JLU Bhopal Ph.D Journalism And Mass Communication: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

The Ph.D. in Journalism and Mass Communication at Jagran Lakecity University (JLU), Bhopal is a 3-year full-time doctoral research programme offered under the Jagran School of Journalism. The programme is designed for candidates who wish to pursue advanced research in journalism, media studies, communication theories, digital media, and mass communication. The total course fee for the entire 3-year duration is Rs. 4,00,000. Admission is based on the university's own research entrance test (JLURET) and a Personal Interview, and candidates with UGC NET/JRF qualifications are given preference. The programme is backed by the Jagran Group's media legacy, providing doctoral researchers with access to industry insights and media research resources.

Admissions for the 2026 batch are currently open. JLU accepts applications on a rolling basis through its online portal (apply.jlu.edu.in). Based on the 2025 admission cycle, the last date for registration was in the 4th week of June, with the academic session commencing in September. For 2026, the application process has already begun and is expected to close by the last week of June 2026.

Key Points

• The Ph.D. programme is offered under the Jagran School of Journalism, which is backed by the Jagran Group, providing doctoral researchers with access to media industry networks and research resources.
• Research areas include journalism studies, media ethics, digital journalism, communication theories, media and society, public relations, advertising, and mass communication.
• The programme follows UGC guidelines for Ph.D. research, including coursework in the first year, followed by research work and thesis submission.
• Candidates with UGC NET/JRF qualifications are given preference and may be eligible for fellowship support.
• JLU is a UGC-recognised private university under Section 2(f) of the UGC Act 1956, and Ph.D. degrees awarded are valid for academic and professional purposes.
• The university also offers a Ph.D. (Working Professional) option at Rs. 1,75,000/year for candidates who wish to pursue research alongside their professional careers.

JLU Ph.D. Fees

Course Fees

Note: Ph.D. (Working Professional) option is available at Rs. 1,75,000 per year (total Rs. 5,65,000 including one-time charges).

Hostel Fees (Optional - Not Mandatory)

• Caution Money of Rs. 10,000 is refundable at the time of leaving the university, subject to no dues.
• Hostel accommodation is optional and not included in the total course fee above.
• Fees can be paid in 2 instalments per year (semester-wise).
• Fees once paid are non-transferable and non-refundable (except Caution Money), as per UGC Refund Policy 2024-25.
• For refund requests, candidates must apply before 5 PM on July 15, 2026 to [email protected].

JLU Ph.D. Admission 2026

JLU Ph.D. Admission Dates

UGC NET Exam Dates

Source: https://ugcnet.nta.ac.in/

Note: UGC NET qualification (especially JRF) is preferred but not mandatory for Ph.D. admission at JLU. Candidates without NET/JRF can also apply through JLURET.

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

• Candidates must have a postgraduate degree (Master's degree) in Journalism, Mass Communication, or a related discipline from a recognised university with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates as per UGC norms).
• Candidates with UGC NET/JRF qualification in Journalism and Mass Communication or related subjects are given preference.
• Candidates appearing in the final year of their postgraduate programme are also eligible to apply provisionally.

Admission Process

• Register online at apply.jlu.edu.in and pay the application fee of Rs. 1,600.
• Submit required documents including postgraduate marksheets, research proposal/statement of purpose, and Aadhaar card.
• Appear in JLURET (JLU Research Entrance Test) and Personal Interview (PI) as scheduled.
• Candidates with valid UGC NET/JRF scores may be exempted from JLURET as per university policy.
• Shortlisted candidates receive a Provisional Admission Letter (PAL) within 7 working days.
• Pay the seat booking amount and complete registration at the Student Section office.
• Allotment of research supervisor is done after admission based on research area and faculty availability.

JLU Ph.D. Scholarships 2026

Scholarship Details

• UGC JRF fellowship is awarded by UGC directly to qualifying candidates and is not funded by JLU.
• JLU may offer internal research assistantships or fee concessions to meritorious doctoral candidates; candidates should enquire at the time of admission.
• Scholarship application forms are available at the Admissions Office.