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PHD in Political Science at Brahma Ramdeo Baba Devanand Post Graduate College
Deoria, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Brahma Ramdeo Baba Devanand Post Graduate College Deoria?
This PhD Political Science program at Brahma Ramdeo Baba Devanand Post Graduate College focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research within various domains of political science. It aims to develop critical analytical skills for understanding complex political phenomena in India and globally, preparing scholars for high-level academic and policy-oriented roles. The program contributes significantly to public discourse and policy formulation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in Political Science or related fields seeking to pursue rigorous academic research. It suits individuals aspiring to become university professors, policy analysts, researchers in think tanks, or experts in government organizations. Candidates with a strong theoretical foundation and a keen interest in contributing original research to the field are particularly well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as Assistant Professors in Indian universities and colleges, lead research projects in NGOs, or work as political consultants. Entry-level salaries for Assistant Professors in India range from INR 6-8 LPA, with significant growth potential based on experience and publications. The rigorous training also opens doors to international academic opportunities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Ethics- (Semester 1 (Coursework))
Thoroughly grasp the principles of research design, data collection, and ethical considerations. Attend workshops on statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for beginners) and qualitative analysis. Engage actively in coursework discussions to build a strong theoretical foundation.
Tools & Resources
DDUGU Library Resources, Online courses on Research Methodology (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera), Statistical software tutorials
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures rigorous and ethically sound research, crucial for academic credibility and publication success, leading to better career prospects in academia and research.
Identify and Refine Research Area- (Semester 1 (Coursework))
During coursework, actively read scholarly articles in various Political Science sub-fields. Engage in discussions with faculty and peers to identify a specific, manageable, and impactful research problem relevant to India''''s political landscape, culminating in a strong research proposal.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, UGC-CARE List journals, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
A well-defined research topic demonstrates intellectual clarity and helps in securing supervisor approval and timely completion of the PhD, enhancing employability as a specialist.
Develop Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1 (Coursework) and ongoing)
Focus intensely on improving academic writing, citation styles (e.g., APA, Chicago), and structuring arguments. Practice writing literature reviews, research papers, and summaries of complex theories. Seek regular feedback from professors on assignments and early drafts.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly Premium, Zotero/Mendeley for referencing, Academic writing guides
Career Connection
Effective academic writing is paramount for publications, thesis submission, and grant applications, directly impacting career progression in academia and research.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Comprehensive Literature Review- (Post-coursework, Year 1-2)
Undertake a systematic and exhaustive review of existing literature, both Indian and international, relevant to the chosen research topic. Identify gaps in current knowledge and articulate how the proposed research will address them. Document findings meticulously.
Tools & Resources
Institutional library databases, ResearchGate, Academia.edu, Access to research articles through university subscriptions
Career Connection
A robust literature review establishes the originality and significance of the research, essential for thesis defense and publication, bolstering expert status in the field.
Present Research at Conferences/Seminars- (Year 2-3)
Actively seek opportunities to present preliminary findings or conceptual frameworks at national/state-level academic conferences, departmental seminars, or workshops. Utilize feedback to refine the research design and arguments.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards for conference calls, Professional associations (e.g., IPSA, regional political science associations), Departmental seminar series
Career Connection
Presenting research builds academic networks, enhances communication skills, and provides critical exposure, important for faculty positions and collaborative projects.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Year 2-3 and ongoing)
Aim to convert parts of the literature review or initial findings into publishable articles in UGC-CARE listed, peer-reviewed journals. Collaborate with supervisors or senior researchers if possible to gain publication experience.
Tools & Resources
UGC-CARE List for journal selection, Supervisor guidance, Journal submission platforms
Career Connection
Publications are a crucial metric for academic career progression in India, demonstrating research productivity and contributing to eligibility for Assistant Professor roles and promotions.
Advanced Stage
Data Collection and Analysis Mastery- (Year 3-4)
Execute the approved research design, meticulously collecting and analyzing primary or secondary data using appropriate methodologies (e.g., surveys, interviews, content analysis, statistical modeling). Ensure data integrity and ethical compliance throughout.
Tools & Resources
Fieldwork resources (if applicable), Advanced statistical software (e.g., Stata, R), Qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo) if needed
Career Connection
Proficiency in data handling and analysis is highly valued in research roles, demonstrating the practical application of theoretical knowledge and enhancing research credibility.
Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Year 4-5)
Dedicate focused effort to writing the doctoral thesis, ensuring coherence, logical flow, and rigorous argumentation. Prepare thoroughly for the viva voce by anticipating questions, practicing presentation skills, and seeking mock defense sessions.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guidelines from DDUGU, Supervisor''''s feedback, Mock viva sessions with departmental faculty
Career Connection
A well-written and successfully defended thesis is the culmination of the PhD journey, directly leading to the award of the degree and paving the way for academic and research positions.
Network and Career Planning for Academia/Policy- (Year 4-5 and beyond)
Attend academic conferences, workshops, and seminars to network with senior scholars and potential employers. Prepare a strong CV, research statement, and teaching philosophy document. Actively apply for post-doctoral positions, Assistant Professor roles, or policy analysis positions.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic job portals (e.g., University websites, faculty recruitment sites), Career guidance cells (if available)
Career Connection
Proactive networking and tailored application materials are essential for securing desirable positions in the competitive academic and policy job market, maximizing career launch opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Political Science or an allied discipline with at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade ''''B'''' in UGC 7-point scale). A relaxation of 5% marks is provided for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-abled/EWS categories. Admission is typically through an entrance test and interview, though UGC-NET (including JRF)/UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship holders may be exempt from the entrance test.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (including coursework), Maximum 6 years. Coursework is 1 semester (6 months).
Credits: Minimum 8 credits (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDC-101 | Research Methodology | Core (Compulsory) | 4 | Introduction to Research and Ethics, Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Methods of Data Collection and Sampling, Data Analysis Techniques (Quantitative & Qualitative), Research Report Writing and Referencing |
| PHDS-102 | Subject Specific Paper (Political Science) | Core | 4 |
