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PHD-DOCTOR-OF-PHILOSOPHY in Nursing at Chitkara University
Patiala, Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is Nursing at Chitkara University Patiala?
This PhD Nursing program at Chitkara University focuses on advanced research and scholarly inquiry in various facets of nursing science and practice. Rooted in an Indian context, it emphasizes developing expert nurse researchers capable of addressing contemporary healthcare challenges and contributing to evidence-based practice and policy-making within the nation''''s healthcare system. The program aims to nurture independent researchers who can innovate and lead in academic and clinical settings, aligning with national health priorities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated M.Sc. Nursing graduates, experienced clinical nurses, nurse educators, and administrators seeking to advance their careers through rigorous research. It caters to those passionate about contributing new knowledge to the nursing profession, keen on solving complex healthcare problems, and aspiring for leadership roles in research, academia, or public health policy in India, particularly those with a strong academic background and research aptitude.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue esteemed careers as research scientists, university professors, clinical research directors, or healthcare policy advisors in India. They will be equipped to lead significant research projects, publish in high-impact journals, and influence healthcare outcomes. The advanced research skills acquired position them for senior roles in academic institutions, hospitals, and national health organizations, commanding competitive salary ranges based on their experience and impact in the Indian healthcare landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Research Methodologies- (Coursework Semester (typically Semester 1))
Thoroughly grasp the principles of both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies taught in the coursework. Utilize online platforms like NPTEL and Swayam for additional learning modules on research design, biostatistics, and epidemiological methods relevant to nursing. Actively participate in classroom discussions and seek feedback on initial research ideas from faculty.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on research methodology, Swayam courses on biostatistics, Statistical software basic tutorials (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for data analysis)
Career Connection
A strong foundation in research design and analysis is crucial for developing a credible thesis, securing research funding, and ensuring the validity of your future studies, significantly enhancing your profile as a reliable nurse researcher.
Cultivate Ethical Research Practices- (Coursework Semester (typically Semester 1))
Deeply understand the tenets of research and publication ethics, including scientific conduct, plagiarism, and responsible data management. Engage with case studies on research misconduct and academic integrity. Regularly consult your supervisor on ethical considerations specific to your potential research area and institutional guidelines.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE list for journal selection, Plagiarism detection software (e.g., Turnitin, Urkund) guidelines, Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) protocols and workshops
Career Connection
Adherence to ethical standards builds your academic and professional reputation, prevents potential retractions, and ensures your research is respected and impactful, which is vital for academic progression and clinical application in India.
Proactively Engage with Departmental Research Committee (DRC)- (Coursework Semester and initial thesis proposal phase)
Work closely with your supervisor and the DRC to define your preliminary research problem and align your discipline-specific elective courses with your research interests. This early engagement ensures your study plan aligns with institutional resources and faculty expertise, setting a clear and supported trajectory for your thesis work. Attend departmental seminars and workshops regularly.
Tools & Resources
DRC guidelines and meeting schedules, Faculty research profiles, Departmental seminar and workshop announcements
Career Connection
Early clarity in your research direction optimizes resource utilization, potentially reduces time to degree completion, and helps build a strong mentorship network essential for future collaborations and career opportunities within the Indian healthcare research ecosystem.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Post-coursework to end of 2nd year)
Refine your specific research question, objectives, detailed methodology, and expected outcomes. Present your comprehensive proposal to peers and faculty for critical feedback in internal review sessions. Focus on the feasibility, novelty, and relevance of your study to contemporary Indian healthcare needs. Secure all necessary ethical approvals from the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) before commencing any data collection.
Tools & Resources
University research proposal templates, Academic writing workshops focused on proposal development, Reference management software (e.g., Mendeley, Zotero, EndNote)
Career Connection
A well-structured and approved proposal demonstrates your capacity for independent, rigorous research, which is a key skill highly valued for securing future research grants, post-doctoral positions, and leadership roles in R&D within India.
Engage in Systematic Data Collection and Analysis- (2nd to 4th year, depending on research scope)
Systematically collect and manage your research data, strictly adhering to ethical guidelines and approved protocols. Learn and apply appropriate advanced statistical or qualitative data analysis software. Seek guidance from biostatisticians or qualitative research experts within the university to ensure rigor, validity, and accuracy in your analysis and interpretation of findings.
