Do you like watching funny commercials and dream of being the one creating them? Do you have a passion for writing and assume the title of “Grammar Nazi” among your friends? Are you always watching the latest Jacinda Ardern speeches?
If you appreciate these things, and have both the talent and interest to create them, then a course in mass communication could be right for you!
This guide explores everything you need to know about studying a Mass Communication course in Malaysia, from what it is and how it works, all the way to the career options that you will have.
International University of Malaya-Wales
Bachelor of Professional Communication (Hons)
Dual Award programme with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, UK
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#1. What is Mass Communication?
Mass Communication relates to information delivered to as many people as possible at virtually the same time. It involves various types of information — news, entertainment, branding, knowledge, advice — being relayed via newspapers, magazines, television, radio, advertisements and online channels.
One of the most exciting things about Mass Communication today is how it has rapidly evolved with the development of new media, namely the virtual world (“online”).
When you read the news online, watch TV and YouTube videos, or notice the latest billboards, you are being exposed to different channels and forms of Mass Communication!
What Are the Various Fields of Mass Communication?
These are the main fields usually covered with a Mass Communication degree:
| Field | What It Is All About |
|---|---|
| Advertising | Message to promote or sell products, services or ideas. You can see this everywhere, such as printed ads in newspapers and magazines, poster ads, billboards, and television and radio commercials. |
| Broadcasting | Distribution of audio and/or video content to a broad audience via any electronic mass communication medium (usually radio and television) |
| Journalism | Informs the general public about news, events and activities. You can see this in the form of newspapers, magazines, websites or TV. |
| Public Relations | Relates to the communication between an organisation or a person with the public and media |
| Marketing | Communicates the value of a company’s product or services to its customers, to maximise profitability while building a lasting relationship |
International University of Malaya-Wales
Bachelor of Professional Communication (Hons)
Dual Award programme with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, UK
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#2. Entry Requirements for Mass Communication
(a) What are the subjects required to study Mass Communication?
There are no required subjects you need to take to pursue Mass Communication. However, you need to have scored a credit for English at SPM or equivalent.
(b) Diploma in Mass Communication requirements
A Diploma in Mass Communication requires you to have at least 3 credits including English at SPM or equivalent.
(c) Mass Communication Degree Requirements
To pursue a Mass Communication Degree, you need to complete a pre-university programme and meet the entry requirements.
- A Levels: Minimum of 2Es
- STPM: Minimum 2Cs
- Australian Matriculation: Minimum of ATAR 55
- Foundation in Arts or Matrikulasi: Minimum CGPA of 2.00
- Diploma: Minimum CGPA of 2.00
In addition, you will also need a credit in English at SPM or equivalent.
#3. Studying Mass Communication in Malaysia
(a) What subjects will you study in an English course?
As part of a Mass Communication degree, you will take a variety of courses, usually including those that touch on advertising, journalism, communication skills, public relations, media literacy and types of mass media. It provides you with a wide range of industry-related knowledge, while allowing you to specialise in a focused area.
In your first year, you will typically learn about the basics of the industry. Some examples of subjects that are commonly taught in first-year Mass Communication degrees are:
- Introduction to Mass Communication
- Intercultural Communication
- Critical & Creative Thinking
- Communication Theory
- Media Writing
In your second and third year, you will usually be required to pick a field to major in (e.g. Advertising or Journalism). Some universities offer “Double Majors”, which means you get to pick more than one field to further your studies in.
For example, if you take a double major in Public Relations and Marketing, the subjects that are commonly taught are:
- Public Relations
- Professional Media
- Public Relations Consultancy
- Media Law & Ethics
- Crisis Management
- Marketing
- Brand Management
- E-Marketing
- Consumer Behavior
- Relationship Marketing
At some universities, a compulsory internship may be part of the university’s degree programme. This is something that you should definitely take advantage of since hands-on experience could lead you to a potential future employer!
(b) How long is Mass Communication?
Mass Communication degrees are generally 3 years long.
If you decide to do a Diploma instead, it is usually 2 to 2.5 years long. Upon successful completion of your Diploma, you can choose to either start working, or enter directly into Year 2 of a Degree in Mass Communication.
