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PHD in Social Work at Dibrugarh University
Dibrugarh, Assam
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About the Specialization
What is Social Work at Dibrugarh University Dibrugarh?
This PhD in Social Work program at Dibrugarh University focuses on advanced research and scholarly inquiry into critical social issues, policy interventions, and community development. Given India''''s diverse socio-economic landscape, the program prepares scholars to contribute to evidence-based practice and policy-making, addressing challenges from rural poverty to urban mental health, with a strong emphasis on regional relevance and indigenous approaches to social welfare and sustainable development.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for experienced social work professionals, educators, and researchers holding a Master''''s degree in Social Work or allied disciplines, who aspire to contribute significantly to social science knowledge. It is suited for individuals passionate about solving complex societal problems, influencing policy, and leading academic or research initiatives in government, NGOs, or international development organizations across India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as leading researchers, university professors, policy analysts, and program directors in various social development sectors in India. They are equipped to join national and international NGOs, government ministries, and academic institutions, commanding competitive salaries (e.g., INR 6-15 LPA entry-level academic/research roles, growing significantly with experience) and shaping India''''s social welfare agenda.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Foundations- (Coursework Semester)
Dedicate significant time to understanding core research methodologies, qualitative and quantitative data analysis techniques, and ethical considerations. Actively participate in workshops, seminars, and apply concepts to a hypothetical research problem related to Social Work.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R for data analysis, Academic databases (JSTOR, Scopus), University library resources on research ethics
Career Connection
A strong foundation in research methods is crucial for designing rigorous studies, securing grants, and publishing high-impact research, which are vital for academic and research roles.
Engage with Interdisciplinary Literature- (Coursework Semester)
Beyond Social Work literature, explore adjacent fields like Sociology, Economics, Public Policy, and Psychology that inform social issues. Attend inter-departmental seminars and discuss how diverse theoretical frameworks can enrich Social Work research questions.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, University e-resources for journals, Inter-departmental seminar schedules
Career Connection
Develops a broader perspective, enabling innovative research proposals and collaborations, which are highly valued in complex social development projects and policy analysis.
Develop Robust Academic Writing Skills- (Coursework Semester)
Focus on structured academic writing for literature reviews, research proposals, and early drafts of research papers. Seek feedback from supervisors and peers, and utilize university writing centers if available, to refine clarity, coherence, and argumentation.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly Premium, Mendeley/Zotero for citation management, University writing workshops
Career Connection
Essential for successful thesis completion, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and effectively communicating research findings to various stakeholders, enhancing academic reputation and employability.
Intermediate Stage
Proactively Seek Supervisor Feedback- (Year 1-3 (after coursework))
Establish regular, structured meetings with your supervisor to discuss research progress, challenges, and next steps. Come prepared with specific questions and updated work, leveraging their expertise to refine your research direction and methodology.
Tools & Resources
Shared document platforms (Google Docs, Microsoft Teams), Scheduled meetings, Supervisor''''s office hours
Career Connection
Effective mentorship is critical for navigating research complexities, ensuring timely progress, and building academic networks, which are key for securing post-doctoral positions or academic jobs.
Present Research at Conferences/Workshops- (Year 2-4)
Aim to present preliminary findings or your research proposal at departmental seminars, national workshops, or conferences. This provides valuable feedback, networking opportunities, and helps in refining your research narrative.
Tools & Resources
Conference call for papers listings, University research office notifications, Departmental mailing lists
Career Connection
Builds presentation skills, enhances research visibility, and establishes connections with fellow researchers and potential collaborators, crucial for academic advancement and research funding.
Engage in Fieldwork & Data Collection Ethically- (Year 2-5)
Plan and execute your fieldwork with strict adherence to ethical guidelines and cultural sensitivities, especially important in India''''s diverse contexts. Develop strong rapport with study participants and community stakeholders for rich data collection.
Tools & Resources
Institutional Ethics Committee protocols, Consent forms, Qualitative/quantitative data collection tools (e.g., KoboToolbox), Local language guides
Career Connection
Develops practical research skills, cultural competence, and ethical decision-making, highly valued in research-intensive roles within NGOs, government, and policy think tanks.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Consistent Thesis Writing- (Final 1-2 years)
Develop a disciplined writing schedule and commit to daily or weekly targets for drafting sections of your thesis. Break down the thesis into manageable chapters and sections, and work incrementally rather than waiting for large blocks of time.
Tools & Resources
Ulysses/Scrivener (writing software), Cloud storage for backups, Personal calendar for scheduling, Academic writing guides
Career Connection
Timely thesis completion is paramount for obtaining the degree, enabling immediate career progression into academic, research, or policy roles without undue delays.
Prepare for Viva Voce Examination- (Weeks leading up to defense)
Thoroughly prepare for your thesis defense by anticipating questions from internal and external examiners. Conduct mock vivas with peers or faculty, focusing on clarifying methodological choices, theoretical contributions, and policy implications of your research.
Tools & Resources
Previous viva questions (if available), Mock presentation sessions, Feedback from mentors/supervisors
Career Connection
A confident and articulate defense demonstrates intellectual rigor and command over your research, which is essential for impressing potential employers in academia and research institutions.
Strategize for Publication & Career Placement- (Final year and post-PhD)
Identify relevant peer-reviewed journals for publishing sections of your thesis, and tailor your writing to journal specific guidelines. Simultaneously, network for academic positions, research fellowships, or policy roles, preparing a strong CV and cover letters.
Tools & Resources
Journal impact factor databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Academic job portals (Times Higher Education, university career pages), LinkedIn for professional networking
Career Connection
A strong publication record is critical for academic appointments and research grants. Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition from PhD scholar to a professional researcher or academician.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (or equivalent) in Social Work or allied discipline with minimum 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/PwD candidates) from any recognized university, AND qualifying a Research Admission Test (DURAT) conducted by the University or being exempted from DURAT as per UGC norms (e.g., NET/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship holders).
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (full-time)
Credits: Minimum 8 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (Theory Papers), 15% (Practical Papers), External: 70% (Theory Papers - End Semester Examination), 35% (Practical Papers - End Semester Examination)
