The Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) has opened applications for its prestigious MA in Media Business Studies and MA in Strategic Communication for the 2025 academic session. These 2-year full-time programs aim to create industry-ready professionals for corporate communications, PR agencies, and media management roles. With only 60 seats per specialization, admission will be through a rigorous written test, group discussion, and personal interview process.
This marks IIMC’s first expansion beyond journalism programs, responding to India’s 34% growth in media business jobs (ASSOCHAM 2024 report). The courses blend classroom learning with internships at partner organizations like Times Group, Edelman, and Ministry of I&B. Early applicants stand to benefit from the institute’s new Media Leadership Scholarship worth ₹50,000.
Program Comparison at a Glance
| Parameter | Media Business Studies | Strategic Communication |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Media Economics, Analytics | PR, Crisis Communication |
| Eligibility | Graduation (50%+) | Graduation (45%+) |
| Entrance Exam | IIMC MAT (June 15, 2025) | Same |
| Fee Structure | ₹1.4L/year | ₹1.2L/year |
| Top Recruiters | Disney+Hotstar, Dentsu | Adfactors, Genesis BCW |
(Source: IIMC Prospectus 2025)
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Registration: Visit iimc.nic.in before May 30, 2025
- Form Filling:
- Choose specialization (Business/Communication)
- Upload marksheets (Class 10 to graduation)
- Application Fee:
- General/OBC: ₹1200
- SC/ST/PwD: ₹600
- Admit Card: Download from June 5
- Entrance Test: June 15 at 12 centers nationwide
Key Dates:
- Last date to apply: May 30
- Interview shortlist: July 1
- Final merit list: July 20
Placement Highlights (2024 Data)
- Average Package: ₹8.5 LPA
- Highest Package: ₹14.2 LPA (GroupM)
- Placement Rate: 92% in 3 months
- Internship Stipend: ₹15,000-25,000/month
Top Roles Offered:
- Media Planner (25% batch)
- Corporate Communications Specialist (30%)
- PR Account Manager (20%)
Why Choose IIMC Over Private Colleges?
- Government Accreditation: Only MIB-recognized media institute
- Faculty: 70% professors with 15+ years industry experience
- Infrastructure: New Bloomberg Terminal lab for business analytics
- Alumni Network: 15,000+ across media/PR sectors
Scholarship Opportunities
- Merit Scholarship: 100% fee waiver for top 3 rankers
- Girl Child Scholarship: 50% concession
- Defense Quota: Additional 25% fee reimbursement
Documents Required:
- Income certificate
- Previous year’s mark sheet
- Category certificate (if applicable)
Preparation Tips for IIMC MAT 2025
- Syllabus Focus:
- Current affairs (50% weightage)
- Media terminology (30%)
- Logical reasoning (20%)
- Recommended Books:
- “Media Today” by Joseph Turow
- “Strategic Communication” by Jesper Falkheimer
- Mock Tests: 5 free tests available on IIMC portal
Final Advice for Applicants
The MA in Media Business Studies & Strategic Communication at IIMC offers unparalleled access to India’s media elite. With the 2025 intake being the first batch, students will shape the program’s legacy. Early applicants have higher chances, as 40% seats may fill in Round 1 itself.