Difference between Journalism & Mass Communication Course
The terms journalism and mass communication are frequently used interchangeably. Here's a rundown of the distinctions between the two to help you solve the problem.
Mass Communication Courses and Duration
Tabulated below are some of the popular Mass Communication Programmes offered in India:
| Mass Communication Course Name | Type of Course | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| BA in Mass Communication | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| BA in Media Studies | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| Bachelor of Journalism & Mass Communication (BJMC) | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| BA Hons Multi-Media & Mass Communication (BMMMC) | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| Bachelor of Mass Media (BMM) | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| BA in Film Making and Mass Communication | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| MA in Journalism and Mass Communication | Postgraduate | 2-year |
| PG Diploma in Business Journalism & Corporate Communication (DBJCC) | Postgraduate Diploma | 1-year |
| PhD in Mass Communication | Doctorate Degree | 2-year |
Journalism Courses and Duration
Tabulated below are some of the popular Mass Communication Programmes offered in India:
| Journalism Course Name | Type of Course | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Development Journalism | Diploma | 4-month |
| BA in Journalism | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| BA in Development Journalism | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| BA in Convergent Journalism | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| Bachelor of Journalism | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| Journalism and Mass Communication | Diploma | 2-year |
| Bachelor of Journalism & Mass Communication (BJMC) | Undergraduate | 3-year |
| PG Certificate Course in Hindi Journalism | Postgraduate Certification | 1-year |
Mass Communication Vs Journalism: Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for both Mass Communication and Journalism are similar. Listed below are the eligibility standards as per the programme level.
- For UG Courses: 10+2 graduates from any stream from a recognised board with a minimum of 50 per cent are eligible to apply. For some universities/ colleges, the eligibility states that a candidate should be a minimum of 17 years of age at the time of admissions.
- PG Courses: Bachelor degree holders in any stream from a recognised university with the minimum required percentage of 50 are eligible to apply. Eligibility of some universities/ colleges also require candidates to be a minimum of 23 years or more in age at the time of admissions.
Mass Communication Vs Journalism: Subjects
Tabulated below are the differences in topics studied across all Journalism and Mass Communication specialisations.
| Mass Communication Subjects | Journalism Subjects |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Journalism | Reporting |
| Contemporary Issues | Fundamentals of Journalism |
| Basics or Design and Graphic | Oniline/ Internet & New Media Journalism |
| Corporate Communication | Print and Digital Journalism |
| Media and Human Rights | Television Broadcasting |
| Media Laws and Ethics | Writing for Media |
| Photography | Media Laws and Indian Constitution |
| Media Management | Audio-Visual Media |
| Introduction to Advertising | Radio Journalism and Production |
| Media Research | Print Media |
| Communication Research | Editing Methods |
Mass Communication Vs Journalism: Skills Required
Given below are some of the top and most important skills that are required in the respective fields:
| Mass Communication Skillset | Journalism Skillset |
|---|---|
| Creativity | Research skills |
| Communication Skills | Communication skills |
| Networking Skills | Writing Skills |
| Interviewing Skills | Acquaintance skills |
| Problem-solving skills | Seasoned Digital Skills |
| Research ability | Interpersonal skills |
| Observation and Interpretation Skills | Ability to work under pressure |
| Ability to work under pressure | To meet daily targets efficiently |
| Ability to express ideas clearly | Social Media Knowledge |
Job Options after Mass Communication and Journalism Courses
In terms of job possibilities, there are opportunities in both disciplines as a result of the spread of new media. Those interested in journalism can find work at news agencies, television and radio news channels, newspapers, magazines, and news portals, among other sectors. NGOs, public relations and advertising companies, corporate communication, communication solution groups, UN organisations, and media academics are all choices for those interested in a career in mass communication.
As for job profiles, check the following table:
| Mass Communication Job Profiles | Journalism Job Profiles |
|---|---|
| TV Anchor | Journalist |
| Radio Jockey | Reporter |
| Public Relation Manager | Desk Writer |
| Photographer | Editors |
| Screenplay Writer | Technical Writer |
| Event hosts/ managers | Content Writer |
| Producer | News Editor |
Check Types of Job Profiles under Mass Communication
Top Colleges for Mass Communication and Animation Programmes
Some of the popular colleges providing mass communication and animation courses in India are mentioned below:
Note: In India, the average cost of a UG mass communication course is INR 25,000-50,000 per year, whereas a PG course is INR 50,000-2,00,000. The cost of a Journalism course is determined by the institution and the type of course chosen. The usual fee can be considered similar to that of a Mass Communication course as the course is a part of the stream.
