When looking at a list of top J-schools in the country, it is hard to miss the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse, Bangalore. Fostering the best minds for India’s future media industry, the institute trains a highly talented crop of students from all walks of life. The college offers top-class guidance from experienced faculty and state-of-the-art facilities to polish future journalistic talents. 

Choosing a career can be a taxing process. Finding an area of study that sparks your interest and simultaneously helps you make a difference in the world can be tricky. However, if pursuing the truth as a journalist has been your dream, the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse can help you realize it. 

Let’s take a quick walk through everything the institute has to offer to all aspiring journalists. With the help of this guide, we can figure out everything you need to know about pursuing a career in media.   

National School of Journalism and Public Discourse Bangalore College Overview 

• Location: ASKB Campus, Anandnagar, Hebbal, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560024.
• Campus area: 18 acres.
• Number of departments: 4.
• Establishment Year: 2014.
• Ownership type: Private.
• Approved by: University Grants Commission (UGC).
• Affiliated to: Bengaluru City University (UG Programmes).

Established in 2014 to nurture a future of ethical journalism in Indian media, we see an educational institution ahead of its time in the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse (NSoJ). Located within 14 acres of the Atria City of Learning, students of the NSoJ get a chance to investigate any story, explore the heart of Bangalore City, and utilize the best of their journalistic talents. Further, to make the education here more inviting, the curriculum is by the NEP 2020. 

Founded by the top names in Indian media, the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse offers a more hands-on learning approach than you might expect. As expected from one of the best schools in the country for print media, students at NSoJ receive real-time newsroom training rather than classroom education. Students with the highest-quality facilities and educators, have access to cutting-edge newsgathering, production, and broadcasting technology. 

In 2021, the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse was ranked among the top 50 media schools in the country. Encouraging diversity in classrooms, NSoJ has a highly inclusive intake in terms of gender, geography, language, culture, and socioeconomic background. The institute aims to train students into capable and ethical professionals and nurture them into sensitive human beings. 

At NSoJ, the students are not only trained for today’s media industry but also to meet the needs of the industry for the coming decade. Suppose the idea of continuing your academic journey at NSoJ looks exciting. In that case, you are heartily invited to experience the ambiance of the institute firsthand and enroll in the course you think suits your interests. 

National School of Journalism and Public Discourse Bangalore Courses and Eligibility Criteria 

Navigating an unequal world is difficult, and unearthing the truths of this world requires specialized training. National School of Journalism and Public Discourse, Bangalore, aims to do this. With various undergraduate and postgraduate courses offered, all you have to do for a successful career is take your pick. The administrative and support staff of the institute are ready to help you through every step of the admission process. 

The following are the Undergraduate Programmes offered at NSoJ. The curriculum of each course is affiliated with Bengaluru City University and by NEP 2020. 

Integrated Honours Degree in Journalism (BA Journalism)

Media and communications is an industry that has always held great importance in society. With an increasing need for the public to be aware of everything happening around them, the world needs industry-ready journalists. This course is tailored with this exact goal in mind.

The diverse faculty and community at NSoJ facilitate the transformation of students into efficient and confident professionals ready for global careers. From understanding the roots of journalism to getting familiarised with the influence of the internet on media, the programme covers everything needed to make you a pro, ready for the newsroom.

Across the four years, you will spend at NSoJ, you get a chance to learn over 20 professional skills and get to apply them in an internship of six months with the industry’s bests. With research projects and international workshops and speakers to accelerate your journey as a journalist, NSoJ helps you become the expert you aspired to be. 

Eligibility: Those who have completed class XII (ISC, CBSE, A-levels, or equivalent) apply for the Integrated Honours degree programme in Journalism at NSoJ. The applicant should have secured a minimum first class (60%) or equivalent grade in the class XII exam. The course is also open to those who are yet to receive their results. 

Integrated Honours Degree in Psychology (BA/ B Sc Psychology)

At the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse, Psychology courses were introduced to meet the rising demand for mental health professionals in the country. With increasing awareness about the need for psychological well-being and the recent pandemic, people seek help more than ever. The NSoJ aims to produce empathic and ethical mental health professionals who are well-versed in various psychology fields, from clinical and organizational settings to research and counseling.

