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PH-D-JOURNALISM-MASS-COMMUNICATION in Media Ethics at Shivaji University, Kolhapur
Kolhapur, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Media Ethics at Shivaji University, Kolhapur Kolhapur?
This Media Ethics program at Shivaji University, Kolhapur focuses on instilling a deep understanding of moral principles and professional conduct within the dynamic Indian media landscape. It delves into the ethical challenges faced by journalists and media practitioners, exploring the legal and societal implications of their work. The program emphasizes responsible reporting, media accountability, and the role of ethics in shaping public discourse, critically differentiating through its regional and national relevance.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring media scholars, journalists seeking to deepen their ethical understanding, and professionals in communication, public relations, or advocacy looking to critically analyze media practices. It attracts individuals with a Master''''s degree in Journalism, Mass Communication, or related fields, who possess a keen interest in research, critical thinking, and contributing to a more ethical media environment in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become leading experts in media ethics, policy analysis, and responsible communication. Career paths include roles as media researchers, ethicists, policy advisors, journalism educators, or media consultants within Indian organizations and global bodies operating in India. While Ph.D. salaries vary widely, entry-level research positions might start around INR 5-8 lakhs annually, with significant growth for experienced professionals in academia or regulatory roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Ethical Frameworks- (Semester 1 (during Ph.D. Coursework))
Dedicate intensive effort to understanding research design, qualitative/quantitative methods, and academic writing. Simultaneously, immerse yourself in foundational ethical theories (e.g., Deontology, Consequentialism) and specific media ethics models relevant to India. Actively participate in coursework seminars and discussions to clarify concepts and refine research questions.
Tools & Resources
UGC-CARE listed journals, university library databases (JSTOR, EBSCOhost), research methodology textbooks (e.g., Kothari''''s Research Methodology), online courses on ethical theories (e.g., NPTEL)
Career Connection
A strong methodological base is crucial for academic publishing and impactful policy research. Understanding ethical frameworks forms the bedrock for specializing in media ethics, making you a credible expert for future academic or policy-making roles.
Identify & Deep Dive into a Niche Research Area in Media Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Work closely with your supervisor to identify a precise and relevant research problem within Media Ethics, considering its contemporary relevance in India (e.g., AI ethics in media, misinformation, privacy laws, representation of marginalized groups). Begin an exhaustive literature review specific to this niche, identifying gaps and potential contributions to the field.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, university''''s digital repository, specific journals in Journalism & Mass Communication and Ethics, Zotero/Mendeley for reference management
Career Connection
Early specialization makes your research highly focused and publishable, establishing you as an authority in a specific domain. This expertise is valued in academia, think tanks, and research divisions of media organizations.
Engage in Peer Learning & Academic Presentations- (Semester 1-2)
Form a study group with fellow Ph.D. scholars, especially those from related disciplines, to discuss research challenges and provide constructive feedback on proposals or early drafts. Actively seek opportunities to present your initial research ideas at departmental seminars or internal university workshops.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar series, university research colloquiums, online collaborative tools (Google Docs, Zoom for group discussions)
Career Connection
Regular presentations build confidence, refine communication skills, and expose your research to critical review, which is vital for thesis defense and future conference presentations. Peer feedback improves research quality and opens networking avenues.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Robust Data Collection & Analysis Skills- (Year 2)
Based on your research design, acquire proficiency in the chosen data collection methods (e.g., in-depth interviews, content analysis, surveys) and corresponding analysis techniques (e.g., thematic analysis, discourse analysis, statistical software). For Media Ethics, this often involves critical textual analysis of media content or ethical case studies.
Tools & Resources
NVivo/ATLAS.ti for qualitative data, SPSS/R for quantitative data, ethical review boards (for primary data collection approvals), interview guides, coding manuals
Career Connection
Strong analytical skills are highly valued across all research-intensive roles. Proficiency in specific software packages makes you a more versatile researcher and analyst for academic or industry positions.
Attend National Conferences & Network with Scholars- (Year 2-3)
Actively seek out and attend national-level conferences in Journalism, Mass Communication, or Ethics (e.g., IAMCR India, Media Education Research Conference). Present your ongoing research findings, even if preliminary, to receive feedback from senior scholars and expand your academic network.
Tools & Resources
Conference websites (e.g., UGC-sponsored conferences, state-level research meets), professional associations (e.g., Indian Association for Media Education), LinkedIn for connecting with attendees
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to potential collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, and offers insights into emerging research trends. Presenting enhances your academic profile and improves public speaking skills.
Initiate Academic Writing for Publication- (Year 2-3)
Begin converting chapters or significant findings from your Ph.D. research into publishable journal articles. Focus on writing for UGC-CARE listed journals or peer-reviewed publications in reputable academic presses. Seek feedback from your supervisor and peers before submission.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing workshops, university writing centers, specific journal guidelines, plagiarism checkers (Turnitin)
Career Connection
A strong publication record is paramount for securing academic positions (Assistant Professor, Post-doctoral fellow) and for gaining recognition as a subject matter expert in Media Ethics within India and globally.
Advanced Stage
Refine Thesis & Prepare for Viva Voce- (Year 3+)
Dedicate focused effort to meticulously drafting, revising, and perfecting your thesis, ensuring it meets all university guidelines and academic standards. Practice presenting and defending your research orally, anticipating challenging questions from examiners and preparing comprehensive answers.
Tools & Resources
Thesis formatting guidelines, Grammarly/ProWritingAid, university''''s Ph.D. regulations document, mock viva sessions with mentors
Career Connection
A well-written and successfully defended thesis is the ultimate credential for a Ph.D. holder, directly leading to the doctoral degree and validating your expertise for all future career endeavors.
Explore Post-Doctoral & Faculty Position Opportunities- (Final Year (approx. 6 months before expected completion))
Begin actively searching for post-doctoral fellowships, research associate positions, or Assistant Professor roles in universities and research institutions across India. Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your specialization in Media Ethics and your research contributions.
Tools & Resources
University job portals, AcademicKeys.com, Naukri.com (for academic roles), professional networking, university career services
Career Connection
Proactive job search and tailored applications increase your chances of securing desirable academic or research positions immediately after graduation, leveraging your specialized Ph.D. to its full potential.
Engage in Public Scholarship & Outreach- (Ongoing throughout research, intensified in final year and post-graduation)
Translate your complex research findings into accessible formats for a wider audience, such as opinion pieces in newspapers, blog posts, or invited talks at media organizations or civil society forums. Advocate for ethical media practices based on your research.
Tools & Resources
Personal website/blog, media contacts, public speaking training, university press releases
Career Connection
Public scholarship establishes you as a thought leader, enhancing your profile beyond academia. It also creates avenues for consultancy, policy influence, and builds a reputation for impactful research in the Indian media landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree with minimum 55% marks (50% for reserved categories) in a relevant discipline; UGC NET/SET/GATE/JRF qualified candidates may be exempted from the entrance test.
Duration: Minimum 3 years
Credits: 16 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 67%, External: 33%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDC-101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Foundations of Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Statistical Tools for Research, Academic Writing and Ethics |
| PHDC-102 | Domain Specific Subject (Journalism & Mass Communication with focus on Media Ethics) | Core | 4 | Ethical Theories and Models in Media, Media Laws and Regulations in India, Contemporary Ethical Dilemmas in Journalism, Social Responsibility and Media Accountability, Global Media Ethics Frameworks |
| PHDC-103 | Review of Literature and Seminar | Core | 8 | Techniques of Literature Review, Identification of Research Gaps, Academic Writing and Referencing, Preparation of Research Proposals, Presentation Skills for Research |
