The origin of the Department of Communication and Journalism can be traced to a donation of Rs.10,000 made by Shri KA Kolhatkar to the University of Pune in 1956 for instituting the “Sandeshkar Kolhaktar Scholarship” for Marathi Journalism. Following this, a two year, part time diploma course in Journalism was introduced in February, 1964. The course eventually became a one-year full time degree course from July 1973. The department became a full-fledged regular department of the university in 1976. Following the international and national trend, nomenclature of the department was changed in 1983 from "Department of Journalism" to "Department of Communication and Journalism". The name of the degree awarded was also changed from B.J. to B.C.J.
The institute hosts a well stocked library with a collection of valuable reference books, well equipped computer laboratory with latest computers, internet connectivity and latest software. The department has professional PD 170 ENG camera and Final Cut Pro Video editing software for the production of news clips, interviews and features, and well equipped audio studio for production of radio news bulletins and other radio programs.
Courses offered: 1. Master of Journalism and Mass Communication 2. Diploma in Mass Media (Post graduate, part time diploma courses) 3. Vruttapatravidya Padawika PhD
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline from a statutory university. Those who have appeared for their final degree examination may also apply, but their admission (if selected on the basis of performance in the Aptitude Test) will be confirmed only after they submit the final degree examination marks card. All candidates must appear for the Aptitude Test on the date specified in the admission notice. Admission is based strictly on merit in the Aptitude Test. For more details on admission and the fee schedule, please contact the institute.
The Department of Communication and Journalism, University of Pune has been ranked among the top 15 mass communication colleges in India by the EducationWorld C-fore survey 2013.