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PHD in Media Studies at CHRIST (Deemed to be University)
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Media Studies at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) Bengaluru?
This PhD Media Studies program at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research into communication, media, and cultural phenomena. It addresses the evolving media landscape in India, including digital transformation, policy implications, and societal impact. The program aims to cultivate scholars capable of contributing original research to national and international academic discourse.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in Media Studies, Journalism, Communication, or related social sciences, seeking to pursue an academic or research career. It also caters to media professionals with substantial industry experience who wish to delve into rigorous theoretical and applied research, and individuals aspiring to contribute to media policy-making or critical analysis within India''''s dynamic media ecosystem.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as university professors, researchers in think tanks, media analysts, or consultants for government and private organizations in India. The program equips scholars with advanced analytical and research skills, leading to contributions in academic publications and policy documents. India''''s burgeoning media industry offers diverse opportunities for experts in media theory, digital communication, and cultural studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Fundamentals and Ethics- (Coursework Phase 1)
Thoroughly engage with the core coursework in Research Methodology and Literature Review. Attend workshops on academic integrity, citation management, and data analysis software (e.g., SPSS, NVivo). Develop a strong foundation in both qualitative and quantitative approaches, ensuring ethical considerations are paramount in your research design.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE Journals List, Scopus, Web of Science, Mendeley/Zotero, CHRIST University Library resources
Career Connection
A robust methodological foundation is critical for producing publishable research, which is essential for academic career progression and securing research grants in India.
Identify and Refine Research Area- (Coursework Phase 1-2)
Actively read seminal and contemporary literature in your chosen media studies sub-field. Engage in departmental seminars, journal clubs, and discussions with faculty to identify gaps and refine your specific research problem. Begin drafting a detailed research proposal, seeking early feedback from potential supervisors.
Tools & Resources
Research seminars, Faculty consultations, Literature review databases (e.g., Google Scholar, JSTOR), Departmental PhD colloquia
Career Connection
A well-defined and novel research topic enhances the quality and impact of your thesis, making you a more attractive candidate for research positions and postdoctoral fellowships.
Cultivate Academic Writing Skills- (Coursework Phase 1-2)
Practice academic writing regularly, focusing on clarity, coherence, and adherence to specific style guides (e.g., APA). Participate in university-offered writing support programs or peer review groups. Aim to convert coursework assignments into potential publishable papers, starting with review articles.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Turnitin, Writing workshops, Peer feedback groups
Career Connection
Strong academic writing is indispensable for publishing in reputable journals, presenting at conferences, and successfully completing your thesis, all vital for a research career in India.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Specialization & Electives- (Coursework Phase 2 and early Research Phase)
Carefully select elective courses that directly align with your proposed research topic in Media Studies. Utilize these courses to build specialized theoretical knowledge and refine your conceptual framework. Engage proactively with course material, linking it directly to your research questions and methodology.
Tools & Resources
Specialized media studies journals, Conferences focused on specific media sub-fields, Expert faculty guidance
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a subject expert, enhancing your ability to conduct impactful research and be recognized in niche areas within the Indian media research community.
Network and Collaborate- (Research Phase (Year 2-3))
Attend national and international conferences, workshops, and symposiums related to Media Studies. Present your nascent research findings, seek feedback, and connect with other PhD scholars and established academics. Explore opportunities for collaborative research projects within or outside the university.
Tools & Resources
ResearchGate, Academia.edu, Conference alerts websites, Departmental research forums
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to future collaborations, postdoctoral opportunities, and academic positions, crucial for building a research career in India and globally.
Seek Publication Opportunities- (Research Phase (Year 2-3))
Work towards publishing at least one research paper in a UGC CARE listed or Scopus/Web of Science indexed journal during your PhD tenure. Convert your literature review or a chapter of your thesis into a standalone article. Collaborate with your supervisor on publications.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission guidelines, Supervisor feedback, Institutional research support cells
Career Connection
Publications are a key metric for academic hiring and promotion in India. Early publications significantly boost your CV for faculty positions or research roles.
Advanced Stage
Intensify Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Research Phase (Year 3 onwards))
Maintain a rigorous writing schedule, dedicating consistent time to your thesis. Regularly meet with your supervisor for feedback and revise chapters iteratively. Prepare thoroughly for your pre-submission colloquium and final viva-voce, anticipating potential questions and refining your arguments.
Tools & Resources
Thesis templates, Grammar and style guides, Mock viva sessions, Supervisor''''s guidance
Career Connection
Timely and successful thesis completion is the ultimate goal, leading directly to the award of the PhD degree, a prerequisite for most academic and senior research positions.
Explore Postdoctoral and Career Paths- (Final Year of PhD (Year 3-4))
Start researching postdoctoral fellowships, academic job openings, and research positions in think tanks or media organizations well before thesis submission. Tailor your CV and cover letters, highlighting your research expertise and publications. Practice interview skills specific to academic and research roles.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job portals (e.g., jobs.ac.uk, current science), LinkedIn for industry roles, Mentors
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-PhD, helping you secure desirable positions in academia or research, aligning with India''''s growing demand for media scholars.
Develop Teaching and Mentoring Skills- (Throughout Research Phase (Year 2-4))
If aspiring for an academic career, seek opportunities to assist professors with undergraduate or postgraduate courses, deliver guest lectures, or mentor junior PhD students. This builds crucial pedagogical experience, highly valued by Indian universities. Attend workshops on effective teaching strategies.
Tools & Resources
Teaching assistantships, Faculty development programs, Peer teaching evaluations
Career Connection
Teaching experience is often a requirement for faculty positions in India. Developing these skills makes you a more holistic and competitive candidate for academic roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Media Studies or a relevant discipline with at least 55% aggregate marks or equivalent grade. Relaxation for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-Abled candidates as per UGC norms. UGC-NET (including JRF)/UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship holders or those who have passed M.Phil. are typically exempted from the entrance test.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (Full-time), Maximum 6 years (Full-time) including coursework
Credits: 16 (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Internal: Continuous Internal Assessment (CIA) - Weightage varies per course, minimum 50% generally required for passing., External: End Semester Examination (ESE) - Weightage varies per course, minimum 50% generally required for passing. Overall minimum of 55% in coursework required to proceed to research.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester phase
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Foundations of Research, Qualitative Research Methods, Quantitative Research Methods, Mixed Methods Approach, Data Analysis Techniques, Research Ethics and Integrity |
| PHD102 | Review of Literature and Advanced Research Methods | Core | 4 | Literature Search Strategies, Critical Review and Synthesis, Theoretical Frameworks in Research, Conceptual Mapping and Model Building, Advanced Research Design, Academic Writing and Grant Proposal |
Semester phase
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDMS01 | Elective Course I (Media Studies) | Elective | 4 | Advanced Media Theories, Digital Communication Landscapes, Global Media and Culture, Media Policy and Regulation, Audience Studies and Reception, Identity and Representation in Media |
| PHDMS02 | Elective Course II (Media Studies) | Elective | 4 | Media Economics and Industries, Journalism and Democracy, Film Studies and Visual Culture, New Media Technologies and Society, Strategic Communication and Public Relations, Media Psychology and Effects |
