice?

A:
{Source: M.A. students & alumni}

Placement and Salary Package

* Around 20-50% of students get placements from campus, with salaries ranging from INR3.5 LPA to INR10 LPA
* the highest salary package offered is INR25 LPA, and the average salary package offered is INR6 LPA
* Top recruiting companies include Tech Mahindra, Maruti Suzuki, Amazon, Flipkart, and Wipro
* Internships are also available, with around 20% of students getting internships

Teaching Quality and Curriculum

* Faculty members are knowledgeable, qualified, and helpful
* Teaching quality is average, with some faculty members being more experienced and effective than others
* Course curriculum is relevant, but may require updating to make students industry-ready
* Assignments and projects are an essential part of the course, helping students prepare for exams

Infrastructure and Facilities

* IGNOU has a good infrastructure, with well-equipped buildings and facilities
* Regional centers have varying levels of infrastructure, with some being better equipped than others
* No hostel facilities are available on campus, but students can seek accommodation elsewhere

Other Insights

* IGNOU is a good option for those who cannot attend regular college due to work or other commitments
* Students who pursue M.A. in IGNOU typically already work in some organisation and choose distance learning to complete their education
* While placements are not guaranteed, IGNOU provides guidance and resources to help students find employment

Overall, M.A. at IGNOU can be a good choice for those who prioritize flexibility and convenience over traditional college experiences. While placement rates and salary packages may vary, IGNOU provides a solid foundation in the subject area and helps students develop valuable skills and knowledge.

Q:   Is BBA at IGNOU a good choice?

A:
{Source: BBA students & alumni}

Here's a summary of what students and alumni have to say:

* Flexibility: Studying BBA at IGNOU allows students to pursue their degree alongside a full-time job, which is a major advantage.
* Career opportunities: While there is no guarantee of placement, some students have reported getting jobs with decent packages (e.g., INR18 LPA) and internships with MNCs (around 60%).
* Infrastructure: Since IGNOU is an open university, students won't have access to traditional campus amenities like hostels, libraries, or recreational areas.
* Teaching quality: Faculty members are generally qualified and helpful, although some students have expressed concerns about limited interaction with teachers.
* Course relevance: The BBA programme covers important topics in retail management, making it relevant for those interested in entrepreneurship or starting their own businesses.

In conclusion, while IGNOU may not offer a traditional college experience, the flexibility and career opportunities make it a viable option for working professionals looking to enhance their education. However, students should be prepared to take ownership of their learning and adapt to self-study methods.

Q:   Is a degree from IGNOU valid?

A:
Yes, IGNOU is a trusted and accredited distance education university. It is a central university which was established by an ACT of parliament in 1985. Therefore, a distance education degree from IGNOU is equivalent to a degree granted by any recognised university in India. Also, the degree from IGNOU University is acceptable and valid overseas and in foreign countries with ease. The reason behind this is IGNOU is a recognised university under the UGC and is a governmental university too. Adding further, an IGNOU degree is approved by DEC and AICTE as well.

Q:   Is IGNOU good for BCA?

A:
{Source: BCA students & alumni}

IGNOU - Is It Good for BCA?

Based on the reviews and feedback from students and alumni, here's a summary of the pros and cons:

Pros:
* Helpful teachers with knowledge of industry trends
* Flexible schedule allows students to balance work and studies
* Affordable fees and recognised degree
* Opportunities to learn new skills and technologies
* Good reputation among employers

Cons:
* Limited placement assistance and no direct placements
* Students must actively seek internships and job opportunities
* Curriculum may not be tailored to specific industries
* Limited infrastructure and resources in some study centers

Overall, IGNOU is a good option for BCA students looking for flexibility and affordability. While it may not offer direct placements, students who are proactive in seeking out internships and job opportunities can still benefit from the program. With helpful teachers and a recognised degree, IGNOU can provide students with a solid foundation for their careers.

Note: These points summarize the general consensus from various students and alumni, but individual experiences may vary.

Q:   Is IGNOU good for B.A.?

A:

Hello!

IGNOU is one of the most well known and trusted open colleges. Here is a list of the benefits and disadvantages of pursuing a BA degree from IGNOU: 

AdvantagesDisadvantages
Affordable: Many students mention that IGNOU is an affordable option for pursuing a Bachelor's degree.Limited infrastructure: Some students feel that the infrastructure at IGNOU is limited, especially in comparison to traditional universities.
Flexibility: With online courses and weekend classes, IGNOU offers flexibility to balance studies with work or personal responsibilities.Limited interaction: Since it's an open university, students miss out on interacting with peers and experiencing campus life.
Good Faculty: Several students praise the teaching quality of IGNOU's professors, citing their knowledge and willingness to help.Teaching styles: A few students express dissatisfaction with certain teachers' teaching styles, finding them unhelpful or unclear.
Relevant curriculum: The course curriculum is considered relevant to the industry, making students industry-ready.Exam difficulties: Seminars and exams can be challenging, and some students struggle to pass.

IGNOU can be a good choice for those seeking a flexible and affordable way to complete their Bachelor's degree. A student has to carefully decide if they want to pursue their degree from a reguar college or from IGNOU. 

About the Author
author-image
Aayushi Madavi
Associate Senior Executive

Aayushi is a BAJMC graduate and an ardent consumer of content with a keen passion for film, TV and books. She specialises in Mass Communication and Humanities related exams, entrances and courses.