Along with the up-to-date curriculum of the institution, students here also benefit from state-of-the-art lab facilities to hone their natural inquisitiveness. The students get a chance to administer and interpret the results of various psychometrics and related tests, further giving them a professional insight into human behaviour.

The internship and research project mandated for the students opens up an opportunity to take their textbook knowledge into the field and understand its implications and consequences. If communication, understanding, and intuitiveness are qualities that you wish to utilize to make a change in the world, this course is something that you need to consider. 

Eligibility: To be considered for the programme, the applicant needs to have completed class XII (ISC, CBSE, A-levels, or equivalent). Securing a minimum first class (60%) or equivalent grade in class XII is mandatory to be eligible for admission. The student can still apply for the course if the results are yet to be published. 

Integrated Honours Degree in English (BA English)

Committed to enriching the students’ lives, the NSoJ offers an Integrated Honours Degree in English. This course is one of the most popular courses at the institute, thanks to the talented and persevering faculty behind it. Languages are an integral tool of communication and one of the best ways to channel your cognitive abilities. If you are an aspiring writer, or literature enthusiast or love improving your communication skills, this course can help you get far.

This challenging course has rigorous selection criteria and chooses a batch of aspirants to train in literary studies. By the end of the programme, the students are competent in techniques and methods of reading and writing to aid clarity, critical inquiry, and creative expression. To the individual’s needs, skills, and interests, training is provided to familiarize with the writing process and experiment with form, genre, and style. Under this programme, you work with experienced scholars and eminent persons from the field.    

Eligibility: Anyone who has completed class XII in ISC, CBSE, A-levels, or other equivalents may apply for the Integrated Honours degree programme in English at NSoJ. The applicant should have secured a minimum first class (60%) or equivalent grade in the same. NRIs and Persons with Foreign Passports need to check the specific guidelines mentioned for them before applying. 

Integrated Honours Degree in Political Science (BA Political Science)

Political science is the best way to understand how to be an effective citizen. This undergraduate course in political science prepares you to become an active participant in your society and participate in the political arena of your community and your nation. Considering how the world’s political climate is turning out to be, being educated about discipline and its functioning can be your added advantage.

Along with a wide range of minor specializations to choose from, a student in this course can graduate as someone with the right skill set to advocate for justice and the rights of the marginalized. If critical thinking is a quality that you possess and wish to put to good use, pursuing an Integrated Honours Degree in Political Science is the best choice for you. The country needs more professionals in policymaking and governance, and this programme polishes the finest talents into industry-ready professionals.   

Eligibility: To enroll in the political science course, those who have completed class XII with a minimum first class (60%) or equivalent grade can start the admission process. Students from ISC, CBSE, A-levels or its equivalent can also apply for the programme The course is also open to those who are yet to receive their results. 

Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism (P.G.D.J.)

For those who wish to pursue higher studies, the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse also offers postgraduate programmes. As of May 2022, the college is open for a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism (P.G.D.J.). For an influential and dynamic career, you can opt for an 11-month course in either Broadcast Media or Print and Convergence Media. If you are fully prepared for a period of intensive fieldwork and application of course theory, this P.G.D.J. is what you need to kickstart your career.

Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism – Broadcast Media

Television, radio, and digital broadcast media need more skilled hands on deck to achieve their goals. The National School of Journalism and Public Discourse ranking is among the best regarding this programme. Immersing the students in a professional atmosphere from the get-go, this course gives them a chance to excel at what they do. They also get a chance to network with professionals before entering the job pool. 

Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism – Print & Convergence Media

Many say that print media is a dying industry. As much as it is not entirely true, it is right that the sector needs fresh talent to revive it. This course trains the students for a career in magazine journalism, traditional news media, and a combination of photography and video journalism. With this training, students can unite the old and new forms of news media into a hybrid channel that suits all kinds of viewers.  

Eligibility: Keeping it simple, applicants who already have an undergraduate or bachelor’s degree or those in the final year of their undergraduate degree can apply for this P.G.D.J. course. Since the media field thrives on diversity and benefits from multiple perspectives, applicants from a wide range of professional and educational backgrounds are encouraged to apply. 

