The Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), a premier institution in journalism and media education, has officially launched its first-ever Ph.D. Programme in Media and Communication Studies, marking a landmark moment in its 60-year academic legacy. The programme was formally introduced on January 1, 2026, positioning IIMC as a key contributor to advanced research and scholarly excellence in the evolving media ecosystem.
Admissions Open for Academic Year 2025–26
The admission process for the inaugural batch of the Ph.D. Programme commenced online on January 1, 2026, and will remain open until January 30, 2026. The programme is open to both full-time and part-time scholars, offering flexibility to academicians and industry professionals seeking advanced research opportunities.
Candidates qualified through UGC-NET will be directly shortlisted for personal interaction. Part-time applicants without UGC-NET qualification will be required to appear for an entrance examination scheduled on February 15, 2026. The list of selected candidates will be announced on February 23, 2026, followed by interviews beginning March 9. The entire admission process will conclude by March 27, with coursework commencing from April 1, 2026.
Focus on Research for a Resurgent India
Speaking at the launch of the Ph.D. admission portal, IIMC Vice Chancellor Dr. Pragya Paliwal Gaur said the programme has been designed to make meaningful contributions to national development through research. She emphasized the need for innovative, out-of-the-box research projects that address real societal challenges and strengthen India’s democratic and communication institutions.
Symbolising the beginning of this new academic journey, the Vice Chancellor planted a ‘Kovidara’ sapling at the New Delhi campus, naming it the ‘Gyan Vriksh’ or Knowledge Tree. The gesture underscored IIMC’s commitment to nurturing knowledge, sustainability and long-term intellectual growth.
Wide Spectrum of Research Areas
The Ph.D. Programme at IIMC offers scholars the opportunity to pursue in-depth research across a broad range of disciplines. These include journalism studies, mass communication, digital media, strategic communication, political communication, development communication, advertising and public relations, media industry management and film studies.
The programme places strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research, encouraging scholars to integrate perspectives from sociology, political science, technology, economics and cultural studies. This approach is expected to foster innovation and produce research that is relevant to both academia and the media industry.
Strengthening India’s Media Research Ecosystem
With media playing an increasingly influential role in shaping public opinion and governance, the introduction of a doctoral programme at IIMC is seen as timely and significant. The initiative is expected to enhance the quality of research output in media and communication studies and create a strong pipeline of academic leaders and policy thinkers.
The programme also aligns with national priorities of strengthening higher education, promoting research excellence and supporting India’s vision of becoming a global knowledge hub. By nurturing critical inquiry and ethical scholarship, IIMC aims to contribute to responsible media practices and informed public discourse.
A New Chapter in IIMC’s Legacy
Established over six decades ago, IIMC has played a pivotal role in shaping generations of journalists, communication professionals and media leaders. The launch of the Ph.D. Programme marks a new chapter in the institution’s evolution, reinforcing its role as a centre of excellence in media education and research.
As the institute embarks on this new academic journey, the doctoral programme is expected to attract scholars from across the country and beyond, further strengthening India’s position in global media and communication research.
