PhD in Mass Communication in India: Courses, Colleges, Fees, and Career Opportunities

ByAbhijeet Chatterjee

A PhD in Mass Communication is a 3-5 year doctoral program focusing on advanced research methodologies, communication theories, and dissertation writing. This program provides a deep understanding of the interactions between media, culture, and society, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, and media industries. The average annual fees range from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000. To be eligible for a PhD in Mass Communication in India, candidates typically need a master’s degree in mass communication or a related field with a minimum of 55% for general category students and 50% for reserved categories.

Admission usually involves an entrance exam or interview, and a research proposal submission. Graduates can pursue careers as professors, researchers, media consultants, or communication directors, with average salaries ranging from INR 4 LPA to INR 12 LPA. This article provides an overview of the PhD in Mass Communication program in India, covering courses, colleges, fees, and career opportunities.

PhD in Mass Communication: Course Overview

The PhD in Mass Communication program in India focuses on advanced research in media studies, communication theories, and research methodologies. Full-time programs typically last 3-5 years, while part-time or distance learning programs take 4-6 years. Program fees range from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 per year, depending on the institution. 

Applicants must hold a master’s degree in mass communication or a related field with a minimum of 55% marks. Graduates can pursue careers in academia, research, and industry as professors, researchers, media consultants, or communication directors. The table below summarises the key features of the PhD in Mass Communication program in India.

Feature Details (Full-Time) Details (Part-Time/Distance)
Duration 3-5 years 4-6 years
Minimum Eligibility Master’s degree in Mass Communication or related field with 55% marks Master’s degree in Mass Communication or related field with 55% marks
Top Colleges Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Delhi; Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi; University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), Delhi; University of Mumbai, Mumbai; Anna University, Chennai
Career Prospects Professor, Researcher, Media Consultant, Communication Director Professor, Researcher, Media Consultant, Communication Director
UGC/AICTE Approval Mandatory for all colleges Mandatory for all colleges
Entrance Exam UGC NET, college-specific entrance exams UGC NET, college-specific entrance exams
Research Opportunities Available in all colleges Available in all colleges
Specializations Journalism, Advertising, Public Relations, Film Studies Journalism, Advertising, Public Relations, Film Studies
Salary Range INR 4 LPA – INR 12 LPA INR 3 LPA – INR 10 LPA

 

Apart from this, if you want the best guidance for pursuing a PhD in mass communication, the best online source would be the YouTube Channel named Indian Mass Communication, managed by Mr Tushar Goyal. Currently, Mr Tushar is pursuing a PhD from the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in the field of Mass Communication and mentors students in the field. Below is one of his videos:

PhD in Mass Communication Eligibility Criteria in India: Detailed Requirements

Eligibility criteria for a PhD in Mass Communication in India depend on the applicant’s category and the specific institution. Generally, candidates must have a Master’s degree in Mass Communication or a related field with a minimum percentage of marks. 

The following table outlines the detailed requirements for General, OBC, SC/ST, PwD, and other categories, including any applicable relaxations as per Indian government norms. Verify the specific eligibility criteria of the desired university/college before applying.

Category Educational Qualification Minimum Percentage/CGPA Specific Requirements
General / Unreserved Master’s in Mass Comm./Journalism or related field 55% (or equivalent grade) Qualifying entrance exam (e.g., UGC-NET/university test), research proposal, interview
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) Same as above 50% (or equivalent grade) Same as above
SC/ST Same as above 50% (or equivalent grade) Same as above
EWS Same as above 50% (or equivalent grade) Same as above
PwD (Differently-Abled) Same as above 50% (or equivalent grade) Same as above; additional provisions for accessibility
International / Foreign Degree Holders Equivalent Master’s degree (AIU equivalence required) Equivalent to 55% English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE if applicable), entrance exam/research proposal
Part-Time / Sponsored (e.g., College/University Employees, Defence Personnel) Same as above + relevant work experience (often 2–3+ years) 55% (or 50% with relaxation if applicable) No-objection certificate from employer, experience proof, entrance exam/proposal

PhD in Mass Communication Admission Process in India: A Step-by-Step Guide

The admission process for a PhD in Mass Communication in India typically involves entrance exams, interviews, and research proposal submissions. While the specific process varies by university or college, the general steps are outlined below. A Master’s degree in Mass Communication or a related field is usually required, with a minimum of 55% for general category students and 50% for reserved categories.

