The Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), a deemed to be university, formally launched its PhD program on 1 January 2026, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s 60-year academic journey. Scholars will be admitted to the PhD program for the academic year 2025–26.
The online admission process for both full-time and part-time candidates began on 1 January 2026 and will remain open until 30 January 2026. Candidates with UGC-NET eligibility will be directly called for a personal interaction, while part-time candidates without UGC-NET qualification must take an entrance examination on 15 February 2026.
The list of selected candidates will be released on 23 February 2026, with interviews beginning on 9 March 2026. The admission process will conclude by 27 March 2026, and coursework will commence on 1 April 2026.
Speaking at the launch of the PhD admission portal, IIMC vice-chancellor Pragya Paliwal Gaur said the program aims to make a genuine contribution to research for a resurgent India. Paliwal Gaur emphasized the need for innovative, socially relevant, and nation-building research initiatives.
The PhD program at IIMC seeks to foster a rigorous academic environment, promote interdisciplinary scholarship, and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in journalism, communication, and allied fields.
It is designed for scholars who wish to advance the study of media and communication. The programme offers opportunities for in-depth research in journalism, mass communication, digital media, strategic communication, media management, film studies, political communication, development communication, advertising, and public relations. It encourages interdisciplinary inquiry and strives to cultivate innovation and academic excellence in media research.
