Mass communication is a very dynamic field that has grown over the years in Kenya, majorly due to the changing times that have shaped its media and brought about a demand for more refined and professional services. This article delves into critical information about mass communication as a course in the country, careers offered, and the leading institutions to pursue the subject.
Meaning of Mass Communication
Mass communication can be viewed as the process of disseminating information to a large audience using media. It covers a wide area of topics such as journalism, public relations, advertisement, and digital media. Due to the invention of digital platforms, the field has further extended and provides numerous career opportunities for aspiring communicators.
Popular Mass Communication Courses in Kenya
Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication
The journalism and mass communication diploma is one of the most sought-after courses by those seeking to venture into the media industry. Such a course generally covers media law and ethics, news writing, broadcasting, and digital media production. This course is designed to help equip learners with practical skills and theoretical knowledge that is important in having a successful Mass Communication career.
A Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication
There is a degree course offered in journalism and mass communication for those who would wish to get further into the field. It provides an advanced understanding with comprehensive training in specialized modules in the course, such as investigative journalism, media management, and multimedia storytelling. The graduates from this course can be suited to fill up leading positions in any media organization or venture into research and academic fields.
Leading Institutions to Study Mass Communication Courses in Kenya
Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC)
KIMC is one of the greatest institutions in which mass communication programs are offered at both diploma and degree levels. Accompanied by state-of-the-art facilities, it offers a practical learning environment. The Kenya Institute of Mass Communication fees structure is designed to be pocket-friendly to ensure fair access to a great number of students.
- Courses offered: The College offers both Diploma and Degree courses in Journalism and Mass Communication.
- Facilities: Modern studios, editing suites, and a well-stocked library.
- Alumni: Majority of the country’s top journalists and media practitioners.
University of Nairobi
The University of Nairobi’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication is one of the most prestigious institutions in the country that offers comprehensive programs on journalism and mass communication. It is sought after depending on its level of academic excellence and research works.
- Programs Available: Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication.
- Resources: It boasts of the most advanced structures in terms of research centers, digital media labs, and large libraries.
- Prominent Alumni: Great media practitioners and researchers.
Daystar University
Daystar University has particularly been successful in offering ethics and practicum in its Communication coursework. Students undergo an undergraduate and postgraduate course experience, an experience that molds them to be all-rounded individuals.
- Programs Available: Bachelor of Communication and Master of Communication.
- Resources: Media production studios, radio stations, digital media center.
- Distinguished Graduates: Leading Journalists, Media Executive, and Communication Experts.
Cluster Points and Admission
Diploma in Mass Communication and Journalism Requirements
To enroll for a diploma course, generally one is required to have a mean grade of at least C- in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. Again some institutions may vary in terms of requirements.
Cluster Points for Journalism and Mass Communication
For diploma courses, the cluster points required may be lower, with generally a KCSE mean grade of C– (minus) or higher, and good grades in languages and humanities. Some may require candidates to pass an entrance exam or interview.
Journalism and Mass Communication Requirements
In most of the cases, diploma and degree courses will require one to have proficiency in English and Kiswahili, computer basics, while others may value extracurricular activities and previous experience in media-related fields.
Career Opportunities in Mass Communication
Graduates from mass communication have opportunities to work as:
- Journalists
- News anchors
- Editors
- Public relations officers
- Managers
- Advertising executives
- Event organizers
- Digital content creators
- Consultants in corporate communication
- Government establishments
- Non-profit-making organizations
- International media houses
The journalism material acquired during study equips the students with skill and know-how to perform functions in corporate communication, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and international media houses.
Duration of Mass Communication Course in Kenya
Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication
The degree program takes about two to three years, depending on the institution and the student’s mode of study. The mode, in this case, is full-time or part-time. That period includes theoretical as well as practical classes. Normally, internships or attachment programs are organized in media houses, which offer full training.
Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication
Most bachelor’s degree programs in journalism and mass communication typically last for four years of full-time enrollment. The period is inclusive of coursework, practical projects, and can even extend to a necessary internship in most of them. This combination of coursework and projects ensures thorough investment in the skills and knowledge that students can tap into to manage the day-to-day responsibilities in the media and communication industry.
Advanced Degrees
For postgraduate students, it usually takes a student approximately two years to acquire a graduate degree in Journalism and Mass communication. Doctorate programs are widely varying in duration, generally three to five years long depending on the field that a student is pursuing and their progress.
