BA Journalism: Courses, Colleges, Fees, Syllabus, and Career Opportunities in India
BA Journalism is a popular undergraduate program focusing on media, reporting, digital communication, and mass media studies. The course prepares students for careers in journalism, broadcasting, digital media, public relations, and content creation across India’s growing media industry.
A BA Journalism is a popular three-year undergraduate programme designed for students interested in media, communication, and storytelling. With the growing importance of digital and traditional media, the course prepares students with practical and theoretical knowledge in reporting, editing, media ethics, advertising, and public relations. Candidates must have completed 10+2 or an equivalent qualification from a recognised board, generally with at least 50% aggregate marks, though requirements vary by institution. Annual fees typically range between INR 20,000 and INR 3,50,000 depending on the college. Graduates can explore careers as journalists, reporters, editors, content writers, or PR professionals, with starting salaries ranging from INR 3 LPA to INR 7 LPA based on skills and experience.
BA Journalism Course Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BA Journalism) is a three-year undergraduate programme focused on developing skills in news reporting, multimedia storytelling, media ethics, communication theory, and digital journalism. The course prepares students for careers across print, television, radio, and digital media industries. Candidates must complete 10+2 or an equivalent qualification from a recognised board, with minimum marks generally ranging between 45%–50% depending on institutional requirements.
Admissions are conducted either through merit-based selection or entrance examinations conducted by universities and media institutes. Annual course fees typically range from INR 20,000 to INR 3,50,000, varying by institution type and infrastructure. Graduates can pursue careers as journalists, reporters, editors, media researchers, content creators, or public relations professionals.
While selecting a college, students should prioritise institutions recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and evaluate factors such as faculty expertise, internship opportunities, media labs, placement support, and institutional rankings.
| Feature | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Course Name | Undergraduate Journalism Programme | BA Journalism / BA Journalism & Mass Communication / BJMC / BA Mass Communication |
| Duration | Course Length | 3 Years (6 Semesters) |
| Eligibility | Required Qualification | 10+2 or equivalent from a recognised board |
| Minimum Marks | Admission Requirement | Usually 45%–50% aggregate (varies by college) |
| Admission Process | Selection Mode | Merit-Based or Entrance Exam + Interview/Portfolio (in select institutes) |
| Key Subjects | Core Areas of Study | Reporting, Editing, Media Ethics, Media Law, Digital Journalism, Public Relations, Advertising |
| Career Prospects | Job Roles | Journalist, Reporter, Editor, News Anchor, Content Writer, Media Analyst, PR Executive |
| Average Salary Range | Entry-Level Earnings | INR 3 LPA – INR 7 LPA (based on skills & organisation) |
| Average Fees | Annual Tuition Fees | INR 20,000 – INR 3,50,000 |
| Top Colleges (Examples) | Leading Journalism Institutes | Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Lady Shri Ram College for Women (Delhi University), Symbiosis Institute of Media & Communication |
| Approval & Recognition | Accreditation Importance | UGC-recognised universities; infrastructure, internships, placements, and industry exposure should be considered |
BA Journalism Eligibility Criteria and Required Skill Set
Admission to BA Journalism or BA Journalism and Mass Communication programmes in India generally requires completion of 10+2 (Higher Secondary) education from a recognised board such as CBSE, ISC, or State Boards. Most universities follow merit-based admission, while central universities and select institutions conduct entrance examinations like CUET-UG. The programme focuses not only on academic eligibility but also on communication aptitude, analytical ability, creativity, and awareness of current affairs.
| Parameter | Requirement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Qualification | 10+2 or Equivalent | Passed from a recognised board (CBSE/ISC/State Boards or equivalent) |
| Minimum Percentage | 45%–60% Aggregate | Common requirement is 50% marks; varies by university and category relaxation rules |
| Reserved Category Relaxation | As per Govt. Norms | Usually 5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD candidates |
| Required Subjects | English Preferred/Compulsory | Many colleges require English as a core subject; Humanities background preferred but not mandatory |
| Age Limit | Generally No Upper Age Limit | Follows university admission policies |
| Entrance Exams | CUET-UG / University Tests | Required by central universities and select institutes; others admit through merit |
| Language Proficiency | English & Regional Language Skills | Essential for reporting, editing, and multimedia journalism |
| Digital Literacy | Media & Technology Awareness | Basic knowledge of social media, digital tools, and online publishing platforms |
Essential Skill Set for BA Journalism Students
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- News sense and curiosity about current affairs
- Critical thinking and analytical ability
- Creative storytelling and content development skills
- Research and fact-checking capability
- Time management and deadline handling
- Adaptability to evolving digital and multimedia journalism
- Ethical awareness and media responsibility
BA Journalism Admission Process
Admission to BA Journalism programmes in India typically follows a structured process combining eligibility screening, entrance examinations (where applicable), and counselling or merit selection.
