Radio Syllabus & Subjects 2023: Semester-wise List, Top Colleges Syllabus PDF

Updated on Apr 12, 2024 09:54 IST
Priyanka Sehgal

Priyanka SehgalContent Writer

Radio journalism is the use of radio broadcasting to report news and current events. This course will give students a comprehensive look at what it takes to produce quality radio programs. It covers composition, equipment, and reporting for radio. The syllabus also includes resources for more information about broadcast journalism and other related fields, such as television and print journalism. Radio journalists work in various broadcast formats, from live newscasts to public affairs programming ranging from 15 minutes to one-hour broadcasts. There are many different types of programs which are classified into various genres like talk shows or news commentaries, each with its set of rules and guidelines for how they should be recorded or produced.

Syllabus - Important Facts for Radio Journalism

Some important facts related to Radio Journalism are mentioned below:

  • BA in Radio Journalism is a 3-year course: The syllabus for this course is divided into 6 semesters that also includes an internship towards the end of the curriculum.
  • MA in Radio Journalism is a 2-year course: The syllabus for this course is divided into 4 semesters.
  • Scope in India: The course is designed for those who aspire to be involved with radio journalism and have a passion for media. It is also an excellent opportunity for those who wish to become a part of the media Industry.
  • Field Work: Students will get a chance to work along with professionals from the field of broadcasting. There are regular field trips to different places like Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc., so that they can experience different aspects of the field.
  • Changes in the syllabus: There hasn’t been any major changes in the syllabus for Radio Journalism courses. However, the increasing challenges posed to Radio Journalism due to the growth of social media and other digital media channels has been addressed in the recent syllabus.
  • Exam pattern: the exam consists of theory papers and practical exams. Practical papers carry 30 marks each whereas 70 marks are allotted to the theory papers.

List of Subjects in Radio Journalism

The syllabus included at different universities may vary, but the core subjects remain the same.

Typical Core Subjects in Radio Journalism
Subject Title Subject Details 
Broadcast Journalism This subject focuses on the various issues in broadcast journalism.
Public Relations for Television Programs It deals with the factors considered while putting up a program in a particular time slot and related issues.
Public Relations in Regional Perspective It deals with public relations issues pertaining to various regions and its development. It also covers how public relations works to promote a particular brand, issue or program etc.
Modern Public Relations This course explains the various issues related to public relations and its application in mass communication. It also deals with the various aspects of local, regional and international public relations.
International Media This subject deals with the history of international mass media, its role and influence on society. It also explains the economic impact of international media.
Public Relations for Radio Programs It covers the factors considered while putting up a program in a particular time slot and related issues.
Mass Communication in International Perspective It deals with the international mass media and its rhetoric. It also covers various aspects of mass communication that have a global impact.
Media Planning This course covers the various media planning and buying aspects in the media industry.
Typical Electives in Radio Journalism
Subject Subject Details
Radio lab Production This subject explains the techniques used in production of radio programs. It deals with information technology, studio construction and its related issues.
Foreign Media and Broadcasting It covers the effects foreign media have on broadcasting media in a particular country.
Types of Media It includes various types of media and its characteristics.
Mass Communication in International Perspective It describes the international mass media and its rhetoric. It also covers various aspects of mass communication that have a global impact.
Broadcast Journalism This subject focuses on the various issues in broadcast journalism.
Public Relations for Television Programs This course deals with the factors considered while putting up a program in a particular time slot and related issues.

Detailed Syllabus for Radio Journalism

The syllabus for the Radio Journalism courses can differ from one college/university to another. However, the general topics and subjects remain the same. An overview of the detailed syllabus for Radio Journalism courses is given below:

