Journalism Syllabus 2025: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books
Akansha BishtContent Writer
Journalism refers to the collection, preparation, and distribution of news worldwide using print and electronic media. The various kinds of media used for journalism are newspapers, magazines, books, blogs, social networking and social media sites. The word, journalism, was originally based on the print media form, but with the advancements in technologies, it encompassed television, radio, and the internet.
Journalism can be pursued as both a degree and certificate course. It can be studied both as a bachelor's degree and a master's degree course. A bachelor's degree, i.e. a BSc in Mass Communication and Journalism or a BA in Journalism or a Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC), is preferred by most candidates. These are 3-year courses with six semesters. A master's degree in Journalism is ideally a Master's degree in Journalism and mass communication (MJMC), either MSc or MA, which is a 2-years-long postgraduate programme.
- Syllabus – Important Facts
- List of Subjects in Journalism
- Detailed Syllabus for Journalism
- Specialisations Offered in Journalism
- Books and Authors Related to Journalism
- Entrance Exams for Journalism
- Syllabus for Distance Programme in Journalism
- Top Colleges for Journalism
- FAQs on Journalism Subjects
Syllabus – Important Facts
Some important facts regarding the syllabus of journalism are mentioned below:
- BSc and BA in Journalism are six-semester courses: The undergraduate programme in Mass Communication and Journalism is a six-semester course containing varied subjects related to the subject.
- MSc or MA in Journalism is a four-semester course: A postgraduate degree in Journalism can be pursued as a Master of Science in Mass Communication and Journalism or a Master of Arts in Journalism. It is a two-year programme comprising four semesters.
- Scope in India: With the introduction of new technologies, the scope of Journalism has been expanding. The communication channels now range from newspapers to radio and television to social media and online news websites. With the growing number of communication channels, audiences have also increased tremendously.
- Journalism syllabus at top universities: The syllabus of undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses at top universities of India revolves around Mass Media, Communication, Public Relations, Ethics of Journalism, etc.
- General examination pattern: The general examination pattern at top colleges involves conducting theory exams in semesters and mid-semesters. Also, practical exposure is given to students by introducing them to different mass media agencies.
List of Subjects in Journalism
The subjects included at different universities may vary, but the core subjects remain the same.
| Typical Core Subjects for Journalism | |
|---|---|
| Topic title | Topic details |
| Introduction to Journalism | This provides an introduction to the basics of Journalism. It will help students understand various aspects of media practices, the organisational structure of a newspaper establishment, editorial department work, and news-gathering techniques. It also trains students to write news pieces, letters to editors for English newspapers, press notes for a corporate house, sub-editing and page designing. |
| Print Journalism | The course aims to introduce students to the beginning of the newspaper era and familiarise them with the Phases of Indian Journalism. It also introduces students to the suitable language for newspaper reporting, sub-editing, other kinds of print media, and designing, acquainting them with ethical issues and media laws. |
| Communication Theory | The course aims to dive into ideas around the development of media theories and link them to historically important social and political events/issues. It further aims to familiarise the students with communication processes so that they develop a critical understanding of the basic theories related to mass communication and apply them to practical life. |
| Media Histories | This course aims to introduce learners to Print, Radio, Television, and Online Media and the historical changes they have undergone. It also includes studying the impact of the internet on other media, focusing on newspapers, magazines, radio, books, movies, mobile telephony, and social media. |
| Writing for Media | This course aims to familiarise students with the nature and characteristics of journalistic writing and explain the difference between fiction and writing for media and writing for print, broadcast online and on social media. It also trains them in the readability formulae, i.e., to write in simple and easy to understand language for lay readers. |
| Newspaper Editing and Production | This course aims to familiarise students with the functioning of a newspaper’s editorial department, train students in coordination between reporters, sub-editors, the art department, printing press, and advertising department, and train students in sub-editing reporters' news copies for accuracy, balance, and fairness. |
| Media Laws and Ethics | This course introduces the students to the laws and ethics in any society, and it applies to the practice of journalism. The media has to follow the necessary rules and requirements to practise ethically in an environment. |
| Indian Politics and Governance | This course tries to introduce students to the philosophy and the indispensability of the rule of law, enabling them to grasp the salient features of constitutionalism and explaining to them the structural design of India’s federal system and various political and civil society movements in the country. |
| Typical Elective Subjects for Journalism | |
| Subject title | Subject details |
| English | In this course, students explore print and digital media. English is important for communication as a journalist. Authentic readings and video lectures, rich in vocabulary, are provided to students for increasing their ability to read, research, and develop local and global news stories. |
| Political Science | Political science is usually taken up by students wanting to pursue Political Journalism as a specialisation. It includes coverage of all aspects of politics and political science. |
| Sociology | Sociology enables students to research and write about current events and controversies. Sociology helps in understanding the country's current problems. |
Detailed Syllabus for Journalism
The syllabus of an MA in Journalism may vary from university to university, but the subjects are more or less the same. Here is a general overview of the core or elective subjects taught from the first to fourth semesters of a master's degree programme.