Prior education or professional training in journalism is not required. 

Admissions to this course are highly competitive, and the selectors will also consider academic and relevant extra-curricular achievements. Any prior journalistic work, such as published articles, blog posts, podcasts, or other broadcast material, is an added advantage.  

Admission Procedure 

The applicants to the Integrated Honours programme and Postgraduate Diploma courses are shortlisted and selected through an intake process in three batches. The college accepts applications in 3 intakes. The first intake closes on 28th February 2022. The second and third intakes close on 30th April 2022 and 31st May 2022, respectively. 

Currently, admissions for the academic year 2022-23 are open. Seize this opportunity now. Classes for the academic year 2022-23 commence around September 2022. Any date changes will be diligently notified through the website or other platforms. 

For residents of Karnataka and other Indian states, the admission process is fairly straightforward. For international students, referring to the embassy guidelines and the college administrative staff can smoothen the process. 

The fee structure and related details are explained later in this article.

Application Procedure

The process to apply for admissions at the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse is as follows:

• The first step is to sign up on the admission portal with your details and an email address for future communication regarding admissions. Once registered, an application fee of INR 1,000/- is to be paid via bank transfer to the account details mentioned on the college website and the admission portal. 
• The next step is to submit the filled registration form. On registration, you will receive a username and password, which can be activated from your email address. Once registered, you can log in and start your application form. If you encounter any technical difficulties or need help, the help desk is always equipped to help. Completing the application form on time is essential to securing admission. Be sure to enter only correct information and documents within the prescribed size and format. Failure to do so can result in the candidate’s application being disqualified. 

Note that the applications can also be done offline, even though an online application is encouraged. If necessary, the college will email you a physical copy of the application form. 

• Shortlisted candidates for admission will be notified within the specified period. These applicants are invited to take the Objective Structured Assessment (OSA). It comprises an hour-long written examination designed to test the candidates’ fitness and aptitude for the applied programmes and an interview.
• Candidates who successfully clear these assessments will be notified immediately after the interview with an offer of admission. Candidates who have yet to complete their qualifying exams will receive a conditional offer. 

Documents Required 

Admission to the institute is only provisional until you submit your specified documents. Remember to submit the originals of each of the documents mentioned below:

1. 10th Marks Card and Passing Certificate.
2. 12th Marks Card and Passing Certificate.
3. 10 Latest passport-size photographs.
4. Ten stamp-size photographs.
5. Proof of Date of Birth.
6. Conduct Certificate issued by the Head of a previously attended Institution.
7. Transfer Certificate (TC).
8. Migration Certificate (only for students who are from other states).
9. Aadhar card.
10. SC/ST certificate (if applicable).
11. Physical fitness medical certificate.
12. Income certificate.
13. Medical certificate from a licensed practitioner.

Reminder: The admission is only provisional until the above documents are produced at the right time and in the right format.  

National School of Journalism and Public Discourse Bangalore Facilities 

National School of Journalism and Public Discourse has the finest infrastructure compared to any J-school in India. The campus has high-speed internet connectivity, a trendy newsroom, a state-of-the-art television news studio, and a glorious auditorium.

Newsroom 

The aspiring journalists of NSoJ do not learn in classrooms but in the country’s trendiest newsrooms. Under the guidance of India’s most experienced journalists, they see that the students there are inspired to think creatively and critically. With each student having access to a lounge and library, the stimulating work environment encourages them to produce their best work. 

Studio and Production Control Room

Most students graduate without having a taste of what the professional work environment looks like. This is not the case at NSoJ. The broadcast level sound-proof and sound-damped studio for the students features broadcast video cameras, green mat background, LED studio lighting, microphones, and a teleprompter to broadcast specifications. By filming daily news bulletins, television talk shows, and radio interviews in the studio, you can understand the ins and outs of the field you will be entering.

Auditorium 

This grand 100-seat auditorium with terraced seating, dual projectors, and a high-tech sound and public address system is an asset to the NSoJ. Here, you will listen to talks by eminent personalities and attend diverse cultural events. The auditorium is also open to screening short films, documentaries, and feature-length movies (for reviews). One can also stream video in high definition.