(c) How much does it cost to study Mass Communication in Malaysia?
A Mass Communication Degree could range from RM42,000 – RM95,000.
#4. Your Education Pathway for Mass Communication
Upon the completion of your SPM or equivalent qualification, you can opt to enrol into a pre-university (STPM, A Levels, etc.) or Foundation in Arts programme. Alternatively, you can also choose to pursue a Diploma in Mass Communication.
Completing a pre-university or a foundation programme will enable you to proceed to a Mass Communication Degree.
International University of Malaya-Wales
Bachelor of Professional Communication (Hons)
Dual Award programme with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, UK
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#5. Should You Study Mass Communication?
(a) Why should you pursue mass communication?
If you’re wondering whether you should study mass communication, here are some questions to think about:
- Do you consider yourself a creative person?
- Do you enjoy expressing yourself either through art, photos, videos or music?
- Do you like working with people?
- Are you comfortable being in front of the camera or dealing with the public?
- Do you enjoy working hands-on in a fast-paced environment?
- Are you comfortable with working long and unstructured hours?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, this creative course may be right for you!
(b) Skills required for Mass Communication
Here are some key skills a good mass communication graduate should have:
- Ability to communicate effectively across all platforms
- Global thinker with a general knowledge of social issues
- Can work collaboratively and independently
- Adaptable and can navigate a variety of situations and circumstances
- Ability to multitask and work on a number of components at the same time
- Confident and versatile to take on spontaneous tasks
#6. What Can You Do With a Mass Communication Degree?
Here some careers that you can pursue upon graduating: :
- Advertising & Promotion Manager
- Audio/Video Producer
- Brand Manager
- Broadcast Manager
- Campaign Manager
- Copywriter
- Corporate Communication Manager
- Creative Director
- Journalist
- Media Planner
- New Media Specialist
- Photojournalist
- Print or Online Editor
- Public Relations Specialist
- Publisher
- Radio Announcer
- Social Media Specialist
- Videographer
Because you are exposed to many areas during the course of your studies, you have the flexibility to apply your skills and knowledge in many industries, regardless of which area you specialise in.
Where Can You Study Mass Communication in Malaysia
Here are some of the most popular universities for Mass Communication in Malaysia.
Quick Facts
Campus: Jalan Tun Ismail, Kuala Lumpur
Intakes: Feb, Jul & Sep
Estimated Fees: RM47,996
Key Highlights
A Dual Award degree programme in collaboration with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), UK
100% coursework, with no final exams
Direct industry exposure via “Branded Syllabus” modules that are in collaboration with local and global brand names
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Quick Facts
Campus: Subang Jaya, Selangor
Intakes: Mar & Aug
Estimated Fees: RM93,000
Specialisation Paths: Advertising, Broadcasting, Event Management, Marketing, Public Relations
Key Highlights
State-of-the-art facilities with broadcasting & recording studios, as well as audio & video editing labs for hands-on practical learning
Strong industrial attachments and training with leading companies, including Leo Burnett, Ogilvy & Mather, Media Prima, Aljazeera and The Edge
Real PR consultancy work in final year via proPassion, a PR consultancy managed by students from Taylor’s School of Communication
Quick Facts
Campus: Kota Damansara, Selangor
Intakes: Apr, May, Jun & Sep
Estimated Fees: RM67,880
Key Highlights
Dual award degree from SEGi University and University of Central Lancashire, UK
Student-centred learning approach taught by experienced academicians
Over 100 enrichment programmes in leadership, communication and grooming
INTI International University
Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Mass Communication
Quick Facts
Campus: Subang Jaya, Nilai & Penang
Intakes: Jan, Apr, May & Aug
Estimated Fees: RM60,100 to RM74,951 (depending on programme)
Key Highlights
4 choices of specialties: Advertising, Broadcasting, Journalism, Public Relations
Internship opportunities with organisations such as BFM 89.9, JLPW Communications, Weststar, Fleishman Hillard
Dual award degree: INTI International University & University of Hertfordshire, UK
