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PH-D in Commerce at Guru Nanak Dev University
Amritsar, Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is Commerce at Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar?
This Ph.D. in Commerce program at Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, focuses on advanced research in business, finance, management, and related economic disciplines. It delves into contemporary challenges and opportunities within the Indian and global commercial landscape. The program aims to foster analytical, critical, and independent research skills among scholars for impactful contributions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with an M.Com or MBA seeking to contribute original research to the field of commerce. It also suits academics aspiring to higher research degrees, industry professionals looking for in-depth insights and career advancement through research, and those aiming for faculty positions in Indian universities or research roles in financial institutions and think tanks.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as professors, researchers, consultants, or senior analysts in India. They can secure roles in leading B-schools, economic research bodies, or corporate strategy departments. Salary ranges typically start from INR 8-12 LPA for entry-level academic positions, growing significantly with experience and publications. The degree enhances credibility for various professional certifications.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Software- (Initial 6-12 months of Ph.D. program)
Dedicate significant effort to understanding core research methodologies, statistical tools, and relevant software (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for data analysis). Attend workshops, utilize online courses, and practice hands-on data analysis to build a strong analytical foundation.
Tools & Resources
SPSS tutorials, R programming courses (Coursera, edX), NPTEL lectures on Research Methodology, Data sets from official government sites (NSO, RBI)
Career Connection
Strong methodological and statistical skills are crucial for conducting credible research, leading to higher quality publications and better job prospects in academia or research roles.
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (First 12-18 months)
Work closely with your supervisor to identify a compelling research gap and formulate a clear, focused research proposal. Engage in extensive literature review, attend departmental seminars, and present your proposal multiple times for feedback.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for reference management, Google Scholar, JSTOR, UGC-Care List Journals, Institutional library databases
Career Connection
A well-defined research problem and proposal are the bedrock of successful Ph.D. research, ensuring timely completion and setting the stage for impactful contributions.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Learning & Networking- (Throughout the Ph.D. journey, particularly early on)
Attend seminars and workshops not only within your department but also across related disciplines like Economics, Management, or Statistics. Network with fellow Ph.D. scholars, faculty, and industry experts at conferences and informal gatherings.
Tools & Resources
University research groups, National/international conferences (e.g., those by Indian Accounting Association, Indian Economic Association), LinkedIn groups for researchers
Career Connection
Broadening your perspective and building a strong network can lead to collaborative opportunities, diverse research ideas, and future job referrals in academia or industry.
Intermediate Stage
Systematic Data Collection & Ethical Compliance- (Year 2-3)
Plan and execute your data collection phase meticulously, whether through surveys, experiments, secondary data analysis, or qualitative interviews. Ensure strict adherence to research ethics, data privacy, and institutional guidelines.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey/Google Forms for surveys, Official data sources (CMIE Prowess, RBI database, World Bank), Institutional ethics committee guidelines
Career Connection
Ethical and rigorous data handling builds the integrity of your research, which is essential for publication in reputable journals and for professional reputation.
Publish Early with Supervisor Guidance- (Year 2-3)
Aim to publish one or two research papers in UGC-CARE listed or peer-reviewed journals based on your coursework or early findings. This strengthens your research profile and provides valuable experience in academic writing and peer review.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission portals, Academic writing centers (if available), Feedback from supervisor and peers
Career Connection
Early publications are critical for building an academic CV, enhancing eligibility for post-doctoral positions, and increasing the chances of securing faculty roles.
Present Research at National/International Conferences- (Year 2-4)
Actively seek opportunities to present your ongoing research at national and international conferences. This helps in gaining critical feedback from experts, improving presentation skills, and expanding your academic network.
Tools & Resources
Conference databases (e.g., AllConferences.com, Conference Alerts), Institutional funding for travel
Career Connection
Presenting your work enhances visibility, opens doors for collaborations, and is a vital component of a well-rounded research profile for academic and research job applications.
Advanced Stage
Master Academic Writing and Thesis Structure- (Year 3-5)
Focus intensely on developing strong academic writing skills. Ensure your thesis adheres to institutional guidelines, maintains a coherent structure, logical flow, and rigorous argumentation. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and utilize thesis writing workshops.
Tools & Resources
Grammatical checking software (Grammarly), Academic writing style guides (e.g., APA, MLA if applicable), Institutional thesis formatting guidelines
Career Connection
A well-written, clear, and impactful thesis is the primary output of your Ph.D., directly influencing the quality of your degree and future career prospects.
Prepare Rigorously for Viva Voce- (Final 6-12 months before submission)
Systematically review your entire thesis, anticipating potential questions from examiners. Practice presenting your research findings concisely and defending your methodology and conclusions confidently. Conduct mock viva sessions with peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
Copies of your thesis, Whiteboard for explaining concepts, Feedback sessions with supervisor
Career Connection
A strong performance in the viva voce is the final step to earning your doctorate and demonstrating your expertise, essential for any academic or research role.
Plan Post-Ph.D. Career Trajectory- (Last 6-12 months of the Ph.D. program)
Begin actively exploring post-doctoral fellowships, academic job openings, or research positions well before your thesis submission. Tailor your CV and cover letter, and network with potential employers or collaborators.
Tools & Resources
Academic job portals (e.g., University Grants Commission, Current Openings on university sites), LinkedIn, ResearchGate.net
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-Ph.D., leveraging your expertise immediately into a suitable professional role.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Commerce or a cognate discipline with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer/Differently-abled candidates). Candidates must have cleared NET/SET/GATE/UGC-CSIR JRF/Teacher Fellowship or GNDU Entrance Test.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (including coursework), maximum 6 years. Coursework typically 1 semester.
Credits: 12 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (for coursework), External: 70% (for coursework)
