MPhil/Ph.D in Mass Media Course to be Launched by JNU, New Delhi Soon

The recently approved Centre of Media Research at Jawaharlal Nehru University(JNU), New Delhi is all set to start MPhil and PhD courses in Media Research soon. The courses have been specifically designed keeping in mind the growing demand for specialized courses in media at the research level. In contrast to traditional media courses, the new course will focus on research, analysis and applica tion of media in diverse fields.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has recently approved the setting up of Centre of Media Research at JNU. The aim of the new centre will be to make it a prime academic location which provides critical understanding about media and its engagement with society and economy in India. Talking about the approach of the course, Deepak Kumar, chairperson, Centre for Media Research, shares, "The centre will be different from other schools of media as it will prepare analysts and not just journalists. Interdisciplinary approaches in the field of evolution, role, relevance and impact of media will be encouraged here." Known for its path-breaking approach, JNU once again has taken the step to prepare youth for a successful career in media. The objective is to establish the Centre of Media Research as a national level research centre in the country for media research and analysis. As compared to the other institutions offering courses in the field of mass communication and journalism, this centre stands apart as the focus here will be more on research and not on media studies per se. The curriculum too will focus on the areas that need in- depth media analysis and have a more focused approach. Plans are ripe to include subjects such as media and society, media organization and state policy, media commerce and leisure industry, new media technology, media and sports, media and environment and other such areas like governance, processes, law, language, development journalism, and so on. The centre will
engage historians, economists, sociologists, politicians and senior journalists as faculty members for the courses. It is hopeful that the centre will be fully operational by 2012.

For those who want to pursue a career in media research it would be a good opportunity. At present there are not many courses for those who want to go into media research. Most of the pro grammes being offered are post-graduate diploma or Master's programmes in mass communication. They do not offer any kind of specialization. I think this course would have many takers and would be extremely popular among those who want to pursue a serious career in research.

With an emphasis on interdisciplinary approach and focus on critical understanding of the role of media in diverse fields, the Centre of Media Research is likely to emerge as a premier institute for higher studies and research not only India but also across the globe.