SGT University Gurgaon Ph.D Journalism And Mass Communication: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. The PhD in Journalism and Mass Communication at SGT University is offered as a full-time, on-campus program. As per UGC PhD Regulations, full-time PhD scholars are required to be present on campus and cannot simultaneously hold a full-time job. However, the university does conduct PhD admissions in two cycles per academic session, which provides some flexibility in timing. Working professionals who wish to pursue a PhD should check with the university whether a part-time or flexible PhD option is available, as some private universities do offer this under specific conditions.

Ans. The SGT University PhD entrance examination consists of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) with a maximum of 70 marks. The paper is divided equally: 50% questions are subject-oriented (covering Journalism, Mass Communication, Media Studies, PR, etc.) and 50% are based on Research Methodology (covering research design, data collection, analysis, and academic writing). There is no negative marking. Candidates who have qualified UGC-NET/JRF in a relevant subject are exempted from this entrance exam. For preparation, candidates should refer to UGC-NET syllabus for Journalism and Mass Communication and standard research methodology textbooks.

Ans. The official eligibility criterion states that candidates must hold a postgraduate degree in the concerned specialization with at least 55% marks. For the PhD in Journalism and Mass Communication, candidates with a PG in Journalism, Mass Communication, or closely related fields like Media Studies, Communication Studies, or even English (with a focus on media/communication) may be considered. However, candidates from unrelated disciplines like Sociology or Political Science should directly contact the university's admission office to confirm eligibility, as the final decision rests with the PhD admission committee and the availability of a suitable research supervisor.

Ans. The School of Emerging Media, Communication and Film Studies (SMCF) at SGT University supports research across a wide range of contemporary and traditional media topics. Key research areas include digital journalism and AI in media, media ethics and policy, political communication, fake news and misinformation, audience behavior and media consumption, public relations and corporate communication, development communication, and social media studies. Candidates are advised to identify a potential research topic and check for faculty expertise in that area before applying, as the availability of a qualified research supervisor is a key factor in PhD admission.

Ans. SGT University offers a monthly stipend of Rs. 10,000 to regular PhD scholars who assist in teaching activities (Teaching Assistantship). Additionally, candidates who qualify UGC-NET with JRF are eligible for the UGC JRF fellowship of Rs. 37,000 per month (Junior Research Fellowship) which increases to Rs. 42,000 per month (Senior Research Fellowship) after two years. Candidates should confirm with the university whether the UGC JRF fellowship can be availed simultaneously with the university's teaching assistantship. The university also provides assistance in obtaining student bank loans to cover the annual fee of Rs. 1,50,000.

Ans. As per UGC PhD Regulations, the minimum duration for a full-time PhD is 3 years from the date of registration, and the maximum is 6 years (with possible extensions in exceptional cases). At SGT University, the process involves coursework completion, research proposal approval (within 1 year of admission), independent research, regular progress presentations to a committee, and final thesis submission. After submission, the thesis undergoes external evaluation by subject experts, followed by a VIVA examination (oral defense) before an esteemed panel. Upon successful defense, the degree is conferred at the university's convocation. The total timeline from admission to degree award typically ranges from 3 to 5 years depending on the research area and progress.