The UGC NET 2025 June session concluded its Shift 2 examination on 25 June 2025, with Paper 2 for Mass Communication and Journalism held successfully. According to students, the paper was moderate in difficulty, and questions were well-aligned with the prescribed syllabus.
This article provides complete information about the UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism 2025 exam—its structure, syllabus, eligibility, study material, previous year papers, career scope, and preparation strategy.
What is UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism?
The UGC NET in Mass Communication and Journalism tests a candidate’s academic understanding of journalism, media operations, public communication, and research aptitude. This subject is ideal for those who wish to:
- Become lecturers or professors in media or journalism departments
- Pursue M.Phil. or Ph.D. in communication studies with UGC JRF funding
- Contribute to policy-making or research in media organizations or think tanks
It encompasses traditional print and broadcast media, the rise of digital journalism, and socio-political implications of mass communication in India and beyond.
UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism 2025 Shift 2 Exam Analysis
The UGC NET 2025 June session for Mass Communication and Journalism was held in Shift 2 on June 25, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. The exam was conducted in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Based on student feedback, the overall difficulty level of both Paper I and Paper II was moderate, with a balanced distribution of theory and application-based questions.
Paper I (General Aptitude)
The Paper I exam tested candidates on teaching and research aptitude, logical reasoning, and other general awareness topics. Most students rated the section as easy to moderate.
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Teaching Aptitude: Around 5–6 questions covering learner characteristics, teaching methods, and evaluation systems.
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Research Aptitude: Around 5–6 questions on hypothesis, research ethics, and types of research.
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Logical Reasoning: Included questions on blood relations and syllogism.
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ICT (Information & Communication Technology): Focus on recent trends and applications in teaching.
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Data Interpretation: One question set based on a bar graph.
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Environment & Higher Education: Questions on the National Education Policy (NEP) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Paper II (Mass Communication and Journalism)
Paper II focused on subject-specific content and remained strictly within the syllabus, with no off-topic questions. The section tested both conceptual clarity and analytical skills.
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Communication Theories: Questions on Shannon & Weaver and Berlo’s model, assessing knowledge of foundational communication frameworks.
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History of Journalism in India: Emphasis on the vernacular press during colonial India.
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Media Laws & Ethics: Covered topics like the Press Council, copyright law, and defamation.
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Digital Media: Focused on citizen journalism, media convergence, and the impact of digital transformation.
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Advertising & Public Relations: Included concepts on PR tools, campaign strategies, and brand communication.
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News Reporting & Editing: Questions on investigative journalism, news leads, and types of reporting
Objectives of UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism
- Ensure qualified candidates are eligible to teach media and communication subjects
- Promote interdisciplinary research in media, advertising, PR, and communication studies
- Encourage ethical journalism and professional communication practices
- Enhance critical thinking about the role of media in democracy and development
- Foster a deep understanding of traditional and modern communication models
Also Read: UGC NET Exam 2025
Key Features of UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism 2025
| Feature | Details |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Level | National |
| Eligibility | Master’s in Journalism/Media/Communication or related fields |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Exam Frequency | Twice a year (June & December cycles) |
| Duration | 3 hours (No break between Paper I & II) |
| Total Questions | 150 (Paper I: 50, Paper II: 100) |
| Total Marks | 300 |
| Negative Marking | None |
| Medium | English & Hindi |
| Official Website | ugcnet.nta.nic.in |
Eligibility Criteria for UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism 2025
Academic Qualification
Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in Mass Communication, Journalism, Media Studies, Communication, or related subjects from a UGC-recognized university.
Minimum Percentage
- General/EWS/OBC (Non-Creamy Layer): 55%
- SC/ST/PwD/Transgender: 50%
Age Limit
- For JRF: Maximum 30 years (with relaxation for reserved categories)
- For Assistant Professor: No upper age limit
Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility 2025
UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism Exam Pattern 2025
Paper I: General Teaching and Research Aptitude
- Questions: 50
- Marks: 100
- Topics: Teaching aptitude, research methodology, logical reasoning, communication, ICT, higher education system
Paper II: Mass Communication and Journalism (Subject-specific)
- Questions: 100
- Marks: 200
- Topics: Based on the official UGC NET syllabus
Marking Scheme:
+2 marks for each correct answer. No negative marking.
UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism 2025 Syllabus
You can download the official UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism syllabus PDF from the NTA website.
Units Covered in Paper II
- Communication – Concepts, Models & Theories
- History of Journalism in India
- Media Laws and Ethics
- News Reporting and Editing
- Broadcast Journalism
- Advertising and Public Relations
- Digital Media and Online Journalism
- Media Management and Production
- Communication Research
- International Communication
Each unit covers theoretical foundations, practical applications, historical context, and ethical standards in Indian and global contexts.
Syllabus PDF:
Candidates can download the official UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism syllabus PDF from the NTA website or trusted educational portals.
| UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism Syllabus PDF Download |
Study Material PDF for UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism
Study material PDFs are available from:
- NTA’s official website
- Coaching portals
- Publishers
These materials typically include summaries, solved papers, practice sets, and model test papers.
Best Books for UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism
| Book Title | Author |
| Mass Communication in India | Keval J. Kumar |
| Media and Communication Research Methods | Arthur Asa Berger |
| Media Ethics | Paranjoy Guha Thakurta |
| Advertising and Promotion | Belch & Belch |
| Communication Theories | Denis McQuail |
UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism Previous Year Question Papers
Practicing previous year question papers is essential for understanding the exam pattern and commonly asked questions.
| Year | Availability |
| 2023 | Download |
| 2022 | Download |
| 2019 | Download |
| 2018 | Download |
| 2014 | Download |
These can be accessed through educational platforms and the NTA website.
Career Scope After UGC NET in Mass Communication and Journalism
Qualifying the exam opens doors in academia and industry:
Academic
- Assistant Professor in colleges/universities
- JRF-supported Ph.D. programs
- Research Associate positions
Media and Journalism
- News anchor, editor, reporter
- Content writer, digital journalist, video producer
PR and Advertising
- Campaign manager, PR officer, copywriter
Government and Policy
- Public Information Officer
- Consultant in government media divisions and NGOs
Preparation Tips for UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism
- Understand the complete syllabus and make a structured study plan
- Read newspapers and media journals regularly
- Take notes and revise topics weekly
- Practice with mock tests and past year papers
- Join discussion groups and online classes for clarity
Conclusion
The UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism exam is a vital gateway for aspirants seeking careers in teaching, research, and the diverse fields of media and communication. The June 2025 Shift 2 exam maintained a balanced difficulty level, aligning closely with the prescribed syllabus and testing both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding. Success in this exam demands a thorough grasp of the syllabus, consistent practice with previous year papers, and staying updated on contemporary media trends and ethical issues. Whether your goal is to become an academician, a researcher, or a media professional, diligent preparation combined with strategic study approaches will significantly boost your chances of qualifying.
UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism FAQs
Q2. Is UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism syllabus available in PDF?
Yes, the syllabus is available on the official NTA website in PDF format.
Q3. Are there mock tests available for this subject?
Yes, various coaching platforms and NTA’s portal offer subject-specific mock tests.
Q4. Can I take UGC NET Mass Communication and Journalism in Hindi?
Yes, the exam is bilingual (Hindi and English), depending on your preference.
Q5. What are the career options after qualifying for UGC NET in this subject?
Academic (Assistant Professor), research (Ph.D./JRF), journalism, PR, advertising, media consulting, and government roles.
