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PHD in Political Science at Dayanand Arya Balika Mahavidyalaya
Ajmer, Rajasthan
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Dayanand Arya Balika Mahavidyalaya Ajmer?
This Political Science PhD program, offered under the framework of Dayanand Arya Balika Mahavidyalaya''''s affiliation with MDS University, focuses on advanced research, critical analysis of political theories, governance, public policy, and international relations. It equips scholars with sophisticated analytical and methodological skills essential for contributing to academic discourse and policy formulation. The program emphasizes an in-depth understanding of Indian political dynamics and its global context, addressing the growing demand for expert political analysts and academics in the country.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with an M.A. in Political Science or a related discipline who aspire to pursue careers in academia, research, or policy analysis. It attracts individuals with a strong academic record, critical thinking abilities, and a keen interest in advanced political studies. Professionals in civil services, journalism, or NGOs looking to deepen their theoretical and research foundations in political science for career progression in the Indian context will also find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as university professors, researchers in esteemed think tanks, policy analysts for government bodies, or political consultants for Indian and international organizations operating in India. In India, typical career paths include roles in institutions like ICSSR, NITI Aayog, or academic departments across universities, with entry-level salaries ranging from INR 6-12 LPA and experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program fosters critical research skills highly valued in both public and private sectors in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Semester 1 (Coursework Phase))
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework (Paper I) by attending all lectures, actively participating in discussions, and practicing research design exercises. Focus on understanding both quantitative and qualitative research paradigms and ethical considerations specific to social sciences, particularly in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
MDS University Coursework Syllabus, Online courses on NPTEL/SWAYAM for Research Methodology, Statistical software tutorials (e.g., SPSS, R for social data), University library resources on research ethics
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is critical for crafting a robust thesis, enabling publication in peer-reviewed journals, and securing research-oriented roles in academia or think tanks in India.
Identify Research Niche and Supervisor- (Semester 1-2)
Actively explore different sub-fields of Political Science and identify a specific research problem that genuinely interests you and has academic significance within the Indian or global context. Concurrently, identify potential supervisors at the college/university whose research interests align with yours and approach them for guidance.
Tools & Resources
Departmental faculty profiles, Leading research journals in Political Science (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Journal of Political Science), Previous PhD theses from MDS University
Career Connection
A well-defined research niche under expert supervision is crucial for completing the PhD efficiently and building a specialized knowledge base that enhances your profile for academic or policy roles in India.
Develop Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, regularly read academic papers and practice writing concise research proposals, literature reviews, and short articles. Seek constructive feedback from peers and supervisors. Actively participate in departmental seminars to hone your public speaking and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
University writing center services (if available), Grammarly, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Presentations at college/university workshops and inter-departmental seminars
Career Connection
Strong academic communication is vital for publishing research, presenting at conferences, and effectively conveying complex ideas, which is key for a successful academic or research career in India.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Literature Review and Theory- (Year 2-3)
Conduct an exhaustive literature review specific to your chosen research area, identifying gaps and theoretical contributions from both international and Indian scholarship. Engage deeply with advanced political theories relevant to your thesis, moving beyond introductory understandings to critical engagement.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Project MUSE, Google Scholar for academic articles, University library databases, Specialized books on Political Theory and Indian political thought
Career Connection
A comprehensive and theoretically grounded literature review forms the bedrock of a strong thesis, showcasing intellectual rigor and expertise valued in academic research positions and think tanks in India.
Engage in Fieldwork/Data Collection and Analysis- (Year 2-4)
Systematically collect primary and/or secondary data as per your research design, possibly involving fieldwork in Indian states or archival research. For qualitative research, conduct interviews/focus groups; for quantitative, collect and analyze survey data. Apply appropriate analytical techniques under supervisor''''s guidance.
Tools & Resources
Interview guides, survey tools (Google Forms, SurveyMonkey), Qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo), Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), Government reports, archives, official statistics from Indian agencies
Career Connection
Proficiency in data collection and analysis makes you a valuable asset for research positions in government, NGOs, and policy organizations focused on India, as well as academic research.
Present Research at Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2-4)
Prepare and present your ongoing research at national and state-level academic conferences, workshops, and seminars in India. Actively seek feedback from experts and network with scholars in your field. Consider submitting papers to reputable UGC-CARE listed journals.
Tools & Resources
Calls for papers from Indian academic associations (e.g., Indian Political Science Association), Conference proceedings, Networking events organized by the university or related institutions in India
Career Connection
Presenting builds your academic profile, establishes your expertise, and expands your professional network, which is crucial for academic job market and collaborative research opportunities within India.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing and Publication- (Year 4-5)
Dedicate significant time to writing your doctoral thesis, ensuring coherence, analytical depth, and originality, especially regarding your contribution to Political Science knowledge. Aim to publish at least one research paper from your thesis in a UGC-CARE listed journal, fulfilling a common requirement for PhD completion and career advancement in India.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides and templates, EndNote/Zotero for bibliography management, UGC-CARE List of Journals portal, Consistent feedback from your supervisor
Career Connection
A well-written and published thesis is the primary output of a PhD, demonstrating your research capability and making you highly competitive for academic positions and research grants in India.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Future Career- (Year 5-6)
Thoroughly prepare for your viva voce examination by anticipating questions, practicing your defense, and refining your summary of findings. Concurrently, start applying for academic positions, research fellowships, or policy-oriented roles in India, tailoring your CV and research statement to specific job requirements.
Tools & Resources
Mock vivas with supervisors/peers, Career services at the university (if available), Online job portals (e.g., Naukri.com, HigherEdJobs.com for academia)
Career Connection
Successfully defending your thesis is the final step for degree completion. Proactive career planning during this stage ensures a smooth transition into your desired professional path in Indian academia or policy sectors.
Cultivate Mentorship and Collaborative Opportunities- (Year 4-6 and beyond)
Maintain strong relationships with your supervisor and other senior academics, seeking their mentorship for post-doctoral plans, grant applications, and academic growth in India. Explore opportunities for collaborative research projects to broaden your academic network and research experience.
Tools & Resources
Academic conferences and seminars, Professional associations in Political Science (e.g., Indian Political Science Association), University research grants and collaboration platforms
Career Connection
Mentorship and collaborations are invaluable for long-term career development, opening doors to new research avenues, funding opportunities, and establishing a reputation as a contributing scholar in your field within India and globally.
