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PH-D in Communication And Journalism at University of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Communication and Journalism at University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram?
This Ph.D. program in Communication and Journalism at University of Kerala focuses on advanced research and scholarly inquiry into the dynamic fields of media, communication studies, and journalistic practices. It prepares scholars to contribute to academic discourse, media industry innovation, and policy formulation within the evolving Indian landscape. The program emphasizes critical thinking and original research relevant to societal and industry needs.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in Communication, Journalism, or related social sciences who possess a strong academic record and a passion for in-depth research. It caters to fresh postgraduates aiming for academic careers, media professionals seeking to delve into theoretical frameworks and empirical studies, and researchers aspiring to contribute original knowledge to the communication domain in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue esteemed academic positions as professors, researchers, and media analysts in Indian universities and research institutions. Opportunities also exist in media organizations for policy research, content strategy, and advanced editorial roles. While specific salary ranges vary, Ph.D. holders command higher remuneration, typically starting from INR 8-15 LPA for academic roles, with significant growth potential in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Semester 1 (Coursework))
Thoroughly grasp the principles of research design, quantitative and qualitative methods, statistical analysis, and ethical considerations. Actively engage in coursework, participate in discussions, and seek clarification on complex concepts to build a robust theoretical base.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, online courses on research methods (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera), statistical software tutorials (SPSS, R), academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly)
Career Connection
Essential for designing a rigorous thesis, publishing research papers, and securing academic positions requiring strong methodological expertise.
Engage with Specialization Literature Critically- (Semester 1 and early research phase)
Beyond coursework, delve deep into seminal and contemporary literature in Communication and Journalism, identifying gaps and emerging trends. Actively read research papers, books, and reports specific to your potential research interest and critically analyze arguments and methodologies.
Tools & Resources
University library databases (JSTOR, Scopus), Google Scholar, specialized communication journals (e.g., Media Asia, Journal of Communication), relevant think-tank reports
Career Connection
Develops the analytical skills crucial for thesis writing and positions in academic research, media analysis, and policy formulation.
Cultivate Strong Supervisor Relationship- (From admission throughout the program)
Proactively communicate with your supervisor, discussing research interests, potential topics, and coursework challenges. Regularly seek feedback, understand expectations, and collaborate effectively to refine your research direction and ensure alignment with academic standards.
Tools & Resources
Regular scheduled meetings, email communication, maintaining a research journal to document discussions and progress
Career Connection
A strong supervisory relationship is critical for successful thesis completion, guidance on academic career paths, and valuable mentorship in publishing and networking.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (End of Semester 1 to end of Year 1-2)
Work intensively on formulating a clear, concise, and original research proposal, outlining your research question, objectives, methodology, literature review, and expected outcomes. Seek feedback from your supervisor and peers to strengthen the proposal.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, university guidelines for proposal submission, thesis formatting software (e.g., LaTeX, Word templates), research management tools (Mendeley, Zotero)
Career Connection
A well-defined proposal is the cornerstone of a successful Ph.D. and demonstrates critical research planning skills valued in academia and advanced research roles.
Participate in Academic Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2-3)
Present your preliminary research findings or literature reviews at national/international conferences. Actively attend workshops on advanced research techniques, academic writing, and publishing to gain exposure and feedback from the wider academic community.
Tools & Resources
University funding for travel, professional organizations (e.g., IAMCR, ICA, PRCI), online conference listings, networking platforms (LinkedIn)
Career Connection
Builds academic visibility, expands professional network, refines presentation skills, and provides opportunities for collaboration, essential for academic career progression.
Begin Academic Publishing- (Year 2-4)
Transform parts of your literature review, methodology section, or pilot study findings into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals. Start with national journals and gradually target international publications.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission guidelines, academic writing centers, peer-review feedback, predatory journal lists (UGC CARE List for India)
Career Connection
Publications are vital for academic job applications, promotion, and establishing expertise, significantly boosting your profile in the Indian higher education system.
Advanced Stage
Systematic Thesis Writing and Revision- (Year 4-5)
Dedicate focused time to writing the thesis, maintaining a structured approach chapter by chapter. Incorporate feedback from your supervisor rigorously and revise multiple drafts for clarity, coherence, and academic rigor.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing software, grammar and style checkers (Grammarly, LaTeX), proofreading services, dedicated writing time slots
Career Connection
A well-written thesis is your ultimate research output, demonstrating your ability to conduct and communicate extensive research, a key criterion for academic and research roles.
Prepare for Viva Voce (Thesis Defense)- (Final 6-12 months)
Thoroughly prepare for your final thesis defense by understanding potential questions, rehearsing your presentation, and anticipating critiques. Be ready to articulate your research''''s significance, methodology, and contributions clearly and confidently.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with peers/faculty, presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), reviewing your own thesis and relevant literature
Career Connection
A successful viva is the final step to earning your Ph.D., a prerequisite for almost all academic and advanced research positions.
Network for Post-Ph.D. Opportunities- (Final year of Ph.D. and beyond)
Actively engage with faculty, alumni, and industry professionals to explore post-doctoral fellowships, academic job openings, and research positions. Attend university career fairs and leverage professional platforms to build connections.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university career services, professional academic networks, conference contacts, mentor recommendations
Career Connection
Proactive networking is essential for identifying and securing suitable employment or further research opportunities immediately after completing your Ph.D. in India or abroad.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (M.Phil. or PG degree) with a minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent grade B in UGC 7-point scale) or equivalent qualification from a recognized university. Relaxation for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-abled candidates as per UGC norms. Candidates with NET/JRF/GATE/SET/Teacher Fellowship or an M.Phil. from University of Kerala are exempted from entrance tests but must undergo coursework.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (full-time). Coursework component typically one semester.
Credits: 8 (4 for Paper I, 4 for Paper II for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
