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PHD in Law at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur
Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Law at Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur Paschim Medinipur?
This PhD in Law program at IIT Kharagpur, offered through its Rajiv Gandhi School of Intellectual Property Law (RGSOIPL), focuses on advanced legal research with a strong interdisciplinary emphasis, particularly at the intersection of law, technology, and intellectual property. Leveraging IIT''''s scientific and engineering prowess, the program uniquely positions scholars to address complex legal challenges arising from technological advancements and their societal impact in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for legal academics, practitioners, and researchers who hold an LL.M. or equivalent degree and aspire to contribute original knowledge to the field of law. It attracts individuals passionate about interdisciplinary research, legal policy, and those seeking to become experts in areas like Intellectual Property Rights, Cyber Law, and Technology Law, catering to both fresh postgraduates and experienced professionals aiming for academic or specialized research careers.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue esteemed careers in academia as professors or researchers, join think tanks, or take up legal roles in technology companies, regulatory bodies, and international organizations within India and globally. With a focus on intellectual property and technology law, graduates are highly sought after by Indian corporates and law firms. Typical salary ranges for entry-level researchers could be INR 8-15 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Legal Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to the mandatory Research Methodology course. Actively engage in discussions, attend workshops on advanced research techniques, and practice academic legal writing rigorously. Seek regular feedback from supervisors and senior researchers on drafts and outlines.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, SCC Online, Manupatra, Grammarly, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management
Career Connection
Strong research skills are foundational for academic publication and thesis development, crucial for securing faculty positions or research roles in policy think tanks.
Strategic Elective Selection & Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Carefully select two elective courses that align with your proposed research area and future career goals. Simultaneously, commence an extensive literature review in your chosen specialization, identifying research gaps and potential contributions. Participate in reading groups to critically analyze seminal works.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Institute Library databases, Peer-reviewed journals in Law
Career Connection
Early identification of research gaps and a solid theoretical foundation are critical for developing a robust research proposal and establishing your expertise.
Engage with Departmental Seminars & Faculty- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly attend research seminars and guest lectures organized by RGSOIPL and other relevant IIT departments. Proactively interact with faculty members, not just your supervisor, to gain diverse perspectives, discuss research ideas, and explore potential interdisciplinary collaborations within the institute.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Networking with faculty provides invaluable mentorship, opens doors to co-authorship, and helps in refining your research trajectory, essential for academic networking.
Intermediate Stage
Prepare for and Clear Comprehensive Examination- (Post-coursework, typically Year 1.5 - Year 2)
Systematically review all coursework and core legal concepts relevant to your area. Form study groups with peers and practice answering comprehensive exam-style questions. This examination is a critical hurdle, evaluating your foundational knowledge and readiness for independent research.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers (if available), Course notes and textbooks, Study groups
Career Connection
Passing the comprehensive exam demonstrates your mastery of the subject matter, a prerequisite for advancing to thesis research and a strong indicator of intellectual rigor to future employers.
Develop and Present Research Proposal/Synopsis- (Year 2)
Work closely with your supervisor to refine your research problem, methodology, and expected outcomes into a compelling synopsis. Practice presenting your proposal to peers and faculty, incorporating feedback to strengthen your arguments and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/Microsoft Word, Presentation software, Supervisor''''s guidance
Career Connection
A well-defined research proposal is the blueprint for your thesis and a key document for securing research grants or demonstrating research aptitude in academic applications.
Start Publishing and Attending Conferences- (Year 2 - Year 3)
Transform aspects of your literature review or preliminary research into publishable papers for national and international law journals. Actively participate in conferences and workshops (e.g., in IPR, Cyber Law, or Technology Law) to present your work, receive feedback, and network with scholars in your field.
Tools & Resources
Reputable law journals (e.g., NUJS Law Review, NALSAR Law Review), Call for papers databases, Conference travel grants
Career Connection
Publications and conference presentations build your academic CV, enhance your visibility in the research community, and are crucial for securing post-doctoral fellowships or faculty positions.
