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PHD in Community Science at Assam Agricultural University
Jorhat, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is Community Science at Assam Agricultural University Jorhat?
This Community Science PhD program at Assam Agricultural University focuses on advanced research in various aspects of human welfare and community development. It delves into interdisciplinary studies covering family resource management, human nutrition, child development, textiles, and extension education. The program emphasizes addressing societal challenges, improving quality of life, and fostering sustainable community practices, highly relevant in India''''s diverse socio-economic landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for M.Sc. graduates in Community Science or related fields seeking to pursue rigorous research and contribute to academic knowledge and policy formulation. It attracts individuals passionate about social change, rural development, public health, and family well-being in India. Professionals working in NGOs, government sectors, or development agencies looking to enhance their research skills and leadership capabilities would also find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become leading researchers, academics, policy analysts, and program managers in India. Career paths include roles in universities as professors, scientists in ICAR institutes, consultants for international organizations, or experts in government ministries. While specific salary ranges vary, PhD holders typically command competitive packages (e.g., INR 8-15+ LPA for entry-level academic/research roles) with significant growth trajectories as experts in their fields.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Statistics- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to thoroughly understand advanced research methods, experimental design, and statistical analysis techniques. Utilize online courses, statistical software tutorials (e.g., SPSS, R), and university workshops to build a robust foundation for your thesis work.
Tools & Resources
Swayam/NPTEL courses on Research Methodology, R/Python for statistical analysis, University library resources
Career Connection
Strong methodological skills are fundamental for conducting credible research, critical for academic positions, and highly valued in research-intensive roles in India''''s public and private sectors.
Engage in Early Literature Review & Synopsis Development- (Semester 1-2)
Proactively identify your research area, conduct an exhaustive literature review, and start drafting your research synopsis/proposal. Seek regular feedback from your advisor and peers to refine your research questions and methodology early on.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for reference management, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, AAU Research Committee guidelines
Career Connection
Developing a clear, well-structured research plan early sets the stage for timely thesis completion and showcases your ability to define and solve complex problems, a key skill for any research-oriented career.
Participate in Departmental Seminars & Workshops- (Semester 1-2)
Actively attend and present in departmental seminars, journal clubs, and workshops. This exposure to diverse research topics and presentation skills will enhance your critical thinking and scientific communication, crucial for your own seminars and thesis defense.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, University academic calendars, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides)
Career Connection
Networking with faculty and fellow researchers, and honing presentation skills, are vital for academic visibility and future collaborations within the Indian research community.
Intermediate Stage
Cultivate Interdisciplinary Collaboration & Fieldwork- (Semester 3-4)
Seek opportunities to collaborate with researchers from related disciplines within AAU or other institutions, especially for fieldwork. Community Science often benefits from diverse perspectives, enhancing the depth and impact of your research on Indian communities.
Tools & Resources
AAU inter-departmental research groups, ICAR institutes, local NGOs for field sites, Online collaboration platforms
Career Connection
Multidisciplinary research experience is highly sought after by national and international development agencies and think tanks operating in India, demonstrating adaptability and holistic problem-solving.
Develop Advanced Data Collection & Analysis Skills- (Semester 3-4)
As your research progresses, focus on mastering specialized data collection methods (e.g., qualitative interviewing, advanced surveys, participatory rural appraisal) and sophisticated analytical techniques relevant to Community Science data, including qualitative data analysis software.
Tools & Resources
NVivo/ATLAS.ti for qualitative analysis, Advanced Excel, SPSS, R for quantitative data, Ethical review board guidelines for field data
Career Connection
Expertise in advanced data methods makes you a valuable asset for data-driven policy research, impact assessment roles, and consultancies in social development organizations across India.
Present Research at National Conferences & Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Actively apply to present your preliminary findings at national-level academic conferences in India (e.g., those organized by ICAR, UGC, or professional associations). This helps gain exposure, receive constructive criticism, and expand your academic network.
