Bachelor of Arts [BA] (Journalism) From CMR University, Bangalore

BA Journalism or Bachelor of Arts in Journalism is an Undergraduate course in Journalism for students who have successfully completed their Higher Secondary School education. It is a three year course, being taught at most undergraduate colleges in India.

Journalism has had a long history in India, starting with Independence struggle to the most recent election campaigns in India. Journalism is a field full of adventures, new challenges and excitement. It is an ideal field of study and career for individuals who are extrovert, have a zeal to get to the bottom of a story and are capable of analyzing a story and craft it in words.

BA Journalism is an optimal course for students who desire to pursue a career in mass media. Leading Media houses like the Times Group, HT Media etc. in India hire graduates with a degree in journalism for various roles. Since the coursework for the BA Journalism program includes every aspect of news reporting and journalism, this course opens numerous possibilities for an illustrious career in Media and Broadcast industry.

History of Journalism Courses in India

India has a 60 years old history of education in Journalism and Mass Communication. The first ever University level education in Journalism and Media Studies began at the Hislop College in Nagpur in 1952. Since then media studies has developed through different stages metamorphosing from Media studies to Mass communication as a reflection of the changing society. Today with about 60 universities and 100 private institutions catering to Journalism courses, India has seen an influx in Journalism graduates in the last few years.

Purpose of the course

Mass Media has evolved over the years creating a huge demand for trained media professionals. BA in Journalism is a course which prepares students for a career in Media and Journalism, both Print and Electronic. Students who successfully complete the Bachelor of Arts program in Journalism are adept in various skills which relate to reporting, journalism, writing, editing, news presentation, news compilation etc.

Duration of the course

A Bachelor course in Journalism spans three years and usually follows semester system with two semesters in each year.

Highlights of the course

Colleges Offering BA Journalism

There are about 100 institutes which offer BA Journalism program at college level. Some of these institutes are:

• Christ University, Bangalore
• Goa University
• Madras Christian College
• S.R.M. University

Correspondence Mode of Study

 A few universities in India also offer BA in Journalism through distance mode. Some of these universities are:

• Mahatma Gandhi University
• Manipal University
• Periyar University
• Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University

What are the Learning Objectives for BA Journalism?

With more and more individuals being drawn towards the field of print and broadcast media, the demand for BA Journalism program has increased. But what is the reason which makes this course highly valuable? Journalism is basically an evolved form of story-telling. BA in Journalism helps an individual hone their story telling skills. At the end of the course, you are expected to possess ability to tell stories – entertainment or informative, following the best journalism practices. A degree holder in BA Journalism, has learned the theoretical and practical aspects

What are the Higher Studies options after BA Journalism?

After learning the basic aspects of Journalism in BA Journalism, you can opt any of the various options available for further studies in Journalism and Mass communication. There are many courses available in India which deliver knowledge and experience in various branches of Journalism. Some of these coveted courses are:

BA in Journalism is an apt course for individuals seeking a challenging and interesting career. The course prepares you for career in various roles related to print and broadcast media. This program is also ideal for creative people and opens doors to many opportunities in terms of job prospects and further studies. 

Candidate who has passed 2nd PUC / HSC / 12th Grade or Equivalent examination from a recognised Board/Institution.