A.J.K. Mass Communication Research Centre

Operating as a constituent institute of Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi, the A.J.K. Mass Communication Research Centre was established in 1982 by Anwar Jamal Kidwai in collaboration with York University and the Canadian International Development Agency. From its origins in documentary and socially conscious storytelling under pioneering Canadian filmmaker James Beveridge, the centre has expanded into digital animation and visual effects while maintaining an emphasis on foundational arts and narrative theory.

Rather than operating on a commercial software-training model, AJK MCRC emphasizes original content creation, composition, anatomy, and storytelling fundamentals alongside digital techniques. Its flagship digital media offering is the two-year, full-time M.A. in Visual Effects and Animation, which evolved from a postgraduate diploma first introduced in 2007.

Curriculum and Project Work

The master's program spans four semesters, combining classroom instruction with production pipelines mentored by academic faculty and practicing industry professionals:

• Semester I: Establishes baseline fluency in visual communication, the animation process, introductory 3D computer animation, and filmmaking.
• Semester II: Covers pre-visualization, design research, intermediate 2D and 3D animation, initial visual effects techniques, and specialized electives in gaming or illustration.
• Semester III: Focuses on advanced visual effects, compositing, second-stage animation production, and business and production management.
• Semester IV: Culminates in a comprehensive final project that takes an original concept from storyboarding and blocking through production and post-production.

Across the second, third, and fourth semesters, students must complete individual creative productions—including short films, games, or graphic novels—ensuring graduates finish with at least three distinct pieces of original work in their professional portfolios.

Campus Facilities

Production training takes place on-site at the New Delhi campus. Specialist facilities include two multi-camera HDTV production studios, a dedicated green screen room for visual effects compositing, and access to HD cameras, film equipment, and DSLRs. Theoretical study and media research are supported by the Media Resource Centre archive, established through a grant from the Sir Ratan Tata Trust, alongside the university's community radio station, Radio Jamia 90.4 FM.

All degree offerings are delivered exclusively in person, with admission determined through an entrance examination and an evaluation of creative portfolios.