Step-Wise Admission Process
- Research and Shortlist Colleges
- Compare universities based on accreditation, curriculum, faculty, infrastructure, internships, and placement records.
- Check Eligibility Criteria
- Ensure completion of 10+2 with required percentage and subject requirements.
- Register for Entrance Exams (If Applicable)
- Common entrance route: CUET-UG
- Some universities conduct institution-specific entrance tests or interviews.
- Submit Application Forms
- Apply through university admission portals.
- Upload academic documents, photographs, and identification proof.
- Entrance Exam / Interview / Portfolio Review
- May include written tests, group discussions, or personal interviews assessing communication and media awareness.
- Merit List and Counselling
- Universities release merit lists based on entrance scores or Class 12 marks.
- Seat allotment occurs through counselling rounds.
- Document Verification and Fee Payment
- Submit originals for verification.
- Pay admission fees to confirm enrollment.
Admission Documents Required
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Class 10 & 12 Mark Sheets | Academic eligibility verification |
| Transfer/Migration Certificate | Institutional transfer requirement |
| Identity Proof | Student verification |
| Entrance Exam Scorecard | Required where applicable |
| Passport-size Photographs | Admission records |
| Category Certificate (if applicable) | Reservation benefits |
Fee Range and College Types
- Government Colleges: Approx. INR 15,000 – INR 60,000 per year
- Private Universities/Institutes: Approx. INR 1,00,000 – INR 3,50,000 per year
- Fees vary based on infrastructure, industry exposure, and media training facilities.
Graduates completing the admission process successfully enter a programme that prepares them for careers across journalism, digital media, broadcasting, advertising, and public relations sectors.
Top Government Colleges for BA Journalism in India
Government universities and colleges offering BA Journalism or BA Journalism & Mass Communication programmes in India are known for affordable fees, experienced faculty, academic credibility, and strong media exposure. Admission is primarily based on CUET-UG scores or merit, followed by counselling. Annual fees in government institutions generally range between INR 10,000 and INR 60,000, depending on the university and facilities. NIRF rankings change annually; therefore, rankings mentioned below represent institutional standing rather than programme-specific ranks.
| College Name | City | Approx. Annual Fees (INR) | Admission Mode | Institutional Standing (NIRF/NAAC Status) | Approval |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) | New Delhi | 40,000–60,000 | Entrance Exam | Premier Govt. Media Institute | I&B Ministry / Govt. of India |
| Lady Shri Ram College for Women (LSR), University of Delhi | New Delhi | 20,000–30,000 | CUET-UG + Merit | NIRF Top College Category | UGC Approved |
| Delhi College of Arts & Commerce (DCAC), University of Delhi | New Delhi | 15,000–25,000 | CUET-UG | NAAC A Grade Institution | UGC Approved |
| Kamala Nehru College, University of Delhi | New Delhi | 15,000–22,000 | CUET-UG | NAAC A Grade | UGC Approved |
| Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) | New Delhi | 12,000–25,000 | Entrance Exam / Merit | NIRF Ranked Central University | UGC Approved |
| Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) | Aligarh | 10,000–20,000 | University Entrance | NAAC A+ | UGC Approved |
| University of Calcutta | Kolkata | 15,000–25,000 | Merit / Entrance | NAAC A | UGC Approved |
| University of Mumbai | Mumbai | 25,000–40,000 | Merit-Based | NAAC A++ | UGC Approved |
| Makhanlal Chaturvedi National University of Journalism & Communication | Bhopal | 20,000–35,000 | Entrance/Merit | State Journalism University | UGC Approved |
| Madhya Pradesh Bhoj (Open) University | Bhopal | 10,000–20,000 | Merit-Based | Recognised Open University | UGC-DEB Approved |
Top Private Colleges for BA Journalism in India
Private universities offering BA Journalism programmes emphasise industry exposure, studio-based learning, internships, multimedia training, and placement support. Admissions may involve entrance examinations, personal interviews, or merit-based selection. Annual fees typically range between INR 1,20,000 and INR 3,50,000, depending on infrastructure and international collaborations.
