

PHD in Journalism And Mass Communication at University of Lucknow


Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Journalism and Mass Communication at University of Lucknow Lucknow?
This Journalism and Mass Communication PhD program at University of Lucknow focuses on advanced research into media studies, communication theories, and socio-political aspects of information dissemination. It aims to cultivate critical scholarship addressing contemporary challenges and evolving landscapes within the Indian media industry, fostering original contributions to the academic field and societal understanding.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for scholars holding a Master''''s degree in Journalism or Mass Communication, researchers seeking to contribute original insights into media phenomena, and academics aspiring to faculty positions. It caters to those with a strong inclination towards in-depth theoretical analysis, empirical research, and a commitment to rigorous academic inquiry in the Indian context.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, media researchers, policy analysts, or consultants in leading Indian and international organizations. They gain expertise in advanced research methodologies and critical thinking, positioning them for significant academic contributions and impactful roles in shaping communication discourse within India and globally.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology- (Coursework Semester)
Thoroughly grasp fundamental and advanced research methodologies, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. Actively participate in seminars, workshops, and discussions to build a strong theoretical and practical foundation for your doctoral thesis. Focus on understanding ethical guidelines in research relevant to India.
Tools & Resources
UGC-CARE List Journals, Research Methodology textbooks (e.g., C.R. Kothari), SPSS/R for statistical analysis basics, University Library databases
Career Connection
A strong methodological foundation is crucial for conducting credible research, securing grants, and pursuing academic positions in any Indian university or research institution.
Develop Strong Academic Writing Skills- (Coursework Semester)
Focus on refining academic writing, particularly for literature reviews, research proposals, and eventually the thesis. Seek feedback from professors, attend university writing workshops, and practice structuring arguments clearly and concisely. Familiarize yourself with common citation styles used in academic publishing.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly Premium, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, Academic writing guides, Peer feedback groups
Career Connection
Excellent academic writing is essential for publishing in peer-reviewed journals, presenting at conferences, and effectively communicating complex research findings, crucial for an academic career.
Engage with Specialization-Specific Literature- (Coursework Semester and beyond)
Beyond coursework, actively read and critically analyze seminal and contemporary research papers, books, and reports in Journalism and Mass Communication, especially those focusing on the Indian context. Identify gaps in existing literature and emerging research areas that align with your interests.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, Communication journals (e.g., Media, Culture & Society, Journal of Communication), University library digital resources
Career Connection
This deep engagement helps in formulating an original research problem, identifying potential supervisors, and positioning your work within the broader academic discourse, vital for thesis originality and impact.
Intermediate Stage
Present Research at Conferences- (Year 2-3 of PhD)
Actively seek opportunities to present your ongoing research at national and international academic conferences, particularly those hosted in India or focusing on South Asian media. This helps refine your ideas, receive peer feedback, and build a professional network within the academic community.
Tools & Resources
Indian Communication Association (ICA) conferences, IAMCR conferences, University travel grants, Presentation software (PowerPoint/Keynote)
Career Connection
Conference presentations are crucial for disseminating research, establishing academic presence, and can lead to potential collaborations or job opportunities in academia.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Year 2-3 of PhD)
Aim to convert parts of your literature review, pilot studies, or initial findings into publishable articles for UGC-CARE listed and other reputable peer-reviewed journals. This demonstrates research productivity and quality, which is highly valued in Indian academic recruitments.
Tools & Resources
UGC-CARE List, Reputable Communication Studies Journals, Manuscript submission platforms, University research office support
Career Connection
A strong publication record significantly enhances prospects for faculty positions, post-doctoral fellowships, and research grants, especially in the competitive Indian academic landscape.
Collaborate with Faculty and Researchers- (Year 2-3 of PhD)
Seek out opportunities to collaborate with your supervisor, other faculty members, or senior researchers on projects. This could involve co-authoring papers, assisting with grant applications, or participating in departmental research initiatives. It broadens your research perspective and skill set.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research groups, University research forums, Networking events, Online academic collaboration platforms
Career Connection
Collaborative experience is valued in academia, demonstrating teamwork and interdisciplinary skills. It also builds a professional network that can be instrumental for future career progression.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Thesis Defense- (Final Year of PhD)
Systematically organize and refine your thesis, ensuring all research questions are addressed, methodologies are sound, and arguments are coherently presented. Conduct mock defenses with your supervisory committee and peers to anticipate questions and improve presentation skills for the final viva voce.
Tools & Resources
Thesis templates, University guidelines for thesis submission, Presentation tools, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the culmination of your PhD journey, essential for degree conferral and a strong foundation for future academic or research endeavors.
Develop a Teaching Portfolio- (Throughout PhD, intensified in final year)
If aspiring for an academic career, gain teaching experience by assisting professors, co-teaching courses, or delivering guest lectures. Document your teaching philosophy, syllabi developed, and student feedback. This is a critical component for university faculty applications in India.
Tools & Resources
University teaching assistant programs, Mentorship from experienced faculty, Online teaching certifications, Feedback forms
Career Connection
A robust teaching portfolio is indispensable for securing assistant professor positions in Indian colleges and universities, demonstrating readiness for academic responsibilities.
Strategic Career Planning & Networking- (Final Year of PhD)
Begin actively applying for academic positions, post-doctoral fellowships, or research roles. Leverage your professional network built through conferences and collaborations. Tailor your CV and cover letter to specific job requirements, highlighting your research, publications, and teaching experience. Attend job fairs specific to academia.
Tools & Resources
Academic job portals (e.g., Times Higher Education, individual university career pages), LinkedIn for academic networking, CV/Resume writing guides, Mock interview practice
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and networking in the final stages of your PhD significantly increases your chances of securing a desirable academic or research position upon graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Journalism/Mass Communication or an allied subject with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-Abled) or equivalent grade. Candidates must qualify in the University''''s PhD Entrance Test (RET) or be exempted as per UGC norms (e.g., UGC-NET/JRF, SLET, M.Phil. completed with coursework).
Duration: Minimum 3 years (including 1 semester of coursework)
Credits: 10 (for coursework semester) Credits
Assessment: Internal: Continuous assessment through assignments, seminars, and presentations for coursework papers., External: End-semester written examination for Paper I & II. Evaluation of Paper III based on literature review, seminar, and fieldwork/skill development report. Specific weightages per paper component are not detailed publicly as percentages.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JMC-PHD-RM-101 | Research Methodology | Core (Common to all PhD faculties) | 4 | Introduction to Research and Ethics, Research Design and Problem Formulation, Data Collection Techniques (Qualitative & Quantitative), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Research Report Writing and Presentation |
| JMC-PHD-SSP-102 | Subject Specific Paper (Journalism and Mass Communication) | Core (Specialization Specific) | 4 | Advanced Communication Theories, Current Trends in Media Research, Digital Media and Society, Media Ethics, Law and Governance, Journalism Practices and Challenges in India |
| JMC-PHD-RP-103 | Review of Literature, Seminar and Field Study/Skill Development | Practical/Project | 2 | Advanced Literature Review Techniques, Academic Presentation and Communication Skills, Research Proposal Development, Ethical Considerations in Fieldwork, Skill Development for Academic Research |