| Semester | Core/Elective | Topic title | Topic details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Core |
|
The students will study an introduction to Mass Communication and Journalism. The topics to be studied include:
|
| 2. | Core |
|
The second semester introduces the students to intricacies related to a journalism career. Contents:
|
| 3. | Core |
|
During the second year, students will be introduced to various topics related to media and broadcast. Contents:
|
| 4. | Core |
|
The fourth semester of the Journalism course introduces specialised Journalism fields and the practice of media in the industry. Contents:
|
| 5. | Core |
|
Students study legal and numerical aspects relating to the field of Journalism. Contents:
|
| 6. | Core |
|
The students get practical hands-on experience in the last year. They are required to complete a thesis and assignments related to the field. Contents:
|
Specialisations Offered in Journalism
Journalism is seen mostly as related to politics, but it is a vast field. There are many specialisations in Journalism. Students can pursue specialised courses, according to their interest in various fields. The following are popular specialisations in the field of Journalism.
| Specialisation | Subjects | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Political Journalism |
|
The most popular and commonly pursued specialisation in the field of Journalism is Political Journalism. Political Journalism is useful in every form of media. All media print, digital, etc., require political Journalism as people have a keen interest in politics. |
| Entertainment Journalism |
|
Entertainment Journalism highlights the updates related to the entertainment industry, such as Bollywood. The field includes detailed information about films, music, fashion, celebrities, etc. Entertainment journalists present the information in a manner that intrigues the audience interested in these domains. |
| Sports Journalism |
|
Pursuing a career as a sports journalist will give a space to one's sports passion too. Sports journalists need to have detailed knowledge about the sport they are required to cover. They need to interview players and coaches and read the sport's statistics. |
| Travel Journalism |
|
Travel journalists are entrusted with writing about different destinations, describing various cultures and their customs. But they also help in publishing travel information like itinerary guides, country guides, interviews with local people and presentation of local customs and traditions through their writing. |
Books and Authors Related to Journalism
There are several popular books taught in Journalism. Some of the popular books and authors related to journalism are given below:
| Subject | Book title | Author | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Principles of communication | Mass Communication in India | Keval J. Kumar | The book talks about how mass communication has played a key role in the emergence and advancement of each of the four industrial revolutions. |
| Media laws and ethics | Laws of the Press in India | M Neelamalar | It’s a textbook specifically designed for undergraduates and postgraduates pursuing mass communication, Journalism, electronic media, visual communication and other related media courses. This compact text provides a detailed description of the rules, acts and ethics concerning print, electronic, film and advertising media prevalent in India. |
| Print media | News Writing and Reporting for Today’s Media | Bruce D. Itule and Douglas A. Anderson | This takes students to the press box, council chambers, courthouse, and speech and press conferences. It introduces them to current issues such as cultural sensitivity and legal and ethical considerations and to reporters and editors who offer their down-to-earth advice. |
| Public relations | Writing: The Essentials of Style and Format | Bivnis Thomas | This book equips students with the essential skills for developing and writing public relations materials, covering all areas of public relations writing, including news releases, backgrounders, newsletter and magazine articles, brochures, print advertising copy, and broadcast scripts. |
| International communication | International Communication | Daya Kishan Thussu | International Communication examines the profound changes that have taken place and are continuing to take place at an astonishing speed in international media and communication since the beginning. |
Entrance Exams for Journalism
Admission for a Bachelor's degree in Journalism is based on both entrance exams and merit. Many universities conduct entrance exams for admissions. Following are the top universities that conduct entrance exams.
- Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC)
- Jamia Millia Islamia University, Delhi
- GGSIPU CET Exam
- Delhi University (BMMMC) DUET
- MGM College, Aurangabad
- FTII, Pune
- Aligarh Muslim University entrance exam
The difficulty level of entrance exams is from easy to moderate to high. For scoring good marks in these examinations, you need to have language skills, comprehension and analytical capability, aptitude and mental makeup, writing skills, and general knowledge. The university-level tests can get you into the best colleges for Journalism.
Syllabus for Distance Programme in Journalism
Students who cannot afford full-time courses can get their degrees through distance education. Also, students who cannot meet the eligibility requirements for full-time courses opt for part-time or distance diploma programmes in Journalism. The syllabus of distance education programmes is remarkably similar to that of regular programmes.
The top colleges for distance education for postgraduate diplomas are Acharya Nagarjuna University, Allahabad Agriculture Institute, Amity University, and IGNOU. Other universities that offer one-year diploma programmes are Annamalai University, Krishna Kanta Handique State Open University, and Mahatma Gandhi University.