  1. Check the eligibility criteria of the desired university/college, including the requirement of a Master’s degree in Mass Communication or a related field with a minimum of 55% for general category students and 50% for reserved category students.
  2. Apply for the entrance exam, such as the University Grants Commission (UGC) National Eligibility Test (NET) or the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) Entrance Exam, which may be mandatory for some universities.
  3. Submit the required documents, including academic transcripts, a research proposal, and a statement of purpose (SOP) outlining research goals and objectives.
  4. Appear for the entrance exam and/or interview, which will assess knowledge, research skills, and communication abilities.
  5. If selected, pay the admission fees, which can range from INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000 per year, depending on the university or college.
  6. Complete the enrollment process, including registering for courses, attending orientation, and meeting with the supervisor or guide.
  7. Develop a research proposal that is original, feasible, and aligned with the university’s research priorities.
  8. Defend the research proposal by presenting it before a panel of experts.
  9. Begin coursework, including advanced courses in research methodology, communication theories, and related subjects.
  10. Conduct original research by collecting and analyzing data, contributing to the existing body of knowledge in the field of Mass Communication.

Admission to a PhD in Mass Communication program in India is highly competitive. Candidates must demonstrate a strong academic record, research potential, and communication skills. A well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP) can significantly improve a candidate’s chances of selection. Candidates should also be prepared to discuss their research proposal and SOP during the interview.

Entrance Exams for PhD Admission in Mass Communication in India

Entrance exams are a crucial step in the PhD admission process for Mass Communication in India. These exams assess a candidate’s knowledge, research aptitude, and communication skills. Common entrance exams include the UGC NET, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), and university-specific entrance exams. Eligibility criteria generally require a master’s degree in Mass Communication or a related field with a minimum 55% percentage of marks. 

The UGC NET is conducted twice a year, in June and December, while university-specific exams are scheduled by the individual colleges. The following table provides an overview of these entrance exams, including the conducting body, exam type, eligibility criteria, and approximate exam dates.

Exam Name Conducting Body Exam Type Approximate Exam Dates
UGC NET National Testing Agency (NTA) National Level June & December
JNU Entrance Exam Jawaharlal Nehru University University Level May-June
DU Entrance Exam University of Delhi University Level June-July
IIT Entrance Exam Indian Institute of Technology University Level April-May
TISS Entrance Exam Tata Institute of Social Sciences University Level January-February
University-Specific Entrance Exams Individual Universities University Level Varies by university
GATE Indian Institute of Technology National Level February
CSIR UGC NET National Testing Agency (NTA) National Level June & December
ICAR Entrance Exam Indian Council of Agricultural Research National Level April-May
AIAPGET National Testing Agency (NTA) National Level September

Top Government Colleges in India for PhD in Mass Communication: Fees, Rankings, and Location

The top government colleges in India offering PhD in Mass Communication programs are known for their academic rigor, research opportunities, and experienced faculty. These colleges provide a comprehensive understanding of mass communication theories, research methodologies, and practical applications. The following table lists some of the top government colleges in India for PhD in Mass Communication, including their annual fees, admission mode, NIRF ranking, and UGC/AICTE approval status. 

These colleges are located in cities across India, such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai, and offer various specializations in mass communication. Some colleges offer scholarships and financial assistance to eligible students.

College/Institution Name City Approximate Annual Fees (Full-Time) Admission Mode NIRF 2025 University Rank (Overall) / Media Reputation
Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) Delhi (main) + regional campuses ₹26,000–₹87,000 (first year; varies by semester; total program ~₹1–2 lakh) UGC-NET / IIMC Entrance + Proposal + Interview Premier media institute; top-ranked for journalism/mass comm (no overall NIRF as autonomous)
AJK Mass Communication Research Centre (AJK MCRC), Jamia Millia Islamia Delhi ₹20,000–₹50,000 (low as per university norms; exact varies) JMI Entrance / UGC-NET + Proposal + Interview NIRF #4 (University)
Department of Journalism, University of Delhi (or Delhi School of Journalism) Delhi ₹10,000–₹50,000 UGC-NET / DU PhD Entrance + Interview NIRF #5 (University)
Department of Communication, University of Hyderabad Hyderabad ₹10,000–₹30,000 UGC-NET / UoH Entrance + Interview High overall NIRF ranking
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Panjab University Chandigarh ₹20,000–₹50,000 UGC-NET / PU Entrance + Proposal Well-regarded university
Department of Mass Communication, Aligarh Muslim University Aligarh ₹20,000–₹40,000 UGC-NET / AMU Entrance Reputed central university
Department of Journalism and Communication, University of Madras Chennai ₹10,000–₹30,000 UGC-NET / University Entrance Strong in South India
Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, University of Calcutta Kolkata ₹10,000–₹30,000 UGC-NET / Entrance Historic and reputed
Department of Communication & Journalism, Osmania University Hyderabad ₹20,000–₹40,000 UGC-NET / OU Entrance Well-established
Department of Media and Communication Studies, Savitribai Phule Pune University Pune ₹20,000–₹60,000 UGC-NET / Entrance + Interview Top in India Today rankings for mass comm dept

