PhD in Media Research Admission 2024-25, NIRF Ranking, FAQs, Online Process

PhD in Media Studies Overviews

Doctorate in Media Studies is a doctoral program offered in many colleges across India. The entire course, including the dissertation, which is part of all PhD programs, takes approximately 3 to 5 years to complete.

The focus of this course is on a critical understanding of the media sector and its impact on society, people's culture, politics, and ultimately the country's economy. By participating in this academic research program, you will gain deep insight into the role of media such as television, film, print media and digital media in shaping the socio-cultural aspects of today's world.

A PhD in Media Studies is an advanced degree program designed to prepare students for careers in academia, research, and industry. This program typically involves a rigorous course of study in which students delve deeply into the theoretical and practical aspects of media and communication. The program is typically designed to take three to five years to complete, and requires a significant amount of independent research and writing.

During their course of study, students in a PhD in Media Studies program may take courses in media theory, media history, media ethics, media law, media production, and media research methods. They may also be required to take courses in related fields, such as sociology, psychology, or cultural studies, in order to gain a broader perspective on the social and cultural contexts of media.

In addition to coursework, PhD students in media studies are expected to conduct independent research and produce original scholarship. This may involve designing and conducting empirical studies, analyzing media texts or media practices, or developing new theories or conceptual frameworks for understanding media.

Upon completion of a PhD in Media Studies, graduates may pursue careers as professors or researchers in academic institutions, as well as positions in media industries, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. They may also go on to publish their research in academic journals, present at conferences, or contribute to public debates about media and communication.

PhD in Media Studies Top Entrance Exam

PhD programs in Media Studies typically require applicants to take an entrance exam as part of the admission process. The specific exam may vary by institution, but it generally tests the applicant's knowledge of media theory, research methods, and related fields.

• UGC NET 
• CSIR UGC NET
• ICAR AICE JRF/SRF

PhD in Media Studies Admission

Admission requirements for PhD programs in Media Studies vary by institution, but generally include the following:

• A bachelor's degree in a related field (such as media studies, communication, or a social science)
• A master's degree in a related field (some programs may accept exceptional students without a master's degree)
• A minimum GPA (typically 3.0 or higher)
• Letters of recommendation from professors or professionals in the field
• A statement of purpose outlining the applicant's research interests and career goals
• A writing sample (such as a research paper or thesis)
• GRE scores (some programs may waive this requirement)

PhD in Media Studies Eligibility Criteria

Applicants to PhD programs in Media Studies should have a strong academic background in a related field, as well as a clear research agenda and career goals. In addition, they should have strong critical thinking, writing, and research skills, and a passion for media and communication.

Must have a Master's degree in a subject related to the field of media from a university recognized by UGC.

Score 55% or higher after graduation. people who have completed graduate school at international universities are also eligible. Such candidates will be required to submit an equivalency certificate from the Association of Indian Universities (AIU). Her candidates with a master's degree in media studies are also eligible to apply.

PhD in Media Studies Course Details

PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies Course Duration

PhD programs in Media Studies typically take three to five years to complete, depending on the program and the student's pace of progress. The program involves coursework, independent research, and the completion of a dissertation.

PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies Selection Criteria

Selection criteria for PhD programs in Media Studies typically include academic qualifications, research experience and interests, writing ability, and fit with the program and its faculty.

PhD in Media Studies How to Apply

To apply for a PhD program in Media Studies, applicants should typically follow these steps:

PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies Admission Process

The application form and process for a PhD program in Media Studies vary by institution. Generally, prospective students should visit the institution's website to find information about the application process, including deadlines, required documents, and any fees. Some programs may require applicants to apply through a centralized application system, such as the Common Application or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) system.

PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies Fee Structure

The application fee for a PhD program in Media Studies varies by institution, but is typically around $50 to $100. Some programs may waive the fee for students who demonstrate financial need or for those who apply by a certain deadline.

Syllabus of PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies

The syllabus for a PhD program in Media Studies varies by institution, but typically includes a range of courses in media theory, media history, media production, media research methods, and related fields. Students may also be required to take courses outside of their specific area of study in order to gain a broader perspective on the social and cultural contexts of media.

Jobs Area After Completed PhD in Media Studies

The salary and job prospects for PhD holders in Media Studies vary widely depending on their career path. Graduates may pursue careers as professors or researchers in academic institutions, as well as positions in media industries, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers in communication and media studies was $70,650 in May 2020. However, salaries can vary widely depending on the type of institution, the location, and the level of experience and expertise of the individual.

PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies Career Opportunities:

Some of the career opportunities for PhD holders in Media Studies include:

• Professor or researcher in an academic institution
• Media analyst or consultant in media industries or government agencies
• Non-profit or advocacy organization working on media-related issues
• Independent researcher or consultant

PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies Top Colleges:

Some of the top colleges for PhD programs in Media Studies include:

• University of Southern California (USC) Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
• New York University (NYU) Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development
• University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Journalism and Mass Communication
• University of Texas at Austin Moody College of Communication
• University of Pennsylvania Annenberg School for Communication

PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies Admission Procedure

• Application for the entrance exam 
• Result declaration
• Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
• Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
• Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
• Course work examination
• Result declaration of coursework
• Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
• Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
• A registration letter shall be issued
• Research work started by scholar
• 6 progress reports shall be submitted
• Soft copy thesis submit
• plagiarism report check by the university
• Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
• After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
• After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
• Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

Documents Checklist For PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies

1. Documents (10th onwards)
2. Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
3. Migration Certificate (Original)
4. NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
5. Affidavit (undertaking)
6. Guide Willing
7. Assignments
8. Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
9. Library No Dues
10. Lab Letter
11. Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
12. No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
13. Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
14. C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
15. Conference Certificate - 2
16. Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
17. summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
18. Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About PhD Doctor of Philosophy in Media Studies Program 

Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.

Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?

ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.

Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?

ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.

Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?

ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.

Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.

Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?

ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?

ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.

Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?

ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.

Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?

ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.

Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?

ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.

Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?

ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.

Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?

ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.

Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?

ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.