Tools & Resources
Advanced statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, SAS), Qualitative analysis software (e.g., NVivo, ATLAS.ti), University research labs and statistical consulting services
Career Connection
Proficiency in advanced data handling and analysis is highly sought after in both academic and clinical research roles, enabling you to interpret complex information, generate robust evidence, and derive actionable insights for healthcare improvement.
Present Research at Conferences and Workshops- (End of 2nd year onwards, continuously throughout the research phase)
Prepare compelling abstracts and present your preliminary or completed research findings at national and international nursing conferences, university research colloquia, or specialized workshops. This provides invaluable peer feedback, facilitates networking with experts, and significantly enhances your public speaking and presentation skills, which are crucial for academic and professional growth.
Tools & Resources
Conference websites (e.g., TNAI, SNRS, national medical/nursing associations), Professional presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides), Faculty and departmental support for travel grants/recommendations
Career Connection
Early dissemination of your research builds your academic reputation, attracts potential collaborators, and is essential for establishing yourself as an emerging expert in your niche, opening doors to advanced academic, research, and policy-making positions.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize High-Quality Publication- (From 3rd year until thesis submission)
Target reputable, peer-reviewed journals (preferably Scopus/Web of Science indexed and within the UGC CARE list for Indian institutions) for publishing your research findings. Work closely with your supervisor to refine manuscripts, ensuring clarity, scientific rigor, and strict adherence to journal guidelines. Aim for at least 1-2 publications from your thesis work before its final submission.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE List website, Journal finder tools (e.g., Elsevier JournalFinder, Springer Journal Suggester), University''''s academic writing support services
Career Connection
A strong publication record in high-impact journals is paramount for securing academic appointments, promotions, and competitive research grants in India, demonstrating your original contribution to the body of knowledge and expertise.
Prepare for Thesis Defense (Viva Voce)- (Final 6-12 months of the program, leading up to the defense)
Systematically organize and finalize your doctoral thesis, ensuring it meets all university guidelines and unequivocally demonstrates an original and significant contribution to nursing knowledge. Prepare and practice your presentation meticulously, anticipating potential challenging questions from internal and external examiners. Seek mock viva sessions with faculty members and peers to refine your responses, clarify concepts, and boost your confidence.
Tools & Resources
University thesis formatting and submission guidelines, Presentation slides software (e.g., PowerPoint), Supervisor and senior scholar mock viva sessions
Career Connection
A successful viva voce is the ultimate demonstration of your mastery of the subject matter and your research capabilities, serving as the final step to earning your PhD and preparing you for high-level academic defenses and scientific communication in your career.
Network Strategically for Post-Doctoral and Career Opportunities- (Final year of the program and extending into early career)
Actively network with senior faculty, established researchers, and prominent professionals in the nursing and broader healthcare sectors through conferences, workshops, and online professional platforms. Proactively explore post-doctoral fellowships, national/international research grants, or academic/leadership positions aligned with your research expertise. Leverage the university''''s career services for resume building, interview preparation, and connecting with potential employers for senior roles in Indian healthcare.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Professional network, Professional nursing associations (e.g., TNAI, INC), University career services and alumni network
Career Connection
Strategic networking is crucial for identifying and securing advanced career opportunities, fostering collaborations, and gaining mentorship that will significantly shape your long-term impact and influence as a PhD-trained nursing professional and leader in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A candidate must possess a Master’s degree or a professional degree declared equivalent to the Master’s degree by the corresponding statutory regulatory body, with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade ‘B’ in the UGC 7-point scale (or an equivalent grade in a point scale wherever grading system is followed) or an equivalent degree from a foreign educational Institution accredited by an Assessment and Accreditation Agency. A relaxation of 5% marks, from 55% to 50%, or an equivalent relaxation of grade, may be allowed for those belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-abled, Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and other categories. Admission is through a Research Entrance Test (RET) followed by an interview conducted by the University.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (full-time) / 4 years (part-time) including coursework; Maximum 6 years (full-time) / 7 years (part-time)
Credits: 12 credits (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
