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PH-D in Law at GITAM, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Law at GITAM, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management Visakhapatnam?
This Law Ph.D. program at Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management focuses on advanced legal research, critical analysis, and scholarly contributions to jurisprudence. It addresses complex legal challenges pertinent to the Indian socio-economic and regulatory landscape, fostering innovative legal thought and policy recommendations to meet evolving societal needs and industry demands.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for legal scholars, academicians, and practitioners holding a Master''''s degree in Law who aspire to contribute significantly to legal theory, policy, and practice. It suits individuals passionate about deep research, desiring to enhance their analytical and critical thinking skills, and aiming for careers in academia, legal research, or specialized policy advisory roles.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue esteemed careers as university professors, legal researchers in think tanks, or experts in international law and human rights organizations. In India, they are highly sought after for senior advisory positions in government, corporate legal departments, and judicial services, commanding competitive salaries ranging from INR 10-30 lakhs annually for experienced professionals.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Legal Research Methodology- (Semester 1-2)
Diligently engage with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on quantitative and qualitative legal research methods, ethical considerations, and advanced statistical tools relevant to socio-legal studies. Utilize online legal databases like Manupatra, SCC Online, and Westlaw for comprehensive literature review and case analysis.
Tools & Resources
Manupatra, SCC Online, Westlaw, JSTOR, Legal Research Handbooks
Career Connection
Strong research skills are foundational for academic writing, publishing in reputable journals, and developing a robust doctoral thesis, crucial for university teaching and research roles.
Cultivate Critical Legal Thinking and Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in seminars, present research proposals, and engage in critical discussions on contemporary legal issues. Develop a rigorous academic writing style by drafting concept papers, literature reviews, and initial thesis chapters, seeking regular feedback from supervisors and peers.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Mendeley/Zotero, Academic Writing Workshops
Career Connection
Refined critical thinking and clear legal writing are indispensable for publishing, presenting at conferences, and formulating impactful legal arguments in any advanced legal profession.
Build a Strong Foundational Knowledge in Chosen Legal Domain- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, deeply immerse yourself in your chosen specialization within Law. Read seminal texts, landmark judgments, and contemporary scholarly articles. Attend guest lectures and workshops by experts in your domain to build a comprehensive theoretical and practical understanding.
Tools & Resources
University Library, Online Legal Journals, Departmental Seminars
Career Connection
A profound understanding of your specific legal domain establishes you as an authority, crucial for teaching specialized subjects and leading research initiatives.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Interdisciplinary Research Collaborations- (Year 2-4)
Seek opportunities to collaborate with scholars from other departments (e.g., Social Sciences, Economics, Public Policy) or other institutions on research projects that have a legal dimension. This broadens perspective and enhances research impact.
Tools & Resources
GITAM Research Centers, National Legal Research Institutes, Academic Conferences
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary skills are highly valued in policy-making, think tanks, and large-scale research projects, offering diverse career paths beyond traditional academia.
Present Research at National & International Conferences- (Year 2-4)
Actively prepare research papers and posters for presentation at national and international legal conferences. This refines presentation skills, allows for peer feedback, and expands your academic network. Aim for at least one presentation annually.
Tools & Resources
SSRN, Academia.edu, Conference Alert Websites
Career Connection
Conference participation boosts your academic profile, leading to publication opportunities and visibility, essential for securing faculty positions and research grants.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Year 2-4)
Transform your research findings into publishable articles for reputable, peer-reviewed legal journals. Start with national journals and gradually aim for international publications. Work closely with your supervisor to refine manuscripts and navigate the submission process.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE List Journals, SCOPUS/Web of Science indexed journals, Journal Submission Platforms
Career Connection
A strong publication record is paramount for academic career progression, tenure, and recognition as a leading scholar in your field.
Advanced Stage
Master Thesis Finalization and Defense Preparation- (Year 4-6)
Dedicate focused effort to completing your doctoral thesis, ensuring logical coherence, robust argumentation, and adherence to academic standards. Practice your thesis defense multiple times with peers and faculty, addressing potential questions and refining your presentation.
Tools & Resources
Thesis Writing Guides, Mock Defense Panels, University Thesis Submission Guidelines
Career Connection
A successfully defended thesis is the culmination of your Ph.D. journey and the gateway to all future academic and research opportunities.
Network with Potential Employers and Mentors- (Year 4-6)
Actively connect with professors, researchers, and professionals in your desired career path (academia, research, policy). Attend institutional networking events, alumni gatherings, and professional workshops to build relationships and explore opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional Legal Associations, University Alumni Network
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, post-doctoral fellowships, and mentorship, crucial for career launch and long-term professional growth.
Develop Teaching and Mentoring Skills- (Year 4-6)
Seek opportunities to assist professors in teaching undergraduate or master''''s level courses, co-supervise junior researchers, or deliver guest lectures. This develops pedagogical skills and strengthens your profile for academic faculty positions.
Tools & Resources
Teaching Assistantships, University Teaching & Learning Centre workshops, Mentoring programs
Career Connection
Practical teaching experience is often a prerequisite for university faculty roles and enhances your overall employability in educational institutions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree or equivalent professional degree in Law with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade ''''B'''' in the UGC 7-point scale.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (full-time)
Credits: Minimum 12 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
