Amity University Raipur Ph.D Journalism & Mass Communication: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. Yes, the part-time PhD program is specifically designed for working media professionals. Classes are held only on weekends (Saturday-Sunday, 9:15 AM to 6:10 PM) during the first year coursework, allowing you to maintain your full-time media career. However, you must submit an employment verification certificate and a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your employer at the time of joining. The flexible schedule enables you to balance your professional responsibilities with research and coursework, though you should be prepared for significant time commitment during weekends and for independent research work.

Ans. The part-time PhD has a minimum duration of 3.5 years compared to 3 years for full-time, with lower semester fees (Rs 33,000 per semester for Raipur campus) versus full-time fees (Rs 38,000 per semester). Part-time scholars are not eligible for Amity Research Fellowship stipends, whereas full-time scholars can earn Rs 37,000 per month. Career-wise, both degrees carry equal academic value and are recognized by media organizations and academic institutions. However, full-time PhDs may have better prospects in academia due to more intensive research output, while part-time PhDs are highly valued in the media industry for combining practical experience with research credentials.

Ans. Research topics in this program span contemporary media issues including digital journalism, media ethics, audience studies, media policy, social media communication, broadcast journalism, advertising research, and public relations. You can propose any research idea aligned with current media trends and communication challenges. The preliminary research idea you submit during application is not final and can be modified with guidance from your appointed Main Guide and Co-Guide after joining the program. The final research topic must be approved by the Competent Authority of the University.

Ans. It is mandatory to publish a minimum of two research papers in reputed journals before submitting your PhD thesis for evaluation. Amity provides access to research facilities, library resources with access to media databases and journals, and collaboration opportunities with media organizations and industry partners. The university also facilitates conference participation and publication guidance through your research committee. However, the responsibility for identifying suitable journals, preparing manuscripts, and managing the publication process primarily rests with the scholar and their guide.

Ans. The APET consists of 100 MCQs to be completed in 90 minutes, divided into two sections: Section 1 (General aptitude covering research methodology, English language, logical reasoning, and data analysis - 50 marks) and Section 2 (Subject-specific media and communication topics at UGC-CSIR-NET and GATE level - 50 marks). To prepare, study research methodology concepts, current media trends, communication theories, and media policy issues. Refer to UGC-CSIR-NET and GATE level materials for the difficulty level. If you have cleared UGC-CSIR NET or GATE in a relevant field, you are exempted from APET and will appear only for the Faculty Research Committee interview.

Ans. Your research topic can be modified and improved with guidance from your appointed Main Guide and Co-Guide after joining the program. However, you cannot change your Main Guide unless the guide becomes unavailable for certain reasons. The final research topic must be approved by the Competent Authority of the University. This flexibility allows you to refine your research direction based on faculty feedback, available resources, and evolving research interests during your first semester coursework. The appointment of guides is based on availability, your area of research, and your preferences after meeting eligible guides at the university.