The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication of Rajiv Gandhi Government Degree College Chaura Maidan Shimla offers the degree Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication that equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the field and prepares them for diverse careers in media, communication, and related industries. The Department was established in 2010 in the college offering Certificate, Diploma, and Advanced Diploma courses in Journalism and Mass Communication which students could acquire simultaneously with their undergraduate degrees in any stream i.e., BA, B. Com, and B.Sc. In the year 2011, the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication of this college started offering Journalism and Mass Communication as an elective subject in BA as per the directions of the Department of Higher Education, Himachal Pradesh.
In the year 2013, the department started offering a bachelor's degree in arts with Journalism and mass communication as a major or minor subject under the choice-based credit system on the directions of the Himachal Pradesh University. On the directions of Himachal Pradesh University, the department's programme structure and curriculum underwent significant changes in 2016 and 2018 by adopting the UGC-based Choice Based Credit System. At present, the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication offers an undergraduate programme of Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) with Journalism and Mass Communication as a major or minor subject. The Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication degree provides students with a strong foundation in media literacy, critical thinking, ethical practices, and practical skills required for a successful career in journalism, broadcasting, advertising, public relations, digital media, and other related fields

The Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the field and prepares them for diverse careers in media, communication, and related industries. Some of the key program outcomes of the Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication are:

• Journalism Skills: The Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication develops strong research, writing, and storytelling abilities in the students. They learn to gather and analyze information, conduct interviews, and write news articles, feature stories, and editorials. They also gain proficiency in fact-checking, news ethics, and adhering to journalistic standards.
• Media Production: Journalism and Mass Communications students acquire hands-on experience in various media production techniques. They learn to operate cameras, audio equipment, and editing software to create high-quality media content, including news reports, documentaries, podcasts, and multimedia presentations.
• Communication Theory: Students gain a solid foundation in communication theories, exploring concepts such as mass communication, media effects, persuasion, and public opinion. They learn to critically analyse media messages and understand the role of media in society.
• Media Ethics and Laws: Media Students develop an understanding of ethical issues and legal considerations in journalism and mass communication. They learn about media regulations, copyright laws, privacy concerns, and defamation. They acquire the skills to navigate these ethical and legal challenges in their professional careers.
• Media Management and Entrepreneurship: Students learn about media organizations, their structures, and management practices. They gain insights into media economics, advertising, and marketing strategies.
• Digital Media Skills: With the increasing importance of digital media, students learn to effectively use social media platforms, content management systems, and data analytics tools. They gain proficiency in digital storytelling, online journalism, and leveraging digital platforms for audience engagement.
• Interpersonal and Intercultural Communication: Students enhance their communication skills for effective interaction with diverse audiences. They learn to adapt their communication styles, understand cultural nuances, and promote intercultural understanding through media.

A. Discipline-SpecificCore(DSC)Courses

B. Discipline-SpecificElective(DSE)Courses

C. SkillEnhancementCourses(SEC)

D. GenericElectiveCourses(GEC)

Strength:

• Practical-oriented curriculum.
• Well-qualified experienced faculty with practical experience.
• Access to regional media organizations for internships and networking.
• Small class sizes allowpersonalized attention and mentoring.
• Opportunities for student-led campus publications and media clubs.
• Rich cultural surroundings inspire creative storytelling and reporting.

Weaknesses:

• Limited scope for specialized journalism niches in a smaller media market.
• Potential lack of exposure to mega-city media dynamics and trends.
• Limited access to renowned media events and conferences held in major cities.
• Insufficient funding for state-of-the-art media equipment and resources.
• Limited job market in Shimla and surrounding regions after graduation.

Opportunity:

• Increasing demand for skilled content creators and media professionals in the digital age.
• Potential for students to explore and document the unique culture and heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
• Opportunities to participate in regional media projects and community engagement initiatives.
• Collaborations with local media outlets for real-world projects and internships.
• Growing importance of regional media coverage and communication in the era of decentralization.
• Potential for students to contribute to environmental journalism, given Shimla's scenic surroundings.
• Opportunities to research media impact and audience preferences in a distinct regional context.
• Possibility of developing niche media platforms catering to the interests of the local community.

Challenges:

• Balancing theory and practical training with limited resources.
• Overcoming geographical isolation to access national media networks and opportunities.
• Addressing regional media biases and ensuring balanced reporting.
• Challenges in attracting diverse faculty to provide a broader perspective.
• Overcoming stereotypes about media careers and promoting journalism as a viable profession.
• Coping with the rapid pace of technological advancements in media with limited infrastructure.