The ACJ, also known as the Asian College of Journalism, is a well-known institution in Chennai, India, offering education and training programs focused on journalism. The ACJ website underscores the crucial role of reporting and writing as the core disciplines of journalism, highlighting their importance in enabling journalists to gather and present news effectively.
Core courses
The core courses at the Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) are designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to become successful journalists. The ACJ curriculum aims to prepare students with the knowledge and skills necessary to produce high-quality journalism that is accurate, fair, and informative. The courses are designed to give students a solid grounding in the principles of journalism and the practical skills needed to excel in a fast-paced and ever-changing industry. Two core courses are Reporting, Writing and Editing, and Tools of the Modern Journalist.
The Reporting, Writing, and Editing course focuses on the practical skills required to gather and effectively present the news. Students are taught to report quickly without sacrificing accuracy and to write concisely without compromising clarity. They learn the basics of news writing, including how to structure a news story, write headlines, and lead paragraphs. They also learn how to identify and write newsworthy stories and how to develop sources for their reporting.
In addition, students in this course learn essential editing skills, such as copy editing, fact-checking, and headline writing. They are also introduced to the principles of newsroom management, including how to assign stories, manage deadlines, and work with other journalists in a collaborative environment.
The Tools of the Modern Journalist course covers a wide range of essential skills and techniques for modern journalists. These include photojournalism, interviewing skills, and the art of developing sources. Students learn how to use computer-assisted reporting, research tools, and new media resources such as social media and online databases.
The course also covers using and abusing statistics and teaches students how to create compelling graphics, layouts, and designs for their stories. The emphasis is on practical skills essential for journalists in today's fast-paced media environment.
Students are encouraged to work on real-world assignments and projects throughout both courses, often in collaboration with their peers. They receive feedback and guidance from experienced journalists and educators, who help them hone their skills and develop their voices as reporters and writers.
The Asian College of Journalism (ACJ) in Chennai, India, is a renowned institution that offers a comprehensive journalism education program. This program will equip students with the skills and knowledge to become successful journalists. The program is divided into various terms, each focusing on different areas of journalism.
Key Issues in Journalism
This course is the first term's core course covering different journalism aspects. It comprises two types of lectures: The first is intended to help students gain a foundational understanding of the profession. The second lecture deals with substantive issues of current relevance, such as fake news, ethics, and media ownership.
Media Perspectives
This course is designed to give students a sense of the history and characteristics of the news media in India and their possible future development. Students will explore the various forms of media in India, the role of media in shaping public opinion, and the evolution of media over time.
The Media Law and Society
This course considers the entire range of laws that apply to various media in India, focusing on their professional and social implications. Students will learn about defamation, privacy, freedom of speech and expression, and media regulation. By the end of the course, students will have a deep understanding of how laws impact journalism and society.
Specialization and Elective Courses
In the second term, students begin to specialize in their chosen areas of interest, taking elective courses to further enhance their knowledge and skills in specific areas of journalism. Students can explore sports journalism, environmental journalism, business journalism, and more.
Investigative Report and Dissertation
In the final term, students dedicate much time to producing an investigative report and dissertation. This project is the culmination of their learning and experiences throughout the program. It allows students to apply the skills and knowledge gained in the program to a specific area of journalism they are passionate about.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the ACJ program, applicants must meet specific requirements. Here are the eligibility criteria for the journalism program at ACJ.
Educational Qualification: Applicants must have completed a Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university. Candidates in their final year of graduation can also apply, but their admission will be subject to the submission of proof of graduation within the specified date.
Age Limit: There is no specific age limit for admission to the program. However, applicants must be at least 20 years old by the time the program starts.
English Language Proficiency: Since the program is conducted entirely in English, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in the language. Applicants from non-English speaking countries must submit scores from an English proficiency test, such as TOEFL or IELTS.
Entrance Exam: Candidates must take an entrance exam as part of the admission process. The exam assesses the candidate's ability to comprehend and analyze text and their knowledge of current affairs.
Work Experience: While work experience is not mandatory for admission, candidates with prior work experience in journalism or related fields are given preference during the selection process.
Statement of Purpose: Applicants must submit information of purpose outlining their interest in journalism and why they wish to pursue the program at ACJ.
Personal Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited for a personal interview, which assesses their suitability for the program.
