

PHD in Physical Education at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya


Indore, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Physical Education at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya Indore?
This PhD in Physical Education program at Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Indore, focuses on advanced research across various domains of physical education, sports sciences, and allied fields. It emphasizes rigorous scientific inquiry, critical analysis, and innovative research methodologies, preparing scholars to contribute significantly to the growing understanding of human performance, health, and well-being within the Indian context and globally.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students holding a Master''''s degree in Physical Education, Sports Science, or related disciplines, who possess a strong desire for academic research and a passion for advancing knowledge in the field. It caters to aspiring academics, researchers, and professionals in sports organizations seeking to deepen their expertise and contribute to policy-making and practice through doctoral-level studies.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to embark on fulfilling careers as university professors, research scientists, high-performance sports consultants, or leaders in sports administration and development across India. The program equips them with advanced research and analytical skills, enabling them to influence national sports policies, health initiatives, and contribute to elite athlete development, commanding competitive salaries and significant professional growth.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Coursework Semester)
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework, understanding all aspects from research design to statistical analysis and ethical considerations. Actively participate in seminars, clarify doubts, and practice applying concepts, as this foundational knowledge is crucial for the entire PhD journey. Leverage DAVV''''s library resources for in-depth study.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R statistical software, Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), DAVV central library resources, Online research methodology tutorials
Career Connection
A strong grasp of research methodology is indispensable for conducting credible research, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and securing academic or research positions after graduation.
Identify a Research Niche and Potential Supervisor- (Throughout and immediately after coursework semester)
During and immediately after coursework, explore diverse sub-disciplines within Physical Education such as sports psychology, biomechanics, or exercise physiology. Read extensively, attend departmental research presentations, and interact with faculty members to pinpoint a viable research problem and identify a supervisor whose expertise aligns with your research interests and future career aspirations.
Tools & Resources
DAVV departmental faculty profiles, Research databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar), Departmental seminars and workshops
Career Connection
A well-defined research niche and a supportive supervisory relationship are paramount for the timely and successful completion of your thesis, and for establishing your specialization in a desired academic or research field.
Cultivate Strong Academic Writing Skills- (Ongoing from coursework semester)
Dedicate effort to developing clear, concise, and academically rigorous writing from the program''''s outset. Practice summarizing complex research papers, structuring literature reviews, and formulating coherent arguments. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and peers on early drafts of coursework assignments and research proposals to refine your style.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Microsoft Word/LaTeX, Academic writing guides, University writing support (if available)
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic writing is critical for thesis submission, publishing research papers, securing research grants, and effective communication in academia, significantly enhancing your prospects for post-doctoral fellowships and faculty roles.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Comprehensive Literature Review and Proposal Development- (After coursework, leading up to synopsis submission)
Allocate significant time to conducting an exhaustive literature review to identify critical research gaps and solidify your research question. Develop a robust research proposal (synopsis) that clearly outlines your objectives, detailed methodology, and expected outcomes, preparing thoroughly for its confident presentation at departmental review committees.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (PubMed, SPORTDiscus), Reference management software, Departmental review meetings and workshops, Supervisor guidance
Career Connection
A meticulously structured research proposal demonstrates intellectual rigor, critical thinking, and prepares you for securing competitive research grants and coveted academic positions in the future.
Develop Data Collection and Analytical Proficiency- (Following proposal approval, during the core data collection phase)
Systematically collect and manage data using appropriate tools and techniques specific to physical education research, such as physiological measurements, psychological inventories, or movement analysis. Master statistical software for data analysis, ensuring accuracy, integrity, and correct interpretation of your findings to draw meaningful conclusions.
Tools & Resources
Specialized lab equipment (e.g., heart rate monitors, force plates), Survey platforms (Google Forms, Qualtrics), SPSS/R/Python for statistical analysis, Workshops on advanced research techniques
Career Connection
Hands-on experience with diverse data collection methods and proficient data analysis skills are highly valued in academic research roles, sports science institutes, and for leading independent research projects.
Present Research at Conferences and Workshops- (Throughout the data collection and analysis phase)
Actively seek opportunities to present your preliminary findings, literature review, or methodological approaches at national and international conferences. This invaluable experience allows you to gain constructive feedback from peers and experts, network with professionals in your field, and refine your research before final thesis submission.
Tools & Resources
Conference calls for papers (e.g., AIESEP, ICPEES), Travel grants (if available through DAVV or external bodies), Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides)
Career Connection
Presenting builds public speaking skills, expands your academic network, enhances your curriculum vitae for academic positions, and provides exposure to current research trends and collaborators.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Publication in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Concurrent with thesis writing, approximately Year 3-5)
Systematically transform your thesis chapters into publishable manuscripts suitable for reputable national and international journals in physical education or sports sciences. Aim to achieve at least 2-3 quality publications before your thesis submission, as this significantly strengthens your academic profile and research impact.
Tools & Resources
Journal databases (Scopus, Web of Science, UGC CARE List), Academic publishing guides, Plagiarism checkers (e.g., Turnitin, Urkund), Supervisor mentorship for manuscript review
Career Connection
Journal publications are crucial for securing post-doctoral positions, faculty appointments, career advancements, and establishing yourself as a recognized expert and thought leader in your specific research area.
Prepare Rigorously for Thesis Defense and Viva-Voce- (Final year of PhD, leading up to defense)
Collaborate closely with your supervisor to meticulously write, edit, and refine your doctoral thesis. Practice presenting your research findings comprehensively and concisely. Anticipate potential questions from internal and external examiners, conducting mock viva sessions to clearly articulate your contributions, methodology, and scientific implications.
Tools & Resources
DAVV thesis formatting guidelines, Presentation materials (slides, handouts), Mock defense sessions with faculty and peers, Feedback from supervisor
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the ultimate culmination of your PhD journey and a mandatory prerequisite for degree conferral, opening doors to advanced academic and research careers.
Develop Grant Writing and Project Management Skills- (Late stage of PhD and post-PhD endeavors)
Actively seek opportunities to assist your supervisor in writing research grant proposals or managing smaller research projects. Gain an understanding of the funding landscape for physical education research, both within India (e.g., UGC, SERB) and internationally. This skill is vital for independent researchers seeking to establish their own research programs.
Tools & Resources
UGC/SERB/DST funding opportunity portals, Institutional research and development offices, Workshops on grant writing and research project management
Career Connection
Mastering grant writing and project management is essential for securing future research funding, leading independent research initiatives, and contributing to institutional research capacity, positioning you for leadership roles in academia and research organizations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in relevant subject with minimum 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer/Differently Abled) or equivalent grade. Must qualify in Doctoral Entrance Test (DET) conducted by DAVV or be exempted as per UGC regulations (e.g., UGC/CSIR-NET, SLET, GATE, Teacher Fellowship holders).
Duration: Minimum 3 years (with 1 semester compulsory coursework)
Credits: 16 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester semester
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Research Methodology | Core (Compulsory for all PhD candidates) | 8 | Introduction to Research: Meaning, Objectives, Types, Research Problem, Review of Literature & Research Design, Methods of Data Collection & Tools/Techniques, Sampling Techniques & Hypothesis Formulation, Statistics in Research: Descriptive & Inferential Statistics, Research Report Writing & Ethics in Research |
| Paper II | Physical Education & Sports Sciences | Core (Subject Specific) | 8 | Advanced Concepts in Physical Education and Sports, Sports Psychology and Sociology of Sport, Exercise Physiology and Kinesiology, Sports Training, Coaching and Management, Biomechanics of Human Movement and Injury Prevention, Current Trends, Issues and Future Prospects in Physical Education |