| College Name | City | Approx. Annual Fees (INR) | Admission Mode | Institutional Standing | Key Programme Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Symbiosis Institute of Media & Communication (SIMC), Symbiosis International University | Pune | 3,00,000–3,50,000 | SET / Entrance Test | Top Private Media School | Journalism, Advertising & PR specialisations |
| Xavier Institute of Communications (XIC) | Mumbai | 2,50,000–3,00,000 | XIC Entrance Test | Industry-Oriented Institute | Practical newsroom & broadcast training |
| Amity School of Communication | Noida | 1,80,000–2,50,000 | Merit / Interview | NAAC Accredited University | Advanced media labs & global exposure |
| Christ (Deemed to be University) | Bengaluru | 1,50,000–2,00,000 | Entrance + Interview | Highly Ranked Private University | Research-driven media curriculum |
| Manipal Institute of Communication, MAHE | Manipal | 2,00,000–2,50,000 | MET / Entrance | NAAC A++ University | Multimedia & digital journalism focus |
| Indian Institute of Journalism & New Media (IIJNM) | Bengaluru | 1,70,000–2,00,000 | Entrance Test | Specialized Journalism School | Print, Broadcast & Digital Journalism |
| NSHM Knowledge Campus | Kolkata | 1,30,000–1,60,000 | Entrance/Merit | UGC Recognised | Media entrepreneurship & industry exposure |
| Garden City University | Bengaluru | 1,40,000–1,80,000 | Merit-Based | NAAC Accredited | Media research & collaboration projects |
| Padmashree Institute of Management & Sciences | Bengaluru | 1,20,000–1,50,000 | Entrance/Merit | Affiliated to Bengaluru City University | Media management orientation |
| Lovely Professional University (LPU) | Phagwara | 1,20,000–1,80,000 | LPUNEST / Merit | NIRF Ranked University | Studio learning & global internships |
BA Journalism Subjects and Syllabus
The BA Journalism or BA Journalism & Mass Communication programme in India is a 3-year undergraduate course divided into six semesters. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge, media ethics, communication studies, and intensive practical training across print, broadcast, and digital journalism platforms. Universities may vary slightly in subject titles, but the overall academic structure remains similar. The programme emphasises newsroom skills, multimedia storytelling, research abilities, and professional media exposure through internships and projects.
| Year | Semester | Core Subjects | Electives / Skill Courses | Practical / Project Work |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Semester 1 | Introduction to Mass Communication, Fundamentals of Journalism, Communication Theory, Media Language & Writing | — | News Reporting & Writing Lab |
| Semester 2 | History of Journalism, Media Ethics & Laws, Indian Constitution & Media, Development Communication | — | Photojournalism & Editing Workshop | |
| Year 2 | Semester 3 | Print Journalism, Radio Journalism, Public Relations & Corporate Communication | Advertising, Corporate Communication | Radio Production & News Bulletin Creation |
| Semester 4 | Television Journalism, New Media & Digital Journalism, Environmental Communication | Film Studies, Event Management | TV News Production / Online Journalism Project | |
| Year 3 | Semester 5 | Specialized Reporting (Political, Business, Sports), Data Journalism, Media Research Methods | Media Management, Entrepreneurship | Summer Internship / Field Reporting Project |
| Semester 6 | Media & Society, Contemporary Media Issues, Communication Research | — | Dissertation / Major Project & Viva Voce |
Key Learning Components
- Print, broadcast, and digital media training
- Media ethics, law, and policy understanding
- Multimedia storytelling and newsroom simulation
- Internship-based industry exposure
- Research and dissertation work in final year
Check the BA Hons Journalism syllabus.
BA Journalism Fee Structure: Government vs Private Colleges in India
The fee structure for BA Journalism programmes varies significantly between government and private institutions. Government universities provide affordable education, while private universities offer advanced infrastructure, studio facilities, and industry collaborations. Apart from tuition fees, students should consider hostel accommodation, examination charges, and media production expenses.
| College Type | Average Annual Tuition Fees | Hostel Fees (Approx.) | Examination Fees | Other Academic Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Government Colleges / Central Universities | INR 10,000 – 60,000 | INR 8,000 – 30,000 | INR 1,000 – 3,000 | INR 3,000 – 8,000 |
| State Universities | INR 15,000 – 50,000 | INR 10,000 – 35,000 | INR 1,500 – 3,500 | INR 5,000 – 10,000 |
| Private Universities / Media Institutes | INR 1,20,000 – 3,50,000 | INR 70,000 – 1,30,000 | INR 4,000 – 8,000 | INR 8,000 – 20,000 |
Entrance Exams for BA Journalism Admissions in India
Admission to BA Journalism programmes in India may be merit-based or entrance-exam based, depending on the university. Entrance tests primarily assess language proficiency, current affairs awareness, analytical ability, and media aptitude.
