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PH-D-COMMERCE in Commerce at Mahatma Gandhi Central University
East Champaran, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is Commerce at Mahatma Gandhi Central University East Champaran?
This Ph.D. Commerce program at Mahatma Gandhi Central University focuses on advanced research and scholarly inquiry in various domains of commerce and business. The program aims to cultivate independent researchers capable of contributing original knowledge to the academic and industrial landscape. Its relevance in India stems from the nation''''s rapidly evolving economic environment, which demands nuanced understanding and innovative solutions in areas like finance, marketing, human resources, and entrepreneurship. This program differentiates itself by promoting interdisciplinary research and a strong ethical foundation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for M.Com graduates or professionals with a Master''''s degree in allied business fields who possess a strong academic record and a keen interest in theoretical and applied research. It suits individuals aspiring to become academicians, research scientists, policy analysts, or consultants in India''''s public and private sectors. Early-career faculty members seeking to enhance their research credentials and contribute to higher education institutions will also find this program highly beneficial, aligning with UGC guidelines for faculty qualifications.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as Assistant Professors in Indian universities, researchers in think tanks or corporate R&D departments, and consultants for national and international organizations. Entry-level salaries for Ph.D. holders in academia typically range from INR 7-12 LPA, with significant growth trajectories based on publications and experience. The program enhances analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills, vital for leadership roles in academia and industry, often aligning with requirements for promotions and research grants.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Research Methodologies- (Semester 1)
Dedicate significant effort to understanding the theoretical and practical aspects of research methodology, including quantitative and qualitative approaches, experimental designs, and statistical tools. Actively participate in coursework, clarify doubts, and practice applying concepts to real-world business problems. This is the bedrock of your doctoral journey.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Python (for data analysis), MGCUB library resources, NPTEL courses on research methodology, Workshops on statistical software
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures the rigor and validity of your doctoral research, crucial for publishing in reputable journals and securing academic positions that value sound research practices.
Cultivate Research Ethics and Integrity- (Semester 1)
Internalize the principles of research and publication ethics from the outset. Understand plagiarism, data fabrication, authorship guidelines, and responsible conduct of research. Engage in discussions on ethical dilemmas and always cite sources meticulously.
Tools & Resources
Plagiarism detection software (e.g., Turnitin, Urkund), MGCUB RPE course material, UGC CARE List for journal ethics, COPE guidelines (Committee on Publication Ethics)
Career Connection
Upholding research integrity builds a credible academic profile, essential for attracting research funding, gaining professional respect, and avoiding career-damaging misconduct issues.
Initiate Literature Review and Area Identification- (Semester 1)
Even during coursework, start broadly reading recent research papers in your areas of interest within Commerce. Identify emerging trends, research gaps, and potential topics for your doctoral thesis. Discuss potential areas with faculty mentors.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, EBSCOhost, JSTOR, ResearchGate, University library databases
Career Connection
Early identification of a viable and significant research problem accelerates your thesis progress and helps you carve a niche, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized academic and research roles.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal/Synopsis- (Semesters 2-3)
Systematically develop your research proposal, outlining your chosen research problem, objectives, hypothesis, methodology, and expected outcomes. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and departmental research committee (DRC). Refine it iteratively until it is comprehensive and academically sound.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (e.g., Mendeley, Zotero), MGCUB Ph.D. guidelines for synopsis submission, Consultation with supervisor and DRC members
Career Connection
A well-structured proposal demonstrates your ability to conduct independent, rigorous research, a key criterion for securing research grants and thesis approval, which are vital for your academic career progression.
Engage in Advanced Statistical/Analytical Training- (Semesters 2-4)
Based on your chosen research methodology, delve deeper into advanced statistical or qualitative analytical techniques. This might involve learning specific software or methods beyond what was covered in the core coursework, ensuring you have the tools for robust data analysis.
Tools & Resources
Advanced courses in R/Python, AMOS, SmartPLS, NVivo (for qualitative analysis), Workshops by IITs/IIMs, Online platforms like Coursera/edX
Career Connection
Proficiency in advanced analytical tools enhances the quality and depth of your research findings, making your work more publishable and increasing your marketability for roles requiring data analysis expertise.
Participate in Workshops and Conferences- (Semesters 3-5)
Actively attend and present your initial findings or proposal in national and international workshops, seminars, and conferences. This provides valuable feedback, exposes you to current research trends, and helps build your academic network.
Tools & Resources
MGCUB research bulletins, Conference call for papers (e.g., those by IIMs, AICTE, UGC, or domain-specific associations like Indian Accounting Association)
Career Connection
Presenting your work builds your communication skills, establishes your presence in the academic community, and can lead to collaborations, reviewer roles, and job opportunities post-Ph.D.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Consistent Thesis Writing and Publication- (Semesters 5-6+)
Dedicate regular, scheduled time for writing your thesis chapters, focusing on clarity, coherence, and academic rigor. Aim to convert thesis chapters into publishable research papers in UGC CARE-listed journals, as publications are often mandatory for thesis submission and crucial for academic careers.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, English language editing services, MGCUB thesis format guidelines, Journal submission platforms
Career Connection
Timely completion of the thesis and a strong publication record are direct pathways to successful thesis defense, eligibility for faculty positions, and securing post-doctoral fellowships.
Network Strategically and Seek Mentorship- (Semesters 5-6+)
Beyond your immediate supervisor, connect with senior faculty, industry experts, and fellow Ph.D. scholars. Attend research talks, seminars, and alumni events. Seek out informal mentors who can provide diverse perspectives on career paths and research challenges.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic professional bodies (e.g., Indian Academy of Management), University alumni network, Research seminars
Career Connection
A robust professional network can open doors to collaborative projects, post-doctoral opportunities, and academic or industry job referrals, significantly aiding your career transition.
Prepare Rigorously for Viva Voce and Career Transition- (Final Semester (6+))
Methodically prepare for your thesis defense (Viva Voce) by rehearsing your presentation, anticipating questions, and clearly articulating your contributions. Simultaneously, begin applying for academic positions, preparing your CV, cover letter, and teaching philosophy statement.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with faculty/peers, MGCUB viva voce guidelines, University career services, Online job portals for academia (e.g., Times Higher Education, jobs.ac.uk, Indian university recruitment pages)
Career Connection
A confident and articulate viva voce presentation is the final step in earning your degree. Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition into your desired post-Ph.D. role, maximizing your investment in doctoral education.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (M.Com for Commerce) or a professional degree declared equivalent to the Master''''s degree by the corresponding statutory regulatory body, with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade ''''B'''' in the UGC 7-point scale (or an equivalent grade in a point scale wherever grading system is followed) or an equivalent degree from a foreign educational institution. A relaxation of 5% of marks (from 55% to 50%) or an equivalent relaxation of grade may be allowed for those belonging to SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)/Differently-abled, Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and other categories of candidates as per the decision of the Commission from time to time, or for those who had obtained their Master''''s degree prior to 19th September, 1991.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years
Credits: Minimum 8 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
