

DOCTOR-OF-PHILOSOPHY in Civil Engineering at JSS Science and Technology University


Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Civil Engineering at JSS Science and Technology University Mysuru?
This Doctor of Philosophy program in Civil Engineering at JSS Science and Technology University focuses on advanced research and innovation across core areas like structural engineering, transportation, water resources, and geotechnical engineering. Addressing critical infrastructure and environmental challenges, the program contributes significantly to India''''s development goals. Its strong research emphasis prepares scholars for impactful contributions to academia and industry, fostering sustainable solutions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate degree holders in Civil Engineering or related fields seeking to pursue in-depth research and contribute new knowledge. It also caters to experienced professionals from public and private sectors aiming to solve complex engineering problems and academicians looking to enhance their research credentials for higher teaching and leadership roles in Indian universities and research institutions.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure advanced research and development positions in organizations like DRDO, ISRO, and leading consulting firms. They can also pursue careers as professors, senior researchers, or specialists in government bodies such as CPWD, Railways, and water resource departments. Typical salary ranges for Ph.D. holders in India can start from INR 8-15 LPA in research roles, growing significantly with experience and expertise.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Literature Review- (Coursework Phase (typically 1st year))
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology and IPR coursework, focusing on developing a robust understanding of research design, statistical analysis, and ethical considerations. Simultaneously, conduct an exhaustive literature review in your chosen specialization area using academic databases to identify gaps and formulate potential research questions.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Mendeley/Zotero, JSS STU Library databases
Career Connection
Builds foundational skills for independent research, critical analysis, and thesis writing, essential for academic and R&D roles.
Engage Actively with Faculty and Peers- (Coursework Phase and early Research Proposal stage)
Regularly interact with your research supervisor to refine your research problem and scope. Attend departmental research seminars, workshops, and colloquia to stay updated on ongoing research and present your initial findings. Participate in peer discussion groups to gain diverse perspectives and feedback on your ideas.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, Research labs, Supervisor meetings, Ph.D. student forums
Career Connection
Develops communication, presentation, and collaboration skills, crucial for academic presentations and industry research team environments.
Build a Strong Subject Matter Expertise- (Coursework Phase and Research Proposal development)
Beyond coursework, delve deeply into the advanced topics of your chosen electives. Utilize online learning platforms and advanced textbooks to broaden your understanding. Participate in specialized workshops or short-term courses related to your research area to acquire advanced analytical or experimental techniques.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL, Coursera, edX, Advanced Civil Engineering textbooks, Specialized lab equipment training
Career Connection
Establishes a strong technical base, making you a credible expert in your field, highly sought after in specialized R&D roles and academia.
Intermediate Stage
Develop and Defend a Robust Research Proposal- (End of Coursework Phase to 2nd year)
Systematically formulate your research objectives, methodology, timeline, and expected outcomes. Prepare a compelling presentation and effectively defend your proposal before the Research and Development Committee (RDC), incorporating feedback to strengthen your research direction.
Tools & Resources
JSS STU Ph.D. regulations, Supervisor guidance, Presentation software, Mock defense sessions
Career Connection
Sharpens proposal writing, public speaking, and critical thinking, vital for securing research grants and leading projects.
Master Research Tools and Techniques- (2nd to 3rd year of Ph.D.)
Acquire proficiency in specific software (e.g., FEM software like ABAQUS, ANSYS; GIS software like ArcGIS; statistical tools like R, Python for data analysis) or experimental techniques relevant to your research. Document all procedures meticulously and maintain detailed research logbooks.
Tools & Resources
Licensed software, Lab facilities, Workshops, Online tutorials
Career Connection
Hands-on expertise in industry-standard tools and techniques makes you highly employable for practical research and development roles.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals and Present at Conferences- (2nd year onwards)
Aim to publish at least one or two research papers in Scopus/Web of Science indexed journals during your Ph.D. tenure. Present your preliminary findings at national and international conferences to get feedback and network with experts in your field, enhancing your professional visibility.
Tools & Resources
Journal databases, Conference proceedings, Academic writing support, Supervisor feedback
Career Connection
Builds a strong academic publication record, essential for pursuing a career in academia or advanced R&D, and enhances professional visibility.
