PhD Degree in Mass Communication - About, Minimum Qualification, Universities, And Admission 2025-26

About This Course

A PhD in Mass Communication is an advanced, research-driven doctoral program designed for individuals who aspire to explore media, communication, and journalism at the highest academic level. This program is also offered in flexible formats such as a PhD in Mass Communication Online, making it accessible for working professionals and researchers who wish to balance academic pursuits with personal or professional commitments. Whether pursued on campus or as a PhD in Mass Comm, it is ideal for scholars, media professionals, educators, and researchers who want to develop original research, gain deep theoretical insights, and contribute new knowledge to the field of communication studies.

The program nurtures independent thinking, critical inquiry, and innovative research. Scholars explore real-world media issues, emerging communication technologies, and the impact of information on society. With a blend of theoretical study and practice-based research, the PhD in Mass Communication or PhD in Mass Comm equips learners with strong analytical and research skills applicable in academic, corporate, and media sectors.

The curriculum spans research methodology, communication theories, media analysis, digital communication, audience studies, and ethical frameworks. Scholars also engage with journalism trends, public relations strategies, media laws, and policy analysis.

A PhD in Mass Communication prepares graduates for careers in university teaching, media research, communication consulting, policy analysis, digital strategy, and leadership roles in major media organisations. Pursuing a PhD in Mass Communication Online also enables professionals to continue working while advancing their research expertise. The program sharpens critical thinking, enhances media evaluation skills, and enables scholars to produce research that influences both academic and professional environments.

Ultimately, earning a PhD in Mass Communication or PhD in Mass Comm is not just an academic milestone—it is a pathway to becoming a thought leader capable of understanding, influencing, and shaping the rapidly changing world of media and communication.

Eligibility

Minimum Duration

• The program requires a minimum of three years, including coursework.
• Extensions of up to six years may be granted based on supervisor recommendations.
• Both regular and PhD in Mass Communication Online applicants must meet the same duration and academic requirements.

Academic Qualification

Applicants must hold a postgraduate degree in a relevant specialization with at least 55% marks or an equivalent grade. Candidates are eligible if they have completed:

• A 1-year / 2-semester Master’s program after a 4-year Bachelor’s degree, OR
• A 2-year Master’s program after a 3-year Bachelor’s degree,
• with at least 55% marks or 5.5 CGPA on a 10-point scale.

These criteria apply to both PhD in Mass Communication and PhD in Mass Communication Online applications.

Eligibility for 4-Year Bachelor's Degree Holders

Candidates with a 4-year / 8-semester Bachelor’s degree securing 75% marks or 7.5 CGPA may also apply for the PhD in Mass Communication program (regular or online), subject to qualifying the Entrance Test and Interview.

Relaxation in Marks

A 5% relaxation is provided to candidates belonging to:

• SC / ST
• OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)
• Differently-Abled
• EWS categories

Entrance Test Exemption

Entrance test exemption applies to both regular and PhD in Mass Communication Online applicants who have:

• Qualified UGC NET / JRF
• Qualified CSIR NET / JRF
• A valid GATE or GPAT score
• Completed M.Phil. (Regular Mode)

Admission Process for PhD in Mass Communication

1. Interview-cum-Counseling

Shortlisted candidates for PhD in Mass Communication or PhD in Mass Comm must attend an interview and counseling session with the following documents:

• Original marks cards (10+2, Bachelor’s, Master’s)
• Certificates of NET/JRF, SLET, GATE, M.Phil., or teacher fellowship
• Proof of date of birth
• Three passport-size photographs
• No-due certificate from employer (if working)

The interview carries 50 marks, and selection depends on performance plus supervisor availability.

2. Selection & Provisional Registration

Selected candidates must confirm admission by paying the fee within the deadline.

Those not selected may reapply in the next admission cycle.

The same process applies to PhD in Mass Communication Online applicants.

3. Application Procedure

Shortlisted candidates must submit:

• A portfolio showcasing conceptual, technical, or creative skills
• Audio-visual work (submitted in DVD format)
• A 2,000-word research proposal with bibliography
• Portfolios with nationally or internationally exhibited work receive preference

The research proposal for PhD in Mass Communication or PhD in Mass Comm must include:

• The theoretical and practical context
• Research methodology
• Anticipated contribution to knowledge
• Integration of theory and practice

Applicants must defend both the proposal and portfolio during the interview.

Future Scope

Professor

Graduates of a PhD in Mass Communication or PhD in Mass Communication Online can become professors, teaching advanced courses, guiding research scholars, publishing academic work, and contributing to curriculum development.

Content Writer

PhD holders can excel as high-level content writers, producing research-based articles, strategic communication material, and thought-leadership content.

Reporter / Journalist

A PhD in Mass Comm equips graduates with deep analytical skills to work as reporters, correspondents, or editorial specialists.

Editor

PhD graduates can work as editors in print, digital, or broadcast media—ensuring quality, accuracy, and strategic content development.

Researcher

Opportunities include think tanks, media research agencies, policy institutions, universities, and international organisations.

Public Relations Officer

A PhD in Mass Communication enhances skills required for PR roles—brand reputation, media relations, campaign design, and public engagement.

Communication Executive

Graduates can design communication strategies, manage internal/external communication, and support brand positioning using advanced theoretical knowledge.