Top Colleges for Journalism
Based on the curriculum, choices of electives offered, and in-house placement opportunities, these are the top colleges for Journalism in India.
| SI. No. | College/University/Institution | Syllabus Links |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | University of Calcutta | Download Here |
| 2. | Karnataka State Open University | To be uploaded soon |
| 3. | Nalanda Open University | To be uploaded soon |
| 4. | Aligarh Muslim University | Download Here |
| 5. | Goenka University | To be uploaded soon |
| 6. | Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media, Bangalore | To be uploaded soon |
| 7. | Symbiosis Institute of Media And Communication, Pune | To be uploaded soon |
| 8. | Amity School of Communication | To be uploaded soon |
| 9. | Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) | To be uploaded soon |
| 10. | University of Mumbai | To be uploaded soon |
FAQs on Journalism Subjects
Q. What is the scope of Journalism?
Q. What are the topics in Journalism?
- Introduction to Journalism
- Editing Techniques
- Media Laws and the Indian Constitution
- Media Management
- Advertising and Public Relations
- History of Journalism
Q. Is Journalism a good course?
Q. What are the career opportunities after the Journalism course?
- Reporting
- Sub-editing
- Content Writing
- Public Relations
- Event Management
- Advertising
- Social Media Executive
- Television & Film Production
- Digital Marketing
Q. Which type of Journalism is the best?
- Broadcast Journalism
- PhotoJournalism
- Digital Journalism
Q. Is there any entrance exam for Journalism?
Q. Is Journalism hard to study?
Q. Do you need Maths for Journalism?
Q. Can science students pursue a bachelor's in Journalism?
Q. Do I need a degree or experience in Journalism prior to enrolling in the master's programme?
Q. Who all are suited for Journalism?
Q. What is the difference between Journalism and mass communication?
Q. Which country is best for Journalism?
- USA
- UK
- Canada
Q. Do journalists travel?
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 2 days ago
Hi Epsita,
The Bachelor in Communication and Journalism (BCJ) program at KIIT School of Mass Communication is a 3-year undergraduate course. While the specific cutoff marks for the 2024-2025 academic session have not been publicly disclosed, admission is primarily based on the KIIT Entrance Examinati
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 4 days ago
Entrance examinations for M.A in Journalism and Mass Communication happen at different times at individual educational institutions. The following predictions for 2025 entrance exam dates rely on historical patterns as Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) may conduct its exam during the 1st
K
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Yes, Asian College of Journalism provides quality education in journalism studies. However, they only offer postgraduate and PG Diploma courses. So, if you are looking for an undergrad programme, it might not be your ideal institute.
Their campus is built on an 80,000 sq. ft. area. It is equipped wi
P
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 2 weeks ago
MA in Journalism and Mass Communication Professional is a two-year postgraduate degree course, divided into four semesters. Each semester contains core and elective subjects. Some of the subjects included in the first semester of the course are:
- Communication & Media Theories
- International Communica
I
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 2 weeks ago
BA in Journalism and Mass Communication Professional is a three-year undergraduate degree course, divided into six semesters. Each semester contains core and elective subjects. Some of the subjects included in the first semester of the course are:
- Introduction to Communication
- Reporting Editing-1
- Hist
C
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 2 weeks ago
Of course, it's a good call if you decide to pursue a Master's degree in Advertising and PR, after completing a bachelor's degree in Mass Communication and Journalism. A bachelor's course in Mass Communication and Journalism will provide you with basic knowledge of the Communication field.
R
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
Completing a BA in Journalism and Mass Communication course from JLU Bhopal opens up many career options. Students graduating from this programme can seek out jobs with titles such as Editor, Content Writer, Teacher, News Reporter, and more. Fresh graduates can find jobs in various sectors such as S
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a month ago
Many Journalism colleges in India offer Online Masters of Journalism course, however, the two college given below are considered the best options:
| Online Masters of Journalism Colleges | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| School of Distance Education, Jiwaji University, Gwalior | INR 45,280 |
| Institute of Technical and Professional Studies | - |
Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling of the institute/exam.
S
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
An online Master's in journalism is worth pursuing and can be even more beneficial for students. Here are some reasons why:
- Flexibility: It will allow you to study and earn at the same time. You can be a working professional pursuing a Master of Journalism course to raise your education.
- Time Manageme
S
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
Yes, you can get admission to the Master of Journalism programme through lateral entry. Though not every college offers lateral entry to Journalism students, some institutions like IGNOU, Apeejay Stya University, etc., do. However, you'll still need to fulfil the eligibility criteria to be eligible
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
Hi, here are some popular Journalism online programs offered by IGNOU:
| Course Name | Tuition Fee |
|---|---|
| M.A. in Journalism and Mass Communication | INR 25,000 |
| Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication | INR 12,500 |
| M.A. in Journalism and Digital Media | INR 10,000 |
| Certificate in Community Radio | INR 5,900 |
| M.A. in Development Journalism | INR 10,000 |
Note: The information is sourced from the official website/ counselling body of the institute/exam.