Accommodation 

Arrangements for accommodation are given to students who need them on a first-come, first-serve basis. A twin-sharing facility includes food, wi-fi, and other basic amenities. The premises are hygienic and regularly maintained. To know more about the cost and availability of the facilities, contact the admissions office upon receiving an offer of admission. 

Technology 

As media industry professionals, the students must deeply understand the latest technology in the field. NSoJ has all the cutting-edge newsgathering, production, and broadcasting equipment so that they can gain practical knowledge. The students are also instructed in using software tools commonly used in media organizations in India and internationally for global career opportunities.

National School of Journalism and Public Discourse Bangalore Fee Structure  

The National School of Journalism and Public Discourse fee (in INR) for the different undergraduate and postgraduate courses for a year is as tabulated below:

COURSE	Karnataka Students	Non-Karnataka Students	International Students
BA Journalism (Hons)	1,10,000/-	1,15,000/-	1,90,000/-
BA/BSc Psychology (Hons)	95,000/-	1,00,000/-	1,75,000/-
BA English (Hons)	85,000/-	90,000/-	1,65,000/-
BA Political science (Hons)	85,000/-	90,000/-	1,65,000/-
PG Diploma in Print, Broadcast, and Digital Media	2,36,000/-		3,95,000/-

Scholarship & Financial Aid

Scholarships and financial assistance are provided to those who deserve it. To remove the barrier of finance when it comes to obtaining a quality education, the NSoJ offers two scholarships and assistance programmes. The Purrah Merit scholarship is given to need-based students who have deserving grades. 

The Financial Assistance Programme also has a surplus of funds for students enrolling for the academic year 2022-23 in both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Contact the admissions office upon receipt of an offer of acceptance to clarify your doubts regarding scholarships. 

Mentoring & Internships

For students to grow in a holistic environment, they are assigned mentors to guide them through their learning process. These mentors are usually senior journalists whose interests, skills, and energies complement the students’. 

We see the pair exploring career opportunities while growing as a person and a professional. In these arrangements, work ethics, professional attitudes, in-depth technical knowledge, and realistic work culture expectations are exchanged between the mentor and mentee. 

NSoJ boasts of faculty who are well-connected with the professional world. The students under their wings enjoy the benefits of these networking skills. Each student gets to complete an internship for a month at leading news organizations in the country. 

Since the NSoJ practices the standards of the global media industry, the students seamlessly fit into the work culture of the top media firms such as The Caravan, BBC Hindi, and other organizations. Undoubtedly, the student journalists who practice at these news organizations leave a positive impression with their quick learning abilities and relevant technical skills. 

Placements and Scope

NSoJ has a reputation for its top talents being scouted by the best news agencies in the world. CNN-Network 18, CNBC, Deccan Chronicle, and The Hindu are a few top recruiters of the NSoJ graduates. There is no shortage of career opportunities once you have been trained at the NSoJ. 

Thanks to the careful consideration of students before admitting them into each programme, the faculty can give their undivided attention to the 20 students from each class. Due to this highly selective and intensive training, the placement opportunities for each student are enhanced exponentially. You can find the right platform to showcase your merit once you join the student body of NSoJ. 

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse ranking?

The NSoJ is one of the top J-schools in the country. Since its inception in 2014, India Today has ranked it at the 27th position in the list of best media schools in the country. 

• Are there placements after graduating from the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse Psychology courses? 

Yes, there are plenty of career opportunities for students who graduate from NSoJ’s Integrated Honours in Psychology programme. 

• What is the purpose of mentors at the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse?

Mentors are seasoned professionals with a wealth of experience. They partner with student mentees to impart their knowledge, skills, and pro tips. The college ensures that the mentor and the student are compatible regarding interests and energies.

• What are some of the best facilities at NSoJ?

NSoJ has an impressive newsroom, a studio and production control room, and an auditorium. These facilities are ideal settings for students to grow accustomed to their future work environments.

Conclusion

If you’re keen on a career in journalism, mass media, communications, or broadcasting, the National School of Journalism and Public Discourse may be the right place for you. If you’re curious about admissions, application procedures, or rankings, my team and I will be happy to help you—all free. Give us a call or drop a message, and we’ll navigate your college education choices together!