Semester  Core/Elective Subject Title Subject Details
Semester I Elective Public Relations This subject deals with the techniques used to promote a particular subject in a reasonable way. It also covers how public relations works and its importance in broadcasting media.
Semester I Core Typography and Special Effects in Radio Production It explains the techniques used to create special effects in radio programs. They include keying and editing, sound playing and studio effects, graphics, etc.
Semester I Core Law and Ethics in Radio Journalism It aims at providing the students with basic knowledge regarding laws and ethics relevant to the broadcasting field. It deals with various ethical issues while working in broadcasting media.
Semester I Core Monitoring of Broadcasting system It explains the structure and functioning of the broadcasting system in India. It focuses on listening to radio programs, monitoring them (through various means like phone calls, email), soliciting feedback/comments/suggestions etc.
Semester I Elective Writing for Broadcast Media This subject deals with techniques that are used to inform and educate the audience about the benefits, influences and problems of a particular subject.
Semester I Core Production Techniques for Radio Programs It deals with techniques used in radio programs such as spot production, scripting and telecasting of various types of programs, etc.
Semester I Core Research Design It aims at providing the students with basic knowledge about research methodology to develop sciences. It deals with practical research methods in various fields such as social sciences, natural sciences etc. It also deals with different techniques used in these fields.
Semester I Core Mass Communication It deals with various types of mass media. It covers the history, scope and objectives of mass communication, importance and contribution of mass media to society and culture.
Semester I Core Introduction to Broadcast Journalism It covers the development of Broadcasting as a communication media and its historical dimension, characteristics, scope and limitations of broadcast journalism, and the need for training in broadcast journalism.
Semester II Core Advanced Broadcast Journalism It deals with various aspects of broadcast journalism such as ethics of journalism and journalism as an industry; mass communication; characteristics of newsgathering; economics of news gathering; news analysis, management of news organisations, etc.
Semester II Core News Gathering It explains the principles, techniques and methods of collecting, reporting and presentation of news by giving a special emphasis on the actual working of news gathering.
Semester II Core Radio Production Techniques It aims at providing knowledge regarding sound production techniques as used in radio programs. It provides knowledge about different types of music played on radio; the use of audio words in radio programs; the use of sound effects in radio programs etc.
Semester II Core Telecasting Techniques for Radio Programs It deals with the techniques used to telecast programs on television and television-related issues like programming, production, etc.
Semester II Elective Social Science of Music It explains the use of music in various cultures, their significance and their impact on society. It also explains the use of music in social development.
Semester III Core Programming and Production of Radio Programs It describes the various types of programming used in radio and television broadcasts. It also covers the application of technology in telecasting and production aspects of programming etc.
Semester III Core Environment Of Radio Journalism It aims at giving knowledge regarding the environment relevant to radio journalism. It also covers issues like ethics of journalism, social responsibility, professionalism etc from an environmental perspective.
Semester III Core Mass Communication History This course covers the historical perspective of mass communication and its development in India and abroad.
Semester III Elective Role of Public Relations For Radio Programs The subject deals with the factors considered while putting up a program in a particular time slot and related issues.
Semester III Core Radio Journalism Internship (Project Work) Any student who has successfully completed their 1st-year studies must do an internship for a minimum period of 20 days The duration is subject to change based on choice of topic, project requirement etc.
Semester IV Elective Digital Media for Broadcasting & Mass Communication It explains the use of digital media in broadcasting and mass communication.
Semester IV Core Telecasting Techniques for Radio Programs It deals with the techniques used to telecast radio programs on television and related issues.
Semester IV Core Production Techniques for Radio Programs This subject explains the techniques used to produce radio programs as well as their association with various types of music played in them.
Semester V Core Mass Communication in the Third World It talks about the effects of mass media on third world countries. It deals with various aspects of mass communication prevalent in third world countries.
Semester V Core Television and Radio Journalism This course provides knowledge regarding news gathering, research, presentation and other aspects of broadcasting and production of radio/television programs.
Semester VI Core Broadcast Journalism Internship (Project Work) A student who has successfully completed his/her 2nd year studies must do an internship for a minimum period of 20 days. The duration is subject to change based on choice of topic, and project requirement.