R
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
A bachelor's degree programme in Journalism provides foundational knowledge about the field, including subjects that can be pursued for higher education based on the student's interests and future goals.
Some popular base subjects involve News Writing, the History of Indian Media, Digital Journalism
N
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
- Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC)
- Asian College of Journalism (ACJ)
- Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication (SIMC)
- Indian Institute of Journalism and New Media (IIJNM)
- AJ Kidwai Mass Communication Resear
Beginner-Level 5
Answered a month ago
Hi, listed below are the top Journalism collleges in India that offer the best camopus facility and infrastructure according to students preferences and popularity:
| College Name | Tuition Fee | Infrastructure Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Birla Global University | INR 2.5 Lacs - INR 3.75 lakh | 5.0 |
| Babu Banarasi Das University | INR 80,000 - INR 2.42 lakh | 5.0 |
| KCC Institute of Legal and Higher Education | INR 1.61 lakh | 5.0 |
| Jai Hind College Mumbai | INR 1.29 lakh | 5.0 |
A
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
There are core and generic electives included in the Lady Shri Ram College BA (Hons) Journalism course. Students can select the desired subject. Mentioned below are the LSR BA (H) Journalism generic electives:
- Basics of Journalism
- Introduction to Media Studies
- Photography
- Film Appreciation
- Advertising an
A
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, the Department of Communication and Journalism is a good choice for mass communication and journalism courses. Affiliated with the University of Mumbai, it is a well recognised and reputable department. It is considered one of the premier institutes in the massive metropolitan of Mumbai. The un
A
Beginner-Level 4
Answered 2 months ago
VMOU Diploma in Mass Communication and Journalism Admission Process
1. Check Eligibility:
- Must have passed 10+2 (high school) or equivalent.
- No age limit.
2. Online Application:
- Apply online at vmo.ac.in.
- Pay the application fee.
3. Documents Required (Scanned Copies):
- Passport-sized photo.
- Signature.
- 10th &
K
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 2 months ago
Print media provides you with employment opportunities related to fields like reporting, photography, editing, computer science, illustrations, graphic designing, publishing, etc. From news to advertising, from public relations to corporate communications, the media industry provides students with e
Guide-Level 13
Answered 2 months ago
Your choices and objectives will determine which of Dickinson College and Denison University is best for your journalism studies Dickinson College is highly acclaimed for its emphasis on international education and study abroad programs which can enhance a journalism education by exposing students t
R
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
If you want to get a byline in a daily newspaper or magazine, write articles on contemporary issues, and bring the current scenario to the public through your articles and reports, then print media is the dream career for you. All you need is the right education and proper training.
Newspapers, whic
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
No, candidates with a bachelor's degree in any discipline to take the ACJ entrance exam.
A
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, at IIMC they exclusively offer postgraduate courses. It is one of the most popular and sought-after institutes for mass media higher education. It's an autonomous society under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Students from across the country and abroad apply for their entrance in
A
Contributor-Level 8
Answered 2 months ago
No, you will not require giving the exam of CMAT for the course of mass communication and journalism from Gujarat University. The CMAT is basically an entrance examination that can be cleared by students who want to undergo an MBA course from one of the B schools. For courses in mass communication a
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics the median annual wage for media and communication workers was $66,320 in May 2023. Both in traditional journalism contexts and in professions that need communicative, critical thinkers, there is a need for individuals with a journalism degree. Some of
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, some popular several universities india conduct their entrance exam for the admission in Mass communication Courses incuding BJMC, MJMC, BA in Journalim and Mass Communication, MA in Journalism and Mass Communication. Some of the popular entrance exams include:
- IIMC Entrance Exam
- DUET (Delhi Univ
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The skills that are required for a career in Journalism and Mass Communication is as follows:
- Excellent communication and writing skills
- Research and analytical ability
- Creativity and storytelling
- Adaptability to new technologies
- Networking and interpersonal skills
P
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
Candidates pursuing a BA in Journalism & Mass Communication at Apex University have a wide and promising career scope. Some fields in which the graduates of this course can build a career are as follows:
- Media Organisations : Graduates can work as journalists, reporters, news anchors, producers, edit
H
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
According to the Apex University reviews available on Shiksha.com, students gave an average rating of 3.3 stars (out of 5) to BA (Journalism & Mass Communication) placements. The university places around 50-60% of the students enrolled in the programme. Various media houses such as Aaj Tak, Patrika
H
Contributor-Level 10
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I want to know about the latest cutoff information for Bachelors in Communication and Journalism (BCJ) at KIIT ?