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PHD in Policy Strategic Management at Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur
Sambalpur, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Policy & Strategic Management at Indian Institute of Management Sambalpur Sambalpur?
This Strategic Management program at IIM Sambalpur focuses on developing scholars capable of rigorous research in complex organizational strategy and policy formulation. It delves into corporate strategy, competitive dynamics, and strategic decision-making, highly relevant for navigating India''''s dynamic economic landscape. The program''''s interdisciplinary approach prepares researchers to address challenges in both private and public sectors through innovative research.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for individuals holding a Master''''s degree or strong professional qualifications, aspiring to academic careers, policy analysis roles, or senior strategic advisory positions. It suits those passionate about contributing to management thought and practice through rigorous research. Candidates with backgrounds in economics, engineering, business, or social sciences seeking to explore strategic challenges are well-suited for this doctoral journey.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as faculty in top management institutions, policy researchers in think tanks, or strategic consultants. In India, demand for research-driven strategic insights is growing across sectors like manufacturing, services, and government. Potential career paths include Assistant Professor (INR 10-20 LPA entry), Senior Consultant (INR 15-30 LPA), or Lead Analyst roles, fostering significant growth trajectories in dynamic organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Deep Dive into Research Methodologies- (Year 1 (Terms 1-3))
Actively engage with all core research methods courses, focusing on understanding philosophical underpinnings and practical applications of both qualitative and quantitative techniques. Utilize online courses and tutorials to solidify understanding beyond classroom lectures.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Python, NVivo, Coursera/edX courses on research methods, Research Methodology: Methods and Techniques by C.R. Kothari
Career Connection
Building a robust methodological foundation is crucial for designing credible research, a fundamental skill for any academic or research role in India and globally.
Cultivate Strong Academic Writing Habits- (Year 1 (Terms 1-3))
Practice consistent academic writing through assignments, term papers, and critical literature reviews. Seek regular feedback from faculty and peers to refine writing style, clarity, and adherence to publication ethics from the outset.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly Premium, Mendeley/Zotero for citation management, IIM Sambalpur Writing Center (if available), Peer review groups
Career Connection
Effective academic writing is paramount for publishing in top journals, securing grants, and disseminating research findings, directly impacting career progression in academia and research institutions.
Engage in Area-Specific Readings and Seminars- (Year 1 (Terms 1-3))
Beyond coursework, actively read seminal and contemporary research papers in Strategic Management and relevant policy areas. Attend the ''''Contemporary Management Issues'''' seminar course with a focus on your area and participate actively in discussions.
Tools & Resources
IIM Sambalpur Library databases (JSTOR, EBSCO), Google Scholar, Academy of Management Journal, Strategic Management Journal
Career Connection
This early exposure builds a strong knowledge base, helps identify research gaps, and informs the choice of specific dissertation topics, critical for future specialization and research impact.
Intermediate Stage
Intensive Preparation for Comprehensive Examination- (Post-coursework, typically end of Year 2)
Dedicate focused time to reviewing all coursework material from Year 1 and 2. Form study groups with peers, practice answering theoretical and methodological questions, and seek guidance from faculty on expected scope and depth for the comprehensive examination.
Tools & Resources
Past comprehensive exam papers (if available), Faculty office hours, Peer study groups, Systematic revision notes
Career Connection
Successfully clearing the comprehensive examination is a mandatory milestone, allowing progression to thesis work and demonstrating readiness for independent, rigorous research required in academic roles.
Proactive Research Proposal Development- (Mid to end of Year 2)
Start conceptualizing potential research topics early, align with faculty interests, and develop a well-structured research proposal. Present preliminary ideas in departmental seminars to gather early feedback and refine your research question and methodology.
Tools & Resources
Research supervisors, IIM Sambalpur research seminars, Academic literature in chosen sub-areas of Strategic Management, Specialized databases
Career Connection
A strong, well-defined research proposal is the blueprint for a successful dissertation, directly influencing the quality and impact of your doctoral work and subsequent publications, a key factor for academic appointments.
Network with Scholars at Conferences and Workshops- (End of Year 2 onwards)
Attend relevant national and international academic conferences (e.g., Academy of Management India, Strategic Management Society India, PAN-IIM World Management Conference) and workshops to present preliminary research, receive feedback, and network with senior scholars and peers.
