UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism Exam 2026 PDF Download

UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism MahaPack (UGC NET PAPER 1 & Paper 2 Mass Communication and Journalism) with PYQ, Mock Papers and Guide with Complete Syllabus Coverage (2 E-books) (PDF Format)

Are you looking or in search for how to prepare for UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam 2026? If so, then you want to stay tuned within this article. To get detail information about the latest syllabus and exam pattern for the UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam. The UCG has already introduced major updates and changes to the syllabus for Mass Communication and Journalism UGC NET exam 2026.

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The UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism examination is one of the most prestigious national-level eligibility tests conduct in India for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors or Junior Research Fellows (JRF) in the field of Mass Communication, Journalism, Media Studies, and related disciplines. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the University Grants Commission (UGC). This exam evaluates a candidate’s academic knowledge, research aptitude, and subject expertise.

Mass Communication and Journalism as a subject under UGC NET attracts a large number of candidates due to its interdisciplinary nature, career opportunities in academia, media research, communication policy, digital media, and journalism education. This article provides a comprehensive, detailed overview of the UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam, covering the exam pattern, eligibility criteria, and detailed syllabus in paragraph format to help aspirants prepare strategically.

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Overview of UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism Exam

The UGC NET exam is conduct twice a year in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode. Mass Communication and Journalism is offered as Paper II (Subject Code: 17). Candidates must qualify both Paper I (Teaching and Research Aptitude) and Paper II (Mass Communication and Journalism) to be eligible for Assistant Professor or JRF.

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The exam is design to test not only theoretical understanding but also analytical skills, critical thinking, and conceptual clarity in media studies. The syllabus reflects both classical theories of communication and contemporary developments such as digital media, social media, media laws, ethics, development communication, and global media systems.

UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism Exam Pattern

Understanding the UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam pattern is essential for effective preparation. The exam follows a single-session format comprising two papers conducted together without any break.

Indeed Paper I is common for all subjects and focuses on teaching aptitude, research methodology, comprehension, communication skills, logical reasoning, data interpretation, and higher education awareness. Ultimately Paper II is subject-specific and evaluates in-depth knowledge of Mass Communication and Journalism.

The exam consists of a total of 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). All of which are compulsory. Each question carries two marks, making the total exam 300 marks. The duration of the examination is three hours (180 minutes).

There is no negative marking, which allows candidates to attempt all questions without the fear of penalty. Questions are designed to assess both factual knowledge and conceptual understanding, with increasing emphasis on applied aspects of media studies.

The language of the question paper is available in English and Hindi, except for language-related questions. The CBT format requires candidates to be comfortable with on-screen reading and time management.

UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism Exam Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism are defined by UGC. It is implemented by NTA. Candidates must carefully check academic qualifications and age limits before applying.

To be eligible, a candidate must have completed a Master’s degree or an equivalent postgraduate qualification from a recognized university. The minimum required marks are 55% for General and EWS categories, while 50% marks are required for OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), SC, ST, PwD, and Transgender candidates.

Candidates who are currently pursuing their final year of a Master’s degree or are awaiting results are also eligible to apply provisionally. However, such candidates must complete their degree within the stipulated time period as specified by UGC.

For Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), there is an upper age limit of 30 years as of the cut-off date mentioned in the notification. Age relaxation is provided to reserved categories, women candidates, and those with research experience, in accordance with government norms.

Thus there is no upper age limit for Assistant Professor eligibility, making the UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam accessible to a wide range of aspirants, including working professionals and media educators.

UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam is conduct at a regular interval of time. Every year lakhs and lakhs of students appear for this examination. Those who wants to shape and make his/her career in the government sector. Here we will talk about UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam free Online Mock Test. UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam free last year question paper PDF download and Previous Year Question Papers PYQ.

UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism Syllabus: Detailed Overview

The UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism syllabus is extensive and interdisciplinary, covering theoretical foundations, media history, journalism practices, communication research, media laws, development communication, advertising, public relations, and digital media. The syllabus is divided into ten units, each carrying equal importance.

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Unit 1: Communication and Journalism

This unit introduces the basic concepts of communication, including definitions, nature, scope, and functions of communication. It covers various models of communication, such as linear, interactive, and transactional models, along with barriers to communication. The unit also examines the evolution of journalism, types of journalism, and the role of journalism in society. Special attention is given to communication ethics and the responsibilities of media professionals.

