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DOCTOR-OF-PHILOSOPHY in Library And Information Science at Bharathiar University
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Library and Information Science at Bharathiar University Coimbatore?
This Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) program in Library and Information Science at Bharathiar University focuses on advanced research in the field, addressing contemporary challenges and innovations in information management. It emphasizes deep theoretical understanding and practical application, crucial for evolving information landscapes in India, driven by digitization and big data. The program aims to produce scholars who can contribute significantly to academic and professional knowledge in LIS.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in Library and Information Science (MLIS) seeking to pursue cutting-edge research and contribute to academic discourse. It caters to those passionate about advancing knowledge in areas like digital libraries, information retrieval, and knowledge management. Academic professionals, librarians, and information scientists looking for higher intellectual growth and leadership roles in research are well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as faculty in universities, senior researchers in R&D institutions, or information scientists in public and private sectors across India. They can lead significant projects in digital transformation, knowledge management, and data curation. Potential salary ranges from INR 6-15 LPA for entry to experienced roles, with opportunities for academic leadership and policy influence in national organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Ethics- (First 6-12 months)
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on quantitative and qualitative research designs, data analysis tools, and academic ethics. Actively participate in seminars and workshops on research integrity and plagiarism to build a strong ethical foundation.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R/Python for data analysis, NVivo, Mendeley, Turnitin, UGC CARE Journal List
Career Connection
Essential for conducting credible research, increasing publication chances in high-impact journals, and establishing academic integrity, critical for any research-oriented career.
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (First 9-12 months)
Work closely with your supervisor to refine your research problem, objectives, and methodology. Conduct an extensive literature review to identify research gaps relevant to the Indian LIS context and clearly articulate your proposed contribution, ensuring feasibility and originality.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, Shodhganga, University library databases, Research proposal templates, Scopus/Web of Science
Career Connection
A strong proposal is the blueprint for successful Ph.D. completion and demonstrates critical thinking, problem-solving, and vision, which are highly valued in academic and R&D roles.
Build Early Academic Networking- (Throughout coursework and initial research phases)
Attend departmental seminars, university-wide research symposia, and local/national LIS conferences. Engage proactively with faculty, senior Ph.D. scholars, and visiting experts to gain diverse perspectives and explore potential collaborations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University research forums, Indian Library Association (ILA), Indian Association of Special Libraries and Information Centres (IASLIC)
Career Connection
Opens doors for mentorship, future research collaborations, and increases visibility within the academic community, which is beneficial for post-doc positions and faculty appointments.
Intermediate Stage
Systematically Collect and Analyze Data- (Year 1.5 - 3)
Implement your chosen research methodology meticulously for data collection, whether through surveys, interviews, experiments, or content analysis. Learn and apply appropriate statistical or qualitative analysis software to interpret your findings effectively and derive meaningful conclusions.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, SPSS, R/Python (for advanced analytics), Nvivo, Research-specific software
Career Connection
Develops rigorous analytical and empirical skills highly valued in both academia and data-intensive industry research and consulting roles.
Publish Initial Research Findings- (Year 2 - 3.5)
Convert parts of your literature review, methodology, or preliminary findings into publishable papers. Target UGC CARE listed journals, Scopus-indexed publications, or reputable conference proceedings in Library and Information Science to disseminate your work.
Tools & Resources
University research publication guidelines, Journal finder tools (e.g., Elsevier JournalFinder), Academic writing workshops, ORCID
Career Connection
Builds your academic CV, provides early recognition in your field, and is crucial for securing post-doctoral fellowships, research grants, and academic positions.
Seek Interdisciplinary Collaboration- (Year 2.5 - 4)
Explore opportunities for research collaboration with scholars from related departments (e.g., Computer Science, Data Science) within Bharathiar University or other institutions. This broadens your research perspective, introduces new methodologies, and strengthens your academic profile.
Tools & Resources
University research cells, Faculty profiles across departments, National funding agencies for interdisciplinary projects
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving skills, broadens your professional network, and makes you a versatile researcher, highly attractive to diverse employers and funding bodies.
Advanced Stage
Dedicate Time for Thesis Writing and Revision- (Year 3.5 - 5)
Establish a disciplined writing schedule, focusing on coherence, clarity, and academic rigor in your thesis. Regularly submit chapters to your supervisor for feedback and be prepared for multiple rounds of revisions to ensure high quality and meet university standards.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/Microsoft Word, Grammarly/QuillBot, Anti-plagiarism software, Bharathiar University thesis formatting guides, Zotero/Mendeley for referencing
Career Connection
The thesis is your major scholarly contribution; a well-written, impactful thesis is key for academic credibility and securing top research or faculty positions.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Public Defense- (Final 6-12 months before submission)
Practice presenting your research findings concisely and effectively, anticipating potential questions from examiners. Seek mock defense sessions with peers and mentors to hone your presentation, communication, and critical response skills.
Tools & Resources
PowerPoint/Google Slides, Presentation skills workshops, Feedback from supervisors and departmental colleagues, Recorded practice sessions
Career Connection
Strong presentation and defense skills are critical for academic job interviews, conference presentations, public speaking engagements, and effectively communicating complex research to diverse audiences.
Develop a Post-Ph.D. Career Plan- (Final year of Ph.D.)
Explore post-doctoral opportunities, faculty positions, or industry roles in India and abroad. Update your CV, prepare teaching statements (if academic roles are sought), and practice interview skills, leveraging university career services and alumni networks.
Tools & Resources
University career counseling, LinkedIn, Academic job portals (e.g., Naukri, academic-specific sites), Professional resume/CV builders
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition from Ph.D. to a fulfilling professional life, maximizing the return on your extensive research investment and efforts.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in Library and Information Science (or a relevant subject) from a recognized University, with a minimum required percentage/grade as per UGC/University norms.
Duration: Full-Time: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years; Part-Time: Minimum 4 years, Maximum 7 years
Credits: 8 credits (for mandatory coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester stage
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD-RM | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis Techniques, Research Ethics, Scientific Report Writing, Literature Review Techniques |
| PHD-ALIS | Advanced Paper in Library and Information Science | Core | 4 | Digital Libraries and Institutional Repositories, Information Retrieval Systems, Scientometrics and Bibliometrics, Knowledge Organization and Management, Information Literacy and User Studies, Library Automation and Emerging Technologies |
