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PHD in Public Health at Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Public Health at Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences Bengaluru?
This Public Health PhD program at Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences focuses on advanced research in various facets of population health. It delves into the scientific basis of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts and informed choices of society, organizations, public and private communities, and individuals. The program emphasizes India-specific health challenges, policy formulation, and implementation strategies, preparing scholars to address the country''''s unique health landscape and contribute to evidence-based public health practices. It''''s a critical area given India''''s diverse demographic and epidemiological transitions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for medical and allied health professionals holding Master''''s degrees (MD, MPH, M.Sc. in Public Health, Community Medicine, Biostatistics, etc.) who are keen on pursuing rigorous research. It attracts aspiring academics, public health practitioners, and policymakers seeking to contribute to health system strengthening, disease control, and health promotion initiatives in India. Professionals from government health departments, NGOs, and research institutions looking to enhance their analytical and research capabilities will find this program particularly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become leading public health scientists, researchers, and policy advisors. India-specific career paths include roles in national and international health organizations (e.g., ICMR, WHO India, UNICEF), government health departments (Ministry of Health & Family Welfare), academic institutions, and public health consulting firms. Entry-level salaries for PhD holders in public health research can range from INR 6-10 LPA, growing significantly to INR 15-30+ LPA with experience. The program aligns with professional certifications and leadership roles in addressing India''''s public health priorities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Coursework Fundamentals- (undefined)
Diligently engage with the core coursework in Research Methodology, Biostatistics, and Epidemiology. Focus on understanding theoretical concepts and their practical application through assignments and discussions. Attend all lectures and workshops to build a strong foundation for your research journey.
Tools & Resources
Syllabus texts, SPSS/R for statistical analysis, EndNote/Mendeley for reference management, RGUHS Digital Library
Career Connection
A strong grasp of research methodology and biostatistics is crucial for designing credible studies, analyzing data, and publishing impactful research, which are foundational for any public health career.
Identify a Robust Research Problem- (undefined)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, literature reviews, and discussions with faculty to identify a research problem that is relevant, feasible, and impactful, particularly within the Indian health context. Your problem should align with public health priorities and your interests.
Tools & Resources
PubMed, Google Scholar, Departmental Research Committee meetings, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
A well-defined and original research problem is the backbone of a successful PhD and can lead to significant contributions to public health policy and practice, enhancing your reputation as a subject matter expert.
Cultivate a Strong Mentorship Relationship- (undefined)
Establish open and regular communication with your doctoral guide and other faculty members. Seek their guidance on literature review, research design, and ethical clearances. A strong mentorship is vital for navigating the complexities of doctoral research and ensuring academic progress.
Tools & Resources
Scheduled one-on-one meetings, Email communication, Departmental review meetings
Career Connection
Effective mentorship not only ensures timely completion of your PhD but also opens doors to collaborative projects, networking opportunities, and career advice from experienced professionals in the field.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Advanced Data Analysis Skills- (undefined)
Beyond basic statistics, acquire proficiency in advanced statistical or qualitative data analysis techniques relevant to your research. Attend specialized workshops or online courses to master tools necessary for robust data interpretation and inference in public health studies.
Tools & Resources
STATA, SAS, NVivo (for qualitative research), Coursera/edX advanced courses
Career Connection
Expertise in advanced data analysis makes you highly valuable in research roles, capable of deriving meaningful insights from complex public health datasets, and driving evidence-based decision-making.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Collaboration- (undefined)
Seek opportunities to collaborate with researchers from other disciplines within RGUHS or affiliated institutions, such as medical, nursing, or pharmaceutical sciences. Public health problems are often multifaceted and benefit from diverse perspectives and expertise.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research forums, University-wide workshops, Collaborative grants
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary collaboration broadens your network, enhances your research skills, and positions you for roles in complex, multi-sectoral public health initiatives, which are increasingly common in India.
Present and Publish Your Preliminary Findings- (undefined)
Actively participate in national and international conferences to present your preliminary research findings. Aim to publish review articles or initial data in peer-reviewed journals. This iterative process strengthens your research, builds your publication record, and gains valuable feedback.
Tools & Resources
Public Health conferences in India (e.g., PHFI, IPHA), Open access public health journals, Scientific writing workshops
Career Connection
Presenting and publishing early builds your academic profile, establishes you as a recognized expert, and significantly improves your chances for post-doctoral positions, research grants, and faculty roles.
Advanced Stage
Refine Thesis and Prepare for Viva-Voce- (undefined)
Dedicate focused effort to writing and refining your thesis, ensuring clarity, logical flow, and rigorous argumentation. Practice defending your research in mock viva sessions with peers and mentors to anticipate questions and hone your presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, Grammarly/Turnitin for plagiarism checks, Departmental pre-viva seminars
Career Connection
A meticulously prepared thesis and confident viva defense demonstrate your mastery of the subject and research capabilities, essential for academic and leadership roles in public health.
Strategize Post-PhD Career Paths- (undefined)
Begin networking with potential employers, research institutions, and policymakers well before thesis submission. Explore opportunities for post-doctoral fellowships, faculty positions, or roles in government and non-governmental organizations involved in public health in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional public health associations (e.g., IPHA), University career services
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and networking are critical for a smooth transition from academia to a fulfilling professional role, maximizing the impact of your PhD in the Indian public health sector.
Cultivate Grant Writing Skills- (undefined)
Engage in workshops or seek guidance to develop strong grant writing skills. This is essential for securing future funding for your research projects, allowing you to lead and sustain your public health research agenda independently.
Tools & Resources
ICMR funding calls, DST/DBT grant programs, International funding agency guidelines, Grant writing workshops
Career Connection
The ability to secure research grants is a highly valued skill for independent researchers and faculty members, demonstrating leadership and contributing to the advancement of public health knowledge and interventions in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree (MD/MS/MDS/MPH/M.Sc. in Public Health or allied health sciences) from RGUHS or any other university recognized as equivalent thereto, with a minimum of 55% marks in the qualifying examination. Must clear the RGUHS PhD Entrance Test or be exempted (e.g., UGC/CSIR NET/JRF, ICMR JRF, DBT JRF, DST-INSPIRE Fellowship).
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years
Credits: 12-16 (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20-30% (for coursework subjects), External: 70-80% (for coursework subjects, followed by Synopsis presentation, Pre-PhD colloquium, Thesis evaluation, and Viva-Voce)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHC101 | Research Methodology and Biostatistics | Core | 6 | Fundamentals of Research, Types of Study Designs, Sampling Techniques and Ethics, Data Collection and Measurement, Descriptive and Inferential Statistics, Hypothesis Testing and Regression Analysis |
| PHC102 | Advanced Epidemiology and Public Health | Core / Specialization Specific | 6 | Measures of Disease Occurrence, Advanced Epidemiological Study Designs, Bias, Confounding, and Effect Modification, Public Health Surveillance and Outbreak Investigation, Social Determinants of Health, Health Policy and Health Program Evaluation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHC201 | Specialty Specific Paper (Public Health) | Elective / Specialization Specific | 4 | Health Systems Research, Health Economics and Financing, Environmental and Occupational Health, Global Health Challenges and Responses, Health Communication and Promotion, Digital Health and Public Health Informatics |
