

PHD-PUBLIC-ADMINISTRATION in Research Areas As Per Faculty Expertise at Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak


Rohtak, Haryana
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About the Specialization
What is Research Areas as per faculty expertise at Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak Rohtak?
This PhD Public Administration program at Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak focuses on advanced research in governance, public policy, and administrative practices. It addresses the evolving landscape of public service in India, emphasizing critical analysis and innovative solutions for societal challenges. The program aims to cultivate scholars equipped to contribute significantly to academia, policy formulation, and public sector reforms.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, civil servants, policy analysts, and professionals in government and non-governmental organizations. It caters to individuals holding a Master''''s degree in Public Administration or related fields, seeking to deepen their theoretical knowledge and research capabilities. Candidates should possess a strong interest in contributing to public service improvement and scholarly discourse.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in Indian universities as professors, researchers in think tanks, or high-level policy advisors in government ministries and international organizations. Salary ranges vary widely, from entry-level research positions to senior academic roles. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, essential for leadership and impactful contributions in the public domain.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology- (Semester 1 (Coursework Phase))
Thoroughly engage with the coursework in Research Methodology, focusing on understanding diverse research designs, statistical analysis software (like SPSS or R), and qualitative data analysis techniques. Actively participate in workshops and seminars on research ethics and academic writing.
Tools & Resources
Official MDU Syllabus for Research Methodology, SPSS/R software, Online courses on research methods, MDU Library resources
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is critical for developing a robust research proposal and ensuring the validity of future thesis work, directly impacting academic and policy research career prospects.
Identify a Research Niche- (Semester 1 (Coursework Phase))
Start exploring broad areas within Public Administration that genuinely interest you, aligning with current Indian administrative challenges or policy gaps. Read extensively across core sub-disciplines like governance, public policy, development administration, and local self-governance to identify potential gaps for your doctoral study. Consult with faculty members early to discuss emerging research trends.
Tools & Resources
MDU Department of Public Administration faculty profiles, Leading journals in Public Administration (e.g., Indian Journal of Public Administration), UGC-CARE List journals
Career Connection
Early identification of a relevant and impactful research area can differentiate your profile, attracting potential supervisors and enhancing the relevance of your work for future academic or policy roles.
Develop Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1 (Coursework Phase))
Focus on improving academic writing, structure, and citation styles required for scholarly publications and thesis writing. Attend university-organized writing workshops and seek feedback on early assignments and literature reviews from faculty and peers. Practice concise and clear articulation of complex ideas.
Tools & Resources
University Writing Centre (if available), Grammarly premium, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Sample PhD theses from MDU library
Career Connection
Proficient academic writing is fundamental for publishing research, which is crucial for career progression in academia and for effective communication of policy recommendations.
Intermediate Stage
Build a Robust Literature Review- (Year 1-2 (Post-Coursework))
Engage in an exhaustive review of existing literature, both national and international, related to your chosen research topic. Systematically categorize and synthesize findings to identify theoretical gaps, methodological limitations, and areas requiring further investigation. Maintain a well-organized database of your sources.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, JSTOR, Google Scholar, MDU e-library resources, Reference management software like EndNote
Career Connection
A comprehensive literature review forms the backbone of a strong research proposal and thesis, demonstrating scholarly rigor and establishing credibility in your chosen field, critical for academic positions.
Present Research at Conferences- (Year 2-3)
Actively seek opportunities to present your preliminary research findings or literature review at national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars. This helps in gaining valuable feedback, networking with peers and experts, and refining your research questions and methodology.
Tools & Resources
MDU research announcements, Academic conference calendars, Departmental seminar series
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences enhances visibility, builds a professional network, and is a key indicator of research engagement, beneficial for securing research grants or faculty positions.
Collaborate and Network- (Year 2-3)
Engage with fellow PhD scholars and faculty within the Public Administration department and across related disciplines. Participate in departmental discussions, reading groups, and collaborative projects. Networking helps in exchanging ideas, receiving support, and potentially forming future research partnerships.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research forums, MDU faculty mentorship programs, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Institute of Public Administration)
Career Connection
A strong academic network is invaluable for future collaborations, mentorship, and job opportunities, fostering a supportive research ecosystem.
Advanced Stage
Aim for Quality Publications- (Year 3-5)
Prioritize publishing parts of your research in UGC-CARE listed or peer-reviewed journals of repute. Focus on presenting original contributions, adhering to journal guidelines, and meticulously addressing reviewer comments. Seek guidance from your supervisor on target journals.
Tools & Resources
UGC-CARE List, Journal submission platforms (e.g., Editorial Manager), MDU Research Grant opportunities
Career Connection
High-quality publications are paramount for academic career progression (Assistant Professor, Researcher) and securing post-doctoral fellowships, significantly boosting your research profile.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Viva-Voce- (Final Year (Year 4-6))
Dedicate ample time to writing and meticulously refining your doctoral thesis, ensuring it meets MDU''''s formatting and originality standards. Practice presenting your research effectively and prepare for challenging questions during the viva-voce examination by engaging in mock defenses with faculty and peers.
Tools & Resources
MDU PhD Thesis Guidelines, Anti-plagiarism software (e.g., Turnitin), Departmental mock viva sessions
Career Connection
A well-defended thesis is the culmination of your PhD journey, leading to degree conferral and serving as a foundational document for your future academic and professional endeavors.
Strategic Career Planning- (Final Year (Year 4-6))
Begin planning your post-PhD career path well in advance. Whether aiming for academia, policy roles, or research positions, tailor your CV/resume, prepare teaching statements (for academia), and build a portfolio of your research work. Attend career workshops offered by the university and actively apply for relevant positions.
Tools & Resources
MDU Career Counseling Cell, LinkedIn, Naukri.com for job searches, Academic job portals
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smoother transition from doctoral study to employment, maximizing opportunities in a competitive Indian job market for highly qualified individuals.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in a relevant discipline with at least 55% marks (or equivalent grade) from MDU or any other recognized University. A relaxation of 5% marks is provided for SC/ST/BC/PWD candidates. Candidates must qualify for the Entrance Test, unless exempted (e.g., NET/JRF/GATE/GPAT qualified candidates).
Duration: Typically 3-6 years (including 1 semester of coursework)
Credits: 8 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDPA-CWC101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis (Quantitative and Qualitative), Research Report Writing, Research Ethics and Intellectual Property Rights |
| PHDPA-CWC102 | Public Administration (Discipline Specific) | Core (Specialization Specific) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Administrative Theories and Concepts, Public Policy Analysis and Implementation, Financial Administration and Budgeting, Personnel Administration and Management, Local Governance and Development Administration, Comparative Public Administration, Contemporary Issues in Public Administration |




