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PH-D-HOME-SCIENCE in Extension And Communication Management at College of Rural Home Science, Dharwad
Dharwad, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Extension and Communication Management at College of Rural Home Science, Dharwad Dharwad?
This Ph.D. in Home Science with a specialization in Extension and Communication Management at College of Community Science, Dharwad, focuses on advanced research and strategic application of extension methodologies and communication theories within the context of community development and welfare. It addresses critical issues in rural and urban settings, aiming to empower individuals and communities through effective knowledge dissemination and behavioral change interventions. The program prepares scholars to lead initiatives in policy formulation, program implementation, and impact assessment.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for individuals holding an M.Sc. in Home Science, Agricultural Extension, Rural Development, or related fields, seeking to contribute significantly to research, policy, and practice in extension and communication. It is designed for aspiring academics, researchers in government and non-governmental organizations, and professionals aiming to develop evidence-based strategies for community outreach and development projects across India. A strong research aptitude and a passion for social impact are essential prerequisites.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as principal scientists, extension specialists, project managers, and policy analysts in research institutions, universities, ICAR organizations, state agricultural departments, and international development agencies. In India, there is a strong demand for experts in agricultural extension, rural development, and health communication. Starting salaries can range from INR 6-12 LPA for researchers to higher for experienced professionals in senior roles, with significant growth potential in academia and development sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in coursework on advanced research methods and statistics. Utilize university library resources, online courses like NPTEL or Coursera for research statistics, and participate in methodology workshops. This builds a strong foundation for thesis work and ensures rigorous data analysis skills crucial for academic and policy-oriented careers.
Tools & Resources
University Library, NPTEL/Coursera, Research methodology workshops
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and analytical skills essential for any research or leadership role, enhancing credibility and efficiency in future projects.
Cultivate Communication and Scientific Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Attend workshops on scientific writing, presentation skills, and academic publishing. Practice presenting research ideas to peers and faculty, and seek feedback on written assignments. Tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor can aid in refining writing, vital for dissertations, journal articles, and effective extension communication.
Tools & Resources
Scientific writing workshops, Grammarly, Hemingway Editor, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Enables clear articulation of research findings, improves publication chances, and strengthens communication for extension and policy advocacy.
Initiate Literature Review and Topic Refinement- (Semester 1-2)
Begin a comprehensive literature review from day one, focusing on existing research gaps in Extension and Communication Management relevant to Home Science. Engage frequently with your advisory committee to narrow down your research problem. Utilize databases like Scopus, Web of Science, and ICAR e-resources to identify seminal works and contemporary issues.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, ICAR e-resources, Advisory committee meetings
Career Connection
Helps in formulating a robust research question, a prerequisite for a successful Ph.D. and future research funding applications.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Fieldwork and Data Collection- (Semester 3-5)
Proactively identify and connect with communities or organizations for fieldwork relevant to your research. Develop robust data collection tools and gain practical experience in qualitative and quantitative data gathering. This direct engagement provides real-world insights and builds essential skills for impactful extension work and community-based research.
Tools & Resources
Survey tools e.g., KoboToolbox, Interview guides, Community engagement protocols
Career Connection
Provides hands-on experience in research implementation, making graduates highly sought after for field-based roles in development sectors.
Network with Experts and Attend Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to interact with leading researchers and practitioners in Extension and Communication Management. Attend national and international conferences, for example those by professional bodies like the Indian Society of Extension Education, to present initial findings, gain feedback, and build a professional network. This enhances visibility and opens doors for future collaborations.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations websites, Conference calls for papers, LinkedIn for networking
Career Connection
Expands professional contacts, leads to collaborative opportunities, and positions scholars as emerging experts in their field.
Develop Grant Writing Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Explore opportunities for small research grants or fellowships, for example from ICMR, DST, or UGC. Practice writing compelling research proposals, which is a critical skill for independent researchers and for securing funding for future projects in academia or development organizations. Utilize resources on proposal writing offered by the university or online platforms.
Tools & Resources
Funding agency websites, University research grants office, Online proposal writing guides
Career Connection
Equips scholars with the ability to secure funding, a crucial skill for sustaining a research career and leading large-scale projects.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation Writing and Publication- (Semester 6-8)
Dedicate significant time to writing your Ph.D. dissertation, ensuring clarity, coherence, and adherence to academic standards. Simultaneously, aim to publish at least one or two research papers in peer-reviewed journals based on your dissertation work. This not only fulfills degree requirements but also establishes your academic profile and enhances career prospects.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing software e.g., Mendeley for referencing, Peer-reviewed journal databases, Departmental publication guidelines
Career Connection
Essential for obtaining the Ph.D. degree and building a strong publication record, vital for academic and research positions.
Prepare for Viva-Voce and Job Market- (Semester 6-8)
Systematically prepare for the comprehensive viva-voce examination and the final dissertation defense. Practice answering challenging questions related to your research and broader subject area. Simultaneously, prepare your CV, cover letters, and research statements for academic positions or roles in development organizations, leveraging career services if available.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva-voce sessions, University career services, Professional CV writing resources
Career Connection
Ensures readiness for the final stage of the Ph.D. and effective transition into the professional world, optimizing job search success.
Cultivate Mentorship and Leadership- (Semester 6-8)
Seek to mentor junior research scholars or M.Sc. students, sharing your knowledge and experience. Take on leadership roles in departmental activities or student bodies. This develops leadership qualities, enhances communication skills, and contributes to the academic community, which are valuable assets for any advanced career path.
Tools & Resources
Departmental student associations, Mentorship programs, Leadership training modules
Career Connection
Builds soft skills, strengthens professional networks, and demonstrates leadership potential, crucial for senior academic or managerial roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- M.Sc. in Home Science or a related discipline with a minimum OGPA of 7.0/10.0 (or 65% marks) from a recognized university. Admission typically requires qualifying an entrance examination and an interview.
Duration: 3 years minimum (6 semesters)
Credits: 75 credits (approx. 15-20 coursework credits, 55-60 research credits) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RHSCI 701 | Advanced Research Methodology | Core | 3 | Research designs and types, Quantitative and qualitative research approaches, Sampling techniques and data collection tools, Hypothesis formulation and testing, Research ethics and scientific writing |
| RHSCI 702 | Advanced Statistical Methods for Research | Core | 3 | Experimental designs and ANOVA, Correlation and regression analysis, Multivariate statistical techniques, Use of statistical software for data analysis, Interpretation and presentation of research data |
| ECM 701 | Advanced Theories in Extension and Communication | Major Elective | 3 | Models of communication and their application, Diffusion and adoption of innovations, Theories of social change and community development, Adult learning principles in extension, Communication for development paradigms |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECM 702 | Program Planning and Evaluation in Home Science Extension | Major Elective | 3 | Participatory rural appraisal and needs assessment, Logical framework approach in program planning, Monitoring and evaluation frameworks, Impact assessment techniques, Reporting and feedback mechanisms in extension |
| ECM 703 | Communication Strategies for Rural Development | Major Elective | 3 | Traditional and modern communication channels, Mass media and rural development, Information and Communication Technologies ICTs in extension, Message design and media advocacy, Public relations and campaign management |
| RHSCI 791 | Ph.D. Seminar I | Core | 1 | Review of literature in chosen area, Identification of research gaps and problem formulation, Preparation and presentation of research proposals, Academic presentation skills, Feedback and critical analysis |