Tools & Resources
Conference websites (AoM, SMS, PAN-IIM), IIM Sambalpur research grants for travel, LinkedIn for professional connections
Career Connection
Networking builds visibility, opens doors for collaboration, and provides exposure to current research trends, vital for academic career growth and navigating the competitive Indian job market.
Advanced Stage
Targeted Journal Publication Strategy- (Year 3 onwards)
Work closely with your supervisor to identify target journals for your dissertation chapters. Tailor your writing and research questions to fit the scope and impact factor of these journals. Aim for at least one publication in a reputable journal during your doctoral studies.
Tools & Resources
Journal ranking lists (e.g., ABS, ABDC), Mentor guidance, Academic writing support, Manuscript revision tools
Career Connection
Publications in reputable journals are critical for academic job applications, promotion, and establishing research credibility in India and globally, significantly enhancing your academic career prospects.
Develop Teaching Pedagogy and Experience- (Year 3 onwards)
Seek opportunities to assist faculty in teaching PGP/MBA courses, conduct tutorials, or co-teach elective modules. Develop teaching materials, deliver guest lectures, and gain practical experience in classroom management and student engagement, preparing for independent instruction.
Tools & Resources
IIM Sambalpur teaching assistantships, Faculty mentorship, Workshops on teaching effectiveness
Career Connection
Teaching experience is essential for academic positions, demonstrating readiness for full faculty roles and enhancing presentation and communication skills vital for teaching and research dissemination.
Prepare for the Academic Job Market (India Focus)- (Final year of PhD (Year 4-5))
Develop a strong academic CV highlighting research, publications, and teaching experience. Practice job talks and chalk talks relevant to Indian business schools. Network with hiring committees and attend recruitment events, leveraging institutional career services.
Tools & Resources
IIM Sambalpur Career Development Cell, Mock interview panels, Faculty contacts, IIM Sambalpur alumni network in academia
Career Connection
This focused preparation is crucial for securing desirable faculty positions in IIMs, IITs, and other leading management institutions in India immediately after degree completion, ensuring a smooth transition into academia.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s degree (or 5-year integrated Master’s, or professional qualification like CA/CS/CMA, or 4-year/8-semester Bachelor’s) with minimum 60% aggregate marks. Relaxation of 5% for SC/ST/PwD. Valid CAT/GRE/GMAT/GATE/JRF (UGC/CSIR) score required.
Duration: 4 to 5 years (typically)
Credits: Minimum 48 credits (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FPM 601 | Philosophy of Management Research | Core | 3 | Philosophy of Research, Research Paradigms, Epistemology and Ontology, Research Ethics, Foundations of Management Research |
| FPM 602 | Qualitative Research Methods | Core | 3 | Qualitative Research Introduction, Interviewing and Focus Groups, Content Analysis, Case Study Research, Grounded Theory |
| FPM 603 | Research Design | Core | 3 | Problem Formulation, Literature Review, Conceptual Frameworks, Hypotheses Development, Sampling Methods, Types of Research Design |
| FPM 604 | Applied Econometrics | Core | 3 | Regression Analysis, Time Series Analysis, Panel Data Models, Limited Dependent Variable Models, Econometric Software Applications |
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FPM 605 | Multivariate Data Analysis | Core | 3 | Factor Analysis, Cluster Analysis, Discriminant Analysis, Conjoint Analysis, Structural Equation Modeling |
| FPM 606 | Academic Writing & Publication Ethics | Core | 3 | Structure of Research Papers, Citation Styles, Scientific Communication, Plagiarism and Authorship, Peer Review Process |
| FPM 607 | Advanced Research Methods | Core | 3 | Mixed Methods Research, Advanced Survey Design, Experimental Designs, Quasi-Experimental Designs, Research Instrument Development |
| FPM 608 | Computer Applications in Research | Core | 3 | Statistical Software (SPSS, R, Python), Data Management, Data Visualization, Document Preparation Tools, Research Software |
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FPM 609 | Experimental Design & Advanced Statistical Methods | Core | 3 | Principles of Experimental Design, ANOVA and ANCOVA, MANOVA, Non-parametric Statistics, Power Analysis |
| FPM 610 | Seminar Course: Contemporary Management Issues | Core | 3 | Emerging Management Trends, Interdisciplinary Research, Global Business Challenges, Sustainability in Business, Digital Transformation |
| FPM 611 | Area Specific Foundation Course 1 | Core | 3 | |
| FPM 612 | Area Specific Foundation Course 2 | Core | 3 |
