Mass Communication vs Journalism: What's the difference?

Students often get confused about these two related but different terms. Mass communication is an umbrella term which refers to the study of the masses i.e., human communication at the local, national or international level and its process in the realm of mass media. While mass communication deals with numerous fields of communication including news, public relations, advertising, television, internet, and films, on the other hand, journalism is one of the several aspects of mass communication. It involves writing about news and current affairs.

Journalism is more conventional in its approach, with information and facts taking centre stage, whereas mass media is broader with more choices.

Career planning

If you plan to pursue mass communication as a discipline, then you need to learn about the various processes and nuances of human communication operating in the sphere of mass media- newspapers, magazines, television, internet, cinema, etc. While in order to be a successful journalist, you need to have a keen interest in news and current affairs and have a command on speaking and writing skills.

In broader sense journalism tilts towards news reporting, be it for newspapers, magazines or television, while mass communication is a broader field encompassing films, online media, documentary, television, radio, graphics, events, advertising, corporate communications and so on.

Similarly, if you are interested in cultural studies, advertising, public relations, documentary, feature films, radio, and television programming, you are likely to succeed in the mass communication discipline.

Growth opportunities

Taking into account the job prospects, there are opportunities in both fields. As a journalist, you can take up work in various news media organizations such as news agencies, television, and radio news channels, newspapers, magazines and news portals.

If you want to make a career in mass communication, you are likely to go in varied fields such as NGOs, public relations, advertising agencies, corporate communication, communication solution organizations, UN, and media academics among others.

Want to make a career in the media industry? Check out various Mass Communication courses and career opportunities at the Times School of Media, Bennett University.

Disclaimer: This a promotional content for Bennett University.