Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Digital Media (BA Journalism and Digital Media) under the Union Government’s New Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The programme is offered by the School of Journalism and New Media Studies and is available in English medium, delivered via open and distance learning.

The course structure allows students to choose between a three-year honours or a four-year honours pathway, the latter incorporating a research component. It is divided into eight semesters spanning a minimum of three years and up to a maximum of eight years. Students may also exit early with a certificate after one year or diploma after two years.

CURRICULUM AND SKILLS IMPARTED

The curriculum encompasses a comprehensive range of subjects:

• Core journalism skills: reporting, writing, editing, and publishing

• Digital media techniques: digital photography, audiovisual production, podcasts, news portal creation

• Data focus: data journalism, big data, data mining, R programming, analytics, statistics

• Research tools: internet research methods, digital media economics, marketing communications

The aim is to equip students with interdisciplinary expertise suited to modern digital journalism and media analysis.

FEES AND ELIGIBILITY

Admission is open to candidates who have completed 10+2 or an equivalent qualification. There is no age limit. The fee is 10,600 per year, excluding registration and development charges. Semester examinations and other additional fees apply as per IGNOU norms.

This ODL programme is offered nationwide through IGNOU’s extensive network, with numerous regional and study centres across India (e.g., Hyderabad, Shimla, Noida). Programme coordinators can be contacted via phone (01129571601, 1602) or email (bajdm@ignou.ac.in).

IGNOU supports learners through printed materials, audiovideo content, tele-counselling, live sessions, and facetoface contact classes at study centres, with tutor-marked assignments making up 30% of course evaluation.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Graduates will find opportunities as multimedia reporters, digital content writers, social media managers, podcast producers, data journalists, media analysts, or academic research assistants. Roles in digital marketing, media strategy, ethics and AR/VR storytelling are also anticipated, leveraging the integrated skill set provided by the programme.

This new BA marks IGNOU’s commitment to the NEP2020 vision, fostering flexible, multidisciplinary higher education tailored to evolving media landscapes.

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