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PH-D-ARTS in Sociology at Shree V. D. Kankiya Arts & Smt. M. R. Sanghvi Commerce College
Amreli, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Sociology at Shree V. D. Kankiya Arts & Smt. M. R. Sanghvi Commerce College Amreli?
This Ph.D. in Sociology program at Shree V. D. Kankiya Arts And Srimati M. R. Sanghvi Commerce College focuses on advanced theoretical and empirical research in social structures, processes, and issues. The program emphasizes critical analysis of societal dynamics, drawing heavily on Indian sociological thought and contemporary global perspectives. It prepares scholars to contribute original knowledge to the field, addressing the evolving socio-economic landscape of India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in Sociology or related disciplines who possess a strong academic record and a keen interest in conducting rigorous research. It suits individuals aspiring for academic careers, policy analysis, or research positions in NGOs, government, and social development sectors. Candidates should be self-driven, analytical, and committed to scholarly inquiry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can become independent researchers, university professors, social scientists, and consultants in India. The program equips them with advanced methodologies, critical thinking, and the ability to contribute to public discourse. Career paths include roles in central and state universities, research institutes, think tanks, and social impact organizations, offering competitive salary prospects.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Theoretical Foundations- (Ph.D. Year 1 (Coursework Semester))
Diligently engage with the Ph.D. coursework, especially Research Methodology and Advanced Trends in Sociology. Attend all lectures, participate in discussions, and complete assignments with a focus on understanding the nuances of quantitative and qualitative research designs and core sociological theories.
Tools & Resources
Saurashtra University library resources, J-STOR, Google Scholar, NPTEL lectures on research methods, SPSS/R for basic data analysis, peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong grasp of methodology and theory is fundamental for successful thesis completion and will be crucial for any future academic or research role. It builds the analytical rigor required for impactful publications.
Identify and Refine Research Problem- (Ph.D. Year 1 (Post-Coursework to end of Year 1))
Actively work with your supervisor to identify a relevant, significant, and feasible research problem within Sociology, particularly one with an Indian context. Conduct an exhaustive literature review, present initial ideas in seminars, and systematically refine your research questions and objectives.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (Scopus, Web of Science, UGC-CARE list), Mendeley/Zotero for reference management, college research center workshops on proposal writing, supervisor consultations
Career Connection
A well-defined research problem is the cornerstone of a successful Ph.D. and demonstrates capacity for independent academic inquiry, a key skill for research and faculty positions.
Cultivate Critical Reading and Writing Skills- (Ph.D. Year 1-2)
Regularly read academic journals, books, and theses related to your area of interest. Practice summarizing, critiquing, and synthesizing information. Start writing small research notes, review articles, or concept papers to develop clarity and precision in academic writing.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing workshops, online guides (e.g., Purdue OWL), feedback from supervisor and peers, reading groups within the department
Career Connection
Strong academic writing is indispensable for publishing in reputable journals, presenting at conferences, and effectively communicating complex research findings, all vital for an academic career.
Intermediate Stage
Implement Robust Data Collection Strategies- (Ph.D. Year 2)
Based on your approved research proposal, meticulously plan and execute your data collection phase. This involves designing appropriate research instruments, obtaining ethical clearances, conducting fieldwork in the chosen Indian context, and managing your data systematically.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey/Google Forms, voice recorders, qualitative data analysis software (NVivo/ATLAS.ti for qualitative), statistical software (SPSS/R/Stata for quantitative), ethical review board guidelines
Career Connection
Proficiency in data collection showcases practical research skills, which are highly valued in both academic and applied research settings, particularly in government and non-profit sectors in India.
Master Data Analysis and Interpretation- (Ph.D. Year 2-3)
Proficiently analyze your collected data using appropriate qualitative or quantitative methods. Focus on interpreting findings in relation to your research questions and existing literature, paying close attention to the Indian context of your study.
Tools & Resources
Advanced training in SPSS, R, Python (for data science aspects), qualitative software, workshops on statistical inference or thematic analysis, consultation with methodologists
Career Connection
Strong analytical skills are critical for generating credible research outcomes and are highly sought after by research organizations, think tanks, and policy bodies.
Engage in Departmental Seminars & Peer Review- (Ph.D. Year 2-3)
Regularly present your ongoing research findings in departmental seminars or workshops. Actively participate in peer review sessions, providing and receiving constructive feedback. This helps refine your arguments and identify potential weaknesses in your methodology or interpretations.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar series, research colloquia, university-level Ph.D. forums
Career Connection
Presenting your work enhances communication skills and provides valuable networking opportunities with senior scholars, aiding future collaborations and job prospects in academia.
Advanced Stage
Systematically Write and Structure Your Thesis- (Ph.D. Year 3-4)
Dedicate substantial time to writing your thesis chapter by chapter, ensuring logical flow, coherent arguments, and adherence to academic standards. Focus on presenting your research findings, analysis, discussion, and conclusion in a compelling narrative.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/Word document formatting tools, grammar and plagiarism checkers (Grammarly, Turnitin), style guides (APA, MLA, Chicago, etc., as per university/discipline)
Career Connection
A well-written, rigorous thesis is the ultimate output of a Ph.D. and a testament to your capability as an independent researcher, directly impacting your chances of securing academic or research positions.
Publish Research Papers in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Ph.D. Year 3-5)
Convert significant chapters or findings from your thesis into publishable articles. Target UGC-CARE listed journals in India or reputable international journals. This process involves manuscript preparation, submission, revision based on peer feedback, and eventual publication.
Tools & Resources
Journal finders (Elsevier Journal Finder), academic writing centers, guidance from supervisor on target journals, ORCID profile
Career Connection
Publications are a critical metric for academic success and significantly boost your CV for faculty positions, post-doctoral fellowships, and grant applications in India.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Career Transition- (Ph.D. Year 4-6)
Thoroughly prepare for your viva voce (thesis defense) by anticipating questions, practicing your presentation, and being ready to articulate your contributions. Simultaneously, begin preparing your CV, cover letters, and teaching philosophy statements for academic job applications or exploring research opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with supervisor and committee members, career services workshops, professional networking platforms (LinkedIn, ResearchGate)
Career Connection
A successful defense is the final academic hurdle. Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition into a desired professional role, whether in academia, policy, or social research sectors in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Sociology or a related discipline with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved categories) from a recognized university, and successful completion of the Ph.D. Entrance Test (PET) conducted by Saurashtra University or UGC/CSIR-NET/SLET/SET qualified.
Duration: Coursework: 1 Semester (part of a 3-6 year Ph.D. program)
Credits: 16 (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (for theory papers), External: 70% (for theory papers, plus 100% for Practical/Viva components)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDSOC101 | Research Methodology and Computer Application | Core | 4 | Introduction to Social Research, Research Design, Data Collection and Processing, Computer Application in Social Research, Research Report Writing |
| PHDSOC102 | Advance Trends in Sociology | Core | 4 | Classical Sociological Theories, Contemporary Sociological Theories, Emerging Areas in Sociology, Indian Sociological Thought, Social Issues and Development |
| PHDSOC103A | Review of Literature | Project/Seminar | 4 | Identification of Relevant Literature, Critical Evaluation of Sources, Gap Identification, Structuring Literature Review, Literature Review Report Writing |
| PHDSOC103B | Seminar and Research Problem | Project/Seminar | 4 | Formulating Research Questions, Developing Research Objectives, Research Proposal Development, Presentation Skills, Ethical Considerations in Research |