Advanced Stage
Structure and Write a High-Quality Thesis- (3rd year onwards)
Organize your research findings into a coherent, well-structured thesis, focusing on clear articulation of methodology, results, discussion, and conclusions. Adhere strictly to the university''''s formatting guidelines and academic integrity standards, ensuring originality and scholarly rigor.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/MS Word, Plagiarism checker software (Turnitin), University thesis guidelines, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced scholarly communication skills, a cornerstone for any research-intensive career.
Prepare for and Excel in the Viva Voce Examination- (Final months of the Ph.D.)
Thoroughly review your entire thesis, anticipating potential questions from internal and external examiners. Conduct mock viva voce sessions with your supervisor and peers. Practice concise and articulate explanations of your research contributions, methodology, and limitations.
Tools & Resources
Previous viva voce experiences, Supervisor guidance, Presentation skills workshops
Career Connection
Develops confidence and precision in defending one''''s work, crucial for leadership roles, expert consultations, and academic positions.
Network for Post-Ph.D. Opportunities- (Final year of Ph.D.)
Actively engage in networking events, industry seminars, and academic job fairs during the final year. Update your professional profiles (e.g., LinkedIn, ResearchGate) and prepare a targeted CV/resume. Seek mentorship from senior professionals in your desired career path to gain insights and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Career services at JSS STU, Professional associations (e.g., IEI), Alumni network
Career Connection
Proactively secures post-doctoral positions, academic roles, or industry R&D opportunities, ensuring a smooth transition into the desired career.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s degree in Engineering/Technology or equivalent with minimum 60% marks/6.75 CGPA in relevant discipline. Exceptional Bachelor’s degree holders with 75% marks/8.25 CGPA, valid GATE/NET and 5 years experience (if applicable) may also apply. Specific to Civil Engineering, candidates must possess a relevant Master''''s or Bachelor''''s degree as per university regulations.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years
Credits: 12-20 (for coursework component only) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (for coursework), External: 50% (for coursework, End Semester Examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester phase
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19PHRMC110 | Research Methodology and IPR | Core (Compulsory for all PhD scholars) | 4 | Research Process, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Intellectual Property Rights Fundamentals, Patents and Copyrights, Trademarks and Industrial Designs |
| 19PHECVC120 | Advanced Concrete Technology | Elective (Scholars choose 3 electives from the given list) | 4 | Concrete Constituent Materials, Admixtures and their Effects, Special Concretes, Properties of Fresh and Hardened Concrete, Durability of Concrete, Non-Destructive Testing, Quality Control of Concrete |
| 19PHECVC130 | Advanced Foundation Engineering | Elective | 4 | Site Investigation and Soil Exploration, Shallow Foundations Design and Analysis, Deep Foundations: Piles, Piers, Caissons, Pile Load Tests and Group Action, Ground Improvement Techniques, Machine Foundations and Vibrations, Retaining Structures |
| 19PHECVC140 | Advanced Pavement Engineering | Elective | 4 | Pavement Materials and Characterization, Flexible Pavement Design, Rigid Pavement Design, Pavement Evaluation Techniques, Pavement Rehabilitation Strategies, Pavement Maintenance Management, Special Pavements |
| 19PHECVC150 | Advanced Structural Analysis | Elective | 4 | Matrix Methods of Structural Analysis, Finite Element Method for Structures, Dynamic Analysis of Structures, Structural Stability Analysis, Non-linear Structural Analysis, Plates and Shells Analysis, Bridge Structures Analysis |
| 19PHECVC160 | Water Resources Systems Management | Elective | 4 | Water Resources Planning and Development, Hydrologic Systems Analysis, Reservoir Operation and Management, Irrigation Systems Management, Flood Control and Management, Water Quality Management, Environmental Aspects of Water Resources Projects |
| 19PHECVC170 | Transportation Planning and Management | Elective | 4 | Urban Transportation Planning Process, Travel Demand Modeling, Traffic Flow Theory and Analysis, Traffic Management Techniques, Public Transportation Systems, Freight Transportation and Logistics, Road Safety and Auditing |
| 19PHECVC180 | Environmental Pollution Control and Management | Elective | 4 | Air Pollution Sources and Control, Water Pollution and Treatment, Solid Waste Management, Noise Pollution and Control, Hazardous Waste Management, Environmental Impact Assessment, Sustainable Environmental Management |