Specialisations in Radio Journalism

As Radio Journalism is itself a subdiscipline of broadcast journalism, it has few specialisations to offer. The popular specialisations that can be opted by the students are specified below:

Specialisation  Specialisation Subjects  Description
Radio Jockeying
  • Reading Cinema
  • Technical Writing
  • Ecology and other discourses in Media
  • Public Speaking
This specialisation trains the students to speak without fear and address a large audience while staying relevant to the topic or context. 
Radio Production 
  • Generating ideas for radio news or shows
  • Researching content for broadcasts 
  • Studio and live broadcasting 
It helps the students in understanding the need for research and ideas for presenting radio shows and managing broadcasts.

Books for Radio Journalism

Books for Radio Journalism will help students understand journalism as well as the basic principles of radio, including microphone technique, how to make connections with sources, and interviewing skills.

Subject  Book Title Author Description
Advertising for Broadcast Media Effective Radio Advertising  Marc Weinberger It talks about how to present radio advertisements for maximum results. 
Radio Programme Production  A Practical Guide to Radio and TV Amanda Willet It talks about radio and TV program formats, script writing, and other aspects of production.
Radio Programme Production Radio Programme Tactics and Strategy Eric G. Norberg This book covers the production tools, technologies, and strategies that are useful for developing radio programmes. 
Radio Journalism Basics  Essential Radio Journalism  Paul Chantler  It gives great insights into the presentation and production of radio news. 
Radio Journalism  Essential Radio Skills Peter Stewart It provides insights regarding how to produce and present a radio show. 
Radio Production  Radio Secrets  David Lloyd It tells how to present powerful content through radio podcast and broadcast. 
Radio Broadcasting  Beyond Powerful Radio  Valerie Geller This book talks about the importance of communication and personality while presenting news on radio and other media channels. 
Mass Media Media Studies: Theories for Everyday Life John Baldwin, Mary Moffitt, and Stephen Perry It covers the basics of various types of media and mass communication. 
Mass Communication  The Basics of Communication Research  Leslie Baxter and Earl Babbie It deals with how to maintain a steady communication while researching news and other topics in radio journalism.

Entrance Exam for Radio Journalism

These are the popular entrance exams that the students can give to seek admission to Radio Journalism courses:

While the entrance tests of IIMC and Mascom are national-level tests, the others are related to the particular universities, colleges, and institutes. The difficulty level of the IIMC and Mascom is slightly more than the other tests. The students need to focus on these aspects while preparing for the entrance tests:

  • Analytical skills
  • Comprehension skills
  • Language capability
  • Background of journalism and media studies
  • General awareness including awareness of social and public issues

Syllabus for Distance Programme in Radio Journalism

Many colleges and institutes offer distance programmes in Radio Journalism. The syllabus for the distance courses is identical to that of regular courses. However, the students have the advantage of less fees and flexible duration with the online distance courses. 
The average fees for degree programmes in journalism through distance education ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 1,00,000 per year. The fee for certificate and diploma courses is even less. The eligibility criteria remains the same as that of regular courses. The syllabus for distance programme in Radio Journalism includes:

  • History of radio journalism 
  • Importance of communication in Radio Journalism
  • Radio Jockeying
  • Radio presentation and production 
  • Models of communication

Top Colleges in India Offering Radio Journalism

Here are the top colleges in India that offer radio journalism courses. These colleges/institutes have been selected on the basis of the extensiveness of the curriculum, placement opportunities, and teaching facilities.

Sr. No. College/Institute/University Syllabus Links
1. Indian Institute Of Journalism And New Media, Bangalore To be uploaded soon
2. Symbiosis Institute Of Media And Communication, Pune To be uploaded soon
3. Lady Shri Ram College For Women, New Delhi To be uploaded soon
4. Christ College, Bangalore To be uploaded soon
5. School Of Communication, Manipal To be uploaded soon
6. Delhi College Of Arts And Commerce, New Delhi To be uploaded soon
7. Indraprastha College For Women, New Delhi To be uploaded soon
8. Kishinchand Chellaram College, Mumbai To be uploaded soon
9. Kamala Nehru College, New Delhi To be uploaded soon
10. Indian Institute of Mass Communication To be uploaded soon

FAQs on Radio Syllabus

Q. How many fields of specialisation and job roles are there in Radio Journalism?

A. There are around 20 fields of specialisation in Radio Journalism. Each one of them has a different career path. Some of the fields include corporate communications, social media/web, radio or TV broadcasting etc. The job roles can be as wide as CEO, entrepreneur, radio host, producer etc.

