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PH-D in International Relations at Pandit Deendayal Energy University
Gandhinagar, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is International Relations at Pandit Deendayal Energy University Gandhinagar?
This International Relations Ph.D. program at Pandit Deendayal Energy University focuses on advanced research and scholarly inquiry into global politics, diplomacy, and security challenges. It emphasizes critical analysis of international phenomena, drawing upon diverse theoretical perspectives. The program is highly relevant in India''''s evolving geopolitical landscape, preparing scholars to contribute to policy analysis, academic discourse, and strategic thinking in areas vital to national interest and regional stability.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong academic background in International Relations, Political Science, History, or allied social sciences, who possess a keen interest in conducting rigorous, original research. It also suits professionals in think tanks, government agencies, or diplomatic services seeking to deepen their expertise and contribute to high-level policy formulation. Aspirants must demonstrate strong analytical skills and a commitment to academic excellence.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as academics, policy analysts in government and non-governmental organizations, researchers in think tanks, or experts in international organizations. In India, opportunities exist in universities, MEA (Ministry of External Affairs), NITI Aayog, and various research institutions. While specific salary ranges vary, Ph.D. holders generally command competitive packages (e.g., INR 8-20 lakhs per annum for entry to experienced roles in academia/research) with significant growth trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Academic Writing- (Semester 1-2 (Coursework Phase))
Actively engage in coursework on research methods, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Attend workshops on academic writing, citation management (e.g., Mendeley, Zotero), and scholarly publishing. Regularly seek feedback from supervisors on research proposals and initial literature reviews to build a strong foundation.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R/Python for data analysis (if applicable), Qualitative data analysis software (NVivo/ATLAS.ti - if applicable), Turnitin for originality checks, LaTeX for academic documents
Career Connection
A solid methodological understanding is crucial for conducting credible research, which forms the backbone of any academic or policy research career. Strong writing ensures impactful dissemination of findings.
Cultivate Deep Literature Review Habits- (Semester 1-2 (Coursework Phase))
Beyond coursework, develop a systematic approach to surveying existing scholarship in International Relations. Identify key theories, debates, and research gaps by rigorously reading foundational texts and contemporary journal articles. Maintain an annotated bibliography to efficiently track and synthesize information.
Tools & Resources
J-STOR, Project Muse, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, University library databases, Reference managers
Career Connection
A comprehensive literature review allows for original contributions, establishes expertise, and is essential for thesis development and future grant proposals or policy briefs.
Engage in Departmental Research Seminars- (Semester 1-3)
Actively participate in Ph.D. colloquia, departmental seminars, and guest lectures. Present preliminary research ideas, listen to peers'''' work, and engage in constructive discussions. This practice sharpens critical thinking, presentation skills, and provides early exposure to diverse research approaches within International Relations.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Presentation software (PowerPoint/Keynote), Internal discussion forums
Career Connection
Regular engagement builds a professional network, provides valuable feedback, and prepares scholars for presenting their research at national and international conferences, vital for academic career progression.
Intermediate Stage
Develop and Refine Research Design- (Year 2-3)
Translate the initial research proposal into a detailed research design, including specific hypotheses (if applicable), methodologies, data collection instruments, and analytical frameworks. Seek frequent feedback from the Ph.D. supervisor and advisory committee, and be open to iterative refinements based on initial findings or challenges.
Tools & Resources
Qualitative and quantitative research design textbooks, Specialized software for complex data analysis, Ethical review board guidelines
Career Connection
A robust research design is fundamental for conducting impactful and defensible research, which is critical for successful thesis completion and subsequent high-quality publications.
Seek International Relations Specific Conferences & Workshops- (Year 2-4)
Actively search for and attend national and international conferences relevant to International Relations (e.g., ISA, EISA, local IR associations). Present ongoing research, network with senior scholars, and seek constructive criticism to refine arguments and methodologies. Consider applying for specialized workshops or summer schools.
Tools & Resources
Conference proceedings, Academic association websites, Travel grants from university/funding agencies
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds a researcher''''s profile, leads to potential collaborations, and is a vital step towards publishing in peer-reviewed journals, enhancing employability in academia and research.
Cultivate Advanced Analytical & Language Skills- (Year 2-4)
Depending on the research topic, acquire advanced skills such as proficiency in a foreign language relevant to the area of study (e.g., Mandarin, Arabic for specific IR research), advanced statistical modeling, or in-depth content analysis. Participate in specialized training programs or online courses.
Tools & Resources
Duolingo/Rosetta Stone, Specific software training platforms, Specialized workshops
Career Connection
Niche analytical and language skills differentiate scholars, open up specialized research opportunities, and are highly valued in policy analysis, intelligence, and international organizations.
Advanced Stage
Rigorous Thesis Writing and Chapter Completion- (Year 4-5)
Focus intensely on writing and completing thesis chapters, maintaining a consistent writing schedule. Prioritize regular meetings with the supervisor for feedback and ensure adherence to institutional guidelines for thesis submission. Aim for early drafts to allow ample time for revisions.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, University''''s thesis guidelines, Dedicated writing software (Scrivener, MS Word with advanced features)
Career Connection
Timely and high-quality thesis completion is the primary goal of the Ph.D., directly leading to degree conferral and opening doors for post-doctoral positions or academic appointments.
Plan for Publication & Dissemination- (Year 4-6)
Strategically identify top-tier peer-reviewed journals in International Relations for publishing thesis chapters or related articles. Work closely with the supervisor to transform thesis content into publishable manuscripts. Attend workshops on academic publishing and grant writing.
Tools & Resources
Journal impact factors, Publication databases (e.g., Elsevier, Springer, Taylor & Francis), Grant application portals
Career Connection
A strong publication record is paramount for securing academic positions (Assistant Professor, Post-doc) and attracting research funding, significantly boosting career prospects in India and globally.
Develop Professional Network & Career Strategy- (Year 5-6)
Actively expand professional networks through conferences, workshops, and online academic communities. Prepare a compelling academic CV, cover letter, and teaching philosophy statement. Explore diverse career paths beyond academia, such as policy consulting, think tanks, or international development, and tailor applications accordingly.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic networking platforms, University career services, Professional mentorship
Career Connection
A robust network facilitates job search, collaborations, and mentorship. A well-crafted career strategy ensures successful transition into desired roles post-Ph.D., maximizing the return on investment in the doctoral journey.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree or a professional degree declared equivalent to the Master’s degree in a relevant discipline with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade. A relaxation of 5% marks is allowed for SC/ST/OBC (Non-creamy layer)/Differently-Abled/EWS candidates. For International Relations, a Master''''s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., International Relations, Political Science, History) is required.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (including coursework and thesis submission)
Credits: Minimum 8, Maximum 16 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: Not specified explicitly; part of continuous evaluation., External: Not specified explicitly; part of end-semester examination. Overall 50% passing marks in each subject/component of coursework are required.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection and Analysis Techniques, Research Ethics and Integrity, Academic Writing and Referencing |
| PHD102 | Review of Literature | Core | 2 | Purpose and Scope of Literature Review, Information Search Strategies, Critical Analysis of Existing Research, Identifying Research Gaps, Developing a Theoretical Framework |
| PHD103 | Elective Subject/s relevant to Research Area (International Relations) | Elective | 2-8 |
