Future of Mass Communication

Imagine being stuck somewhere without internet access, network or without any medium to connect with the outer world. Just even thinking about it gives a strong sense of FOMO.

In today’s world, not being connected to others or staying unaware of what’s happening in the world is like living under a rock. Today, everything we consume, whether it’s products or content, is made possible because of the existence of mass communication. Whether it’s your favourite podcast, a blog, or a company advertising its products, everything is a result of imparting and exchanging information through mass media. To pursue your dream of becoming a popular orator, anchor, actor, reporter or writer, you need to be a graduate in mass communication.

Mass communication degree has gained its popularity over time. People are considering it as a remarkable career option. So if you are wondering how to grow in this field and build an impeccable career, we have sorted out everything for you in this blog.

What is Mass Communication?

Before entering any industry, gaining knowledge about it should be your foremost priority. So by definition, mass communication is the exchange of information on a large scale with a wide range of people. It’s a multidisciplinary stream, those looking to plan a career in mass communication need to be well informed about the disciplines it offers. It’s one of the most popular career fields that students pursue after passing 10+2 with humanities subjects. Not only humanities, but this course is also open to anyone who qualifies their 12th with any recognised board or similar level of high-school education.

Scope of Mass communication

Scope in the field of mass communication is vast. It promises a range of career options for mass communication and media students. From offline and online advertising, becoming a radio jockey to dabbling in journalism and reporting, it provides diverse opportunities to everyone.

Some other popular career options after a mass communication degree are mentioned below:

• Reporter and Anchor
• Media planner
• Public relations
• Broadcasting and publication
• Event manager

Besides these well-known career paths, you can also choose to be a freelancer after completing a degree in mass communication. To establish your career as a freelancer, you can start blogging in the field of your interest or also contribute to local magazines and newspapers.

To help you further understand what type of companies hire mass com graduates, listed down are some of the top media houses that can help you kickstart your career.

• NDTV Network
• Zee TV Network
• Times of India Publication Group
• Viacom
• The India Today Group
• The Indian Express

Skills You’ll Learn in Mass Communication Degree

If you want to build a successful career in journalism and media, it’s important that you exhibit a certain skill set. Well, even though many people have a natural talent for most of the required skills, when you take a course in mass communication, you study multi-based subjects that will teach you everything from scratch. Some of the most sought-after skills taught in a mass communication degree are:

• Authenticity – One of the foremost things you’ll be taught in a mass communication program will be to stay authentic in anything you do. Plagiarism can end your career before it even starts. So you need to challenge your creative selves and put forth your best authentic work.
• Communication – You have to be a great communicator to work in this field, whether it’s the flare of your pen or the articulacy of your speech, you should be influential enough to move the masses.
• Writing – To be a good writer is not just about good grammar. It’s about how clearly you are able to convey your message to the audience. When you study mass communication, you learn how to communicate your thoughts in the most relatable and cohesive manner.
• Reporting – Journalism is the most popular branch of mass communication. You’ll have to prepare and deliver various reports with accurate facts. Reporting an incident or a certain event/story will be taught to you in a mass communication degree.
• Production – In mass communication, on-screen is as important as behind the scenes. You’ll be taught how to manage print, radio, video production and also how the delivery of media is monitored and organized.

Top Mass Communication Colleges in India

1. Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication – Pune

Symbiosis institute was established in 2002 in Pune Maharashtra, It is affiliated with symbiosis university and ranked 1st by Times of India and 2nd by Outlook. Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication is best known for offering MBA programs in different fields of Mass Communication and Media. The admission process is online, visit the website to register and to know more about admissions. Some of the top recruiters in Symbiosis are CNN IBN, MSL Group, Amazon, Edelman, Hindustan Times, Times Now, Viacom 18, ZEE, Etc.

2. AJ Kidwai MCRC – Delhi

This college was established in 1982 and is affiliated with Jamia Islamia University, ranked 1st by Outlook. It offers various masters and PG diploma programs in different fields. The admission process is online and you can get more information from the college website easily. Some notable alumni of AJ Kidwai MCRC are Barkha Dutt, Kiran Rao, Kabir Khan, Roshan Abbas, Loveleen Tandan, Shazia Ilmi, and Aseem Mishra.

3. Indian Institute of Mass Communication- New Delhi

IIMC was established in 1965 in New Delhi, offering PG degrees and diploma courses in various fields, mostly famous for journalism. The admission process is done through IIMC entrance exams. IIMC is also known for its Notable Alumni Ravish Kumar, Deepak Chaurasia, Sudhir Chaudhary, and Sourav Mishra.

4. St. Xavier Institute of Communication- Mumbai

St. Xavier Institute is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It was established in 1869. St. Xavier’s provides quality practical education to its students. The institute offers different diploma and certificate courses. The admission process is carried out by entrance exams. Some of its memorable alumni are Vidhya Balan, Anil Kapoor, Tabu, Farooq Shaikh Etc.

5. Lady Shri Ram College for Women- New Delhi

Lady Shri Ram College is an all-women college located in New Delhi, affiliated with Delhi University and established in 1956. It is ranked 3rd by Times of India. The College offers BA(Hons.) Journalism and several other certificate courses. The admission process directly depends on the percentage in 12th or equivalent education level. This college also has given renowned names to the industry like Maneka Gandhi, Vinita Bali, Sakshi Tanwar, Gurmeher Kaur, and Gauri Khan. Top recruiters in college are TOI, Hindustan Times, CNN IBN, The Hindu, NDTV, Times Now, The Indian Express, Aaj Takk, India Today, Google, Etc.

A career in mass communication has its own advantages and challenges. Researching well is advisable before selecting college and courses. Choose courses which align with your interest and capabilities.