

PHD in Nursing at Manipal Academy of Higher Education


Udupi, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Nursing at Manipal Academy of Higher Education Udupi?
This PhD Nursing program at Manipal Academy of Higher Education focuses on advanced theoretical knowledge, research methodologies, and clinical expertise to address complex healthcare challenges in India. It aims to develop independent researchers and leaders capable of contributing to evidence-based nursing practice, education, and policy development, aligning with the evolving healthcare landscape and increasing demand for specialized nursing research in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for experienced M.Sc Nursing graduates, nursing faculty, and clinical specialists seeking to deepen their research acumen and contribute to the body of nursing knowledge. It caters to those passionate about academic careers, policy formulation, or advanced clinical roles, requiring a strong foundation in research and a commitment to improving healthcare outcomes in diverse Indian settings.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue esteemed careers as research scientists, university professors, advanced practice nurses, or healthcare policy advisors in India. They will be equipped to lead research projects, publish in high-impact journals, and influence nursing education and practice. Salary ranges vary significantly from INR 8-25 LPA depending on role and sector, with significant growth potential in academic and research leadership positions.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Research Methodologies- (Coursework phase (typically Semester 1))
Diligent engagement with the ''''Research Methodology'''' coursework, focusing on quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods. Form study groups to discuss complex statistical concepts and ethical considerations relevant to Indian healthcare contexts. Attend workshops on research software like SPSS or R.
Tools & Resources
MAHE''''s library resources, statistical software tutorials (e.g., NPTEL lectures), peer study groups
Career Connection
Builds foundational skills essential for designing, conducting, and analyzing independent research, crucial for academic and research roles in India.
Identify & Refine Research Area- (Coursework phase to beginning of Year 2)
Proactively engage with supervisors to explore potential research topics aligned with current Indian healthcare priorities (e.g., maternal-child health, non-communicable diseases, geriatric care in India). Attend departmental research seminars to understand ongoing projects and identify gaps in existing literature. Begin preliminary literature review.
Tools & Resources
PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, MAHE Digital Library, discussions with faculty mentors
Career Connection
Helps in developing a compelling research proposal and aligns future research with national health objectives, increasing its relevance and impact.
Network with Research Peers & Faculty- (Throughout Foundation Stage)
Actively participate in departmental colloquia, research conferences, and institutional events. Build connections with fellow PhD scholars, faculty members, and researchers from allied health sciences within MAHE and other Indian institutions. Seek mentorship beyond the primary supervisor.
Tools & Resources
Research seminars, MAHE research forums, national nursing conferences (e.g., TNAI)
Career Connection
Fosters collaborative opportunities, opens doors for future academic/research positions, and provides diverse perspectives on research challenges in India.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Robust Grant Writing Skills- (Year 2-3)
Actively seek opportunities to assist senior researchers or apply for small seed grants/fellowships offered by MAHE or national bodies like ICMR, DST, or UGC. Focus on articulating research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes clearly, considering Indian funding priorities.
Tools & Resources
Grant application workshops, successful grant proposals (examples), MAHE research grants office
Career Connection
Securing research funding is critical for independent research careers in India, enhancing credibility and opening avenues for large-scale studies.
Engage in Ethical Clearance Procedures- (Year 2-3 (before data collection))
Thoroughly understand and meticulously follow MAHE''''s Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) guidelines for research involving human subjects, which are stringent in India. Prepare and submit ethics applications well in advance, addressing all consent, confidentiality, and participant safety aspects.
Tools & Resources
MAHE IEC guidelines, ethics application templates, discussions with ethics committee members
Career Connection
Ensures ethical conduct of research, a mandatory requirement for publication and professional integrity, particularly in India''''s diverse socio-cultural context.
Present Research at National Conferences- (Year 2-4)
Prepare and submit abstracts for national and regional nursing/health research conferences in India. Present preliminary findings or research proposals to gain feedback, hone presentation skills, and expand professional networks.
Tools & Resources
MAHE''''s research support cell, presentation workshops, conference websites (e.g., INC, TNAI conferences)
Career Connection
Enhances visibility, provides valuable peer feedback, and strengthens the academic CV for future faculty or research positions in India.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize High-Impact Publications- (Year 3-5)
Aim to publish research findings in peer-reviewed national and international journals, preferably indexed in Scopus/Web of Science. Focus on crafting clear, concise manuscripts and addressing reviewer feedback diligently. Collaborate with supervisors for co-authorship.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms, academic writing workshops, MAHE''''s research publication support
Career Connection
Publications are crucial for career progression, promotions, and recognition in Indian academia and research institutions, often linked to NAAC/NIRF rankings.
Prepare for Comprehensive Viva Voce- (Year 4-6)
Systematically review all research work, coursework concepts, and relevant literature in preparation for the pre-PhD viva and final thesis defense. Conduct mock vivas with faculty and peers to anticipate questions and refine responses.
Tools & Resources
Thesis manuscript, research publications, MAHE PhD examination guidelines, mock viva sessions
Career Connection
Successful viva voce is the final hurdle for PhD completion, demonstrating mastery of the research area and readiness for independent academic/research roles.
Develop a Post-PhD Career Plan- (Year 5-6)
Explore academic job openings, post-doctoral fellowships, and research positions in government (e.g., ICMR), private, or international organizations with a presence in India. Tailor CVs and cover letters, and practice interview skills, highlighting the unique contributions of the PhD research.
Tools & Resources
University career services, professional networking platforms (LinkedIn), academic job portals (e.g., university websites, Times Higher Education India)
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition into the desired professional path, leveraging the PhD for significant impact in India''''s healthcare sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- M.Sc Nursing with 55% aggregate marks from an Institution recognized by Indian Nursing Council (INC). Minimum 1-year teaching/clinical experience after M.Sc (N) or 2 years teaching/clinical experience after Post Basic B.Sc (N) (Regular course) with M.Sc (N). Candidate must be a registered nurse and/or registered midwife with the State Nursing Registration Council. Relaxation of 5% of marks for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/ Differently abled candidates as per the UGC norms.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years
Credits: Minimum 8 credits for coursework phase Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (for coursework), External: 70% (for coursework - written examination)

