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PHD in Design at Manipal University Jaipur

Manipal University Jaipur is a premier State Private University in Jaipur, Rajasthan, established in 2011. Spread across 122 acres, it offers diverse career-oriented programs in engineering, management, law, and more. Recognized with NAAC A+ grade, it emphasizes academic excellence and a vibrant campus ecosystem.

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Jaipur, Rajasthan

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About the Specialization

What is Design at Manipal University Jaipur Jaipur?

This PhD Design program at Manipal University Jaipur focuses on advanced research in various design domains, fostering innovation and critical thinking. It addresses the growing demand for high-level design expertise in India''''s rapidly expanding creative industries and technology sector. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and contributes to both theoretical and applied design knowledge, preparing scholars for leadership roles in academia and industry.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in design, architecture, or related fields who aspire to academic positions, lead research and development teams, or become expert consultants. It suits individuals passionate about contributing original research to design theory, practice, and methodology. Working professionals seeking to transition into research-focused roles or enhance their scholarly credentials will also find this program beneficial, especially those with an interest in solving complex societal problems through design.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as professors, senior researchers, design strategists, or innovation leaders in India. Entry-level salaries for PhDs in academia can range from INR 7-10 LPA, growing significantly with experience. In industry, roles in R&D or advanced design can fetch INR 12-25 LPA or more. The program prepares scholars for impactful contributions, aligning with the national focus on innovation and design-led manufacturing, and potentially leading to entrepreneurial ventures in the creative economy.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Research Methodology- (Coursework Phase (Semester 1))

Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on understanding diverse research paradigms, quantitative and qualitative methods, and ethical considerations. Actively participate in discussions, complete assignments diligently, and seek clarification from faculty. Utilize online resources like NPTEL courses on research methods and academic writing workshops.

Tools & Resources

NPTEL courses, Academic writing workshops, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R for quantitative), Qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo for qualitative)

Career Connection

A strong foundation in research methodology is crucial for successful thesis completion and for any future role in academia or R&D, ensuring the credibility and rigor of your work.

Identify and Refine Research Area- (Coursework Phase (Semester 1) to End of Year 1)

Proactively engage with your supervisor and departmental faculty to explore potential research topics within design. Attend departmental seminars and workshops to gain insights into current research trends and identify gaps. Begin preliminary literature reviews in areas of interest to narrow down your focus and formulate initial research questions.

Tools & Resources

Research papers (e.g., Google Scholar, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, Design journals), University library databases, Faculty consultation

Career Connection

A well-defined research area is the cornerstone of a successful PhD. It determines the relevance and impact of your work, directly influencing your future specialization and employment opportunities.

Cultivate Critical Reading and Academic Writing Skills- (Throughout Year 1 and onwards)

Regularly read and critically analyze research papers in your chosen domain. Practice summarizing complex ideas, identifying arguments, and formulating your own critiques. Attend university writing center sessions or online courses to refine academic writing, citation, and referencing styles, essential for literature reviews and thesis chapters.

Tools & Resources

Zotero/Mendeley for reference management, Grammarly/QuillBot for writing assistance, Purdue OWL for academic writing guidelines

Career Connection

Strong critical reading and writing skills are indispensable for publishing research, grant applications, and effective communication in academic and professional settings, enhancing your visibility and scholarly impact.

Intermediate Stage

Develop Specialized Design Research Skills- (Year 2 to Year 3)

Based on your chosen research topic, acquire advanced skills relevant to your design research. This might involve mastering specific design software, prototyping techniques, user experience research tools, or advanced data visualization. Seek out workshops, online certifications, or collaborate with faculty on projects requiring these skills.

Tools & Resources

Specialized design software (e.g., Rhino, Grasshopper, Adobe Creative Suite), UX research tools (e.g., Figma, Miro), Prototyping labs, Online courses (Coursera, edX)

Career Connection

Acquiring specialized skills directly applicable to your research enhances your profile as an expert in your niche, making you highly valuable for design research roles in both industry and academia.

Present Research at Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2 onwards)

Prepare and submit abstracts or papers to national and international design research conferences (e.g., India Design Council events, DESIRE). Presenting your work allows for valuable feedback, networking with peers and experts, and building your academic presence. Attend paper presentation workshops offered by the university.

Tools & Resources

Conference proceedings websites, University funding for travel, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Keynote)

Career Connection

Conference presentations are crucial for disseminating your research, building a professional network, and establishing yourself as a recognized scholar, which is vital for academic and research career progression.

Seek Mentorship Beyond Your Supervisor- (Throughout PhD tenure)

While your primary supervisor is key, identify and connect with other senior faculty members or industry experts whose work aligns with your research. Their insights can offer fresh perspectives, expose you to different methodologies, and open doors to collaborations or future opportunities. Attend guest lectures and panel discussions to identify potential mentors.

Tools & Resources

LinkedIn, Professional organizations (e.g., NID Alumni Association, IDC), University network events

Career Connection

A diverse mentorship network provides invaluable guidance, opens avenues for collaborations, and significantly enhances your professional development and visibility within the broader design research community.

Advanced Stage

Focus on High-Impact Publications- (Year 3 to Final Year)

Strategically target reputable peer-reviewed journals (Scopus/WoS indexed) in design and related fields for publishing your research findings. Work closely with your supervisor to refine manuscripts, address reviewer comments, and ensure your publications contribute significantly to the existing body of knowledge. Aim for at least 1-2 quality publications before thesis submission.

Tools & Resources

Journal ranking databases (e.g., Scopus, Web of Science), Academic writing support from university, Proofreading services

Career Connection

High-impact publications are the currency of academia and research. They are critical for securing post-doctoral positions, faculty roles, and grant funding, establishing your reputation as a leading researcher.

Prepare for Thesis Defense and Viva-Voce- (Final 6-12 months)

Begin preparing for your final thesis defense well in advance. Practice presenting your research concisely and effectively, anticipating potential questions from examiners. Participate in mock viva sessions, if available, and refine your arguments and justifications for your research choices and findings.

Tools & Resources

University guidelines for thesis submission and defense, Mock viva sessions with departmental faculty, Presentation rehearsals

Career Connection

A successful thesis defense is the culmination of your PhD journey, marking your transition from a scholar-in-training to an independent researcher, validating your expertise for future career prospects.

Network for Post-PhD Opportunities- (Final Year onwards)

Actively network with academics and industry professionals during conferences, workshops, and university events. Explore post-doctoral fellowships, faculty positions, or senior research roles by connecting with potential employers or collaborators. Leverage your publications and presentations to showcase your expertise and research contributions.

Tools & Resources

Academic job portals (e.g., naukri.com, university career pages), LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., ADI India), Mentors and supervisors for recommendations

Career Connection

Proactive networking and strategic job searching are essential for a smooth transition post-PhD, helping you secure rewarding positions that align with your research interests and career aspirations in the competitive Indian and global markets.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • Master’s degree in a relevant design discipline or a professional degree declared equivalent, with at least 60% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade from a recognised University/Institution.

Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years

Credits: Minimum 8 credits (for coursework phase) Credits

Assessment: Internal: As per university guidelines for PhD coursework (typically quizzes, assignments, presentations), External: As per university guidelines for PhD coursework (typically end-semester examination)

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester phase

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
PHD101Research MethodologyCore (Compulsory)4Introduction to Research and Research Design, Literature Review and Hypothesis Formulation, Qualitative Research Methods in Design, Quantitative Research Methods and Data Analysis, Research Ethics and Academic Writing, Presentation and Publication of Research Findings
PHDXXXDesign Research ElectiveElective (Domain Specific)4