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PHD in Political Science at Dayanand Subhash National Post Graduate College
Unnao, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Dayanand Subhash National Post Graduate College Unnao?
This PhD Political Science program at Dayanand Subhash National Post Graduate College, Unnao, focuses on advanced research and critical analysis within the discipline, aligned with the academic framework of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University. It equips scholars to delve into complex political phenomena, policies, and theories, addressing contemporary issues relevant to India and global dynamics. The program emphasizes rigorous research methodology and independent scholarly contributions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in Political Science or related fields who possess a strong aptitude for research, critical thinking, and a desire to contribute original knowledge to the academic community. It attracts individuals aspiring to careers in academia, policy analysis, public administration, and think tanks within India, providing a structured pathway for intellectual growth and specialized expertise.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to emerge as accomplished researchers and scholars, prepared for academic positions as professors or researchers in Indian universities and colleges. Career paths also include roles as policy analysts in government bodies, NGOs, or think tanks focusing on Indian governance and international relations. While specific salary ranges vary greatly, a PhD enhances earning potential in academic and research roles, typically ranging from INR 6-15 lakhs annually for entry to mid-level positions in academia or research institutions in India, with significant growth trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (First 6-12 months of the program (during coursework))
Thoroughly grasp core research concepts, statistical methods, and academic writing. Actively participate in coursework seminars, practice data analysis using statistical software, and engage in critical discussions on research ethics. This stage builds the bedrock for your entire research journey.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, LaTeX, Mendeley/Zotero, NPTEL courses on research methodology, UGC-NET/JRF preparatory materials for theoretical clarity
Career Connection
A strong methodological foundation is crucial for producing credible research, essential for academic publications and employment in research-intensive roles.
Intensive Literature Review and Gap Identification- (Throughout the coursework semester and extending into the initial proposal development phase)
Beyond coursework, dive deep into existing Political Science literature. Identify key theories, debates, and methodological approaches relevant to your chosen sub-field. Systematically pinpoint significant gaps in current scholarship that your research can address. This requires extensive reading and critical synthesis.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, Shodhganga (for Indian theses), University library databases, Research portals like Academia.edu, Zotero/Mendeley for reference management
Career Connection
Identifying novel research questions and demonstrating mastery of existing literature are fundamental skills for academic success and securing research grants.
Cultivate Strong Mentorship and Peer Networks- (Continuous throughout the PhD program, starting from day one)
Actively seek guidance from your supervisor, engaging in regular and proactive discussions about your research ideas, challenges, and progress. Additionally, foster strong relationships with fellow PhD scholars, forming study groups to discuss papers, methodologies, and provide constructive feedback on each other''''s work.
Tools & Resources
Regular supervisor meetings, Departmental research colloquiums, National/international PhD student conferences, WhatsApp/Telegram groups for peer support
Career Connection
A robust academic network provides intellectual support, potential future collaborations, and valuable insights into academic job markets and research opportunities in India.
Intermediate Stage
Develop and Refine Robust Research Proposal- (Months 6-18, following successful coursework completion)
Based on your literature review, formulate a clear, feasible, and original research proposal. Focus on articulating specific research questions, developing a sound theoretical framework, and outlining a practical and ethical methodology for data collection and analysis. Seek multiple rounds of feedback from your supervisor and departmental committee.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Departmental proposal templates, Research ethics guidelines (e.g., ICSSR), Workshops on proposal writing
Career Connection
A strong proposal is the blueprint for a successful thesis and demonstrates the ability to conceptualize and plan complex research, a highly valued skill in academia and policy analysis.
Engage in Fieldwork or Data Collection with Rigor- (Months 12-36, depending on the nature and scope of the research)
Execute your research design meticulously. Whether conducting surveys, interviews, archival research, or ethnographic studies, ensure data collection is systematic, ethical, and aligned with your research questions. Maintain detailed field notes and data logs. For Political Science, this often involves engaging with government officials, community leaders, or political actors.