Unit 2: Media, Society, and Culture

Unit 2 explores the relationship between media and society, focusing on how media influences culture, public opinion, and social change. It discusses concepts such as media hegemony, ideology, globalization, cultural imperialism, and audience studies. The unit also includes theoretical perspectives like functionalism, Marxism, feminism, and postmodernism in media analysis.

Unit 3: Reporting and Editing

This unit deals with the practical and theoretical aspects of news reporting and editing. It covers news values, sources of news, beats, interview techniques, and investigative journalism. Editing principles, headlines, page layout, copy editing, and newsroom organization are also discussed. Likewise the unit emphasizes accuracy, objectivity, and ethical reporting standards.

Unit 4: Media Laws and Ethics

Media laws form a crucial part of the UGC NET Mass Communication syllabus. This unit covers constitutional provisions related to freedom of speech and expression, defamation, contempt of court, copyright laws, obscenity, and media regulation. It also examines professional ethics, self-regulatory bodies, press councils, and ethical dilemmas faced by journalists in contemporary media environments.

Unit 5: Advertising and Public Relations

Unit 5 focuses on advertising theories, models, and practices, including consumer behavior, branding, media planning, and creative strategies. It also covers the principles of public relations, corporate communication, crisis management, and reputation building. The role of advertising and PR in the digital age is a key component of this unit.

Unit 6: Media Management and Production

This unit introduces the organizational and managerial aspects of media industries. Topics include media ownership patterns, economics of media, human resource management, and media entrepreneurship. It also covers the basics of media production, including audio-visual production techniques, scripting, camera work, and post-production processes.

Unit 7: Communication Research

Communication research is a core area in the UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism syllabus. This unit covers research methods and methodologies, including qualitative and quantitative research, survey methods, content analysis, case studies, and experimental research. It also discusses sampling techniques, data analysis, hypothesis testing, and ethical issues in research.

Unit 8: Development Communication

Unit 8 focuses on the role of communication in development and social change. It covers theories and models of development communication, participatory communication, and the use of media in education, health, agriculture, and rural development. The unit also examines government communication policies, development campaigns, and the role of NGOs and international organizations.

Unit 9: ICT, New Media, and Digital Journalism

This unit addresses the rapidly evolving field of digital media and information and communication technologies (ICTs). Topics include online journalism, social media, mobile communication, blogging, podcasting, data journalism, and media convergence. Issues related to digital ethics, misinformation, cyber laws, and the impact of technology on journalism are also discussed.

Unit 10: Global Media and Contemporary Issues

The final unit examines global media systems, international news flow, media imperialism, and global communication policies. It also covers contemporary issues such as media and democracy, political communication, environmental communication, gender representation, and media accountability in a globalized world.

Importance of UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism Qualification

Qualifying the UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam opens doors to academic careers, research opportunities, fellowships, and policy-oriented roles. JRF-qualified candidates receive a monthly fellowship and can pursue PhD programs in reputed universities and research institutions. Subsequently NET-qualified candidates are eligible for Assistant Professor positions across Indian universities and colleges.

The exam also enhances professional credibility for media educators, trainers, and communication consultants. With the growing importance of media literacy, digital communication, and research-based journalism, UGC NET qualification has become a benchmark of academic excellence in the media domain.

Conclusion

The UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam is a comprehensive and competitive examination that demands a strong conceptual foundation, analytical ability, and consistent preparation. Understanding the exam pattern, eligibility criteria, and detailed syllabus is the first step toward success. To conclude aspirants should focus on building theoretical clarity, staying updated with current media trends, and practicing previous year question papers to improve accuracy and time management.

Moreover with a well-structured preparation strategy and thorough understanding of the syllabus. Moreover candidates can successfully qualify the UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam and build a rewarding career in teaching, research, and media studies.

Lastly, the Likh Padh provide all our aspirants candidate a well structured latest and updated mock test series. The sample paper and PYQ for UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam along with all UGC NET exams with free PDF PYQ, sample papers, mock test and previous year question papers bank download. Likh Padh free online test series, mock test, sample paper, PYQ for Mass Communication and Journalism UGC NET exam. It is based on the trend analysis of UGC NET exam updates previously asked questions in the UGC NET exam.

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