Top Private Colleges in India for PhD in Mass Communication: Fees, Rankings, and Specializations

The following table lists the top private colleges in India offering PhD in Mass Communication programs, along with their annual fees, admission mode, specializations, and NAAC accreditation. These colleges are known for their academic quality, research opportunities, and industry connections. Annual fees range from INR 1,00,000 to INR 2,50,000, depending on the institution and program. 

Admission is typically based on merit or entrance exams, followed by an interview. Some colleges offer specializations in journalism, advertising, public relations, and digital media. PhD in Mass Communication online or distance learning programs are not offered by these colleges.

College Name City Annual Fees Admission Mode Specializations Offered NAAC Accreditation
Amity University Noida INR 1,20,000 Entrance Exam Journalism, Advertising, Public Relations A++
Manipal University Jaipur INR 1,50,000 Merit-based Digital Media, Film Studies, Communication Research A+
Lovely Professional University Phagwara INR 1,00,000 Entrance Exam Mass Communication, Journalism, Public Relations A
Chandigarh University Chandigarh INR 1,20,000 Merit-based Mass Communication, Advertising, Digital Media A+
Gitam University Hyderabad INR 1,50,000 Entrance Exam Journalism, Public Relations, Communication Research A
Sharda University Greater Noida INR 1,20,000 Merit-based Mass Communication, Advertising, Digital Media A
Jagannath University Jaipur INR 1,00,000 Entrance Exam Journalism, Public Relations, Communication Research B+
ICFAI University Dehradun INR 1,20,000 Merit-based Mass Communication, Advertising, Digital Media A
KR Mangalam University Gurugram INR 1,00,000 Entrance Exam Journalism, Public Relations, Communication Research B+
GD Goenka University Gurugram INR 1,20,000 Merit-based Mass Communication, Advertising, Digital Media A

PhD in Mass Communication Syllabus

PhD in Mass Communication Syllabus

PhD in Mass Communication Subjects and Syllabus: Year-wise Breakdown

The PhD in Mass Communication program in India is a research-oriented degree spanning 3-5 years. The curriculum equips students with advanced knowledge of communication theories, research methodologies, and specialized areas within mass communication. The program is divided into coursework and dissertation phases. The first year includes core subjects like Research Methodology and Communication Theories, and elective subjects such as Media Ethics and Digital Media. The table below provides a year-wise breakdown of a typical PhD in Mass Communication syllabus in India, including semester numbers, core subjects, elective subjects, and credit hours. The syllabus is similar to a PhD in Journalism and Mass Communication, with a focus on research methodology, communication theories, and specialized areas.

Year Core Subjects Elective Subjects Credit Hours
Year 1 Research Methodology (including Philosophy of Research, Design, Sampling, Data Collection), Communication Theories (Advanced/Classical & Contemporary) Media & Society / Cultural Studies, Research & Publication Ethics (RPE as per UGC) 16–18
Year 1 Quantitative Research Methods (Statistics, Surveys, Content Analysis), Qualitative Research Methods (Ethnography, Discourse Analysis, Case Studies) Media Law & Ethics, Advanced Media Theories, Digital Media / New Media Studies 16–18
Year 2 Advanced Communication Theories / Interdisciplinary Approaches, Literature Review & Research Proposal Development Specialized Electives (e.g., Development Communication, Political Communication, Health Communication, Film/Media Studies) 12–16
Year 2 Research Seminar / Colloquium, Comprehensive Exam / Proposal Defense Elective (e.g., Media Management, Global Communication, Peace Journalism) 12
Year 3 Dissertation Research & Writing (Data Collection/Analysis Phase I), Progress Seminar (Optional advanced reading/seminar) 20–24
Year 3 Dissertation Research & Writing (Analysis & Drafting), Publication/Conference Presentation (mandatory as per UGC/institution) N/A 20–24
Year 4 Dissertation Research & Writing (Full Draft), Pre-Submission Seminar N/A 20–24
Year 4 Dissertation Finalization, Research Publication (at least 1–2 in UGC-CARE/Scopus journals) N/A 20–24
Year 5 (if needed) Thesis Revision, Defense Preparation, Viva Voce Mock N/A 12–16
Year 5 (if needed) Dissertation Defense (Viva Voce), Final Submission & Graduation N/A 8–12

PhD in Mass Communication Fee Structure: Government vs Private Colleges in India

The fee structure for PhD in Mass Communication programs in India varies significantly between government and private colleges. Government colleges, such as the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) and the University of Delhi, offer more affordable options, with annual fees ranging from INR 30,000 to INR 80,000. 

