A PhD in Mass Communication is a research-intensive program designed for individuals interested in the scholarly study of mass communication and media. It is an advanced level degree that prepares graduates for careers in academia, research, and other fields that require a deep understanding of mass communication theories, media effects, and communication practices.
The program typically takes 4-6 years to complete, and students are expected to complete a significant amount of original research in their area of interest. Coursework covers a broad range of topics, including media theory, media ethics, media law, media and culture, and research methods.
Students are also expected to engage in independent research, culminating in a dissertation that makes an original contribution to the field of mass communication. The research may involve conducting original surveys, analyzing media content, or using other research methods to explore topics related to mass communication.
Graduates of a PhD in Mass Communication program are prepared for academic careers as professors or researchers, as well as careers in media and communication consulting, policy-making, and advocacy. The degree also provides a strong foundation for individuals interested in pursuing careers in media management, marketing, or public relations.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course | PhD in Mass Communication |
Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Mass Communication |
Eligibility | Master |
Duration | 3 Years |
Fees | Updated soon |
Type | Degree |
Mode | Year |
Most universities require candidates to take a national-level entrance exam, such as the UGC NET, to qualify for admission to a PhD program in Mass Communication. The exam typically tests candidates' knowledge of mass communication theories, research methods, media ethics, and media law. Some universities may also conduct their own entrance exam.
To be admitted to a PhD program in Mass Communication, candidates are required to hold a Master's degree in Mass Communication or a related field from a recognized university. Some universities may also require candidates to have a minimum GPA or percentage in their Master's program.
The duration of the PhD program in Mass Communication typically ranges from 4-6 years, depending on the university and the research topic.
To be eligible for a PhD program in Mass Communication, candidates must meet the following criteria:
The selection criteria for a PhD program in Mass Communication typically include:
Academic record: | The candidate's academic record in their Master's program is an important selection criterion. |
Research proposal: | Candidates are required to submit a research proposal outlining their research topic and methodology. The quality and originality of the research proposal are also considered in the selection process. |
Interview: | Some universities may conduct a personal interview to assess the candidate's research aptitude and suitability for the program. |
Entrance exam: | Candidates who qualify in the national-level entrance exam or the university's entrance exam are given priority in the selection process. |
To apply for a PhD program in Mass Communication, candidates must follow these steps:
The application form for a PhD program in Mass Communication can be obtained from the website of the university offering the program. Candidates are required to fill in the application form and submit it along with the required documents and application fee within the specified deadline.
The application process for a PhD program in Mass Communication typically involves the following steps:
The application fee for a PhD program in Mass Communication varies from university to university. It typically ranges from Updated soon
The syllabus for a PhD program in Mass Communication varies from university to university. However, the core courses typically cover the following topics:
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Graduates of a PhD program in Mass Communication can pursue careers in academia, research, media management, marketing, public relations, and other related fields. The salary of a PhD holder in Mass Communication varies depending on the job profile and organization. In academia, the starting salary of an assistant professor ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 80,000 per month.
Some of the career opportunities available to graduates of a PhD program in Mass Communication include:
Some of the top colleges in India offering a PhD program in Mass Communication include:
Ph.D. Mass Communication is a doctoral level course. Ph.D. Mass Communication course deals with the process and mechanism of having communication with masses at large at a given point in time. It is mainly related with organization, collection, and decimation of news, information, facts, and data through various communication channels on to the public domain. The main purpose of this course at training professionals and teachers in a systematic investigation of many issues and problems in their study to offer new and original insights. During the study time it offers candidates with a solid foundation in the discipline through multifaceted exploration of the theories and methods that influence the shape and scope of mass communication research. The program is suitable for those candidates who able to understand the history, function and development of mass communication in society.
Admission to the Ph.D. program shall be based on the students marks obtained in the entrance test conducted by the respective department or school of the particular university or institute. Those candidates who have complete GATE/NET/SET/ M.Phil/JRF Examination in the pertinent subject of the apex bodies as CSIR/UGC/ICAR/ICMR/DBT will be exempted from the Entrance Test. While giving the exemption, the Departmental Committee of the institute may consider research work/earlier Ph.D./experience done by the student. If a student already holds a Doctors degree in a relevant subject from a UGC Approved University or Institute, he/she may be exempted from entrance exam and pre Ph.D. coursework. After clearing the both steps the student will be eligible to pay course fee or registration fee. Only the predetermined number of candidates may be admitted to Ph.D. programme.
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.
NOTE:- Students are requested to note that their application will not be considered for admission if the above certificates are not enclosed with their application.
Given below are few of the important highlights of the program.
Program Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Mass Communication |
Program Level | Doctorate Degree Courses |
Duration of the Program | 3 Years |
Examination Type | Year |
Eligibility | Postgraduate Degree in a Relevant Discipline With Minimum 55% Marks ( 50% for SC/ST Candidates ) |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam and Merit Based |
Average Program Fee | Rs. 3 Lakh - Rs. 4 Lakh |
Syllabus of Management as prescribed by various Universities and Colleges.
Paper Code | Subjects of Study |
1 | Core Subjects |
2 | Research Methodology 1 |
3 | Research Methodology 2 |
4 | Communication Theory |
5 | Elective Subjects |
6 | Journalism Studies |
7 | Specialized and Analytical Journalism |
8 | Other Subjects |
9 | Seminars |
10 | Theory and Practices |
11 | Field Work |
Mentioned below are some states in India that offer the program.