Advanced Stage
Systematic Thesis Writing and Data Analysis- (Year 3 - Year 4)
Establish a disciplined writing routine, setting realistic daily/weekly targets for thesis chapters. If your research involves empirical data, focus on robust data collection and analysis, ensuring ethical compliance. Regularly send chapters to your supervisor for feedback and integrate revisions promptly.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS) if applicable, Qualitative analysis software (e.g., NVivo) if applicable, Dedicated writing time/space
Career Connection
Efficient and high-quality thesis writing is the direct path to degree completion and serves as your most significant academic output, demonstrating your capability for independent, sustained research.
Network with Industry and Policy Makers- (Year 3 - Year 5)
Beyond academia, seek opportunities to engage with legal professionals in industry, government policy bodies, and non-profits, especially in areas like IPR policy, data protection, or technology regulation. Attend industry seminars, workshops, and contribute to policy discussions if relevant to your research.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Industry conferences (e.g., FICCI, CII events on IP/Tech), Government portals for policy consultations
Career Connection
These connections can lead to post-PhD research collaborations, policy advisory roles, or specialized legal positions in the private sector, broadening career horizons beyond traditional academia.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Post-PhD Planning- (Year 4 onwards)
Thoroughly prepare for your Pre-Submission Seminar and the final Viva Voce. Anticipate questions and refine your answers. Simultaneously, start actively planning your post-PhD career path, preparing job applications for academic roles, post-doctoral positions, or specialized legal jobs, leveraging your IIT KGP network and career services.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, IIT KGP Career Development Centre, Academic job portals (e.g., Chronicle of Higher Education, Indian university sites)
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the culmination of your PhD, and proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition into your desired professional role post-graduation, maximizing the value of your degree.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (LL.M./M.Sc./M.A./M.Tech. or equivalent) in relevant discipline with a minimum CGPA of 6.0/10 (or 55% marks, 50% for SC/ST/PwD) AND valid score in GATE/UGC-NET/CSIR-NET or equivalent national level examination. Or B.Tech/B.E. (4-year) with a minimum CGPA of 8.0/10 (or 75% marks, 70% for SC/ST/PwD) AND valid GATE score.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (full-time), Maximum 8 years
Credits: Minimum 18 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 60% (for coursework, includes Mid-semester exam, quizzes, assignments, projects), External: 40% (for coursework, includes End-semester examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS61001 | Research Methodology | Core (Mandatory) | 6 | Fundamentals of Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection and Analysis, Legal Research Ethics, Report Writing and Presentation, Quantitative and Qualitative Research |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Note Electives | Elective Courses (Students select any two from the list below across Semesters 2 and 3) | Elective | Variable (6 per course) | |
| ML60002 | Law of Patents | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Patentable Subject Matter, Patent Application Process, Patent Infringement and Defenses, Compulsory Licensing, International Patent Treaties (PCT, TRIPS), Indian Patent Act |
| ML60004 | Trade Mark and Designs Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Trademark Registration and Protection, Distinctiveness and Non-Registrability, Trademark Infringement and Passing Off, Industrial Designs Registration, International Trademark System (Madrid Protocol), Indian Trademarks Act |
| ML60006 | Copyright Law and Semiconductor Layout Design | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Copyrightable Works and Ownership, Rights of Copyright Holders, Copyright Infringement and Exceptions (Fair Use), Digital Copyright Issues, Semiconductor Integrated Circuits Layout-Design Act, Berne Convention |
| ML60008 | Geographical Indications and Traditional Knowledge | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Concept and Scope of Geographical Indications, Registration and Protection of GIs, Relationship with Trademarks, Traditional Knowledge Protection (Sui Generis), Biopiracy and Benefit Sharing, WIPO and TRIPS aspects |
| ML60010 | Cyber Law & Cyber Security | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Cybercrimes and Cyber Forensics, Data Protection and Privacy Laws (IT Act, GDPR), Electronic Contracts and Digital Signatures, Jurisdiction in Cyberspace, Network Security Legal Frameworks, E-commerce Regulations |
| ML60012 | Corporate Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Company Formation and Types of Companies, Corporate Governance and Compliance, Directors'''' Duties and Liabilities, Shareholder Rights and Investor Protection, Mergers, Acquisitions and Takeovers, Corporate Social Responsibility |
