.png&w=1920&q=75)
PHD in Humanities Social Sciences at B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Humanities & Social Sciences at B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This PhD program in Humanities & Social Sciences at B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology focuses on fostering advanced research capabilities across diverse humanistic and social inquiry domains. Emphasizing critical thinking and interdisciplinary approaches, the program addresses contemporary societal challenges and cultural narratives, highly relevant in India''''s complex and evolving socio-economic landscape. It is designed to cultivate original research and academic leadership.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate degree holders in Humanities, Social Sciences, Arts, and related fields seeking to pursue in-depth scholarly research. It attracts aspiring academicians, researchers from think tanks, government policy analysts, and professionals looking to contribute innovative solutions to societal issues. Candidates should possess a strong academic record and a clear research interest to thrive in this rigorous environment.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to embark on impactful careers as university professors, independent researchers, policy advisors, and consultants within India and globally. They will be equipped to lead research projects, publish in high-impact journals, and shape academic discourse. While specific salary ranges vary, PhD holders in India typically command higher positions and competitive compensation in academia and specialized research roles, with growth trajectories leading to senior faculty or research director positions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly engage with the ''''Research Methodology'''' coursework. Understand core concepts, research designs, statistical tools, and ethical considerations. Actively participate in discussions, seek clarifications, and apply learning to hypothetical research scenarios to solidify foundational knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Official coursework materials, UGC Research Methodology guidelines, Online platforms like NPTEL for supplemental courses, Statistical software tutorials (e.g., SPSS, R for social sciences)
Career Connection
A strong grasp of research methods is indispensable for any researcher. This builds credibility and ensures the rigor of future research, which is critical for academic publications and thesis defense.
Identify and Refine Research Area- (Semester 1-2)
During the first year, actively work with your supervisor to identify a focused and viable research problem within Humanities & Social Sciences. Conduct extensive preliminary literature review for your ''''Subject Related to the Discipline'''' to understand existing gaps, theoretical frameworks, and potential methodologies. Present early ideas for feedback.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, Shodhganga (Indian theses repository), University library databases, EndNote/Zotero for reference management
Career Connection
A well-defined research problem is the backbone of a successful PhD. This early focus helps in efficient thesis completion and makes the scholar a specialist in a niche area, enhancing employability and research funding prospects.
Cultivate Academic Reading and Writing Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read academic journals and books relevant to your broad area of Humanities & Social Sciences. Practice critical analysis of scholarly articles and hone academic writing skills by drafting literature reviews, research proposals, and initial chapters. Seek feedback from peers and supervisors.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly/QuillBot for writing assistance, Academic writing workshops offered by the university, University''''s writing center
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic reading and writing is fundamental for publishing research, which is a key performance indicator for academic and research positions in India and abroad.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Fieldwork and Data Collection- (Year 2-3)
Apply learned research methodologies to conduct fieldwork, interviews, surveys, or archival research pertinent to your Humanities & Social Sciences topic. Meticulously collect and organize data, ensuring ethical considerations and data privacy are strictly maintained, especially in India''''s diverse cultural contexts.
Tools & Resources
Qualtrics/Google Forms for surveys, Audio recorders for interviews, Transcription software, Data analysis software (e.g., NVivo for qualitative, SPSS for quantitative)
Career Connection
Practical experience in data collection is vital for independent research. It builds skills highly valued in research organizations, policy institutes, and market research firms.
Attend and Present at Conferences/Workshops- (Year 2-4)
Actively seek out and attend national and international conferences or workshops relevant to your research area. Present preliminary findings or a part of your literature review. Network with senior academics and fellow researchers to gain insights and build collaborative opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Conference alert websites (e.g., All Conference Alert), Departmental notices, Travel grants from university or external bodies
Career Connection
Presenting research builds confidence, refines presentation skills, and provides critical feedback. Networking is crucial for securing post-doctoral positions, collaborations, and career opportunities in academia.
Publish Early Research Outputs- (Year 3-4)
Transform parts of your literature review or preliminary findings into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals in Humanities & Social Sciences. Work closely with your supervisor on manuscript preparation and submission. Aim for at least one publication before thesis submission.
Tools & Resources
Scopus/Web of Science for journal identification, University research portal for publication guidelines, Supervisor guidance
Career Connection
Journal publications are a significant requirement for academic appointments (Assistant Professor onwards) in India and greatly enhance a researcher''''s profile and future funding prospects.
Advanced Stage
Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Year 4-5)
Dedicate focused time to writing the thesis, ensuring logical flow, rigorous argumentation, and adherence to institutional formatting guidelines. Prepare meticulously for the viva-voce examination, anticipating questions and practicing clear, concise articulation of your research contributions.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/Word thesis templates, University research policies for thesis submission, Mock viva sessions with supervisor and peers
Career Connection
Successful thesis submission and defense are the ultimate milestones. This stage solidifies research expertise and readiness for independent academic and research roles.
Develop Grant Writing and Funding Acumen- (Year 4-5)
Explore potential funding opportunities for post-doctoral research or independent projects in Humanities & Social Sciences. Understand the proposal writing process, budget allocation, and impact assessment. Even if not applying immediately, familiarizing yourself with this process is crucial.
Tools & Resources
UGC research grants, ICSSR (Indian Council of Social Science Research) schemes, International funding agency websites, University research grants office
Career Connection
The ability to secure research grants is a critical skill for career progression in academia and research, enabling scholars to lead their own projects and build research teams.
Engage in Academic Mentorship and Outreach- (Year 5-6)
Mentor junior PhD scholars or master''''s students, sharing your research experiences and methodologies. Participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and community outreach programs related to your expertise. This cultivates leadership and communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Departmental mentorship programs, University outreach initiatives, Guest lectures for UG/PG courses
Career Connection
Mentorship and outreach demonstrate leadership qualities and a commitment to academic service, which are highly valued in academic appointments and help build a broader professional network.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree or M.Phil. degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum of 55% marks or an equivalent grade from a recognized university. A 5% relaxation in marks is provided for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-abled categories. Candidates with B.E./B.Tech. with M.S. (by Research) or Integrated M.S. are also eligible for relevant disciplines.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (full-time)
Credits: 10 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RM001 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Literature Review and Problem Formulation, Research Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation |
| SD001 | Subject Related to the Discipline | Core (Specialization Specific) | 6 | Comprehensive Review of Published Literature pertinent to the proposed research area of the scholar, Fundamentals of the branch to which the area of research belongs, This syllabus is formulated by the Board of Studies of the respective discipline and is specific to the research area of each scholar. |
