Journalism Courses After 12th: Best Programs for Aspiring Writers and Media Professionals *

Journalism is a strong pillar of democracy and social change in an information era that gives shape to mankind. The digital world has changed the story of journalism and storytelling. Students whose hearts are set on affecting storytelling, investigative reporting, or public discourse can take their initial steps towards a rewarding career with journalism courses after 12th grade. This guide discusses the best courses, colleges and career opportunities for writers and media people, helping students to make an informed choice with their aspirations and powers.

What are the Compelling Reasons Behind Opting for a Journalism Career After 12th?

Today, journalism has gone beyond the traditional realm of news reporting. It has diversified into digital media, public relations, content development, broadcasting and corporate communication. All these categories require a mixture of creativity, important thinking and technical skills, all of which can be learned in structured journalism programs. Journalism graduates can become social media managers, content strategists, public relations experts or even documentary filmmakers. 

The demand for qualified media professionals is increasing considerably with the reality of developing digital platforms and the need for reliable information. Journalism programs impart research proficiency, moral decision-making, adaptability and communication skills in the learners. A lot of these skills apply in any industry. Basically, journalists should embrace the feeling of adventure and the desire to experiment with emerging opportunities (Melissa Tully, Researcher).

List of Top Journalism Courses for 12th Pass Students

This section contains the list of top journalism courses that 12th pass students can opt for. 

Bachelor of Journalism & Mass Communication (BJMC)/Journalism and Media Management

BJMC/BJMM is a complete 3-year undergraduate course covering print, broadcast, and digital journalism, ethics and law in the media. It has a theoretical as well as a practical training that includes an internship and live projects. Comprehensive training in reporting, presenting, and producing through-the-line content makes students industry-ready post-graduation. The general requirement is a pass at 12th grade with a minimum of 45-50% marks, and admission through entrance tests like CUET and other specific ones conducted by universities, like JU Entrance Exam for various campuses of Jagannath University, including JCC Rohini.

B.A. in Journalism

The program strives for a liberal education in journalism and is especially favourable for students who want to think analytically about the art of storytelling. Students are trained in significant skills, while also encouraged to look for creative narratives that can speak and inform a spectrum of the audience. 

B.A. in Mass Media

This undergraduate degree programme covers various aspects of the media landscape, such as advertising, public relations, and the core components of media management. This journalism course enables a comprehensive understanding of the interconnections and influence between these areas in a contemporary, dynamic media environment. Valuable insights into how successful communications are done across multiple platforms can be gained from the examination of these interconnected areas. Understanding these aspects is helpful to anyone who wishes to deal effectively with the present-day media's complexities.

B.Sc in Mass Communication and Journalism

This programme envisages a comprehensive technical approach, not only targeting conventional journalism but also merging new media besides multimedia production with data journalism. By taking advantage of different media outlets, such as video, audio, and infographics, storytelling may thus be improved, and audiences may be attracted better. A balance of these skills creates an experience that is richer and more informative in the service of a more disparate viewing constituency. Ultimately, all this integration intends to raise journalistic practice to the level required in today's digital age.

Diploma Courses in Journalism After 12th

Intensive and precise programs like the Diploma in Broadcast Journalism, Digital Media, Photojournalism, etc. aim to train students within a very short duration and endow them with critical skills to fast-track their careers in broadcasting. Thus, this new group of programs offers practical applications relevant to the industry and ways to gain experience and create a portfolio in a short time. The various lessons are packaged into a short time to cater to the fast-moving requirements of the media industry. As a result, these diplomas are perfect for those willing to enter the workforce without the long commitment of a traditional degree program.

Are There Any Certificate Journalism Programmes I Can Pursue After 12th?

Yes. After completing 12th, you can choose from several certificate programs in journalism, like Certificates in digital journalism, photo journalism, and long-term diplomas in broadcasting journalism, journalism and mass communication. These courses teach essential lessons in conducting interviews, research, and media morality, and enable you to upgrade your skills to get into the industry rapidly or become a freelancer in the field of journalism.

List of Top Journalism Colleges in India Renowned for their Courses

The table below contains the list of top journalism colleges situated across the country where Journalism aspirants can apply for admission after completing their 12th class studies. 

Career Prospects and Salary Expectations After Completing Journalism Courses After 12th

Here is a detailed overview of the various career prospects and salary expectations once students complete their journalism studies after 12th grade. 

Typical Job Roles Offered

• Reporter/Journalist: Investigates and reports news for print, broadcast, or digital platforms.
• Content Writer/Creator: Develops engaging content for websites, blogs, or social media.
• Public Relations Specialist: Manages an organisation’s public image and media relations.
• Social Media Manager: Oversees digital campaigns and online engagement.
• Photojournalist/Video Editor: Uses visual storytelling to convey news and features

Salary Expectations

On the grounds of experience, geography, and specialisation, salaries for journalism graduates vary. In India, typically, ₹2.5–4.5 LPA are paid as salary for entry-level positions. The earning greatly increases for professionals with experience. Take, for instance, the global average salary is $159,420 for public relations managers, which shows a very good possibility of growth. Other entrepreneurial options are becoming increasingly viable as well, including starting a podcast, a YouTube channel, or an independent news blog.

Conclusion

Journalism is not just a job; This is really a mission for eager, true fans of storytelling. After 12th grade, the right journalism courses can inspire you to become one of those who make success stories that affect society, provide various opportunities, and survive in the world of rapidly growing media. Digitisation is growing, and so are interested writers and media people who are equipped with more equipment and platforms, creating their personal and commercial content. There is a passion for the profession, so you must acquire the correct skills and become a carrier of truth in this era of misinformation.

FAQs

What is the difference between journalism and mass communication?

While mass communication is a broad horizon encompassing advertising, public relations, event management and filmmaking, journalism is a special discipline that is particularly related to gathering, writing and presenting news. A mass communication course provides a comprehensive skill set, while a journalism-specific course provides intensive training for a reporting or editorial role.

Does a B.A. in Journalism favour aspiring writers?

Yes, a B.A. in Journalism is a great foundation for an aspiring writer. The program equips you to craft different types of writing, from print to digital, from broadcast to everything else. You'll be trained to write concisely, fact-check rigorously, and organise narrative ideas effectively; all of which will enhance any successful writing career. 

Will a journalism degree after 12th guarantee a job?

Yes. The entire media spectrum has been broadening. Journalism degrees/diplomas/certificates open innumerable avenues of careers, like news reporters, content writers, social media managers, public relations executives, and advertising copywriters. The various skills that you acquire during your journalism studies will be transferred and applied in various sectors.

Do you have to have an Arts background to study journalism?

No. Arts, Science, or Commerce students can take up journalism after the 12th standard. More than the stream of education, what matters is your striving to learn the art of storytelling, language skills, and current affairs awareness.

What are the best entrance exams for journalism colleges after 12th?

Most colleges offering journalism courses accept scores of reputed entrance examinations. Some reputed examinations include IPU CET, CUET, etc. Some entrance tests are held by the universities themselves, like Symbiosis, Jagannath University and Manipal. These examinations usually test a prospective student's general knowledge, media inclination, proficiency in English, and reasoning ability.