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PHD in Planning at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Planning at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi Delhi?
This PhD Planning program at School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi focuses on advanced research and critical inquiry into multifaceted challenges of urban and regional development in India. It aims to generate new knowledge and innovative solutions for sustainable planning practices, policy formulation, and governance frameworks, addressing the unique complexities of rapid urbanization and environmental concerns prevalent in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, seasoned planning professionals, government officials, and researchers who possess a Master’s degree in Planning or a related discipline. It caters to individuals committed to rigorous academic research, contributing to theoretical advancements, and influencing policy-making in urban, regional, and environmental planning within India and globally. A strong analytical and critical thinking aptitude is highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue impactful careers in academia as professors and researchers, or assume leadership roles in governmental organizations such as NITI Aayog, urban local bodies, and planning commissions. They are well-prepared for research positions in think tanks, international development agencies, and private planning consultancies. The program fosters critical thinking and advanced research skills, enabling graduates to significantly contribute to sustainable development and policy innovation in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Literature Review- (Year 1 (Semesters 1-2))
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative techniques relevant to urban and regional planning. Simultaneously, conduct an exhaustive literature review in your chosen specialization area to identify research gaps and establish a strong theoretical foundation for your thesis proposal.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Python (for data analysis), ArcGIS, QGIS (for spatial analysis), Mendeley, Zotero (for reference management), JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science (for literature search)
Career Connection
A robust methodological understanding is fundamental for any research career, ensuring the credibility and impact of your work, which is crucial for academic positions, policy research, and consulting.
Develop a Well-Structured Research Proposal- (Year 1 (Semesters 1-2))
Work closely with your supervisor to refine your research question, objectives, and methodology into a coherent and compelling research proposal. Attend departmental seminars and present your preliminary ideas to receive constructive feedback, ensuring your proposal is robust and feasible for the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Word, LaTeX (for proposal writing), Grammarly (for language refinement), Supervisor and Departmental Research Committee (DRC) for feedback
Career Connection
A strong proposal demonstrates your ability to conceptualize, plan, and articulate a research project, a vital skill for securing grants, leading research teams, and effective project management in your future career.
Network with Peers and Faculty- (Year 1 (Ongoing))
Actively participate in departmental activities, research colloquia, and informal discussions with fellow PhD scholars and faculty members. This fosters a supportive research environment, allows for sharing insights, and can lead to collaborative opportunities or interdisciplinary perspectives on your planning research.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, University research clubs, Informal peer groups
Career Connection
Building a strong academic and professional network is invaluable for future collaborations, mentorship, and identifying job opportunities within academia, government, or private sector planning firms.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Fieldwork and Data Collection- (Years 2-3)
For planning research, actively engage in fieldwork, surveys, and qualitative interviews within relevant Indian cities or regions. Meticulously collect primary and secondary data, ensuring ethical protocols are strictly followed and data quality is maintained for your analysis.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey, Google Forms (for online surveys), Voice recorders (for interviews), Statistical agencies like NSSO, Census of India (for secondary data)
Career Connection
Practical data collection experience is highly valued in research-oriented roles, allowing you to develop critical analytical and problem-solving skills directly applicable to real-world planning challenges.
Present at National/International Conferences- (Years 2-4)
Prepare and submit your preliminary research findings to national and, ideally, international conferences. Presenting your work allows you to receive feedback from a wider academic community, refine your arguments, and establish your presence in the planning research domain.
Tools & Resources
PowerPoint, Google Slides (for presentations), Conference proceedings journals, Travel grants and university funding for attendance
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance your communication skills, build your professional network, and are crucial for visibility in academia and research, paving the way for future collaborations and recognition.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Years 3-5)
Convert significant chapters or findings from your thesis into publishable articles for peer-reviewed academic journals, preferably Scopus or Web of Science indexed. This demonstrates your ability to produce high-quality, impactful research and contributes significantly to your academic CV.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms (e.g., Elsevier, Springer), University writing centers, Mentorship from supervisor for manuscript preparation
Career Connection
Journal publications are a cornerstone of academic and research careers, critical for promotions, funding applications, and establishing your expertise and reputation in the planning field.
Advanced Stage
Refine Thesis and Prepare for Pre-Synopsis Seminar- (Year 4-5)
Focus intensely on writing and refining your thesis chapters, ensuring logical flow, rigorous argumentation, and adherence to academic standards. Prepare thoroughly for your Pre-Synopsis Seminar, presenting your complete research and defending your findings before the Departmental Research Committee.
Tools & Resources
Thesis formatting guidelines from the School, Grammarly, academic proofreading services, Mock presentations with peers and supervisors
Career Connection
Successfully navigating the pre-synopsis stage signifies your readiness for thesis submission and defense, a major milestone directly impacting your timely graduation and subsequent career progression.
Engage in Professional Development and Leadership- (Years 4-6)
Seek opportunities to mentor junior PhD students, assist in teaching undergraduate/postgraduate courses, or take on leadership roles in student organizations. This develops teaching, leadership, and administrative skills essential for academic and higher-level research positions.
Tools & Resources
University teaching assistantships, Departmental committees, Leadership workshops
Career Connection
These experiences build a comprehensive profile beyond just research, making you a more attractive candidate for academic faculty positions, program management roles, and leadership roles in research institutions.
Prepare for Viva-Voce and Career Transition- (Year 5-6 (Final stages))
Systematically review your entire thesis, anticipating potential questions for the Viva-Voce examination. Concurrently, start networking proactively for post-PhD career opportunities, whether in academia, government, or private sector planning consultancies, leveraging your research expertise and network.
Tools & Resources
Previous Viva-Voce experiences of seniors, Career services center of the university, LinkedIn, professional networking events
Career Connection
A strong Viva-Voce defense culminates your PhD journey, while proactive career planning ensures a smooth and successful transition into a fulfilling professional role aligned with your advanced qualifications.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree in Planning, Architecture, or related fields (e.g., Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Geography, Economics, Sociology) with a minimum of 60% marks or 6.5 CGPA. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s Degree in Planning/Architecture/Civil Engineering with 5 years of professional experience, with minimum 60% marks or 6.5 CGPA. Applicants must qualify in an entrance examination and interview, with exemptions for UGC-NET/CSIR-JRF qualified candidates and other specific categories.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (including coursework)
Credits: Minimum 12 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
