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

Ans. The Ph.D. programme at Apex University has a minimum duration of 3 years and a maximum of 5 years. If you are unable to complete your thesis and viva voce within 3 years, you can continue for up to 5 years by paying the semester fee of Rs. 60,000 per semester for the extended period. Extensions beyond 5 years are generally not permitted under UGC regulations, though the university may consider exceptional cases. It is advisable to discuss your research timeline with your supervisor at the outset to plan effectively.

Ans. Yes, the Ph.D. degree from Apex University is awarded by a UGC-recognised private university and is valid for applying to Assistant Professor positions in colleges and universities across India, subject to meeting the UGC minimum eligibility norms (which include Ph.D. from a recognised university and qualifying UGC-NET/SET, or Ph.D. awarded as per UGC 2009 regulations). Since Apex University is UGC-recognised, its Ph.D. degrees are accepted for academic appointments. However, candidates are advised to verify the specific requirements of the institution they wish to apply to, as some universities may have additional criteria.

Ans. The department supports research across a wide range of areas including media theory and criticism, journalism ethics and practices, digital media and social media studies, advertising and brand communication, public relations and corporate communication, content analysis and media effects, political communication, health communication, and development journalism. Candidates are expected to submit a research proposal at the time of admission, and the final research topic is finalised in consultation with the allotted supervisor. The department encourages interdisciplinary research that bridges journalism with sociology, political science, and communication technology.

Ans. The eligibility criteria specify that candidates must hold a Master's degree from a UGC-recognised institution with a minimum of 55% marks. While the preferred qualification is a Master's in Journalism, Mass Communication, or a related field, candidates with Master's degrees in related disciplines such as English, Sociology, Political Science, or Psychology may also be considered, particularly if their research proposal demonstrates a clear connection to journalism and mass communication. The final decision rests with the admissions committee and the research supervisor. It is advisable to contact the department directly to discuss your eligibility before applying.

Ans. Apex University's internal scholarship schemes (Merit-Based, AUCET, CUET, Early Bird, etc.) are not applicable for Ph.D. programmes as per the official policy. However, Ph.D. scholars can apply for external fellowships such as the UGC-NET Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), which provides a monthly stipend of Rs. 37,000 for the first two years and Rs. 42,000 from the third year onwards. To be eligible for JRF, candidates must qualify the UGC-NET examination with JRF. Candidates from SC/ST/OBC categories may also explore state government fellowships available through the Rajasthan government's scholarship portal.

Ans. Apex University offers both Full Time and Part Time Ph.D. programmes in Journalism and Mass Communication. The Full Time Ph.D. (this programme) requires scholars to be physically present on campus and engage in research on a full-time basis, with a fee of Rs. 60,000 per semester. The Part Time Ph.D. is designed for working professionals who cannot commit to full-time campus attendance, with a fee of Rs. 50,000 per semester. The minimum duration for both is 3 years, but Part Time scholars typically take longer to complete. If you are a fresh postgraduate looking to pursue an academic career, Full Time is recommended as it allows deeper engagement with research and faculty. If you are a working media professional, the Part Time option offers more flexibility.