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PH-D in Social Science at Barkatullah University, Bhopal
Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Social Science at Barkatullah University, Bhopal Bhopal?
This Ph.D. program in Social Science at Barkatullah Vishwavidyalaya focuses on fostering advanced research capabilities and critical inquiry into societal phenomena. It emphasizes rigorous methodological training and a deep understanding of diverse theoretical perspectives. The program is designed to contribute to academic knowledge and address pressing social issues relevant to the Indian context, preparing scholars for high-level research and policy formulation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong academic record in Social Sciences seeking to pursue an academic career, engage in independent research, or contribute to policy analysis. It also caters to professionals from NGOs, government, or research organizations looking to deepen their expertise and advance their understanding of complex social dynamics in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, research scientists, policy analysts, or consultants in India and abroad. They will be equipped with advanced analytical skills, enabling them to conduct independent research, publish scholarly articles, and contribute to public discourse. The program fosters critical thinking and problem-solving, opening pathways to leadership roles in academic institutions and research-intensive organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Ethics- (Coursework Semester (First 6 months))
Engage deeply with the ''''Research Methodology'''' coursework. Attend workshops on research design, quantitative/qualitative analysis, and academic writing. Focus on understanding ethical guidelines from UGC and institutional review boards. Actively participate in discussions to refine research questions and approaches.
Tools & Resources
UGC Research Ethics Guidelines, ICSSR research workshops, Statistical software tutorials (e.g., SPSS, R), Online courses on research methodology
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures the rigor and ethical integrity of your doctoral thesis, crucial for academic credibility and publication in reputable Indian and international journals.
Develop Data Analysis Proficiency- (Coursework Semester (First 6 months))
Thoroughly grasp the ''''Computer Applications and Statistical Methods'''' paper. Practice data entry, analysis, and interpretation using relevant software. Attend departmental training sessions on data handling and statistical interpretation. Seek guidance from supervisors on applying appropriate methods to your research problem.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R software licenses/free versions, NPTEL courses on statistics for social sciences, University''''s computer lab resources, Mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
Proficiency in data analysis is highly valued in research roles, think tanks, and policy analysis positions across India, enabling you to derive robust conclusions from complex datasets.
Initiate Comprehensive Literature Review- (Coursework Semester and initial 12 months of research)
Beyond coursework, begin an extensive literature review specific to your proposed research area. Utilize university library resources, online databases, and inter-library loan services. Identify key theoretical debates, empirical gaps, and significant contributions in your field. This forms the bedrock of your research proposal.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, ProQuest, Shodhganga, Google Scholar, University library portal, Reference management software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley)
Career Connection
A well-executed literature review demonstrates scholarly acumen, is essential for a strong research proposal, and builds the intellectual groundwork for thesis writing and future publications, crucial for academic positions.
Intermediate Stage
Formulate and Refine Research Proposal- (Months 6-18 of research)
Work closely with your supervisor to develop a detailed and feasible research proposal. This involves defining clear objectives, hypotheses, methodology, and timeline. Present your proposal in departmental seminars for constructive feedback from peers and faculty, and iteratively refine it based on expert input.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, Departmental research forums, Previous Ph.D. theses (available in university library/Shodhganga), Proposal writing workshops
Career Connection
A strong proposal is a critical milestone, often required for university approvals and securing research grants, enhancing your profile for academic and research opportunities.
Engage in Fieldwork and Data Collection- (Months 12-30 of research)
Plan and execute your fieldwork or data collection phase meticulously. Obtain necessary permissions (institutional, ethical, and local authorities). Maintain detailed records and ensure data integrity. Overcome logistical challenges common in Indian research environments with proactive planning.
Tools & Resources
Ethical clearance forms, Consent forms, Field diaries/data logging tools, Collaboration with local institutions/NGOs
Career Connection
Successfully executed fieldwork demonstrates practical research skills, which are highly valued by research organizations, think tanks, and government agencies seeking evidence-based policy recommendations.
Participate in Conferences and Workshops- (Months 18-36 of research)
Present preliminary findings or conceptual papers at national and international conferences. Network with fellow researchers and senior academics. Actively seek feedback to improve your research and gain exposure to diverse perspectives and emerging trends in Social Sciences. Look for conferences organized by ICSSR, UGC, or other prominent academic bodies.
Tools & Resources
Conference databases (e.g., Indiastat.com for social science conferences), Travel grants from UGC/ICSSR/University, Departmental funding for presentations
Career Connection
Conference participation boosts your academic visibility, helps build a professional network, and is crucial for developing communication skills, preparing you for academic presentations and public intellectual roles.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing and Publication- (Months 30-48 of research)
Dedicate significant time to writing your doctoral thesis, chapter by chapter. Adhere to academic standards for writing, citation, and referencing. Aim to publish at least one or two research papers from your thesis work in UGC-CARE listed or peer-reviewed journals, which is often a mandatory requirement for Ph.D. submission in India.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, Grammar and plagiarism check software (e.g., Grammarly, Turnitin), Journal submission platforms, Supervisor''''s editorial feedback
Career Connection
A well-written thesis and peer-reviewed publications are paramount for securing academic positions (Assistant Professor) in Indian universities and research institutions, demonstrating your scholarly output.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Defense- (Months 48-60 of research)
Prepare rigorously for your pre-submission seminar and final viva voce examination. Practice presenting your research, anticipating questions, and clearly articulating your contributions. Seek mock viva sessions with peers and faculty to gain confidence and address potential weaknesses.
Tools & Resources
Previous viva questions, Mock presentation sessions, Feedback from supervisors and senior scholars
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the final academic hurdle, confirming your expertise and readiness for independent academic and research leadership roles.
Explore Post-Doctoral and Career Opportunities- (Months 54-72 of research (leading up to and immediately after submission))
Actively explore post-doctoral fellowships, research associate positions, or teaching opportunities in India and abroad. Update your CV, prepare teaching statements, and research proposals for future applications. Network with potential employers and mentors in your chosen career path.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job portals (e.g., University Grants Commission portal, individual university websites), Professional networking platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, ResearchGate)
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and networking during the final stages will significantly enhance your prospects for securing desirable academic or research positions immediately after earning your Ph.D.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s degree (M.A./M.Sc./M.Phil) in a relevant Social Science discipline with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories) from a recognized university. Admission is typically based on a University Entrance Test followed by an Interview. Candidates qualified in UGC-NET/CSIR-NET/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship may be exempted from the entrance test but must appear for the interview.
Duration: 1 Semester (for coursework component), followed by research duration of minimum 3 years and maximum 6 years from provisional registration
Credits: 12 credits (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester work
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD-RM-SS | Research Methodology | Core (Compulsory for all Ph.D. scholars) | 4 | Fundamentals of Research, Types of Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Research Ethics and Report Writing |
| PHD-CA-SS | Computer Applications and Statistical Methods in Social Sciences | Core (Specific to Social Sciences) | 4 | Basics of Computer Systems, MS Office for Academic Research, Introduction to Statistical Software (e.g., SPSS/R), Descriptive Statistics, Inferential Statistics and Hypothesis Testing, Data Visualization for Social Science Research |
| PHD-RL-SS | Review of Literature and Interdisciplinary Approaches in Social Sciences | Core (Specific to Social Sciences) | 4 | Significance of Literature Review, Identifying Research Gaps, Theoretical Frameworks in Social Sciences, Major Social Science Paradigms, Interdisciplinary Research Trends, Contemporary Issues and Debates in Social Sciences |
