IIMC Launches First-Ever Ph.D. Programme in Media and Communication Studies

The Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), a deemed-to-be university, on January 1 formally launched its first-ever Ph.D. Programme, marking a significant academic milestone in its 60-year legacy. Admissions to the doctoral programme will be held for the academic year 2025–26.

The online admission process for both full-time and part-time candidates began on January 1 and will remain open till January 30, 2026. Candidates with UGC-NET qualification will be directly called for personal interaction, while part-time applicants without UGC-NET eligibility will be required to appear for an entrance examination scheduled for February 15, 2026.

According to IIMC, the list of selected candidates will be released on February 23, 2026, followed by interviews starting from March 9. The admission process will be completed by March 27, 2026, and the coursework for the Ph.D. programme will commence from April 1, 2026.

Speaking at the launch of the Ph.D. admission portal, IIMC Vice Chancellor Dr Pragya Paliwal Gaur said the doctoral programme aims to make meaningful contributions to research aligned with the vision of a resurgent India. She emphasised the need for innovative, out-of-the-box research projects that address societal challenges and contribute to national development.

Marking the symbolic beginning of the programme, Dr Gaur planted a sapling of ‘Kovidara’ as a Gyan Vriksh (Knowledge Tree) at the New Delhi campus.

The Ph.D. Programme is designed to provide a rigorous academic environment, promote interdisciplinary scholarship and strengthen research in journalism, media and communication studies. Scholars will have the opportunity to undertake in-depth research in areas such as journalism, mass communication, digital media, strategic communication, media industry management, film studies, political communication, development communication, advertising and public relations.

IIMC said the introduction of the doctoral programme is aimed at fostering innovation, scholarly excellence and advancing the evolving body of knowledge in media and communication disciplines.