Q. Do colleges offer any useful resources for practising Radio Journalism?

A. Yes, the colleges and universities do offer useful resources for practising Radio Journalism. They offer facilities and tools such as radio equipment, lectures by industry experts etc. that help the students to hone their practical skills. 

Q. Is there any scope for higher education or research in Radio Journalism?

A. Yes, apart from certificate, diploma and undergraduate courses, there is also a Masters course for those who want to pursue further studies in the field.

Q. What are the international standards or protocols of Radio Journalism?

A. The international standards or protocols of Radio Journalism provide knowledge about various international standards such as FCC and European Broadcasting Union (EBU). This has to be followed in order to have a successful career in radio broadcasting.

Q. Which skills of the students are enhanced through Radio Journalism?

A. The students grasp public speaking skills, the ability to listen and the traits of a good personality. They learn how to emotionally connect with people, adapt social graces and be modest in nature. The news has to be censored very carefully before it can be aired by any radio station or TV channel. It is an exciting field of profession which requires good communication skills as well as trust building.

Q. Does the curriculum of Radio Journalism include internships?

A. Yes, the curriculum of Radio Journalism includes internships as well. They provide students with internships and campus placements in leading newspapers and TV channels or other media houses. These enable them to make connections, build networks and pave way for a successful career ahead.

Q. What does the syllabus of broadcast journalism include?

A. The syllabus of broadcast journalism enables the students to develop their own programs which target specific groups of audience based on current affairs, education, technology etc. It's an exciting field yet challenging one too. It provides numerous opportunities within other associated fields like television, voice-over etc.

Q. What are the objectives of the Radio Journalism syllabus?

A. The objectives of the Radio Journalism syllabus are described below:
  • To find, study, present, and discuss stories over a radio.
  • To anchor interviews, music shows, news bulletins and other programmes on a radio.
  • To create effective stories and content for a diverse range of audiences.

Q. What is radio and TV journalism?

A. Radio Journalism teaches the students to handle radio programmes and helps them to grasp the skills required to handle radio stations and generate radio programmes. On the other hand, TV journalism teaches them to identify news for TV channels, research on stories, learn about the latest digital technologies and platforms, etc. 

Q. Which are the main types of journalism?

A. The main types of journalism are listed below:
  • Crime Journalism
  • Political Journalism
  • Investigative Journalism
  • Sports Journalism
  • Education Journalism

Q. Who is a celebrity journalist?

A. A celebrity journalist conducts interviews with celebrities. He also checks the facts related to celebrity news and writes celebrity sections for tabloids and magazines. 

Q. What is radio jockey journalism?

A. Radio Jockeying is a part of media and mass communication courses that help students to present important news and events from across the globe. The role of a radio jockey is to entertain the audience through news, music, and other radio programmes. 

Q. Is voice modulation a part of radio journalism?

A. Yes, voice modulation is an essential part of radio journalism. It helps the students to learn how to control their voice tone and loudness according to a particular situation. They learn to adopt different voice tones while addressing the audience and while engaging with celebrities and known figures. 

Q. What is the difference between print and broadcast journalism?

A. The medium that focuses on delivering news and other programmes through print media like magazines, news, tabloids, etc. are included in print journalism. The medium that utilises audio or video or both to deliver news and other programmes are included in broadcast journalism. 

Popular Radio Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Radio Colleges in India. Learn more about these Radio colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
1 Course
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Radio Applications open. Apply Now

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4.5 LPA

Radio Applications open till Jan 21, 2025. Apply Now

6.98 L
4.5 LPA

Radio Applications open till Jan 21, 2025. Apply Now

1 Course
1.6 L
3.7

#1 India Today

16 K - 18.5 K

#2 Outlook

1 Course
2.9 L
2.8 LPA

#11 The Week

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Popular Radio Specializations

Following are the most popular Radio Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

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