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PHD in Journalism at Mar Ivanios College (Autonomous)
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Journalism at Mar Ivanios College (Autonomous) Thiruvananthapuram?
This PhD in Journalism program at Mar Ivanios College, affiliated with the University of Kerala, focuses on advanced research and critical inquiry into the evolving landscape of media and communication. The program aims to cultivate independent scholars capable of contributing significant knowledge to the field of journalism in the Indian context, addressing contemporary challenges and theoretical frameworks.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with an M.A. in Journalism, Mass Communication, or related fields, seeking to pursue an academic or research career. It also caters to media professionals looking to deepen their theoretical understanding and contribute to scholarly discourse. Candidates aspiring for faculty positions in Indian universities or advanced research roles in think tanks are well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become experts in communication research, critically analyzing media trends and societal impacts. Career paths include university professors, media researchers, policy analysts, and advanced media consultants. Successful candidates can command competitive salaries, starting from INR 6-10 LPA as assistant professors, with significant growth potential in academia and research institutions across India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework. Understand quantitative and qualitative paradigms, data collection tools, and ethical considerations. Participate actively in seminars and discussions.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for statistical analysis, NVivo for qualitative analysis, Reference management software like Zotero/Mendeley
Career Connection
A strong grasp of methodology is fundamental for conducting robust research, securing grants, and publishing in peer-reviewed journals, essential for an academic career.
Comprehensive Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, dive deep into existing literature in your chosen area of specialization. Identify research gaps, formulate compelling research questions, and build a strong theoretical foundation for your thesis.
Tools & Resources
University library databases (JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science), Google Scholar, Departmental research seminars
Career Connection
This critical skill is vital for thesis development and demonstrating scholarly rigor, which impresses potential employers in academia and research.
Engage with Faculty Mentors- (Ongoing from Semester 1)
Establish a strong working relationship with your supervisor and other faculty members. Seek their guidance on research design, theoretical frameworks, and academic writing. Attend their lectures and presentations.
Tools & Resources
Regular one-on-one meetings with supervisor, Departmental colloquia, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Mentorship provides invaluable guidance, opens doors to collaborative projects, and helps navigate the complexities of academic publishing and career progression.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Year 1-2)
Based on your literature review, formulate a detailed and original research proposal outlining your problem statement, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. Prepare for the pre-submission presentation.
Tools & Resources
Departmental guidelines for proposal writing, Feedback from supervisor and peers, Workshops on academic writing
Career Connection
A well-articulated proposal showcases your intellectual independence and ability to design a significant research project, a key skill for grant applications and future research leadership roles.
Present at National/International Conferences- (Year 2-3)
Prepare papers based on your initial research findings or literature review and present them at relevant academic conferences within India and abroad. Network with scholars in your field.
Tools & Resources
Call for papers from professional associations (e.g., IAMCR, ICA, PRCI), University travel grants, Online presentation platforms
Career Connection
Presenting builds your academic profile, provides critical feedback, and expands your professional network, crucial for collaborations and job opportunities.
Begin Journal Publication- (Year 2-4)
Refine your conference papers or develop new manuscripts for submission to peer-reviewed journals. Focus on journals indexed in UGC-CARE list for Indian academic recognition.
Tools & Resources
UGC-CARE List of Journals, Journal submission platforms (e.g., OJS), Feedback from co-authors/editors
Career Connection
Publications are the bedrock of an academic career, demonstrating research productivity and contributing to your H-index, directly impacting eligibility for faculty positions and promotions.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Data Collection and Analysis- (Year 3-5)
Execute your research methodology, collect data meticulously, and apply appropriate analytical techniques. Ensure data integrity and address any methodological challenges effectively.
Tools & Resources
Fieldwork resources (travel grants, ethical approvals), Statistical software/Qualitative analysis software, Data transcription services
Career Connection
Successful data collection and analysis are critical for a strong thesis, providing the evidence base for your original contribution to knowledge, which is highly valued in research roles.
Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Year 4-6)
Focus on writing your dissertation with clarity, coherence, and scholarly rigor. Prepare thoroughly for your viva-voce examination by anticipating questions and articulating your research effectively.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing workshops, Proofreading and editing services, Mock defense sessions with peers/mentors
Career Connection
The thesis defense is the culmination of your PhD journey. A successful defense and a high-quality thesis are essential for securing academic positions and establishing your expertise.
Network for Post-PhD Opportunities- (Final year of PhD)
Actively network with academics and researchers at conferences, workshops, and online platforms. Explore postdoctoral fellowships, faculty positions, and research grants relevant to your specialization in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, ResearchGate, Academic job portals (e.g., higheredjobs.com, individual university career pages), Professional association memberships
Career Connection
Proactive networking is crucial for identifying and securing post-PhD opportunities, from academic positions to research project collaborations, leveraging your specialized expertise.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree or a professional degree equivalent to Master’s, with at least 55% marks in aggregate (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled) from a recognized university. NET/JRF qualification often preferred or mandated for admission as per University of Kerala regulations.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years
Credits: 12 (for coursework, assuming 3 papers @ 4 credits each) Credits
Assessment: Internal: As per University of Kerala PhD Regulations, typically includes continuous assessment and presentations during coursework., External: Comprehensive examination after coursework for each paper, with a minimum 50% pass mark.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDCM101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Research, Research Design and Ethics, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Academic Writing and Report Preparation |
| PHDCM102 | Communication Theories & Research Methods | Core | 4 | Historical Development of Communication, Major Communication Theories (e.g., Agenda-Setting, Cultivation), Interpersonal and Group Communication, Qualitative Research Methods in Communication, Quantitative Research Methods in Communication |
| PHDCM103A | Media & Society | Elective (Optional Paper A) | 4 | Media, Culture and Ideology, Media Ethics and Regulations in India, Media Law and Governance, Role of Media in Development, Public Sphere and Civil Society |
| PHDCM103B | New Media & Convergent Journalism | Elective (Optional Paper B) | 4 | Digital Media Landscape and Trends, Online Journalism and Blogging, Social Media and Citizen Journalism, Data Journalism and Visualization, Media Convergence and Cross-Platform Storytelling |
