.png&w=1920&q=75)
PHD in Humanities And Social Science at Indian Institute of Technology Mandi
Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Humanities And Social Science at Indian Institute of Technology Mandi Mandi?
This PhD in Humanities and Social Sciences program at IIT Mandi focuses on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of technology, society, and culture. With a unique emphasis on socio-technical systems and indigenous knowledge, it prepares scholars to address complex challenges relevant to contemporary India, fostering critical thinking and analytical rigor. The program stands out for its integrated approach to HSS studies within a premier technological institute.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with MA/MSc/MPhil in HSS disciplines, or B.Tech/M.Tech graduates seeking to pivot towards socio-cultural research. It caters to individuals passionate about exploring the human dimensions of technology, policy, and development. Aspiring academics, researchers, and policy analysts eager to contribute to India''''s evolving socio-economic landscape will find this program deeply rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue robust research careers in academia, think tanks, and R&D divisions within India and globally. They are well-positioned for roles as policy advisors, social researchers, and cultural consultants. Given India''''s emphasis on innovation with social impact, graduates command competitive salaries, contributing to fields like sustainable development, digital governance, and ethical AI in prominent Indian institutions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Research Proposal & Methodology Base- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in the ''''Introduction to Research Methods in HSS'''' and relevant qualitative/quantitative courses. Focus on understanding diverse research paradigms, formulating clear research questions, and selecting appropriate methodologies for your specific research interest. Proactively discuss your proposal with faculty.
Tools & Resources
Official PhD Ordinance, SHSS faculty members, Academic databases (JSTOR, Scopus), EndNote/Mendeley for citation management
Career Connection
A well-defined research foundation is crucial for successful thesis completion and for securing research grants or academic positions post-PhD. This builds the core skill of independent academic inquiry.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Dialogue and Course Selection- (Semester 1-2)
Given IIT Mandi''''s technological environment, seek opportunities to collaborate or attend seminars outside SHSS to enrich your interdisciplinary perspective. Carefully select elective courses from the SHSS offerings that complement your research area, even if outside your immediate sub-discipline.
Tools & Resources
SHSS course list, Academic calendars of other schools (e.g., School of Computing and Electrical Engineering), Inter-school seminars and workshops
Career Connection
Developing an interdisciplinary outlook makes you a versatile researcher, highly valued in complex problem-solving roles in think tanks, policy formulation, and collaborative research projects in India.
Cultivate Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice academic writing through course assignments, literature reviews, and initial drafts of your research proposal. Participate actively in departmental seminars and workshops, honing your presentation skills by articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.
Tools & Resources
Writing centers (if available), LaTeX/Microsoft Word, Presentation software, Internal SHSS seminar series
Career Connection
Effective academic communication is indispensable for publishing research, presenting at conferences, and teaching, all vital for a successful academic career or research role in India.
Intermediate Stage
Prepare Rigorously for the Comprehensive Examination- (Semester 3-5)
Systematically review core concepts from your coursework and chosen research domain. Form study groups with peers and seek guidance from your supervisor to identify key texts and theories. Practice answering theoretical and methodological questions relevant to your field.
Tools & Resources
Course notes, Recommended readings, Previous comprehensive exam questions (if available), Faculty guidance, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Passing the comprehensive exam signifies readiness for independent research and is a critical milestone, validating your foundational knowledge for future academic roles.
Develop Specialized Research Skills & Data Proficiency- (Semester 3-5)
Deepen your expertise in specific qualitative or quantitative research methods relevant to your thesis. This may involve learning specialized software (e.g., NVivo for qualitative, R/Python for quantitative, GIS for spatial analysis) or advanced theoretical frameworks.
Tools & Resources
Software tutorials (Coursera, NPTEL), Workshops by data analysis experts, Specialized methodology books, Research labs (if applicable)
Career Connection
Command over specialized research tools and techniques is highly sought after by research institutions, policy organizations, and data analysis firms in India.
Engage in Early Publication Efforts & Conference Participation- (Semester 3-5)
Convert your literature review or preliminary research findings into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals or conference presentations. Attend national and international conferences, even as an attendee, to network and stay updated on current research trends.
Tools & Resources
Calls for papers, Academic journal databases, IIT Mandi conference funding/travel grants, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
Early publications and conference exposure build your academic profile, increase your visibility, and are crucial for future faculty positions or senior research roles in India.
Advanced Stage
Focus on High-Quality Thesis Writing and Iteration- (Semester 6-8 (or later))
Dedicate consistent time to writing your thesis, adhering to academic standards and departmental guidelines. Work closely with your supervisor for regular feedback and revisions. Aim for clarity, coherence, and originality in your arguments and findings.
Tools & Resources
Thesis templates, Academic style guides (APA, MLA), Grammar and plagiarism checkers (Turnitin), Dedicated writing retreats
Career Connection
A well-written, impactful thesis is your primary intellectual contribution, essential for a strong academic portfolio and demonstrating readiness for independent research leadership.
Plan for Post-PhD Career Opportunities and Networking- (Semester 6-8 (or later))
Actively explore academic job markets, postdoctoral fellowships, and research positions in government or industry in India. Attend career workshops, prepare your CV and teaching statement, and network with senior academics and professionals in your field.
Tools & Resources
Online job portals (e.g., Academic Jobs Wiki, university career pages), LinkedIn, Professional associations in HSS, Alumni network
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-PhD, whether aiming for faculty roles at IITs/NITs, research positions in ICSSR-affiliated institutes, or roles in public policy.
