
PHD in Marketing Management at INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT RANCHI


Ranchi, Jharkhand
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Marketing Management at INDIAN INSTITUTE OF MANAGEMENT RANCHI Ranchi?
This Marketing Management program at IIM Ranchi focuses on developing rigorous researchers and thought leaders for the dynamic Indian marketing landscape. It delves into advanced theories, analytical techniques, and contemporary issues, preparing scholars to contribute impactful research to both academia and industry. The program emphasizes both foundational knowledge and cutting-edge methodologies relevant to emerging market challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated individuals with a strong academic record, including fresh graduates aspiring to a career in marketing research or academia, and working professionals seeking to transition into a research-intensive role. Candidates typically possess a Master''''s degree in management, economics, or a related field, demonstrating an aptitude for critical thinking and rigorous analytical work.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as faculty members in top business schools across India, or as senior researchers and consultants in leading market research firms and corporations. Initial academic salaries in India range from INR 10-25 LPA, with significant growth potential. The program also fosters skills aligned with roles in strategic marketing analytics and consumer insights, highly demanded in the Indian market.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Management Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Diligently attend and engage in all core management courses, focusing on building a robust understanding of economics, finance, operations, and general marketing principles. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts, ensuring a solid interdisciplinary foundation.
Tools & Resources
IIM Ranchi library resources, Academic journals, Business case studies, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for interdisciplinary research and effectively identifying marketing problems within a broader business context for future thesis work and academic teaching.
Develop Strong Quantitative Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay extra attention to quantitative analysis and business statistics courses. Supplement classroom learning with online courses on advanced statistics (e.g., Coursera, NPTEL) and practice using statistical software like R, Python, or SPSS for data manipulation and analysis.
Tools & Resources
Coursera (e.g., ''''Statistics with R'''' Specialization), NPTEL courses, SPSS/R/Python tutorials, IIM Ranchi statistical labs
Career Connection
Essential for rigorous empirical research in Marketing, which relies heavily on data analysis and statistical modeling, making graduates highly valuable to research institutions and analytical roles.
Cultivate Research Aptitude and Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, start reading academic journals in Marketing (e.g., Journal of Marketing, Journal of Consumer Research) to understand current research trends, methodologies, and gaps. Engage with faculty by attending research seminars and asking thoughtful questions.
Tools & Resources
IIM Ranchi digital library access to academic databases (JSTOR, EBSCO, Scopus), Faculty office hours, Research seminar series
Career Connection
This early exposure builds critical thinking, helps in identifying potential research areas, and prepares for the comprehensive examination and thesis proposal, setting the stage for scholarly contributions.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Marketing Theory and Research Methods- (Semester 3-5)
Immerse yourself in the specialization''''s core courses like Marketing Theory, Consumer Behavior, and advanced research methods (Multivariate Data Analysis, Marketing Research). Actively participate in discussions, critique existing literature, and develop a critical perspective on marketing phenomena.
Tools & Resources
Specialized marketing journals, Textbooks on marketing theory, Academic conferences (e.g., AMA, ACR), IIM Ranchi Marketing faculty mentors
Career Connection
This stage builds the expertise necessary to formulate novel research questions and design robust studies, which are critical for academic positions and advanced research roles in India.
Develop a Strong Thesis Proposal- (Semester 4-5)
Begin working closely with your chosen faculty supervisor to refine your research interests into a well-defined thesis proposal. Regularly meet to discuss literature gaps, methodology, and potential contributions. Attend proposal defense presentations of senior FPM scholars.
Tools & Resources
Faculty supervisor, IIM Ranchi Research and Publication cell, Workshops on thesis writing, Successful past thesis examples
Career Connection
A strong, well-scoped proposal is the gateway to the doctoral thesis and demonstrates the ability to conduct independent, significant research, a key criterion for faculty appointments and research grants.
Present Research and Network- (Semester 4-5)
Aim to present your developing research ideas at internal IIM Ranchi seminars or doctoral consortia. Actively network with fellow FPM scholars, faculty from other institutions, and industry professionals at conferences or workshops to gain diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
IIM Ranchi research events, National/International academic conferences (e.g., PAN IIM WMC), LinkedIn for professional networking
Career Connection
Presentation skills are vital for academic careers. Networking opens doors to collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, and valuable job market insights within India and globally.
Advanced Stage
Conduct Rigorous Data Collection and Analysis- (Semester 6-8 (Years 3-4))
Execute your thesis research with meticulous attention to data collection (surveys, experiments, qualitative interviews, secondary data) and analysis. Ensure ethical guidelines are strictly followed. Seek regular feedback on your analysis from your supervisor and other experts.
Tools & Resources
Survey platforms (Qualtrics, Google Forms), Experimental software, Advanced statistical packages (e.g., AMOS, SmartPLS), Research ethics committee
Career Connection
Demonstrating the ability to execute a comprehensive research project from start to finish is paramount for any research-oriented career, validating your expertise as a scholar.
Publish and Disseminate Research- (Semester 7-8 (Years 4-5))
Focus on converting chapters of your thesis into publishable journal articles. Target reputable A and A* journals in Marketing, and actively revise and resubmit based on reviewer feedback. Present your work at top-tier conferences for wider dissemination.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms, Academic writing workshops, Proofreading services, IIM Ranchi faculty publication support
Career Connection
A strong publication record is the most critical factor for securing academic positions in India and globally, significantly enhancing your academic reputation and impact.
Prepare for the Academic Job Market- (Semester 8 onwards (Year 5))
Develop your teaching philosophy statement, prepare a comprehensive teaching dossier, and practice job talks. Network actively with recruiters from business schools and leverage IIM Ranchi''''s career services or FPM coordinator for guidance on academic placements.
Tools & Resources
IIM Ranchi Placement Cell (for FPM, if applicable), Academic career fairs, Mock interviews and presentations, Faculty mentors for job market advice
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for successful placement as a faculty member in leading Indian management institutes, ensuring a smooth transition from doctoral research to teaching and research roles.



