Numerous job routes are available in the field of mass communication for aspirant professionals in today’s fast-paced media environment. In this situation, journalism and a BJMC are the two most common educational options. Additionally, although each of these fields entails the sharing of information, there are considerable differences between them in terms of course focus and job chances.
So, are you confused between journalism and a BJMC course? If so, you should have a look at this blog, which attempts to investigate the differences between journalism and BJMC, illuminating their special characteristics and assisting people in making informed decisions regarding their academic and professional activities.
| Table of Contents: Defining Journalism Learn about a BJMC course BJMC Course Highlights Differences between Journalism and a BJMC course Final Thoughts FAQs |
Defining Journalism
Journalism is a long-standing profession, which involves gathering, confirming, and distributing information to the general public. And, the journalism course teaches students the fundamentals of mass communication and journalism as a subset of mass media.
In addition, journalism is all about getting information, compiling it, and producing something educational out of it. As a result, journalism professionals strive to offer truthful and unbiased news articles through a variety of media, including print, broadcast, and digital. Also, they play a crucial role in sustaining the principles of free press, objectivity, and accountability
Learn about a BJMC course
A Bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communication (BJMC) is a programme of study that offers thorough knowledge and abilities in the area of mass communication. And, apart from journalism, this degree also equips students with theoretical and practical insights into other aspects of mass communication, including advertising, public relations, photojournalism, audio-visual production, and media management.
Additionally, India is considered the second-largest newspaper consumer in the world, with over 240 million newspapers in circulation daily. Moreover, with nearly 400 news channels, there are several job prospects at BJMC for graduates
BJMC Course Highlights
To further grasp what is BJMC, let us go through some additional information on the vocational BJMC programme provided by JIMS Vasant Kunj II, a prominent college in India:
| Level of Education | Undergraduate |
| Course Duration | 3 years |
| Course Format | Semester Mode |
| Minimum Eligibility | Complete 10+2 with at least 50% from a recognised board |
| Average Course Fee | Ranges between INR 1,35,000 to INR 1,45,000 each year |
| Placement Partners | India News, NDTV, BYJUs, NBC Hindi, Concentrix, MyFM (Dainik Bhaskar Group), etc. |
Differences between Journalism and a BJMC Course
Even while the two courses share a lot of similarities, there are some key differences between the Journalism and BJMC courses. To learn how these two courses differ from one another, check the following points:
- Curriculum Focus
- Journalism:
Sharpening crucial abilities including news reporting, investigative journalism, media ethics, and legal frameworks is a major focus of BA journalism and mass communication programmes. Additionally, journalists need to be adept at interviewing, fact-checking, and storytelling tactics. As a result, to improve students’ ability to work in high-pressure, time-sensitive contexts, this course’s curriculum places an emphasis on academic principles as well as practical training in newsrooms.
- BJMC:
The BJMC programme covers a wider range of topics, including journalism as well as advertising, public relations, media management, and other topics. Students also develop their knowledge and expertise in media research, scriptwriting, graphic design, and visual communication. Most importantly, the diversified curriculum of such mass communication courses after 12th assures that students are well-rounded and ready to explore a variety of professional possibilities within the larger area of mass communication.
- Career Opportunities
- Journalism:
With a degree in journalism, one can work in the media industry as a reporter, editor, news anchor, correspondent, or freelancer. Additionally, graduates are well-prepared to succeed in conventional news channels like newspapers, television news, or radio because of the underlying concentration on news reporting and storytelling. The growth of digital media has, however, created new opportunities, such as podcasting, online journalism, and content creation for social media sites.
Self-created
- BJMC:
A BJMC degree opens up more job opportunities. Also, graduates can pick careers in advertising agencies, public relations businesses, media outlets, corporate communications, event management, or digital marketing to determine if is BJMC worth it. Additionally, the adaptability offered by BJMC enables professionals to investigate many facets of mass communication and adapt to the ever-evolving media landscape.
Besides the typical journalism career roles, the most important BJMC employment pathways and their associated salary ranges are graphically depicted below:
Self-created
Also Read: What Are The Best Bjmc Career Opportunities?
Final Thoughts
While disseminating information is a function of both journalism and a BJMC course, there are differences between the two in terms of focus, content, and employment opportunities. Additionally, journalism degrees largely focus on honing the abilities required for news reporting, investigative journalism, and media ethics. A BJMC degree, on the other hand, provides broader exposure to other communication sectors, offering doors to professions in media management, public relations, advertising, and more. Also, whatever path one selects, both are essential to the dynamic world of mass communication. In the end, the decision between journalism and BJMC depends on personal interests, talents, and career ambitions.
FAQs
- Which is better BJMC or BA Journalism?
A BJMC degree offers a thorough examination of all facets of journalism and mass communication, whereas a BA in journalism has a somewhat limited focus. But since both have promising futures, choosing which is best depends on personal preferences.
- Is Journalism and Mass Communication the same course?
Mass communication is a catch-all term that includes various forms of journalism and PR, advertising, film production & management, etc. While journalism primarily focuses on disseminating the most recent news and events to the general public from across the world.
- Is Journalism and Mass Communication a good career option?
Yes, studying journalism and mass communication will open up a wealth of profitable employment prospects for you. With this course, you can also build a sizable network that will give you plenty of opportunities.
- What is the best degree for Journalism?
An undergraduate BJMC degree is the best and most popular option for individuals interested in a journalism career. Moreover, developing an interest in areas like history, geography, political science, literature, and languages can greatly help in your journalism profession.
- How can I prepare for a BJMC entrance exam?
You can prepare for a BJMC entrance exam by selecting the best study resources, which cover English Language and Comprehension, Current Affairs, Media Aptitude, Reasoning Ability, etc. Properly planning your study schedule and taking mock exams can help.