Disseminate Research Findings and Engage with Stakeholders- (Semester 6-8 (or later))
Beyond formal publication, consider disseminating your research through policy briefs, public lectures, or online platforms. Engage with relevant community groups, policymakers, or industry experts to share insights and explore the real-world impact of your work.
Tools & Resources
University communication office, Social media for academics, Public lecture series, Outreach programs
Career Connection
Demonstrating the societal relevance and impact of your research enhances your profile for positions that value applied knowledge and public engagement, particularly in India''''s policy-driven environment.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- M.A./M.Sc./M.Phil. in HSS/Management or B.Tech./B.E./M.Tech./M.E. in relevant disciplines with min 60% marks or CGPA 6.0/10.0, plus a valid UGC-NET/CSIR-NET/GATE/INSPIRE or equivalent national level examination score.
Duration: Minimum 2.5 to 3 years, Maximum 7 years
Credits: Minimum 12 credits (with M.Tech/M.E/M.Sc.Engg) or 24 credits (with B.Tech/B.E/M.Sc/M.A/MBA/MBBS/B.Pharm) in coursework Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSS 501 | History of Science and Technology in India | Elective | 3 | Scientific Knowledge Systems, Historical Periods, Ancient Indian Science, Medieval Indian Science, Modern Scientific Developments, Indian Contributions |
| HSS 502 | Technology and Society | Elective | 3 | Technology''''s Impact, Social Change, Ethical Implications, Digital Society, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Policy Frameworks |
| HSS 503 | Introduction to Research Methods in HSS | Core | 3 | Research Design, Qualitative Methods, Quantitative Methods, Data Analysis, Academic Writing, Ethical Research |
| HSS 504 | Science, Technology and Society (STS) Studies | Elective | 3 | STS Theories, Co-production of Science, Technology Policy, Social Dimensions of Innovation, Public Engagement, Case Studies |
| HSS 505 | Social and Cultural Psychology | Elective | 3 | Social Cognition, Cultural Influences, Self and Identity, Group Dynamics, Intergroup Relations, Cross-cultural Research |
| HSS 506 | Political Economy of Development | Elective | 3 | Development Theories, Global Inequality, Political Institutions, Economic Policies, Social Justice, Sustainable Development |
| HSS 507 | Environmental Humanities | Elective | 3 | Ecological Thought, Environmental Ethics, Nature Representation, Climate Change Narratives, Eco-criticism, Sustainability |
| HSS 508 | Gender Studies | Elective | 3 | Gender Theories, Feminist Perspectives, Gender and Society, Intersectionality, Women''''s Movements, Policy and Activism |
| HSS 509 | Digital Humanities | Elective | 3 | Computational Methods, Text Analysis, Data Visualization, Digital Archiving, Cultural Heritage, New Media Studies |
| HSS 510 | Philosophy of Mind and Cognition | Elective | 3 | Mind-Body Problem, Consciousness, Artificial Intelligence, Cognitive Science, Epistemology, Phenomenology |
| HSS 511 | Public Policy Analysis | Elective | 3 | Policy Cycle, Policy Formulation, Policy Implementation, Evaluation Methods, Stakeholder Analysis, Indian Policy Context |
| HSS 512 | Qualitative Research Methods | Elective | 3 | Interpretivism, Ethnography, Interview Techniques, Discourse Analysis, Case Study Research, Grounded Theory |
| HSS 513 | Quantitative Research Methods | Elective | 3 | Survey Design, Statistical Analysis, Hypothesis Testing, Regression Analysis, Experimental Design, Data Interpretation |
| HSS 514 | Introduction to Linguistics | Elective | 3 | Phonetics, Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, Semantics, Pragmatics, Sociolinguistics |
| HSS 515 | Indian Knowledge Systems | Elective | 3 | Ancient Indian Philosophy, Epistemology, Logic, Traditional Sciences, Yoga and Ayurveda, Dharma and Karma |
| HSS 516 | Cultural Studies | Elective | 3 | Culture Theory, Media Studies, Popular Culture, Identity Politics, Postcolonialism, Globalization |
| HSS 517 | Developmental Psychology | Elective | 3 | Child Development, Adolescent Psychology, Life Span Development, Cognitive Development, Social-Emotional Development, Attachment Theory |
| HSS 518 | Urban Studies | Elective | 3 | Urbanization, City Planning, Urban Sociology, Smart Cities, Sustainable Urbanism, Gentrification |
| HSS 519 | Critical Theory | Elective | 3 | Frankfurt School, Poststructuralism, Postmodernism, Ideology Critique, Power Relations, Social Transformation |
| HSS 520 | Media and Communication Studies | Elective | 3 | Communication Models, Mass Media, Digital Communication, Media Ethics, Audience Studies, Global Media |
| HSS 521 | Introduction to Economics | Elective | 3 | Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Supply and Demand, Market Structures, Economic Indicators, Policy Tools |
| HSS 522 | Ethics and Values | Elective | 3 | Moral Philosophy, Ethical Theories, Applied Ethics, Professional Ethics, Social Values, Indian Ethical Traditions |
| HSS 523 | Sociology of Science | Elective | 3 | Social Construction of Science, Scientific Communities, Knowledge Production, Research Ethics, Public Trust, Science and Power |
