Educational Requirements
Education Requirements for Becoming a Feature Writer
To become a successful feature writer in India, a combination of education, skills, and experience is essential. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
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Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in journalism, English, communications, or a related field is highly recommended. These programs provide a strong foundation in writing, reporting, and storytelling.
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Master's Degree (Optional): While not always required, a master's degree in journalism or a specialized field can enhance your expertise and career prospects.
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Relevant Coursework: Focus on courses such as:
- Creative Writing
- Journalism Ethics
- Feature Writing
- Digital Media
- Communication Theory
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Skills Development:
- Excellent Writing Skills: Master the art of crafting engaging and informative narratives.
- Research Skills: Develop strong research abilities to gather accurate and compelling information.
- Interviewing Skills: Learn how to conduct effective interviews to extract valuable insights.
- Adaptability: Be prepared to write on a wide range of topics and adapt to different writing styles.
- Networking: Build connections with editors, journalists, and other professionals in the field.
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Internships: Gain practical experience through internships at newspapers, magazines, online publications, or media companies. Internships provide valuable hands-on training and networking opportunities.
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Portfolio Building: Create a portfolio of your best writing samples to showcase your skills to potential employers. Include a variety of feature articles, blog posts, and other relevant content.
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Continuous Learning: Stay updated with the latest trends in journalism and digital media through workshops, seminars, and online courses.
Study Path
Top Colleges
To pursue a successful career as a feature writer in India, choosing the right college is crucial. Here are some of the top colleges and institutions known for their journalism and mass communication programs:
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Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), New Delhi:
- Courses Offered: Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism (various specializations).
- Why Choose: IIMC is one of the premier institutions for mass communication in India, known for its experienced faculty and industry-oriented curriculum.
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Asian College of Journalism (ACJ), Chennai:
- Courses Offered: Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism.
- Why Choose: ACJ offers a rigorous program with a focus on practical training and industry exposure.
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Symbiosis Institute of Media & Communication (SIMC), Pune:
- Courses Offered: MBA in Communication Management, MA in Journalism and Mass Communication.
- Why Choose: SIMC provides a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with a strong emphasis on media management.
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Xavier Institute of Communications (XIC), Mumbai:
- Courses Offered: Diploma in Journalism and Mass Communication (various specializations).
- Why Choose: XIC is known for its practical approach to media education and its strong industry connections.
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Department of Communication and Journalism, University of Pune:
- Courses Offered: MA in Communication and Journalism.
- Why Choose: The University of Pune offers a comprehensive program with a focus on research and academic excellence.
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Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi:
- Courses Offered: BA (Hons) in Mass Media, MA in Convergent Journalism.
- Why Choose: Jamia Millia Islamia provides a well-rounded education in media studies with a focus on practical skills and ethical journalism.
Fees
The cost of pursuing a career as a feature writer can vary widely depending on the type of institution, course, and location. Here’s a detailed overview of the fee structures:
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Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor's Degree):
- Government Colleges: INR 10,000 to INR 30,000 per year. These colleges offer affordable education with moderate infrastructure.
- Private Colleges: INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 per year. Private institutions usually have better facilities and a wider range of courses.
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Postgraduate Programs (Master's Degree/Diploma):
- Government Institutes: INR 20,000 to INR 50,000 per year. These are highly subsidized and offer quality education.
- Private Institutes: INR 1,00,000 to INR 5,00,000 per year. The fees can be higher due to advanced resources and specialized programs.
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Diploma Courses:
- Government Polytechnics: INR 5,000 to INR 20,000 per year. These offer vocational training at a low cost.
- Private Institutes: INR 30,000 to INR 1,50,000 per year. The cost depends on the course duration and specialization.
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Additional Costs:
- Study Materials: INR 5,000 to INR 15,000 per year.
- Accommodation: INR 3,000 to INR 10,000 per month (hostel or shared accommodation).
- Miscellaneous Expenses: INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 per month (transport, food, etc.).
Related Exams
To excel as a feature writer, there aren't specific entrance exams like those for engineering or medicine. However, certain skills and qualifications can be enhanced through relevant courses and certifications. Here’s a breakdown:
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Journalism and Mass Communication Entrance Exams: For students aiming for a formal education in journalism, several universities and colleges conduct entrance exams. These exams typically assess:
- General Knowledge: Awareness of current affairs, history, and social issues.
- Language Proficiency: English language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension.
- Aptitude for Journalism: Understanding of journalistic principles, ethics, and practices.
- Writing Skills: Ability to write clearly, concisely, and effectively.
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Popular Entrance Exams: Some well-known entrance exams in India include:
- IIMC Entrance Exam: Conducted by the Indian Institute of Mass Communication for various diploma courses.
- ACJ Entrance Exam: Conducted by the Asian College of Journalism for postgraduate diploma courses.
- Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET): For admission to Symbiosis Institute of Media & Communication.
- Manorama School of Communication (MASCOM) Entrance Exam: For postgraduate diploma courses.
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Skill-Based Assessments: Feature writing relies heavily on skills that can be assessed through:
- Writing Tests: Many employers and publications conduct writing tests to evaluate candidates' writing abilities.
- Portfolio Reviews: A strong portfolio showcasing diverse writing samples is crucial.
- Interview Performance: Demonstrating communication skills, knowledge of current affairs, and understanding of journalistic ethics during interviews.
Exam Name | Exam Date |
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Pros And Cons
Pros
- Creative Freedom to Explore Diverse Topics.
- Opportunity to Impact Readers and Inform Public.
- Flexible Work Environment in Many Cases.
- Continuous Learning and Skill Development.
- Networking with Interesting People and Experts.
- Potential for High Earning with Experience.
- Recognition and Visibility for Published Work.
- Contributing to Society Through Storytelling.
Cons
- Competitive Job Market with High Demand.
- Income Instability, Especially Freelancing.
- Tight Deadlines and High-Pressure Situations.
- Extensive Research and Fact-Checking Required.
- Rejection and Criticism from Editors/Readers.
- Long Hours and Irregular Work Schedules.
- Need to Stay Updated with Current Trends.
- Ethical Dilemmas and Responsibilities.