Private colleges like Symbiosis International University and Amity University can have annual fees between INR 1,00,000 and INR 2,50,000. Hostel, examination, and library fees also differ between government and private institutions. PhD students in Mass Communication may be eligible for scholarships like the UGC Junior Research Fellowship or institutional scholarships.

Fee Component Government Colleges (Average INR) Private Colleges (Average INR) Other Costs (INR) Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees INR 20,000–50,000 per year (e.g., IIMC ~₹15,000–25,000/semester; Jamia ~₹13,000–20,000/year) INR 75,000–1,50,000 per year (e.g., Amity ~₹75,000–1,00,000/semester; Symbiosis ~₹30,000–90,000/year) – UGC Junior Research Fellowship: ₹37,000/month (JRF) + ₹42,000/month (SRF) + HRA/contingency
Hostel Fees INR 10,000–30,000 per year (subsidized; varies by campus) INR 50,000–1,00,000+ per year Mess/food: INR 30,000–60,000/year Institutional scholarships: up to 50% tuition waiver or merit-based (INR 20,000–1,00,000/year)
Examination Fees INR 2,000–5,000 per year (or per semester) INR 5,000–15,000 per year Thesis submission/viva: INR 10,000–25,000 Merit-based scholarships: up to INR 25,000–50,000 per year
Library Fees / Lab / Facilities INR 1,000–5,000 per year INR 5,000–20,000 per year Contingency/research grant (via fellowship) Need-based scholarships: up to INR 15,000–30,000 per year
Other Fees (Registration, Security, etc.) INR 5,000–15,000 one-time + annual minor fees INR 10,000–30,000 one-time + annual Application/entrance: INR 1,000–2,500 Industry-sponsored scholarships: variable amounts (e.g., media houses)
Total Annual Cost (Approximate) INR 40,000–1,00,000 (often lower with waivers) INR 1,50,000–3,00,000+ – –

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the duration of a PhD in Mass Communication in India?

The duration of a PhD in Mass Communication in India is 3-5 years. This may vary based on individual progress and university requirements. The course is divided into years with specific semesters and credit hours.

Q2. What are the eligibility criteria for a PhD in Mass Communication in India for general category students?

General category students need a Master’s Degree in Mass Communication or a related field with a minimum of 55% marks, qualification in the entrance exam, and a research proposal. No relaxations are specified for this category.

Q3. What is the average fee structure for a PhD in Mass Communication in government colleges in India?

The average fee structure in government colleges ranges from INR 30,000 to INR 80,000 per year for tuition, plus INR 5,000 to INR 15,000 per year for other fees like library and exam fees.

Q4. What are the core subjects covered in the first year of a PhD in Mass Communication?

The first year includes Research Methodology and Communication Theories in Semester 1, and Quantitative Research Methods and Qualitative Research Methods in Semester 2. Elective subjects like Media Ethics, Digital Media, Development Communication, and Political Communication are also offered.

Q5. What are the entrance exams for PhD admission in Mass Communication in India?

Entrance exams include the UGC NET, a national-level exam by the National Testing Agency (NTA), and college-specific entrance exams. The UGC NET is typically held in June and December, while college-specific exam dates vary.

Abhijeet Chatterjee
Written by

Abhijeet Chatterjee is a professional Content and Copy specialist with over five years of experience in crafting compelling content around the Edtech domain. His portfolio includes notable work for companies such as PhysicsWallah, Roar Media, Jagran Josh, etc. Academically, Abhijeet holds a Master's in Mass Communication, where he was awarded a gold medal for his outstanding performance. He has also qualified for the UGC NET in Mass Communication, demonstrating his expertise and a deep understanding of the field. His academic foundation is built on a Bachelor's degree in English Literature. Beyond his professional work, Abhijeet is an avid writer and a cinephile. His personal interests include scriptwriting, film criticism, and reading novels.

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