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PHD-POLITICAL-SCIENCE in General at Sardar Patel University
Anand, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is General at Sardar Patel University Anand?
This PhD Political Science program at Sardar Patel University focuses on advanced research in political theories, comparative politics, public administration, international relations, and Indian politics. It emphasizes rigorous methodological training and critical analysis of political phenomena relevant to contemporary Indian governance and global dynamics. The program aims to cultivate independent researchers capable of contributing significantly to academic discourse and policy-making in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in Political Science or allied fields seeking to pursue a career in academia, policy research, or think tanks in India. It also suits professionals in government, NGOs, or international organizations looking to deepen their theoretical and analytical understanding of political processes. Candidates with a strong research aptitude and a desire to contribute original scholarship are best suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, research fellows, policy analysts for government bodies or research institutions, and consultants for political organizations. In India, there is a consistent demand for experts in governance and policy. Successful candidates often publish in reputed journals, contributing to scholarly development and influencing public discourse.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Academic Writing- (First 1-2 Semesters (during and immediately after coursework))
Actively engage in coursework for Research Methodology, focusing on both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Regularly attend workshops on research ethics, literature review, and academic writing to build a strong theoretical and practical foundation.
Tools & Resources
UGC Care List journals, Mendeley/Zotero, SPU Library resources, Academic writing guides
Career Connection
Strong methodological understanding is the bedrock of credible research, essential for publishing in peer-reviewed journals and securing research positions in India.
Develop a Strong Research Proposal- (First year post-coursework)
Work closely with your supervisor to refine your research topic, formulate clear research questions, and outline a robust methodological framework. Regularly read seminal works and contemporary research in your chosen area to inform your proposal.
Tools & Resources
SPU faculty expertise, JSTOR, Project Muse, SPU e-resources, PhD thesis guides
Career Connection
A well-defined proposal leads to focused research, higher chances of successful completion, and attracting potential funding or collaborations in your field.
Engage with Peer Research & Academic Discussions- (Throughout the program, especially post-coursework)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, research colloquia, and student presentations. Offer constructive feedback on others'''' work and seek input on your own research from peers and faculty members.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar series, SPU research groups, Relevant academic forums
Career Connection
Builds critical thinking, presentation skills, and expands your academic network, which is crucial for future academic positions and collaborations in India.
Intermediate Stage
Execute Robust Data Collection and Fieldwork- (Years 2-3 of the program)
Systematically plan and carry out primary and/or secondary data collection for your research. If fieldwork is involved, ensure all ethical clearances are obtained and build rapport with study populations or institutions. Maintain meticulous records of all data.
Tools & Resources
Survey tools (Google Forms, Qualtrics), Interview guides, Archival research resources, Government data portals (e.g., Census of India, PRS Legislative Research)
Career Connection
Develops practical, hands-on research skills highly valued by research organizations, think tanks, and policy analysis roles across India.
Master Advanced Data Analysis Techniques- (Years 2-4 of the program)
Proficiently apply chosen analytical methods, whether statistical software for quantitative data or thematic/discourse analysis for qualitative data, to effectively interpret your findings. Seek expert consultation from faculty statisticians or methodologists when needed.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Python (for quantitative analysis), NVivo, ATLAS.ti (for qualitative analysis), SPU faculty statisticians
Career Connection
Enhances analytical capabilities, making graduates competitive for data-intensive research and evidence-based policy roles in India.
Present Research at Conferences & Workshops- (Years 3-5 of the program)
Prepare and submit research papers to national and international conferences. Present your ongoing work, receive critical feedback from experts, and network with scholars in your field, particularly those focusing on India-specific issues.
Tools & Resources
SPU research grants for conference travel, Indian Political Science Association, Academic conference databases
Career Connection
Builds essential presentation skills, establishes your scholarly reputation, and opens doors for post-doctoral opportunities or academic positions.
Advanced Stage
Focus on High-Quality Thesis Writing and Revision- (Years 4-6 of the program)
Dedicate focused time to writing your thesis, chapter by chapter, ensuring logical flow, coherent arguments, and strict adherence to academic standards. Engage in multiple rounds of revision based on detailed supervisor feedback.
Tools & Resources
SPU thesis guidelines, Grammarly Premium, Peer review groups, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
A well-written, impactful thesis is crucial for academic career progression and demonstrates your capacity for independent, rigorous scholarship.
Prepare for Thesis Defense (Viva Voce)- (Final 6-12 months of the program)
Thoroughly review your entire thesis, anticipate potential questions from examiners, and practice explaining your research, methodology, and findings clearly and concisely. Seek mock viva sessions from senior scholars in your department.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, Previous viva reports (if accessible), Departmental mock sessions
Career Connection
Success in the viva voce marks the culmination of your PhD journey and signifies your readiness for independent academic work and leadership.
Strategize for Post-PhD Career and Publications- (Final year and post-PhD)
Identify target academic journals for publishing thesis chapters or derived articles. Network proactively with potential employers in academia, research institutions, or policy think tanks. Prepare a strong CV and a clear teaching philosophy statement.
Tools & Resources
SPU Career Services (if applicable for PhDs), Academic job portals (e.g., Current Science, Sci-Dev.Net for India), Research grants for early career researchers
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and early publication efforts significantly enhance employability and visibility in the competitive Indian academic and research landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (P.G. Degree) with minimum 55% marks (or equivalent grade B in UGC 7-point scale), or M.Phil. degree. A relaxation of 5% of marks is allowed for candidates belonging to SC/ST/SEBC/Differently-abled categories as per UGC norms.
Duration: Minimum 2 years (for M.Phil. holders) / 3 years (for others), maximum 6 years. Coursework duration: 1 semester (6 months).
Credits: 12 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
