VelTech University Ph.D Communication & Media Studies: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. The School of Media Technology & Communication at Vel Tech supports research across a wide range of areas within communication and media studies. Research areas include digital media and social media communication, journalism and media ethics, visual communication and film studies, multimedia technology, media sociology, advertising and public relations, health communication, and communication technology. Scholars interested in emerging areas like social media analytics, digital journalism, OTT platforms, and media policy are encouraged to apply. The specific research topic is finalised in consultation with the assigned research supervisor.

Ans. Full-time Ph.D. scholars in the Communication & Media Studies programme at Vel Tech receive a monthly stipend of Rs. 20,000 (without NET qualification) or Rs. 25,000 (with valid UGC-NET/SLET). Given that the programme fee is only Rs. 18,000 per semester (Rs. 36,000 per year), the stipend more than covers the programme fee and contributes significantly towards living expenses. Scholars staying in the hostel would need to budget for hostel fees (Rs. 1,05,000 to Rs. 1,65,000 per year) separately. Additional incentives, conference funding, and seed grants further supplement the financial support available to scholars.

Ans. No, UGC-NET is not mandatory for Ph.D. admission at Vel Tech. The university conducts its own written entrance examination and interview for Ph.D. admissions. However, candidates who have qualified UGC-NET (Mass Communication & Journalism) or SLET receive a higher monthly stipend of Rs. 25,000 compared to Rs. 20,000 for non-NET scholars. NET qualification also strengthens the application and demonstrates research aptitude. Candidates without NET can still be admitted based on their performance in the university's entrance test and interview.

Ans. The minimum duration for a Regular Ph.D. (after Master's degree) at Vel Tech is 3 years for full-time scholars. The programme can be extended beyond 3 years if the research work requires more time, and fees are payable on a per-semester basis for the extended period. The stipend is provided only up to the minimum programme duration. Scholars are encouraged to publish in Q1 journals, as Vel Tech offers fast-track thesis submission for scholars with Q1 publications, potentially enabling earlier completion. The maximum duration is governed by the university's Ph.D. regulations.

Ans. Yes, Vel Tech offers a Part-Time Ph.D. option for working professionals in Communication & Media Studies. Part-time scholars must provide a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer and preferably have at least 1 year of relevant work experience. The part-time mode allows professionals to continue their careers while pursuing doctoral research. However, part-time scholars are not eligible for the monthly stipend, which is reserved for full-time scholars. The minimum duration for part-time Ph.D. is typically longer than the full-time programme. Interested candidates should contact the Office of Research Studies at researchstudiesoffice@veltech.edu.in for specific part-time programme details.

Ans. Vel Tech provides comprehensive research support to Ph.D. scholars. The university covers Article Processing Charges (APC) for publications in Q1 journals, which can otherwise cost several thousand dollars. Conference and international travel funding is available for scholars presenting their research at national and international conferences. Seed grants of up to Rs. 3 Lakhs are provided for approved research projects. The university's 210+ international MoUs facilitate research collaborations with foreign universities, and scholars can participate in international exchange programmes. Annual incentives are awarded to top-performing scholars based on their research output, publications, and overall academic performance.