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PH-D in Mass Communication at Sharda University
Gautam Buddh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Mass Communication at Sharda University Gautam Buddh Nagar?
This Ph.D. Mass Communication program at Sharda University focuses on advanced research in media studies, communication theories, and emerging trends within the dynamic Indian and global media landscape. It aims to cultivate independent scholars and researchers capable of contributing original knowledge to the field, addressing contemporary challenges, and shaping future communication paradigms. The program emphasizes critical thinking and rigorous methodological training.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong academic background in Mass Communication or allied fields who aspire to become academicians, media researchers, policy analysts, or communication strategists. It is also suitable for experienced media professionals seeking to delve into in-depth theoretical and empirical research to influence industry practices and contribute to scholarly discourse.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as professors in Indian universities, lead research initiatives in media organizations, work as communication consultants, or contribute to public policy formulation. The program equips scholars with advanced analytical and critical skills, opening pathways to impactful roles in India''''s rapidly evolving media industry and academic institutions, with potential for significant career growth and competitive salaries.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Coursework Semester)
Thoroughly grasp the principles of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research, ethical considerations, and data analysis techniques. Utilize recommended textbooks and attend workshops on statistical software like SPSS or R for robust methodological grounding.
Tools & Resources
Sharda University Library resources, SPSS/R workshops, NPTEL courses on research methodology
Career Connection
A strong foundation in research methodology is crucial for developing a sound research proposal, executing robust studies, and ensuring the publishability of your doctoral work in top-tier journals, directly impacting future academic and research career prospects.
Engage Actively in Departmental Seminars- (Coursework Semester and Year 1 of Research)
Participate actively in all departmental seminars, research presentations, and colloquia. This exposes you to diverse research topics, methodologies, and critical feedback cultures. Present your initial research ideas to receive early input from faculty and peers.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedule, University research portal
Career Connection
Enhances critical thinking, presentation skills, and networking within your academic community, crucial for academic positions and collaborations in India.
Develop Academic Writing Proficiency- (Throughout Ph.D. program, especially during coursework and initial research phases)
Focus on improving academic writing skills, including structuring research papers, citing sources correctly (e.g., APA style), and articulating complex ideas clearly. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and utilize university writing centers, if available, for guidance.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL, Grammarly, University writing workshops
Career Connection
High-quality academic writing is essential for publishing in peer-reviewed journals and successfully drafting your thesis, both critical for securing academic positions and research grants in India and globally.
Intermediate Stage
Conduct Comprehensive Literature Reviews- (Year 1-2 of Research)
Systematically review existing literature relevant to your chosen research area. Utilize academic databases like Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify gaps in knowledge and situate your research within the broader academic discourse. Maintain a well-organized reference management system from the outset.
Tools & Resources
Sharda University Library databases, Mendeley/Zotero, Google Scholar
Career Connection
A thorough literature review strengthens your research contribution, demonstrates scholarly rigor, and provides the essential foundation for your thesis chapters and eventual journal publications.
Present Research at National Conferences- (Year 2-3 of Research)
Actively seek opportunities to present your ongoing research at national-level conferences and symposia, especially those organized by Indian academic associations. This helps in getting critical feedback, networking with other researchers, and building your academic profile.
Tools & Resources
Conference alerts websites, Departmental faculty for recommendations
Career Connection
Presenting research builds your academic reputation, allows for networking with potential collaborators and employers, and is often a prerequisite for many academic positions in India.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals (Scopus/UGC CARE Listed)- (Year 2-4 of Research)
Aim to publish at least one or two research papers in Scopus or UGC CARE listed journals, focusing on high-impact factor journals relevant to Mass Communication. This is often a mandatory requirement for Ph.D. submission and critical for career progression in Indian academia.
Tools & Resources
Journal Finder tools, Supervisor guidance, University publication guidelines
Career Connection
Journal publications are key performance indicators for academicians, directly influencing your chances of securing faculty positions, promotions, and research funding in India.
Advanced Stage
Engage in Interdisciplinary Collaboration- (Year 3-5 of Research)
Explore possibilities for interdisciplinary research collaborations, especially with departments like Computer Science (for data analytics), Psychology (for audience studies), or Management (for media economics). This broadens your research perspective and network.
Tools & Resources
Interdepartmental research forums, Faculty collaborations
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary work is highly valued in modern research, enhancing your CV and opening up diverse research and teaching opportunities in India and globally.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Viva-Voce- (Year 4-6 of Research)
Work diligently with your supervisor to finalize your thesis manuscript, ensuring it meets all university guidelines and scholarly standards. Practice your defense presentation extensively and anticipate potential questions from examiners through mock viva sessions.
Tools & Resources
University thesis guidelines, Mock viva sessions
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the culmination of your Ph.D. journey and opens doors to academic and research roles, proving your capability to conduct and present original research.
Network with Industry and Policy Makers- (Year 4-6 of Research)
Beyond academia, connect with professionals in the media industry, government bodies, or NGOs working on communication policy. Attend industry events and workshops to understand practical applications of your research and explore career paths outside traditional academia.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry conferences, Alumni network
Career Connection
Building a diverse network helps in identifying non-academic career opportunities, securing consultancy projects, and translating research into real-world impact within the Indian context.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Post Graduation in relevant discipline with 55% marks from a recognized University OR M.Phil in relevant discipline with 55% marks from a recognized University. Candidates with NET/JRF/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship holder/Industry Sponsored and Foreign students are exempted from entrance examination.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (including coursework of minimum 1 semester)
Credits: Minimum 8, Maximum 12 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (Assignment/Presentation for coursework papers), External: 70% (End Term Exam for coursework papers)
