UoH launches new Health Communication course

Hyderabad|India|April'2012: In order to cater to the huge demand in India and across the developing world for competent health communicators, the Department of Communication, University of Hyderabad has launched a one-year Post-Graduate Diploma in Health Communication to be offered from the academic session 2012-13.

The course is an initiative under UGC Innovative Programmes Scheme and aims to create professionals who can help the healthcare sector achieve maximum impact through effective and strategic use of communication. The Health Communication course will provide students with an understanding of the broad issues in health in India, the policy, practice and challenges in health, as well as an exposure to media techniques and communication principles. Students will undergo one semester of intensive course work followed by a semester of supervised research and a practicum.

Housed in the Sarojini Naidu School of Arts & Communication of the University of Hyderabad, the Department of Communication is one of the top-ranked centres for teaching and research in media and communication studies. Its Master’s programme has, over the past 25 years, produced graduates who are now occupying senior positions in media houses, academic institutions, corporate and social sector organizations and multilateral agencies. The Department also offers a Ph.D. programme.

With faculty known nationally and beyond who are constantly involved in research, publishing and consultancy, the department is the much sought after destination for those wanting to specialise in different areas such as Communication for Social Change, Political Communication, Print & New Media, Television & Radio Production.

The PG Diploma in Health Communication will benefit from the expertise of the Department’s faculty as well as visitors from other disciplines within the University besides the premier institutions working in health and allied fields in Hyderabad and elsewhere.

Health communication is a rapidly growing field, with the demand far in excess of supply. Successful completion of the course, along with the passion for change can take graduates wherever they might want to go in health care sector. Government, private and civil society organizations offer a wide range of opportunities for those who can communicate about health, to achieve health objectives.