Table of Contents
PhD Course Overview
Course Name | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course Level | Doctorate |
Entrance Exams | GATE, NET, CSIR NET, ICMR JRF, JEST, etc. |
Duration | 2-6 years |
Eligibility | Through Fellowship: master’s in any discipline with at least 55% marks. Research Entrance Test: master’s in any discipline with an aggregate of 55% or more. |
Course Fee | Up to INR 6 lakhs |
Job Profile | Policy Analyst, Product Manager, Assistant Professor, Researcher, Research Advisor, Research Consultant |
Job Recruiters | Government Departments, Research Institutes, Colleges and Universities, and Academic Institutions |
Average Salary | INR 5-10 LPA |
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What is a PhD Course?
Full form of PhD is Doctor of Philosophy. Doctor of Philosophy is one of the highest academic excellences. PhD involves taking on independent and significant research work combining it into a publish-worthy thesis.
To be eligible for a PhD degree, one must complete coursework, pass an entrance exam and produce a thesis. The term “Philosophy” in PhD does not signify that an individual can only complete their doctorate in Philosophy. PhD comprises of many different specializations which will be discussed below.
Types of Doctorate Degrees
There are three different categorizations of doctorate degrees. Even though these are categorizations, all of the degrees help one earn a doctoral title. Doctorate Degree can be divided into three types as explained below:
- Academic/ Research Doctorates: This type of doctorate requires an individual to present coursework, requiring them to submit a thesis by the end of term. PhD, DPhil, DSc, D Litt. and many more are the examples of some PhD course included in it.
- Professional/ Practice-Based Doctorates: This type of Degree focuses more on the application of knowledge in a professional setting than on the theoretical framework. PhD course degrees like EdD, DBA, PsyD, JD, MD are some that fall under this category.
- Honorary Doctorate: An Honorary Doctorate is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions in a particular field. This degree is more like an award to recognize their efforts for the betterment of society.
PhD Course Eligibility
PhD or Doctor of Philosophy has a different eligibility criterion for different disciplines. Candidates need to score an aggregate of 55% or more in graduation from a recognized university. Candidates who want to pursue a PhD in Engineering and Technology need to possess a valid GATE score.
Below is the course eligibility for PhD:
Minimum Qualification | Graduation from a recognized university |
Course Percentage | An individual should score an aggregate of 50% or above marks from a recognized university. |
Entrance Exams | NET, CSIR NET, GATE, and university-based exams |
Interview | Shortlisted candidates often undergo an interview to assess their goals and their research aptitude. |
PhD Course Duration
Many individuals get confused about the course duration of a PhD. But, in many universities the course duration is 2-6 years. And, if an individual exceeds more than six years, a fine is charged to them.
PhD Course Universities and Fees
PhD Universities | PhD Fees |
Jamia Millia Islamia | INR 31,810 |
NIT Rourkela | INR 1.9 lakh |
IIT Guwahati | INR 20,000 – 1.68 lakh |
Thapar University | INR 90,000 |
VIT Vellore | INR 1 lakh-1.6 lakh |
UPES Dehradun | INR 1.5 lakh |
IIT BHU, Varanasi | INR 88,440 |
Types of PhD Course
PhD course in Humanities | ||
PhD in Social Work | PhD in Physiology | PhD in Public Policy |
PhD in Humanities | PhD in English | PhD in Social Sciences |
PhD in Public and Economic Policy | PhD in Humanities and Social Sciences | PhD in International Relations and Politics |
PhD in Economics | PhD in Geography | PhD in Humanities and Life Sciences |
PhD in Psychology | PhD in Arts | PhD in Literature |
PhD course in Science | ||
PhD in Clinical Research | PhD in Science | PhD in Biotechnology |
PhD in Chemistry | PhD in Applied Sciences | PhD in Bioinformatics |
PhD in Mathematical and Computational Sciences | PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering | PhD in Applied Chemistry and Polymer Technology |
PhD in Zoology | PhD in Physics | PhD in Basic and Applied Sciences |
PhD in Mathematics | PhD in Bioscience |
PhD course in Law | ||
PhD in Legal Studies | PhD in Law | PhD in Constitutional Law |
PhD in Law and Governance |
PhD course in Business and Management | ||
PhD in Commerce | PhD in Commerce and Management | PhD in Aviation Management |
PhD in Business Administration | PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain Management | PhD in Accounting and Financial Management |
PhD in Management | PhD in Marketing/ Brand Management |
PhD course in Teaching and Education | |
PhD in Education | PhD in Teaching |
PhD course in Engineering | ||
PhD in Engineering | PhD in Quantitative Techniques | PhD in Computer Science Engineering |
PhD in Information Technology | PhD in Marine Biotechnology | PhD in Genetic Engineering |
PhD in Civil Engineering | PhD in Electronics and Communication Engineering | PhD in Engineering and Technology |
PhD in Aeronautical and Automobile Engineering | PhD in Ceramic Engineering | PhD in Production Engineering |
PhD in Chemical Engineering | PhD in Mechanrical Engineering |
PhD course in Commerce | |
PhD in Commerce Management | PhD in Accounting and Financial Management |
Online PhD Courses
With the rise in the technological advancements, India has been moving forward with conducting online classes during the COVID. And now we’re moving forward with even providing online PhD courses. These courses are highly helpful for the working professionals who find it hard to pursue another degree while working.
UGC does not fully recognized online PhD course but, part-time or blended course is acceptable. Many universities offer part-time PhD or blended learning models which combine coursework along with research work.
Some universities that offer blended or part-time PhD courses include IGNOU, BITS Pilani, Amity University, Sikkim Manipal University to help individuals add yet another degree to their CVs.
What Comes after PhD Course
Completing a PhD course is the biggest milestone and achievement in the academic sector. It is with the help of a PhD that many bigger opportunities knock at the door of an individual. PhD can even help in promotion of an individual. Along with career opportunities, many individuals also look forward to further continuing their studies. Below are some of the things that an individual can do:
- Post Doctoral Research
- Academic Careers including Assistant Professor or Researcher
- Industry Research and Corporate Goals
- Government and International Organizations
- Doctor of Letters and much more.
Conclusion
The article in detail explains PhD specializations along with that it gives an overview of the PhD course. With the advanced world and bigger firms, individuals are looking forward to learning and exploring as much as possible for a job in a higher sector.
PhD courses are now made easy with the help of online enrollment. Not only is it easy for the working professionals but also the individuals who want to pursue a specific specialization from a faraway university.
Yes, online PhD courses are valid in India only if they are offered by UGC approved universities in hybrid mode.
UGC NET, CSIR NET, GATE and university specific exams depending on universities are the various entrance exams held for PhD?
Yes, as per the UGC guidelines, it is important for an individual to complete a PhD course and earn a degree to become an Assistant Professor.
No, usually there is no age limit for pursuing a PhD degree.
PhD in Management, PhD in Computer Science, PhD in Psychology, PhD in Law, PhD in Economics is some of the most popular specializations in PhD course.