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Library and Information Science
Radio and Television Broadcasting
Journalism
Journalism is concerned with collection and
dissemination of news through the print media as well as the electronic
media. Journalism has a long and well-established tradition in India. The
Indian press has always been vigilant towards safeguarding the democratic
values in the country and fearless in reporting even at times like
emergency when attempts were made to thwart its freedom.
The information revolution has made the job of a
journalist more challenging. Simple reporting of events is no more
sufficient. There is now more specialization and professionalism in news
reporting. Communication media as such, has become more accessible and
caters to various groups of readers with diverse tastes. An ordinary
newspaper today has exclusive sections devoted to topics like fashion,
films, culture, education etc.
Journalists work in diverse areas, such as
politics, finance and economics, culture and sports for newspapers and
periodicals besides radio and television networks carry their stories and
reports. They do not just inform but analyze an issue or a news item or an
incident and influence people’s opinion on them. They wield an enormous
influence on the society and therefore journalism is also referred to as
the Fourth Estate.
The scope in journalism is increasing especially
with the diversification of the media. More than 60% of the Indian
population (i.e. more than half a billion people!!) over the age of 14 are
exposed to one or the other kind of media, giving immense challenge to
those interested in media related careers. With over 25,000
newspapers/periodicals/magazines/ journals in the print medium, a network
of government and commercial radio channels as well as the national and
private TV networks etc., the challenge for journalists is evident.
Vernacular press has also grown in strength in the past few years with the
growing awareness and literacy amongst people. The information explosion
has brought in more competitiveness and the reader or the viewer has
gained the most by it as he gets the news and viewpoints quickly and
concisely, more than ever before.
Educational
Qualification:
Formal training is not an absolute necessity for
pursuing a career in journalism. Anyone with inherent qualities like flair
in writing, ability to express oneself lucidly and clearly and
wide-ranging interests along with a good academic background has a fair
chance to succeed in journalism. Many
publications take such fresh graduates in various fields and give them
vocational training.
However various institutions around the country
offer courses in journalism. These courses are usually part of a wider
program on mass communication studies. Some universities also offer degree
courses in journalism at undergraduate or postgraduate level. Entry into
these courses varies from institute to institute but generally graduation
in any discipline is the minimum qualification. Duration also varies but
is normally one academic year.