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PHD in Humanities Social Sciences at Indian Institute of Technology Jammu
Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir
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About the Specialization
What is Humanities & Social Sciences at Indian Institute of Technology Jammu Jammu?
This Humanities & Social Sciences PhD program at IIT Jammu focuses on advanced research across disciplines like Economics, English, Philosophy, Psychology, and Sociology. It is designed to foster critical thinking, interdisciplinary perspectives, and rigorous research methodologies, crucial for addressing complex societal challenges in India. The program emphasizes innovative approaches to humanistic inquiry, contributing to academic and policy development.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in HSS or related fields, as well as exceptionally qualified B.Tech/B.E. and M.Sc. graduates aspiring to pursue an academic or research career. It caters to individuals passionate about in-depth research, contributing new knowledge, and developing expertise in their chosen area within social sciences and humanities. Candidates should possess strong analytical skills and a desire to engage with socio-cultural issues.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in academia as professors or researchers at universities and think tanks across India. They are also well-suited for roles in public policy, NGOs, government agencies, and corporate research departments. Entry-level salaries for PhDs in academia typically range from INR 6-12 LPA, with significant growth potential. The program cultivates advanced research, analytical, and communication skills highly valued in various sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Excel in Foundational Coursework- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the mandated core and elective courses, even if tailored by DSC. Prioritize understanding research methodologies, advanced theories in your domain, and academic writing. Attend all lectures, participate in discussions, and complete assignments diligently to build a strong theoretical base.
Tools & Resources
Course-specific readings, IIT Jammu library resources (JSTOR, Scopus), Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Strong coursework performance is crucial for comprehensive exam readiness, building credibility, and laying the groundwork for high-quality thesis research, essential for academic roles.
Initiate Comprehensive Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Begin an exhaustive review of existing literature in your broad area of interest. Identify gaps, emerging trends, and potential research questions. Use systematic review techniques to categorize and synthesize scholarly work, preparing for your research proposal and comprehensive exam.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for reference management, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, IIT Jammu digital library databases, Scopus, Web of Science
Career Connection
A robust literature review demonstrates intellectual rigor and helps in identifying a novel research problem, critical for a successful PhD defense and future publications.
Engage with Faculty and Research Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly interact with your supervisor and other HSS faculty members. Attend departmental seminars, workshops, and research group meetings. This helps in refining your research interests, understanding ongoing projects, and receiving early feedback on your ideas from experienced researchers.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Faculty office hours, Research group mailing lists
Career Connection
Networking within the department opens doors for potential collaborations, co-authorship, and mentorship, crucial for academic career progression and professional visibility.
Intermediate Stage
Develop and Defend Research Proposal- (Semester 3)
Work closely with your supervisor to formulate a detailed research proposal, outlining your research question, objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. Prepare thoroughly for its presentation and defense to your Doctoral Scrutiny Committee (DSC). Incorporate feedback to strengthen your research plan.
Tools & Resources
Research proposal templates, Academic writing guides, Mock defense sessions with peers
Career Connection
A strong proposal defense is a critical milestone, demonstrating your ability to conceptualize and plan a significant research project, a core skill for any research-intensive career.
Master Research Methodology and Data Analysis- (Semester 3-4)
Acquire proficiency in the specific research methodologies (qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods) relevant to your topic. If applicable, learn statistical software (SPSS, R, Python) or qualitative analysis tools (NVivo, Atlas.ti). Practice data collection techniques rigorously, whether through surveys, interviews, or archival research.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on research methods, Online tutorials for statistical software, Methodology workshops, IIT Jammu Computing Centre
Career Connection
Strong methodological skills are universally valued in research, policy analysis, and data science roles, making graduates highly employable across various sectors in India.
Present Research at Conferences & Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to present your ongoing research at national and international conferences, workshops, and symposia. This provides valuable feedback, helps in refining your arguments, and builds your academic network. Aim for at least one presentation annually.
Tools & Resources
Conference call-for-papers alerts (e.g., HSS conferences in India), Departmental funding for travel, Presentation skill workshops
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance your academic visibility, provide networking opportunities with potential collaborators and employers, and are essential for building a publication record.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Thesis Writing and Publication- (Semester 6-8 (until defense))
Dedicate significant time to writing your thesis chapters, ensuring logical flow, rigorous argumentation, and adherence to academic standards. Simultaneously, convert thesis chapters or research findings into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals. Aim for at least 2-3 publications before defense.
Tools & Resources
Academic style guides (APA, MLA, Chicago), Writing groups, Grammarly, Peer feedback from supervisor/colleagues
Career Connection
Publications are paramount for academic career progression (faculty positions, postdocs) and demonstrate research impact, making you a strong candidate in the competitive Indian academic job market.
Engage in Teaching/Mentoring Activities- (Semester 6-8)
Seek opportunities to assist in teaching undergraduate courses, mentor junior PhD students, or lead tutorials. This develops pedagogical skills, improves your understanding of foundational concepts, and enhances your CV for academic roles.
Tools & Resources
Departmental teaching assistantship applications, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Teaching experience is highly valued for academic positions in Indian universities and colleges, preparing you for the multifaceted role of a professor.
Develop Professional Portfolio and Career Plan- (Semester 7-8)
Begin preparing your CV, research statement, and teaching philosophy statement for job applications. Network actively with academics and professionals in your target fields (academia, policy, industry). Attend career development workshops and explore postdoc opportunities or faculty positions.
Tools & Resources
IIT Jammu Career Development Cell, LinkedIn, Academic job portals (e.g., Times Higher Education, individual university sites), Professional associations
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and a strong professional portfolio are crucial for a smooth transition from PhD to employment, securing desirable positions in India or abroad.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s degree in Humanities & Social Sciences/ Management/ related disciplines with 60% marks (or 6.5 CGPA) AND NET/GATE/equivalent qualification; OR B.Tech/B.E./Master’s in Science with 60% marks (or 6.5 CGPA) AND NET/GATE/equivalent qualification; OR B.Tech/B.E. from IITs/NITs/IISERs/Centrally Funded Technical Institutions with 80% marks (or 8.5 CGPA).
Duration: Minimum 3 years (typically 3-5 years for full-time research)
Credits: Minimum 12 credits (for coursework, actual credits vary based on prior degree and DSC recommendations) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
