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PHD in Humanities Social Sciences at Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur

Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur is a premier autonomous institution and an Institute of National Importance established in 2008 in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Spread across 852 acres, IIT Jodhpur is recognized for its academic excellence, cutting-edge research in engineering, science, and management, and vibrant campus life, offering a diverse range of programs.

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Jodhpur, Rajasthan

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About the Specialization

What is Humanities & Social Sciences at Indian Institute of Technology Jodhpur Jodhpur?

This PhD in Humanities & Social Sciences program at IIT Jodhpur focuses on advanced research across diverse disciplines like English, Psychology, Economics, Sociology, and Philosophy, integrating social, cultural, and technological perspectives. It addresses complex societal challenges with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary inquiry relevant to India''''s evolving socio-economic landscape and global positioning. The program is distinguished by its blend of rigorous theoretical grounding and practical application within an IIT environment, fostering innovative research solutions.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in HSS disciplines, as well as B.Tech/M.Tech graduates with a strong interest in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of technology and society. It suits individuals aspiring for academic careers in Indian universities, researchers in think tanks, policy analysts in government organizations, and those seeking advanced research roles in NGOs or industry, keen on contributing to knowledge creation and societal impact.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect to pursue fulfilling careers as academics, researchers, and policy advisors in India and globally. Typical salary ranges for entry-level researchers can be INR 6-10 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in leading Indian institutions, NGOs, and government bodies focusing on social development, cultural policy, or economic analysis. The program nurtures critical thinking and analytical skills, vital for navigating complex societal challenges and contributing to India''''s intellectual capital.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)

Engage deeply with the compulsory Research Methodology course, seeking clarity on both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Actively participate in discussions, apply concepts through mini-projects, and critically review published research papers. This foundational understanding is crucial for designing robust studies.

Tools & Resources

Syllabus texts, JSTOR, Google Scholar, Research gate

Career Connection

A strong grasp of methodology ensures research rigor, making future thesis work credible and preparing you for independent research roles in academia or policy.

Identify and Engage with a Supervisor- (Semester 1)

Proactively explore faculty research interests within the HSS department and related interdisciplinary centres at IIT Jodhpur. Initiate discussions to identify potential supervisors whose expertise aligns with your nascent research ideas. Regularly meet to define your research scope and plan coursework.

Tools & Resources

Departmental faculty profiles, Research publications, Personal meetings

Career Connection

A well-matched supervisor provides invaluable guidance, opens doors to academic networks, and significantly impacts the quality and direction of your PhD research and future career trajectory.

Cultivate Interdisciplinary Dialogue- (Semester 1-2)

Actively participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and colloquia. Seek opportunities to collaborate or engage with researchers from other IIT Jodhpur departments (e.g., Computer Science, Electrical Engineering) to enrich your HSS perspective with technological or scientific insights, fostering innovative research questions.

Tools & Resources

IIT Jodhpur seminar schedules, Inter-departmental events

Career Connection

Interdisciplinary skills are highly valued in modern research and policy-making, enhancing your profile for diverse academic and research positions in India and abroad.

Intermediate Stage

Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Semester 3-4)

Dedicatedly work on your research proposal, outlining clear objectives, research questions, theoretical framework, methodology, and expected outcomes. Seek iterative feedback from your supervisor and peers. Prepare thoroughly for the Synopsis Seminar/Research Proposal Defense.

Tools & Resources

PhD guidelines, Academic writing workshops, Draft proposals

Career Connection

A strong proposal demonstrates your research capability and forms the blueprint for your thesis, which is a key credential for academic and research roles.

Engage in Academic Publishing- (Semester 3-5)

Transform aspects of your coursework or initial research findings into publishable papers for peer-reviewed journals or reputable conference proceedings, ideally co-authored with your supervisor. Focus on Indian or international journals relevant to your HSS domain.

Tools & Resources

Scopus, Web of Science, Journal submission platforms, Grammarly

Career Connection

Publications are crucial for academic career progression and gaining recognition in your field, enhancing your resume for faculty positions and grants.

Network and Present at Conferences- (Semester 4-6)

Attend and present your research at national and international conferences. This helps in receiving feedback, networking with established scholars, and staying updated on current research trends. Prioritize conferences aligned with your research area within India.

Tools & Resources

Conference databases (e.g., AllAcademia), Departmental travel grants

Career Connection

Building an academic network is vital for future collaborations, postdoctoral opportunities, and career advancement in the Indian and global academic landscape.

Advanced Stage

Focus on Thesis Writing and Completion- (Semester 7-8 onwards)

Establish a disciplined writing routine. Break down your thesis into manageable chapters and set realistic deadlines. Regularly share drafts with your supervisor and address feedback promptly. Aim for clarity, coherence, and rigorous argumentation.

Tools & Resources

Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), LaTeX/Word processors

Career Connection

Timely completion of a high-quality thesis is the primary requirement for earning your PhD and unlocking subsequent career opportunities.

Prepare for Viva-Voce and Future Planning- (Final year/Semester 7-8)

Anticipate questions and prepare comprehensive answers for your Viva-Voce defense. Concurrently, start applying for postdoctoral fellowships, faculty positions, or research roles. Tailor your applications and CVs to highlight your specific research expertise and achievements.

Tools & Resources

Mock viva sessions, Career services at IIT Jodhpur, Job portals (Academic Jobs Wiki, University career pages)

Career Connection

A successful Viva and proactive job search strategy ensure a smooth transition from PhD student to a professional researcher or academician.

Develop Teaching and Mentoring Skills- (Semester 6-8)

Seek opportunities to assist professors in teaching undergraduate or master''''s courses at IIT Jodhpur, including grading, conducting tutorials, or delivering guest lectures. Mentoring junior PhD students can also hone your leadership abilities.

Tools & Resources

Departmental teaching assistantships, Faculty mentorship

Career Connection

Teaching experience is highly valued for academic positions in India and demonstrates a well-rounded skillset beyond pure research.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • Master''''s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., English Literature, Linguistics, Philosophy, Sociology, Psychology, History, Political Science, Economics, Anthropology, Mass Communication, Performing Arts, Fine Arts) with a minimum of 60% marks (6.0/10 CGPA). Alternatively, B.Tech/M.Tech with a minimum of 70% marks (7.0/10 CGPA). NET/GATE/UGC-JRF qualification is desirable.

Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 7 years (for Master''''s degree holders without M.Tech/M.Sc. (Engg.)/M.Phil)

Credits: Minimum 16 course credits Credits

Assessment: Internal: Varies by course and instructor (for coursework), External: Varies by course and instructor (for coursework). Overall PhD assessment includes coursework evaluation, comprehensive examination, synopsis seminar, thesis submission, and viva-voce.

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
Research MethodologyCore (Compulsory)4Philosophy of Research, Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Academic Writing and Ethics
HSS Elective IElective4Advanced Theories in HSS, Contemporary Issues in Social Sciences, Specialized Topics in Humanities, Cultural Studies, Cognitive and Behavioral Aspects
HSS Elective IIElective4Policy Analysis and Development, Interdisciplinary Studies, Economics of Development, Sociology of Science and Technology, Literary Criticism and Theory
HSS Elective IIIElective4Philosophy of Mind and Language, Digital Humanities, Environmental Studies in HSS, Gender Studies and Society, Behavioral Economics
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