| ML60014 | Competition Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Anti-Competitive Agreements (Cartels), Abuse of Dominant Position, Regulation of Combinations (Mergers), Competition Commission of India (CCI), Competition Advocacy, Sector-Specific Competition Issues |
| ML60016 | Environmental Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Principles of Environmental Law, Pollution Control and Waste Management, Biodiversity Protection, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Climate Change Law and Policy, International Environmental Agreements |
| ML60018 | Criminal Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Elements of Crime (Actus Reus, Mens Rea), General Defenses in Criminal Law, Specific Offenses (Indian Penal Code), Inchoate Crimes, Group Liability and Vicarious Liability, Sentencing and Theories of Punishment |
| ML60020 | Constitutional Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Preamble and Fundamental Features of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Structure and Powers of Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, Judicial Review and Basic Structure Doctrine, Emergency Provisions and Federalism |
| ML60022 | International Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Sources of International Law (Treaties, Custom), Subjects of International Law (States, IOs), State Responsibility and Diplomatic Protection, International Human Rights Law, Law of the Sea and Air Space, Peaceful Settlement of Disputes |
| ML60024 | Human Rights Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Evolution and Philosophy of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenants (ICCPR, ICESCR), Regional Human Rights Systems, Human Rights in India (NHRC), Vulnerable Groups and Human Rights |
| ML60026 | Labour Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Industrial Relations Law (Trade Unions, Disputes), Wages and Bonus Legislation, Working Conditions and Safety, Social Security Legislation (EPF, ESI), Contract Labour and Migrant Workers, International Labour Organization (ILO) Standards |
| ML60028 | Family Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Sources and Schools of Personal Laws (Hindu, Muslim), Marriage and Divorce Laws, Adoption and Guardianship, Maintenance and Alimony, Succession and Inheritance, Uniform Civil Code Debates |
| ML60030 | Law & Technology | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Legal Aspects of Emerging Technologies (AI, Blockchain), Biotechnology Law and Ethics, Space Law and Remote Sensing, Medical Devices and Health Technology Law, Digitalization of Governance, Technology Transfer and Licensing |
| ML60032 | Legal Education and Research | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Pedagogy in Legal Education, Curriculum Design and Innovation, Advanced Legal Research Methodologies, Interdisciplinary Legal Research, Legal Writing and Scholarly Publication, Ethics and Professionalism in Legal Academia |
| ML60034 | Legal Theory and Jurisprudence | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Schools of Jurisprudence (Natural Law, Positivism), Theories of Justice and Rights, Relationship between Law and Morality, Feminist Jurisprudence and Critical Legal Studies, Legal Realism and Sociological Jurisprudence, Interpretation of Statutes |
| ML60036 | Administrative Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Concept and Scope of Administrative Law, Delegated Legislation, Principles of Natural Justice, Judicial Review of Administrative Action, Administrative Tribunals, Public Corporations and Quasi-Judicial Bodies |
| ML60038 | Civil Procedure Code & Law of Limitation | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Jurisdiction of Civil Courts, Institution of Suits and Pleadings, Interim Orders and Execution of Decrees, Appeals, Reference, Review, Revision, Principles of Res Judicata and Estoppel, Periods of Limitation for Suits and Applications |
| ML60040 | Criminal Procedure Code & Law of Evidence | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Investigation (FIR, Arrest, Bail), Trial Procedures (Summons, Warrant Cases), Charge and Joinder of Charges, Types of Evidence (Oral, Documentary, Circumstantial), Relevancy and Admissibility of Evidence, Burden of Proof and Presumptions |
| ML60042 | Contract Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Formation of Contract (Offer, Acceptance, Consideration), Capacity of Parties and Free Consent, Legality of Object and Void Agreements, Performance and Discharge of Contract, Breach of Contract and Remedies, Special Contracts (Indemnity, Guarantee, Bailment) |
| ML60044 | Property Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Concept of Property (Movable, Immovable), Transfer of Property Act (Sales, Mortgages, Leases), Easements and Licenses, Trusts and Gifts, Tenancy Laws, Relevant Land Laws |
| ML60046 | Public International Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Jurisdiction of States and Immunities, International Organizations and their Legal Status, Law of Treaties (Vienna Convention), International Criminal Law and Tribunals, Use of Force and Collective Security, International Environmental Law Governance |
| ML60048 | Private International Law | Elective (Pool) | 6 | Nature and Scope of Private International Law, Domicile and Nationality, Jurisdiction of Courts in Cross-Border Disputes, Choice of Law Rules, Recognition and Enforcement of Foreign Judgments, International Family Law |
