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DOCTOR-OF-PHILOSOPHY in Humanities And Social Sciences at North-Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology
Papum Pare, Arunachal Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Humanities and Social Sciences at North-Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology Papum Pare?
This Ph.D. in Humanities and Social Sciences program at North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology focuses on rigorous research in diverse fields such as Sociology, English, Economics, Political Science, and more. It aims to develop critical thinkers and independent researchers capable of contributing to academic knowledge and policy-making within the unique socio-cultural context of Northeast India and beyond. The program emphasizes original research and interdisciplinary approaches relevant to India''''s evolving landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong academic record in Humanities or Social Sciences, passionate about in-depth research. It also attracts working professionals like educators, policymakers, and development practitioners who seek to advance their understanding and contribute to scholarly discourse. Candidates with a foundational understanding of research methodologies and a keen interest in addressing complex societal issues in India are particularly suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, research scientists in think tanks, policy analysts in government and NGOs, or independent consultants. In India, a Ph.D. significantly enhances career prospects in academia and provides a strong foundation for leadership roles in research and development sectors. Graduates are equipped to address critical societal challenges and contribute to knowledge generation in diverse Indian contexts.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Coursework phase (e.g., Semester 1-2))
Thoroughly engage with the mandatory Research Methodology coursework. Focus on understanding both quantitative and qualitative research paradigms, data collection tools, and basic statistical analysis. Actively participate in discussions and seek clarification from faculty. Utilize library resources for foundational texts on research design.
Tools & Resources
NERIST Library resources, Statistical software like SPSS/R (for quantitative methods), Academic journals on research methods
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures robust research design for your thesis, which is crucial for academic credibility and future research-oriented roles.
Cultivate Critical Literature Review Skills- (Coursework phase and early research proposal development)
Begin extensively reviewing literature in your chosen area of interest. Learn to critically evaluate existing theories, identify research gaps, and synthesize information effectively. Maintain detailed notes and use reference management tools to organize your findings and prepare for your research proposal.
Tools & Resources
NERIST e-journals and databases (JSTOR, EBSCO, Scopus), Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Google Scholar
Career Connection
Expertise in literature review is fundamental for developing original research questions, publishing scholarly articles, and establishing yourself as an authority in your field.
Engage with Departmental Seminars and Workshops- (Throughout the initial 1-2 years)
Actively attend and participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and colloquia. This exposes you to diverse research topics, methodologies, and academic discourse within Humanities and Social Sciences, fostering an environment of intellectual growth and networking with peers and senior scholars.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, NERIST website announcements, Invited speaker series
Career Connection
Broadening your academic exposure helps refine your research ideas, understand current trends, and build professional networks vital for collaborations and future career prospects.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Typically by end of Year 1 or early Year 2)
Work closely with your supervisor to refine your research question, objectives, methodology, and ethical considerations. Present your proposal to your Doctoral Scrutiny Committee (DSC) and incorporate feedback diligently. This phase is critical for defining the scope and direction of your thesis.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor''''s guidance, DSC meetings, Institutional Research Ethics Committee guidelines
Career Connection
A well-structured research proposal demonstrates your ability to conceptualize and plan a significant research project, a core competency for any research-intensive career.
Initiate Fieldwork/Data Collection with Rigor- (Year 2 to Year 3)
Once your proposal is approved and ethical clearances obtained, meticulously plan and execute your data collection. Whether qualitative interviews, quantitative surveys, or archival research, ensure methodological soundness and adherence to ethical protocols, particularly in diverse Indian socio-cultural settings.
Tools & Resources
Survey tools (Google Forms, Qualtrics), Transcription software, Archival access permits, Institutional ethical guidelines
Career Connection
Effective and ethical data collection is the backbone of credible research, leading to publishable findings and building a strong research portfolio.
Present Research at Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2 onwards)
Start presenting your preliminary findings or literature review at national and regional conferences. This provides valuable feedback from experts, helps in refining your arguments, and builds your academic profile. Focus on conferences organized by bodies like ICSSR or UGC.
Tools & Resources
Conference databases (AllConferenceAlert), Travel grants from NERIST/ICSSR, Peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance your visibility, networking, and communication skills, which are vital for academic positions and research grants.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing and Publication- (Year 3 to Final Year)
Dedicate significant time to writing your thesis, adhering to academic standards and institutional guidelines. Aim to publish parts of your thesis in peer-reviewed journals before submission. Work closely with your supervisor for continuous feedback and revisions.
Tools & Resources
Grammar checkers (Grammarly), Plagiarism detection software (Turnitin), NERIST thesis guidelines, Reputable HSS journals
Career Connection
A well-written, publishable thesis is the primary credential for academic appointments and postdoctoral research opportunities in India and globally.
Prepare for Thesis Defense (Viva-Voce)- (Final Year)
Systematically prepare for your thesis defense by rehearsing your presentation, anticipating potential questions, and thoroughly reviewing your work. Be ready to articulate your contributions to knowledge and defend your methodology convincingly to the examination committee.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor''''s guidance, Mock viva sessions with peers/faculty, Presentation software
Career Connection
Successfully defending your thesis marks the culmination of your doctoral journey and signifies your readiness for independent scholarship and a research career.
Network and Explore Career Opportunities- (Final year and post-submission)
Beyond thesis submission, actively network with academics, research institutions, and potential employers. Attend job fairs, explore academic job portals in India, and tailor your CV/résumé for specific roles, including post-doctoral fellowships or faculty positions.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic job portals (e.g., www.ugc.ac.in, university career pages), Professional associations in HSS
Career Connection
Proactive networking and career planning during the final stage ensure a smooth transition from Ph.D. scholar to a professional researcher or academician.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree in the relevant discipline with a minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent grade B on a 7-point scale) for General/OBC candidates. A relaxation of 5% marks (from 55% to 50%) or equivalent grade is allowed for SC/ST/PwD candidates. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering/Technology/Science/Humanities/Social Sciences or equivalent with a minimum of 75% aggregate marks, minimum 5 years of professional experience, and an exceptional research record.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (full-time)
Credits: Minimum 12 credits (for Master''''s degree holders), Minimum 16 credits (for Bachelor''''s degree holders with direct admission) for coursework phase. Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
