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PHD in Humanities Social Sciences at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University)
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Humanities & Social Sciences at JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) Bengaluru?
This PhD program in Humanities & Social Sciences at JAIN University focuses on fostering advanced research capabilities and critical thinking across diverse disciplines. It emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches crucial for understanding complex societal issues in the Indian context. The program aims to cultivate scholars who can contribute original knowledge and impactful research, addressing critical demands within academia, policy-making, and specialized research institutions in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in humanities and social sciences seeking to pursue an academic career, engage in advanced research, or contribute to policy development. It also caters to professionals from NGOs, think tanks, or government bodies who wish to enhance their analytical skills and gain doctoral-level expertise for leadership roles in their respective fields.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as university professors, researchers in national and international organizations, policy analysts, or social scientists. Potential salary ranges for entry-level researchers in India can be INR 5-8 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program supports growth trajectories towards becoming leading experts and thought leaders in various social and cultural domains within India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with the mandatory Research Methodology coursework. Focus on understanding quantitative and qualitative methods, statistical software, and rigorous research ethics to build a strong analytical foundation for your doctoral journey. Actively participate in seminars and workshops.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R/NVivo (for data analysis), Mendeley/Zotero (for referencing), JAIN University Library resources (e-journals, databases)
Career Connection
A strong grasp of methodology is crucial for conducting credible research, a foundational skill for any academic or research career.
Develop a Robust Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically review existing literature in your chosen area, identifying gaps and potential research questions. Utilize the ''''Discipline Specific Core Course'''' to refine your understanding of advanced research areas and theoretical frameworks relevant to Humanities & Social Sciences. Attend departmental research colloquia.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science (for academic databases), Google Scholar, Departmental faculty for guidance
Career Connection
A comprehensive literature review is essential for thesis development and demonstrates scholarly rigor, critical for academic publications and research grants.
Build a Strong Advisor Relationship- (Semester 1-2)
Establish regular communication with your research supervisor. Discuss your research interests, coursework progress, and preliminary ideas. Seek feedback actively and incorporate it to refine your research proposal. Attend all scheduled supervisory meetings.
Tools & Resources
JAIN University PhD guidelines on supervisor-scholar interaction, Regular email/meeting schedule
Career Connection
Effective mentorship is vital for navigating the PhD process, leading to a strong thesis and valuable academic networking for future career opportunities.
Intermediate Stage
Refine Research Proposal & Comprehensive Exam Preparation- (Year 2 (post-coursework))
Based on coursework and literature review, finalize your detailed research proposal. Prepare rigorously for the comprehensive examination, which assesses your understanding of your chosen field and research methodology. Form study groups with peers for mutual support.
Tools & Resources
University guidelines for comprehensive exams, Past question papers (if available), Faculty consultations
Career Connection
Passing the comprehensive exam and having a well-defined proposal are critical milestones for progressing in your PhD and establishing your research direction.
Present Research at Conferences & Workshops- (Year 2-3)
Actively seek opportunities to present your preliminary research findings or proposal at internal departmental seminars, national workshops, and conferences in India. This helps in gaining feedback, networking, and developing presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Calls for papers (e.g., UGC-CARE listed journals), JAIN University''''s research communication office, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Sociological Society, Indian History Congress)
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance your academic profile, lead to potential collaborations, and are crucial for future academic placements and funding applications.
Engage in Fieldwork/Data Collection- (Year 2-3)
Undertake ethical and rigorous data collection for your research. This might involve surveys, interviews, archival research, or ethnographic studies depending on your topic. Ensure adherence to research ethics and data privacy protocols. Seek institutional ethical clearance.
Tools & Resources
Research ethics board guidelines, Data collection software/tools (e.g., SurveyMonkey, interview recorders), Local community/institutional contacts
Career Connection
Successful data collection and analysis form the backbone of a robust thesis, essential for demonstrating independent research capability to potential employers and funding bodies.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing & Publication- (Year 3-4 onwards)
Dedicate significant time to writing your doctoral thesis, ensuring clarity, coherence, and original contribution. Aim to publish at least one research paper in a peer-reviewed, UGC-CARE listed journal from your thesis work. Regularly submit chapters to your supervisor for feedback.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Grammarly/Turnitin (for proofreading/plagiarism check), UGC-CARE journal list
Career Connection
A well-written thesis and publications are paramount for degree completion, demonstrating your research impact and enhancing your competitiveness for academic positions or post-doctoral fellowships.
Network and Build a Professional Presence- (Year 4-5)
Actively network with scholars in your field, attend virtual and in-person academic events, and maintain an updated academic profile (e.g., LinkedIn, ResearchGate). Seek opportunities to collaborate on research projects or co-author papers. Engage in faculty-led research groups.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, ResearchGate, Academic conferences and workshops, Departmental events
Career Connection
A strong professional network opens doors to job opportunities, post-doctoral positions, research collaborations, and mentorship, crucial for long-term career success in academia.
Prepare for Viva Voce & Career Transition- (Final Year (Year 5-6))
Prepare thoroughly for your final Viva Voce examination, practicing defense of your thesis and answering potential questions. Concurrently, start planning your post-PhD career by preparing your CV, cover letters, and applying for suitable academic or research positions. Utilize the university''''s career services.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, University career services, Job portals (e.g., Naukri.com, specifically for academic jobs)
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense and proactive job search are the final steps to transition from PhD scholar to a professional academic or researcher, ensuring a smooth entry into your chosen career path.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree or equivalent professional degree (declared equivalent to Master''''s by the corresponding statutory regulatory body) with at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade ''''B'''' in the UGC 7-point scale). A relaxation of 5% marks is provided for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-abled/EWS categories. Candidates must also have a valid score in UGC-NET/UGC-CSIR NET/GATE/GPAT/CEED or other national level examination.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (full-time) or 4 years (part-time). Maximum 6 years (full-time) or 7 years (part-time), excluding approved extensions.
Credits: Minimum 8 credits, Maximum 12 credits (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Internal: Continuous assessment for coursework comprising internal assessment tests, assignments, seminars, presentations, and literature review. A minimum of 50% marks in each course work paper individually is required to pass., External: End of Course Work Examination for the coursework component. The overall PhD program involves a comprehensive examination, thesis submission, and viva voce examination.
