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PHD-HOME-SCIENCE in Family Resource Management at Sardar Patel University

Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar, is a premier autonomous state university established in 1955 in Gujarat. Recognized for its academic strength and research focus, SPU offers over 250 diverse undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. The expansive 86-acre campus fosters a vibrant learning environment.

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location

Anand, Gujarat

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About the Specialization

What is Family Resource Management at Sardar Patel University Anand?

This Family Resource Management program at Sardar Patel University focuses on optimizing familial and societal resources for improved well-being and sustainable living. It delves into strategic planning, decision-making, and resource allocation, highly relevant in India''''s diverse socio-economic landscape. The program uniquely blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications pertinent to contemporary Indian households and communities, addressing evolving challenges in resource utilization.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for postgraduate students in Home Science or related fields seeking advanced research careers in family welfare, resource planning, or consumer studies. It also suits professionals working with NGOs, government agencies, or community development projects who wish to deepen their analytical and research capabilities. Individuals passionate about contributing to policy-making and sustainable family ecosystems in India will find this specialization enriching.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as researchers, consultants, policy analysts, or educators in family resource management. In India, opportunities exist in academic institutions, social welfare organizations, and consumer protection bodies. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 4-6 lakhs annually, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 10-20 lakhs. The program prepares individuals to drive significant social impact and policy changes.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Research Methodology- (Semester 1-2 (PhD Coursework & Initial Literature Review))

Actively engage in coursework, focusing on quantitative and qualitative research designs, statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), and ethical considerations. Participate in workshops on academic writing and citation management tools like Mendeley or Zotero. This builds a strong foundation essential for rigorous thesis development and future academic publications.

Tools & Resources

SPSS, R statistical software, Mendeley, Zotero, University Library Resources

Career Connection

A strong grasp of research methods is critical for conducting credible research, a cornerstone for academic and professional roles in any research-oriented field.

Extensive Literature Review & Gap Identification- (Semester 1-2 (PhD Coursework & Initial Literature Review))

Beyond coursework, diligently read relevant national and international research papers, journals, and reports in Family Resource Management. Systematically identify research gaps specific to the Indian context. Utilize university library databases, Google Scholar, and Shodhganga to explore existing work, aiding in the formulation of a unique and impactful research problem.

Tools & Resources

Sardar Patel University Library Database, Google Scholar, Shodhganga, JSTOR, ResearchGate

Career Connection

Identifying research gaps demonstrates critical thinking and the ability to contribute original knowledge, highly valued in academic research and policy formulation.

Cultivate Faculty Mentorship- (Semester 1-2 (PhD Coursework & Initial Literature Review))

Proactively seek guidance from your supervisor and other faculty members. Regularly discuss research ideas, challenges, and progress. Attend departmental seminars and present preliminary findings. This early engagement helps in refining your research direction, understanding academic expectations, and developing effective communication skills crucial for a successful PhD journey.

Tools & Resources

Faculty office hours, Departmental seminars, Research discussion forums

Career Connection

Strong mentorship leads to well-guided research, networking opportunities, and a better understanding of academic career paths and expectations.

Intermediate Stage

Ethical Data Collection & Fieldwork Expertise- (Semesters 3-5 (Data Collection & Analysis))

Develop and strictly adhere to ethical protocols for data collection, especially when working with human subjects in family settings. Gain proficiency in various data collection methods relevant to social sciences, such as surveys, interviews, and focus groups. Hands-on experience in fieldwork, potentially in rural or urban Indian communities, will enhance practical research skills and contextual understanding.

Tools & Resources

SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, Interview transcripts, Ethical review board guidelines

Career Connection

Proficiency in ethical data collection is vital for all research roles, ensuring valid and responsible findings, and is a prerequisite for most research-based jobs.

Advanced Statistical & Qualitative Analysis- (Semesters 3-5 (Data Collection & Analysis))

Deepen your skills in data analysis, moving beyond basic statistics to advanced techniques relevant to your research questions, using software like SPSS, NVivo, or Atlas.ti. Participate in specialized workshops. This ensures robust interpretation of findings, critical for drawing meaningful conclusions and making evidence-based recommendations in Family Resource Management.

Tools & Resources

SPSS, NVivo, Atlas.ti, University data analysis workshops

Career Connection

Advanced analytical skills are highly sought after in research, consulting, and policy analysis, enabling graduates to derive insights from complex datasets and drive evidence-based decisions.

Active Participation in Conferences & Workshops- (Semesters 3-5 (Data Collection & Analysis))

Present your research progress at national and regional conferences focused on Home Science, Family Studies, or Social Sciences. Attend workshops on advanced research techniques or specialized areas within Family Resource Management. This provides valuable feedback, networking opportunities with peers and experts, and hones presentation skills, crucial for academic visibility.

Tools & Resources

Conference websites (e.g., Indian Home Science Association), Departmental notice boards, Professional association memberships

Career Connection

Presenting at conferences builds a professional network, gains visibility for your research, and refines communication skills essential for academic and leadership roles.

Advanced Stage

Structured Thesis Writing & Revision- (Semesters 6-8 (Thesis Writing & Dissemination))

Systematically write your thesis, focusing on clear articulation of research questions, methodology, findings, and discussions. Adhere to academic writing standards and institutional guidelines. Engage in multiple rounds of self-revision and incorporate feedback from your supervisor and thesis committee to produce a high-quality, impactful dissertation.

Tools & Resources

Grammarly, Turnitin (for plagiarism checks), University thesis guidelines, Reference management software

Career Connection

A well-written, impactful thesis is the pinnacle of PhD work, opening doors to academic positions, research grants, and high-level policy roles.

Strategic Publication & Dissemination- (Semesters 6-8 (Thesis Writing & Dissemination))

Aim to publish parts of your thesis findings in reputable peer-reviewed national and international journals before or after your defense. Prepare research summaries and policy briefs for wider dissemination. This enhances your academic profile, contributes to the body of knowledge in Family Resource Management, and increases the impact of your research.

Tools & Resources

UGC Care List journals, Peer-reviewed academic journals in Home Science/Social Sciences, University''''s research repository

Career Connection

Publications are crucial for academic career advancement, demonstrating research productivity and intellectual contribution, and can lead to invitations for collaborations and expert panels.

Career Planning & Professional Networking- (Semesters 6-8 (Thesis Writing & Dissemination))

Alongside thesis completion, actively explore post-PhD career opportunities in academia, research institutions, NGOs, or government sectors. Network with senior researchers, potential employers, and alumni. Develop a strong academic CV and teaching portfolio, preparing for viva voce and future professional roles.

Tools & Resources

LinkedIn, University Career Services, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Academy of Social Sciences), Job portals (e.g., Naukri, HigherEdJobs)

Career Connection

Proactive career planning and networking translate into successful transitions post-PhD, securing desirable positions in research, teaching, or leadership roles.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • Master’s degree or equivalent with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled) or an equivalent grade from a recognized university.

Duration: 1 semester (for coursework only); overall PhD typically 3-5 years

Credits: 8 (for coursework) Credits

Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
Paper IResearch MethodologyCore4Introduction to Research & Scientific Method, Types of Research, Research Design & Sampling, Tools & Techniques of Data Collection, Statistical Tools & Computer Application in Research, Report Writing
Paper IIAdvanced Subject in Home Science (Family Resource Management)Core (Specialization Specific)4Family Resource Management - Concepts & Issues, Family Financial Management & Budgeting, Work-Family Dynamics & Gender Roles, Decision Making & Leadership in Families, Housing & Environmental Management, Consumer Protection & Rights
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