| Exam Name | Conducting Body | Exam Level | Eligibility | Syllabus Overview |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CUET-UG | National Testing Agency (NTA) | National Level | 10+2 from recognised board | Language Skills, General Test, Current Affairs |
| IPU CET (BJMC) | Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University | University Level | 10+2 qualification | English, GK, Reasoning, Media Awareness |
| SET (Symbiosis Entrance Test) | Symbiosis International University | University Level | 10+2 pass | English, Quantitative Aptitude, GK, Logical Reasoning |
| Christ University Entrance Test | Christ University | University Level | 10+2 pass | Language Skills, Reasoning, GK, Analytical Ability |
| Jamia Millia Islamia Entrance Exam | Jamia Millia Islamia | University Level | 10+2 qualification | Media Awareness, Current Affairs, Language |
| XIC Entrance Exam | Xavier Institute of Communications | Institute Level | 10+2 qualification | Media Aptitude, Language Skills, GK |
| ACJ Entrance Test | Asian College of Journalism | Institute Level | Primarily PG Journalism | Media Awareness, Analytical Skills |
| University-Specific Tests | Respective Universities | Institutional | As prescribed | Journalism aptitude & communication skills |
Exam Preparation Focus Areas
- English language and writing ability
- Current affairs and media awareness
- Logical reasoning and analytical thinking
- Communication and storytelling aptitude
These entrance pathways help students secure admission into leading journalism schools and universities across India.
BA Journalism Career and Job Opportunities in India
A BA Journalism degree opens diverse career opportunities across print media, television, digital media, corporate communication, advertising, and emerging multimedia platforms. With the rapid expansion of online news portals, social media journalism, and content-driven industries, journalism graduates are in high demand across both traditional and new-age media sectors.
Graduates can work in news organisations, media houses, production companies, digital agencies, publishing firms, public relations consultancies, and government communication departments. Many students also pursue higher studies such as MA Journalism, Mass Communication, or specialised media certifications to enhance career prospects.
Top Career Options After BA Journalism
| Job Role | Key Responsibilities | Average Salary (India) |
|---|---|---|
| Journalist | News reporting, investigation, field coverage, interviews | INR 3–6 LPA |
| Reporter | Collecting news stories and real-time reporting | INR 3–5 LPA |
| News Anchor | Presenting news programmes and live broadcasts | INR 4–8 LPA |
| Content Writer | Writing articles, blogs, and digital media content | INR 3–6 LPA |
| Editor / Sub-Editor | Editing news copies, headlines, and publications | INR 4–7 LPA |
| Digital Media Executive | Managing online content and media platforms | INR 3–6 LPA |
| Public Relations (PR) Executive | Brand communication and media relations | INR 4–7 LPA |
| Social Media Manager | Managing social media strategy and campaigns | INR 4–8 LPA |
| Photojournalist | Visual storytelling through photography | INR 3–6 LPA |
| Broadcast Producer | Managing TV/radio programme production | INR 5–9 LPA |
Employment Sectors for BA Journalism Graduates
- Print Media (Newspapers & Magazines)
- Television News Channels
- Radio Broadcasting Stations
- Digital News Platforms & Online Media
- Advertising & Marketing Agencies
- Public Relations Firms
- Film & Media Production Houses
- Corporate Communication Departments
- Government Information & Broadcasting Units
- Freelance Journalism & Independent Media
Higher Studies Options After BA Journalism
- MA Journalism & Mass Communication
- MA Media Studies
- PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism
- MBA in Media Management
- Digital Marketing & Content Strategy Certifications
- Film Making / Multimedia Production Courses
Career Growth and Future Scope
- Entry-level roles typically start between INR 3–5 LPA.
- Experienced professionals, editors, anchors, and media strategists can earn INR 10 LPA+.
- Growth opportunities increase with specialization in data journalism, investigative reporting, multimedia production, and digital storytelling.
- Freelancing, YouTube journalism, podcasting, and independent media entrepreneurship are rapidly growing career paths in India’s evolving media ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the eligibility criteria for BA Journalism in India?
To be eligible for BA Journalism in India, you need a 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board with a minimum aggregate score of 50% or as specified by the college. Essential skills include excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, research skills, and adaptability.
Q2. What is the average annual fee for BA Journalism in government colleges in India?
The average annual fee for BA Journalism in government colleges in India ranges from INR 20,000 to INR 50,000. For example, the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) charges INR 50,000 annually, while Lady Shri Ram College For Women (LSR) charges INR 25,000.
Q3. What are the key subjects covered in the BA Journalism course?
The BA Journalism course covers key subjects like Reporting, Editing, Media Law, Public Relations, and Advertising. It also includes specialized subjects such as Television Journalism, Radio Journalism, and New Media. Electives like Advertising, Corporate Communication, and Film Studies are also available.
Q4. What are the career prospects after completing BA Journalism in India?
After completing BA Journalism in India, you can pursue careers as a Journalist, Reporter, Editor, Content Writer, or Public Relations Specialist. The expected salary ranges from INR 3 LPA to INR 7 LPA, depending on experience and the specific role.
