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PH-D in Marketing at GITAM, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Marketing at GITAM, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management Visakhapatnam?
This Ph.D. in Marketing program at GITAM, Visakhapatnam, focuses on advanced theoretical frameworks and empirical research methodologies in marketing. Tailored for in-depth scholarly inquiry, it addresses the evolving Indian market landscape, from digital consumer behavior to sustainable marketing practices. The program emphasizes generating new knowledge and contributing to both academic discourse and industry best practices within India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, seasoned marketing professionals seeking to transition into research or teaching roles, and individuals passionate about exploring complex marketing phenomena. Candidates typically hold an MBA or equivalent Master''''s degree in business or related fields, possessing strong analytical skills and a foundational understanding of marketing principles.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as professors, researchers, or consultants in leading Indian universities, business schools, and market research firms. They gain expertise in advanced data analysis, theoretical model building, and ethical research practices, preparing them for roles demanding critical thinking and original contributions to the field. Potential salary ranges from INR 8-15 LPA for Assistant Professors and significantly higher for experienced research roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate intensive study to foundational research methodologies and quantitative techniques. Actively participate in seminars, solve statistical problems, and apply concepts to basic case studies. Engage with faculty for clarification on complex statistical models and research designs.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R software for data analysis, Research methodology textbooks (e.g., Malhotra, Hair), Online courses on Coursera/edX for advanced statistics
Career Connection
A strong grasp of research methods is critical for thesis development and future academic/research roles, making you a competent analyst and researcher.
Cultivate Critical Academic Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a routine of reading peer-reviewed journal articles in marketing and related fields. Focus on critically evaluating research questions, methodologies, and conclusions. Maintain a systematic literature review log to track key insights and identify research gaps relevant to your interests.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, ScienceDirect, EBSCOHost, Mendeley/Zotero for reference management, Google Scholar alerts for relevant keywords
Career Connection
This practice builds foundational knowledge, sharpens analytical skills, and aids in identifying unique research problems, crucial for successful thesis completion and publication.
Engage in Departmental Research Colloquia- (Semester 1-2)
Actively attend and participate in departmental research presentations, workshops, and colloquia. Observe how experienced researchers present their work, handle questions, and receive feedback. This exposure helps in understanding academic discourse and preparing for your own presentations.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Networking with senior Ph.D. scholars and faculty
Career Connection
Develops presentation skills, networking opportunities, and exposure to diverse research topics, essential for future academic conferences and job talks.
Intermediate Stage
Formulate a Robust Research Proposal- (Year 2 (post-coursework))
Work closely with your supervisor to refine your research topic, formulate clear research questions, and develop a comprehensive literature review. Focus on identifying a significant research gap in Marketing and proposing a feasible methodology. Prepare for your comprehensive viva-voce by thoroughly understanding your chosen area.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor consultations, Advanced literature review software, Internal workshops on proposal writing
Career Connection
A well-defined proposal is the bedrock of a successful Ph.D. thesis, paving the way for focused research and timely completion.
Present Research at National Conferences- (Year 2-3)
Prepare a research paper based on your literature review or preliminary findings and submit it to relevant national academic conferences (e.g., IIM conferences, AIMS International). Presenting helps in getting feedback, networking, and building your academic profile. Focus on incorporating feedback for publication.
Tools & Resources
Call for papers from reputable conferences, Presentation software (PowerPoint/Keynote), Mentorship from supervisor
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance visibility, provide critical feedback, and are crucial for developing presentation skills, which are vital for academic job markets.
Collaborate on Co-Authored Publications- (Year 2-3)
Seek opportunities to collaborate with your supervisor or other faculty members on research projects, leading to co-authored publications. This provides invaluable experience in the publication process, from manuscript preparation to journal submission and revision, under expert guidance.
Tools & Resources
GITAM research groups/centers, Journal submission guidelines
Career Connection
Early publications are highly valued in academic career progression, demonstrating your research output and ability to contribute to the field.
Advanced Stage
Aim for High-Impact Journal Publications- (Year 3-4)
Once your thesis chapters are developed, convert them into publishable papers targeting Scopus/ABDC/UGC-CARE listed journals in Marketing. Focus on theoretical contributions, robust methodology, and clear articulation of findings. Be prepared for rigorous peer review and revisions.
Tools & Resources
Journal Citation Reports, Journal specific formatting tools, Academic writing support
Career Connection
High-impact publications are essential for academic job placements, promotions, and establishing yourself as a recognized scholar in your specialization.
Develop Teaching Portfolio and Skills- (Year 4-5)
If aspiring for an academic career, gain teaching experience by assisting faculty, co-teaching undergraduate or postgraduate courses, or delivering guest lectures. Develop teaching materials, assessment methods, and pedagogical skills. This is often a critical requirement for faculty positions in India.
Tools & Resources
GITAM faculty mentorship, Workshops on pedagogy, Developing course outlines and lesson plans
Career Connection
A strong teaching portfolio combined with research publications makes you a highly competitive candidate for academic positions in Indian universities and B-schools.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Viva-Voce- (Year 5-6)
Thoroughly revise your complete thesis, ensuring coherence, methodological rigor, and clear theoretical contributions. Practice presenting your research findings concisely and effectively, anticipating questions from external examiners. Engage in mock viva-voce sessions with your supervisor and peers.
Tools & Resources
Completed thesis document, Mock defense sessions, Feedback from mentors
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense marks the culmination of your doctoral journey and is the final step before earning your Ph.D., opening doors to advanced research and academic opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., MBA, M.Com) with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks (or equivalent grade). Admission via GITAM Research Admission Test (GRAT) and interview, or exemption for candidates with valid UGC-NET (including JRF)/UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/GATE/GPAT/ICAR/ICMR/DST-INSPIRE Fellowships or equivalent national-level examinations.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (Full-time)
Credits: Minimum 14 credits (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Internal: Continuous evaluation (Exact percentage not specified, but contributes significantly), External: End-semester examination (Exact percentage not specified, but contributes significantly)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RPHD-101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Foundations of Research, Research Design and Types, Sampling and Data Collection Methods, Measurement and Scaling Techniques, Hypothesis Testing and Interpretation, Research Report Writing |
| RPHD-102 | Quantitative Techniques & Data Analytics | Core | 4 | Advanced Statistical Inference, Regression Analysis (Simple & Multiple), Multivariate Data Analysis (Factor, Cluster, Discriminant), Time Series Analysis & Forecasting, Data Visualization Principles, Introduction to Statistical Software (e.g., SPSS, R) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RPE-103 | Research and Publication Ethics (RPE) | Core (UGC Mandated) | 2 | Philosophy of Science & Research Integrity, Publication Ethics & Malpractices, Plagiarism and Self-Plagiarism, Authorship and Conflict of Interest, Data Management & Intellectual Property Rights, Peer Review Process |
| PHD-MKT-ELE | Advanced Topics in Marketing (Specialization Elective) | Elective (Marketing Specialization) | 4 | Contemporary Marketing Theories, Advanced Marketing Research Techniques, Consumer Behavior Analytics, Digital Marketing Strategies & Metrics, Service Marketing Innovation, Marketing Ethics and Sustainability |
