PhD in Media & Communication is a doctoral-level program offered by a number of colleges and universities across India. It takes around 3-5 years to complete the entire course including the dissertation, which is part of every PhD program. The focus of the course is to get a critical understanding of the field of media and how it influences the society, the culture of the people, politics and in turn the economy of a country. By undertaking this academic cum research program, one gets a deep insight into the role of media, be it television, cinema, print media or the digital media in shaping the socio-cultural aspects in today’s world.
Particulars | Details |
Course Level | Doctorate |
Full-Form | Doctorate of Philosophy in Media Studies |
Duration | 3 – 5 years |
Examination type | Semester wise |
Eligibility | Postgraduate in the field of media and communication |
Admission Process | Entrance based |
Job Positions | Marketing Director, Marketing Assistant, Social Media Analyst, Social Media Manager, Social Media Marketing Executive, News Anchor, Reporter, Media Researcher, Media Planner, Media Manager, Copywriter, Blogger |
The entrance exam requirements for a PhD in Media and Communication may vary depending on the university or program. Some universities require applicants to take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) while others may not require any entrance exam.
Entrance Exam |
UGC NET (June Session) |
CSIR UGC NET |
ICAR AICE JRF/SRF |
Before applying for the test, however, the candidate must ensure that they fulfil the eligibility criteria for admission. |
The colleges and universities conduct their own entrance test, and admission to PhD in Media Studies is also based on qualifying eligibility tests like UGC-NET, CSIR-UGC NET, SET, GATE and so on. |
On successfully qualifying the entrance test, the college scrutinizes the research topic and proposal by the candidate and a personal interview is held. |
Master’s degree in a subject relevant to the field of media from a UGC recognized college or university. |
Minimum of 55% marks in their post-graduation. |
Candidates who have completed post-graduation from an international university are also eligible. Such candidates will have to submit an equivalency certificate obtained from Association of Indian. |
Candidates having undergone M.Phil in Media Studies can also apply. |
The duration of a PhD in Media and Communication typically ranges from three to five years, depending on the program and the student's progress. Students must complete a set number of coursework and research requirements within a certain time frame, and they must also successfully defend their dissertation before they can graduate.
The selection criteria for a PhD in Media and Communication may include academic achievement, research potential, writing skills, professional experience, and compatibility with the program's research priorities. Universities may also consider factors such as letters of recommendation, research proposals, and interviews with faculty members.
To apply for a PhD in Media and Communication, applicants typically need to complete an online application form and submit supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a research proposal, and a personal statement. Some universities may also require applicants to pay an application fee. It's important to check the application requirements and deadlines for each program carefully and to contact the admissions office if you have any questions. |
The application fee for a PhD in Media and Communication can vary depending on the university or program. In general, the application fee ranges from $50 to $100. Some universities may offer application fee waivers for eligible candidates.
Theories and Concepts in Media and Communication Studies |
Advanced Methods of Research in Media Studies |
Digital Media and Everyday Life |
Media in Contemporary Society |
Media and popular culture |
Internet and social media |
Media and the Development Discourse |
Media, law and regulation |
Gender and Media Representation |
Writing Research |
Media Seminar |
Publication of Research Paper |
The salary and job prospects for graduates with a PhD in Media and Communication can vary depending on the area of specialization and the industry. Graduates with a PhD in Media and Communication are typically well-equipped for careers in academia, research institutions, media organizations, government agencies, and other fields where advanced research skills and critical thinking are highly valued. According to payscale.com, the average salary for a media and communication professor is around $77,000 per year.
Some of the career opportunities for graduates with a PhD in Media and Communication include:
Professor or Lecturer in Media and Communication Studies |
Researcher in Media and Communication Organizations |
Consultant in Media and Communication Policy |
Media Analyst in Government or Non-Profit Organizations |
Communication Specialist in Corporate or Non-Profit Organizations |
Some of the top colleges offering a PhD in Media and Communication include:
Q.1 - What is the procedure for PhD 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.