.png&w=1920&q=75)
PHD in Political Science at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College
Mayurbhanj, Odisha
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College Mayurbhanj?
This PhD in Political Science program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on advanced research, critical analysis, and scholarly contributions within the diverse field of political studies. Aligned with India''''s evolving socio-political landscape, the program aims to produce experts capable of understanding and influencing public policy, governance, and international relations. Its emphasis on indigenous research challenges makes it uniquely relevant to the Indian context, addressing key issues of democracy, development, and justice.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with an MA in Political Science or related disciplines, aspiring academics, policy analysts, and researchers eager to delve deep into political theory, public administration, international affairs, or Indian politics. It also suits working professionals in government, NGOs, or think tanks who seek to enhance their analytical capabilities and contribute to evidence-based policy-making in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, research fellows in leading think tanks, policy advisors to government bodies, or analysts in international organizations within India and globally. Entry-level salaries for PhDs in academia or research in India can range from ₹6-10 lakhs per annum, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals, contributing to India''''s intellectual capital and policy development.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Coursework Semester)
Thoroughly grasp the theoretical and practical aspects of research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, data collection, and ethical considerations. Attend workshops on statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R) and academic writing. This foundational understanding is crucial for designing a robust research proposal and executing high-quality thesis work, a critical step for securing research grants and academic positions.
Tools & Resources
Research methods textbooks, Statistical software workshops, Online courses on academic writing, Library resources for journal access
Career Connection
A strong methodological base is indispensable for academic research, policy analysis, and securing positions in think tanks or government research departments in India.
Identify and Refine Research Interests- (Coursework Semester and early research phase)
Engage deeply with current literature in your area of Political Science, attend departmental seminars, and proactively discuss potential research problems with faculty mentors. Begin formulating preliminary research questions and identify gaps in existing scholarship that your PhD thesis can address. This helps in developing a focused and impactful research proposal, critical for securing supervisor approval.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, UGC-CARE List of Journals, Departmental seminars, Faculty consultations
Career Connection
A clearly defined research trajectory and impactful problem statement enhance your profile for post-doctoral fellowships and specialized research roles in India.
Develop Academic Writing & Presentation Skills- (Coursework Semester onwards)
Practice writing concisely, critically, and argumentatively, adhering to academic conventions. Participate in departmental presentations and conferences, seeking feedback on your delivery and content. Enroll in specific workshops focused on research paper writing and public speaking. These skills are vital for publishing in peer-reviewed journals and presenting findings at national and international conferences.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL, Academic writing guides, Departmental colloquia, Mock presentations
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are paramount for academic publications, conference presentations, and effective dissemination of research in India''''s scholarly community.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Literature and Theory- (After coursework, year 1-3 of research)
Beyond foundational coursework, immerse yourself in the theoretical frameworks and empirical studies relevant to your specific research topic. Construct a comprehensive literature review that critically analyzes existing scholarship, identifies theoretical gaps, and positions your own research within the broader academic discourse. This depth is essential for developing original contributions to the field.
Tools & Resources
Extensive use of digital libraries, Bibliographic management software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley), Inter-library loan services
Career Connection
Mastery of theoretical debates and literature review skills strengthens your expertise, making you a competitive candidate for research positions and teaching roles.
Actively Engage in Fieldwork/Data Collection- (Year 2-4 of research)
Plan and execute your fieldwork or data collection meticulously, adhering to ethical guidelines and obtaining necessary permissions. For political science, this might involve interviews, surveys, archival research, or ethnographic studies. Document your process rigorously and adapt to challenges. Effective data collection is the backbone of empirical research and ensures the validity of your findings.
Tools & Resources
Interview protocols, Survey software (e.g., Google Forms, SurveyMonkey), Archival access permits, Transcription tools
Career Connection
Practical research experience and ability to generate primary data are highly valued in academic research, government agencies, and policy think tanks in India.
Present Research at National Conferences- (Year 2-5 of research)
Prepare papers based on your ongoing research and submit them to relevant national or regional conferences. Presenting your work allows for peer feedback, networking with scholars in your field, and establishing your academic presence. This also helps in refining your arguments and identifying potential co-authorships. Participation in conferences enhances your CV for future academic and research positions.
Tools & Resources
Conference call for papers databases, Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint), Networking platforms
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds your academic network and provides visibility, which is crucial for academic collaborations and job opportunities in India and abroad.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing and Publication- (Year 3-6 of research)
Dedicate significant time to writing your thesis, ensuring clarity, coherence, and originality. Work closely with your supervisor for regular feedback and revisions. Simultaneously, adapt parts of your thesis into publishable journal articles. Aim for publication in UGC-CARE listed journals to enhance your academic profile, which is critical for faculty appointments and research grants in India.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing workshops, Thesis editing tools, Journal submission platforms, Supervisor feedback sessions
Career Connection
High-quality publications are the primary metric for academic success, crucial for securing teaching positions, post-doctoral fellowships, and research grants across Indian universities.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Defense- (Final year/months of research)
Thoroughly review your entire thesis, anticipating potential questions from examiners. Conduct mock viva sessions with your supervisor and peers to practice articulating your research contributions, defending your methodology, and addressing critiques. A confident and well-prepared defense is essential for successfully completing your PhD program and moving into your desired career path.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, Previous viva questions (if available), Presentation slides summarizing thesis
Career Connection
A successful viva marks the completion of your PhD, opening doors to academic and research careers. It also demonstrates your ability to articulate and defend complex arguments.
Network and Explore Career Opportunities- (Year 4-6 of research)
Actively engage in networking with senior academics, policy makers, and industry experts. Attend job fairs, academic recruitment events, and utilize professional networking platforms (e.g., LinkedIn). Prepare tailored applications for academic positions, research roles, or policy advisory jobs, emphasizing your unique research contributions and skills. Proactive networking is key to securing desirable post-PhD employment in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic job portals (e.g., Times Higher Education, university career pages), Networking events, CV/SOP writing workshops
Career Connection
Strategic networking and a polished application package are vital for transitioning from a PhD student to a successful professional in India''''s academic, research, or policy sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (or an equivalent professional degree) in Political Science or an allied subject, with a minimum of 55% marks. A relaxation of 5% marks is applicable for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/Differently-abled candidates. Candidates qualified in UGC-NET (including JRF), SLET, GATE, or holding a Teacher Fellowship are exempted from the entrance test but must apply for admission.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (including coursework period)
Credits: Minimum 8 credits (for compulsory coursework) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