Non-Degree Courses and Professional Development
In addition, most institutions offer short courses and certificate programs in some specialized areas within mass communication. The courses can run from weeks to a number of months, and their aim is basically to provide special skills or knowledge in areas like digital media production, public relations, or even investigative journalism.
This has the great advantage to the intending students as it empowers them with knowledge of the time frame and structure of the coursework. From diplomas through degrees to postgraduate degrees, each level of education in mass communication presents different opportunities and challenges that ultimately define the media professionals in Kenya.
Prospective Students and Fees Structure
Prospective students will identify with the mass communication course fees in Kenya, hence help them in financial planning. Here is the overview of the fee structure at some of the leading institutions offering mass communication programs in Kenya:
Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC)
KIMC is one of the most esteemed Mass Communication institutions in Kenya. Its structure of fees for diploma and degree courses is friendly to all students but still manages to maintain the education standard.
Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication
- Tuition Fees: About KES 50,000 – KES 60,000 per semester
- Registration Fees: KES 2,000 one time
- Examination Fees: KES 5,000 per semester
- Library Fees: KES 1,500 per semester
- Accommodation Fees: KES 10,000 – KES 15,000 per semester (Optional)
Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication
- Tuition Fees: KES 70,000 – KES 80,000 Tuition Fees per semester
- Registration Fees: KSH 3,000 one-time
- Examination Fees: KSH 6,000 per semester
- Library Fees: KSH 2,000 per semester
- Accommodation Fees: KSH 12,000 – KSH 20,000 per semester (optional)
University of Nairobi
The University of Nairobi has an in-depth program in the field of journalism and mass communication at very competitive fees.
Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication
- Tuition Fees: KES 100,000 – KES 120,000 per semester
- Registration Fees: KES 4,000 (one-time)
- Examination Fees: KES 10,000 per semester
- Library Fees: KES 2,500 per semester
- Accommodation Fees: KES 15,000 – KES 25,000 per semester (optional)
Master of Arts in Journalism and Mass Communication
- Tuition Fees: KES 150,000 – KES 170,000 per semester
- Registration Fees: KES 5,000 (one-time)
- Examination Fees: KES 12,000 per semester
- Library Fees: K
Daystar University
The university is one of the well-respected in terms of the emphasis it lays in ethics and practice of communication studies. The structure of fees shows just that.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Tuition Fees: KES 90,000 – KES 110,000
- Registration Fees: KES 3,500 one-time
- Examination Fees: KES 8,000 per semester
- Library Fees: KES 2,000 per semester
- Accommodation Fees: KES 14,000 – KES 22,000 per semester (optional)
Master of Arts in Communication
- Tuition Fees: KES 130,000 – KES 150,000 per semester
- Registration Fees: KES 4,500 (one-time)
- Examination Fees: KES 10,000 per semester
- Library Fees: KES 2,500 per semester
- Accommodation Fees: KES 17,000 – KES 28,000 per semester (optional)
Other Costs
Other than the tuition and fees paid, students may have to budget for extra expenses like:
- Books and Supplies: KES 10,000 – KES 20,000 per year
- Personal Expenses: Varies
- Travel: Varies depending on the distance from the student’s home to the school
Advantages of Studying Mass Communication in Kenya
Kenya is one of the leading countries in Africa in terms of advanced media and communication. Some of the key benefits include:
Diverse Media Landscape
The country’s media landscape is one of the most diverse in the region, with numerous newspapers, television stations, radio stations, and online platforms. This provides students with a rich field of practice and employment opportunities after graduation.
Strong Professional Networks
There are several professional bodies and associations, such as the Media Council of Kenya, which regulate and support the media industry. These organizations provide students with networking opportunities and professional development resources.
Global Perspective
The media in Kenya covers both local and international news. This helps students to understand and adapt to global media trends, making them more competitive in the job market.
Practical Training
Most mass communication programs in Kenya emphasize practical training, with students getting the opportunity to work in real media environments through internships and attachments.
Conclusion
Mass communication course here in Kenya offers an array of opportunities for students seeking a dynamic and rewarding career. With a range of courses from diploma to degree and postgraduate studies, students can find programs that suit their interests and career goals. The institutions mentioned provide quality education, professional networks, and practical training that prepare students for success in the media industry. Prospective students should research and consider the costs, duration, and requirements of their chosen programs to make informed decisions about their education and career paths in mass communication.