Ph.D. in Mass Communication Degree Programs (Doctorate Programs)

Mass communication(s) is a broad field, spanning traditional media to contemporary, technology-driven new media (e.g. web and social media). At its core, mass communication is messaging that is created for, delivered to and consumed by large audiences. A comprehensive academic discipline, the study of mass communication considers the function and effects of media in its various forms and how it is shaped by and impacts social, cultural, political, and social institutions.

Whether it is the study of how media influences social activities and trends or how consumer behavior informs advertising methods, doctoral-level studies in mass communication integrate communication theory, research methods, and critical analysis. The Ph.D. in mass communication prepares students to become academics, teachers, and researchers, but may also offer them pathways to careers in media-related industries, such as public relations, journalism, advertising, and mass media.

PhD Journalism and Mass Communication: Admission Process 

Admissions in PhD. Journalism and Mass Communication are mostly done on the basis of merit. Some colleges also accept entrance exams like NET JRF. Private universities like Lovely Professional University conduct their own entrances.

• Registration: The first and foremost step for a candidate in the admission process is to register for the course through the college or university’s website. Exams forms are released before the start of the course and provide ample time for people to fill in their details.
• Details and Application fee: While registering, it is important to fill in the correct details like name, educational level, address, etc. After filling in the details, the candidate must submit the application fee.
• Admit card: After filling in the necessary information and paying the fee, the candidate should download the admit card and keep it safe till the admission process goes on.
• Examination: The entrance exam has to be given to respected colleges and universities. It is important to adhere to the syllabus and read the previous year's question papers for better preparation.
• Results: Once results are released, candidates who qualify and further move ahead with their admission process. Some might also release a cut-off list for admissions based on merit. Marks of post-graduation are considered for this.
• Counselling and admission: Candidates who qualify for the entrance exam or merit can proceed to the college for their course.

Eligibility Criteria

Candidate Must Have Completed Their Post-graduation In Journalism And Mass Communication From A Recognized University. They Should Also Have A Minimum Percentage Of 55% To Pursue A PhD. Entrance Exams Like NET JRF Also Require The Candidate To Have A Minimum Of 55% During Post-graduation.

PhD Journalism and Mass Communication: Entrance Exams

As mentioned, few universities take admissions on the basis of entrance exams. These exams are discussed further in detail.

• NET/NET JRF: It is a national-level examination conducted for admissions in PhD. To pursue PhD along with a stipend, candidates must clear NET JRF, whereas after clearing NET candidates can become eligible to apply for universities as professors. However, NET JRF candidates are preferred by universities.
• SET: SET is conducted to provide research opportunities at the state level. Candidates who pass become eligible to apply for research or to become professors at any university within the state they have appeared.
• LPUNEST: LPUNEST is the entrance exam conducted by Lovely Professional University. Candidates can also become eligible for scholarships if their score in the entrance exam is high.
• SUAT: Sharda University also conducts its own entrance test for admissions in PhD. However, candidates who have scored good marks in NET/ JRF/ SET are exempted and are directly called for an interview.

How to prepare for the PhD Journalism and Mass Communication entrance exam?

Here are a few points which can help candidates prepare for the entrance exam.

• Go through the syllabus of the exam thoroughly. It will help you focus on important topics rather than studying a completely different topic.
• Develop a timetable for studying. It will help you focus on every subject and give equal time to every topic.
• Rather than mugging up the answers, it is important to understand the basics of the topics. It will also help you solve complex or HOTs questions
• Go through the previous year's question papers for a better understanding of the entrance exams. There are several books available for NET which contain previous year question papers along with the answers.
• Even though entrance exams focus on Mass Communication and Journalism, there is a separate section for Analytical skills, aptitude skills, teaching skills, Logical reasoning, Communication, People and Environment, Reading Comprehension, etc.
• All the entrance exams are conducted as MCQs with one correct answer. There is also a negative marking.
• It is important to only attempt the questions which you are sure of. Since there is a negative marking, guesswork should be avoided.