Tools & Resources
Survey software (e.g., Google Forms, SurveyMonkey), Interview transcription tools, Data encryption/security practices, Ethical clearance forms, Travel grants for fieldwork
Career Connection
Effective and ethical data collection is critical for valid research findings, enhancing the credibility of your thesis and future publications, opening doors to field-based research roles.
Present Research at Conferences and Workshops- (From Year 2 onwards, until thesis submission)
Actively seek opportunities to present your ongoing research at departmental seminars, national conferences (e.g., IPSA, regional political science associations), and workshops. This not only refines your communication skills but also exposes your work to broader academic scrutiny, leading to valuable feedback and networking.
Tools & Resources
Call for papers from academic associations, University funding for conference travel, Presentation software (PowerPoint/Keynote), Networking platforms like LinkedIn
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds your academic profile, establishes you as an emerging scholar, and is crucial for academic job applications and securing post-doctoral opportunities in India and abroad.
Advanced Stage
Rigorous Data Analysis and Interpretation- (Months 24-48, overlapping with writing)
Systematically analyze your collected data using appropriate qualitative or quantitative methods. Focus on identifying patterns, themes, and significant findings that directly address your research questions. Interpret results within your theoretical framework and contribute to existing scholarly debates.
Tools & Resources
NVivo/Atlas.ti for qualitative data, SPSS/R/Stata for quantitative data, Statistical consultation services, Advanced methodology workshops
Career Connection
Proficiency in data analysis is a highly sought-after skill across academia, government, and policy research, enhancing your marketability for diverse roles.
Prolific Academic Writing and Publication Strategy- (Continuous from Year 2 onwards, intensifying in Years 3-5)
Develop a consistent writing routine. Aim to convert thesis chapters into publishable journal articles in reputable Political Science journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Journal of Political Science). Seek feedback on drafts from your supervisor and peers. Early publications significantly boost your academic career prospects.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Academic writing workshops, Style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), Journal submission platforms (e.g., Scholastica), ''''Predatory journal'''' checklists
Career Connection
Publications are the currency of academia in India; they are essential for securing faculty positions, promotions, and research grants. A strong publication record demonstrates independent research capability.
Strategic Career Planning and Networking for Post-PhD Roles- (Year 3 onwards, intensifying in the final year of the program)
Actively explore academic job markets, post-doctoral fellowships, and research positions in India. Prepare a compelling CV, teaching philosophy, and research statement. Network with established scholars and attend academic job fairs. Develop interview skills specific to academic and research institutions.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job portals (e.g., HigherEdJobs, specific university recruitment pages), LinkedIn for professional networking, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and networking are critical for translating your PhD into a successful professional career, whether in academia, policy, or related research fields in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree with minimum 55% marks (or equivalent grade) from a recognized University. A relaxation of 5% marks (from 55% to 50%) is allowed for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently abled category candidates. Candidates must have qualified UGC-NET/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship holders or cleared the university''''s entrance test.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (from date of registration)
Credits: 12 (for coursework, comprising 3 papers of 4 credits each) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PhD-CM-101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning, Objectives, and Significance of Research, Types of Research, Research Problem and Design, Sampling Methods and Techniques, Data Collection Methods (Primary and Secondary), Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Report Writing, Ethics in Research |
| PhD-CM-102 | Computer Application and Data Analysis | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Computer (Hardware & Software), MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for Research, Internet and Web Search Tools, Introduction to Data Analysis Software (e.g., SPSS, R), Basic Statistical Concepts (Mean, Median, Mode, Correlation, Regression), Hypothesis Testing and Interpretation of Results |
| PhD-EL-103 | Subject Specific Review of Literature / Advanced Topics in Political Science | Elective (Subject Specific) | 4 | Identification and Analysis of Published Research in Political Science, Critical Review of Research Methodologies in Political Science Literature, Formulation of Research Questions from Literature Gaps, Development of Theoretical Frameworks relevant to Political Science Research, Ethical Considerations in Political Science Research |