Tools & Resources
Conference announcements (university, academic bodies), Travel grants from AAU or external agencies, Abstract writing workshops
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences is crucial for building a strong academic profile, attracting potential employers or collaborators, and establishing your reputation within the Indian research ecosystem.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize High-Impact Publications- (Semester 5-6)
Focus on publishing your research findings in peer-reviewed national and international journals, preferably with high impact factors. Aim for at least 2-3 quality publications during your PhD, aligning with university requirements for thesis submission.
Tools & Resources
Journal selection tools (e.g., Scimago Journal Rank), Grammarly/Turnitin for language and plagiarism checks, AAU publication guidelines
Career Connection
Publications are the bedrock of an academic career in India and abroad, signaling your research productivity and contributing to your institutional standing and eligibility for research grants and faculty positions.
Engage in Thesis Writing & Defense Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
Dedicate consistent effort to writing your thesis, following university formatting guidelines meticulously. Prepare thoroughly for your comprehensive examination and final viva-voce, practicing mock defenses with your advisory committee and peers.
Tools & Resources
AAU PhD thesis guidelines and templates, Previous PhD theses in the department, Advisory committee for regular reviews
Career Connection
A well-written thesis and a confident defense are essential for successfully completing your PhD, directly leading to your doctoral degree and opening doors to advanced professional opportunities.
Network Strategically for Post-PhD Opportunities- (Semester 5-6)
Utilize your academic network, conference contacts, and university career services to explore post-doctoral fellowships, research associate positions, or academic roles in India. Attend job fairs, informational interviews, and tailor your CV/resume to specific roles.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, ResearchGate for professional networking, University career services portal, Job portals like Naukri, HigherEdJobs
Career Connection
Proactive networking and career planning are critical for a smooth transition from PhD student to a successful researcher or academic in the competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in the relevant subject with at least 6.5 OGPA in 10.0 scale or 65% aggregate marks
Duration: 6-12 semesters (3-6 years)
Credits: 75 (minimum) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (for coursework mid-term examination), External: 60% (for coursework end-term examination), plus comprehensive examination, thesis evaluation, and viva-voce for overall program
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| COMS 601 | Research Methods in Community Science | Core | 3 | Research design principles, Sampling techniques and methods, Data collection tools and instruments, Ethical considerations in research, Hypothesis testing and report writing |
| COMS 602 | Advances in Community Science | Core | 3 | Current trends in Community Science, Interdisciplinary approaches, Policy and program analysis, Innovation and technology adoption, Emerging issues and challenges |
| PHD 691 | PhD Seminar I | Compulsory Seminar | 1 | Literature review presentation, Identification of research gap, Development of research proposal, Scientific writing and communication, Feedback and discussion |
| FRM 601 | Advanced Family Resource Management | Elective | 3 | Resource allocation theories, Decision-making processes in families, Work-life integration strategies, Consumer behavior analysis, Financial planning and management |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FSN 601 | Advanced Human Nutrition | Elective | 3 | Metabolism of macronutrients and micronutrients, Nutritional assessment methods, Dietary guidelines and public health nutrition, Therapeutic nutrition principles, Food security and nutritional challenges |
| HDCS 601 | Advanced Human Development | Elective | 3 | Lifespan development theories, Cognitive and socio-emotional development, Adolescence and early adulthood issues, Gerontology and aging studies, Intervention programs for various age groups |
| CT 601 | Advanced Textile Science | Elective | 3 | Innovative fiber materials and properties, Advanced fabric construction techniques, Textile finishing and coloration, Sustainable textiles and recycling, Smart textiles and wearable technology |
| EXT 601 | Advanced Extension Management | Elective | 3 | Participatory rural development approaches, Communication strategies for extension, Impact assessment of extension programs, Extension policy and planning, Role of ICT in extension |
| PHD 692 | PhD Seminar II | Compulsory Seminar | 1 | Research progress update, Data analysis and interpretation, Draft thesis chapter presentation, Addressing research challenges, Preparation for comprehensive examination |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD 600 | PhD Research/Dissertation | Research | 50 | Formulation of research objectives, Experimental design and methodology, Data collection and empirical analysis, Thesis writing and structuring, Scholarly publication and viva-voce preparation |
