Mudra Institute of Communication Ahmedabad (MICA) has introduced six advanced courses for 2nd year students. The courses are film making, content generation, marketing models, behavioural economics, news report writing and change and persuation agentry.
These courses are, however, optional, as a 2nd year student can choose either dissertation or any two of these courses. This is first time since its inception that MICA has made dissertation optional for students.
Dr Shubhra P Gaur of MICA, who is one of the co- ordinators of the advanced courses, said: "Research- based dissertation is not relevant to all our students. Hence, we have given them an option. Each of the six courses offered this year has been developed keeping in mind the emerging requirements of the industry and the evolving role of communication in corporate organizations."
She said almost 50 %of students have opted for advanced courses, clearly reflecting the interest levels these courses have generated. 72 out of 162 students have applied for the advanced course module this year. These courses are based on higher- level readings, case- based discussions, live project assignments and innovative evaluation methods.
According to Pritish Mukherjee, a 2nd year student who has opted for film making and change and persuasion agentry, "Two of the most popular courses are film making and content creation with 31 students opting for the former and 30 for the latter. I have chosen film making for the simple reason that I would like to get into account planning in an advertising agency, This course will give me an edge and helping me communicate with the creative team and will provide me with some knowledge of film making."