International credit rating system introduced in journalism dept

Mumbai, May 10 (UNI) The University of Mumbai's Department of Communication and Journalism has introduced an international credit rating system as part of restructuring of syllabus.

Strong emphasis on academic research in communication and journalism, opportunities for students to gain credits through teaching in the department, and opting for specialisation in the third semester, were the highlights of the new syllabus that was approved by the statutory bodies of the University last week.

The new syllabus shall be operational from the academic year 2007-08. Under the credit rating system, the students shall be judged for their work throughout the course. The teachers have to constantly assess and grade the students.

The credit system is especially useful to students who plan to study abroad, a University release here said.

The new syllabus is open to graduates in any field who are interested in media studies, students with a postgraduate diploma in mass communication and also media professionals who want to obtain a Masters in Communication and Journalism.

Students seeking admission to the Department of Communication and Journalism will have to submit a statement of purpose along with their application. They also need to submit testimonials from two teachers, from the institution they studied, stating the reasons in favour of the candidate to pursue the course. This is a way of getting teachers involved in the careers of their students.

Students will have to undergo a written test where theory questions shall be asked, a group discussion, and an interview to qualify for an admission to the course. The duration of the course is four semesters.

UNI