PHD in Management Studies at Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology
East Sikkim, Sikkim
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About the Specialization
What is Management Studies at Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology East Sikkim?
This PhD in Management Studies program at Sikkim Manipal Institute of Technology focuses on fostering advanced research capabilities in various management disciplines. It aims to address critical business challenges, contribute significantly to academic and industry knowledge, and promote ethical research practices relevant to India''''s evolving economic landscape. The program emphasizes rigorous analytical and theoretical foundations.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academic scholars, experienced industry professionals, and university faculty members seeking to delve deeply into management theory and practice through rigorous independent research. It attracts individuals holding a Master''''s degree in Management or allied fields, who aspire to generate original knowledge, solve complex organizational problems, or advance their careers in academia, policy-making, and high-level consulting.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to emerge as accomplished researchers, thought leaders, university professors, or senior research scientists in India and globally. They will be equipped with advanced skills to conceptualize, design, and execute independent research, driving innovation and evidence-based decision-making. Career paths include prestigious faculty positions in Indian business schools, roles in government think tanks, and leadership in corporate research and development divisions, offering substantial growth and impact.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Core- (Semester 1)
Dedicate the initial semester to thoroughly understanding research methodologies, quantitative techniques, and relevant software. Actively participate in coursework, engage in discussions, and complete assignments diligently to build a strong theoretical and practical base essential for future research endeavors.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R, Python (for data analysis), Leading management research papers, SMU/SMIT library databases, Online courses on research design
Career Connection
A solid methodological foundation is paramount for conducting credible research, which is a key requirement for academic positions and roles in advanced analytics or market research upon graduation.
Identify Research Area and Potential Supervisor- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with faculty, attend department seminars, and read extensively across diverse management domains to identify a potential research area that aligns with your interests and the expertise of available faculty. Initiate discussions with potential supervisors early to define a feasible and impactful research problem statement.
Tools & Resources
SMIT faculty profiles, Departmental research publications, Literature review databases (Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar), Department research forums
Career Connection
Early identification of a well-defined research area and establishing a strong supervisory relationship significantly accelerates thesis completion and enhances the research''''s impact, improving future job prospects.
Develop Strong Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Begin refining academic writing skills early by practicing literature reviews, critical analyses, and proposal writing. Proactively seek constructive feedback from peers and supervisors, focusing on enhancing clarity, coherence, and strict adherence to established academic writing conventions and ethical guidelines.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, Academic writing workshops, Specific style guides (e.g., APA, Chicago), Peer review groups
Career Connection
Effective academic writing is a fundamental skill for successfully publishing research, which is an essential requirement for academic career progression and gaining recognition within the broader research community.
Intermediate Stage
Conduct Comprehensive Literature Review- (Semester 3-4)
Systematically review existing academic literature rigorously related to your chosen research topic. Identify critical gaps, ongoing debates, and foundational theoretical frameworks to establish the intellectual context and unique contribution of your research. Document all findings meticulously and build a robust, well-organized bibliography.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (EBSCO, Jstor, ProQuest), Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Academic search engines, Critical review templates
Career Connection
A well-structured and comprehensive literature review demonstrates scholarly rigor, which is crucial for a successful thesis defense and for effectively positioning your research within the broader academic discourse, significantly enhancing your academic credibility.
Present Research at Conferences and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to present preliminary research findings or comprehensive literature reviews at departmental seminars, national workshops, and early-stage PhD conferences. Utilize the feedback received to continuously refine your research design, methodology, and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Call for papers from IIMs, universities, professional bodies (AIMA, NIPM), Presentation software (PowerPoint, Prezi), Networking events and academic forums
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences is vital for building your academic network, increasing your research''''s visibility, and gaining valuable feedback, all of which are essential for future collaborations and securing academic positions in India.
Engage in Ethical Data Collection and Analysis- (Semester 4-5)
Develop and execute a robust data collection strategy, whether qualitative or quantitative, that is highly relevant to your specific research question. Learn and apply appropriate statistical or qualitative analysis techniques. Ensure all ethical considerations are met, including securing necessary approvals, throughout the entire data collection and analysis process.
Tools & Resources
Survey platforms (Google Forms, Qualtrics), Interview guides and transcription services, Statistical software (SPSS, R, Stata), Qualitative analysis software (NVivo, ATLAS.ti), Institutional Ethics Review Board guidelines
Career Connection
Proficiency in ethical data collection and rigorous analysis makes you a highly valuable and sought-after researcher, particularly by academic institutions, specialized research firms, and consulting organizations looking for data-driven insights.
Advanced Stage
Aim for High-Quality Journal Publications- (Semester 6-7)
Strategically transform your research chapters into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals. Collaborate closely with your supervisor on publications, targeting journals listed in UGC CARE or other reputable international databases. Achieving publications is often a crucial prerequisite for thesis submission and a significant career enhancer.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE list (Consortium for Academic Research Ethics), Specific journal submission guidelines, Academic editing services, Collaboration and co-authoring tools
Career Connection
Publications in highly reputable journals are critical for securing esteemed faculty positions in top Indian universities, improving eligibility for research grants, and firmly establishing your reputation as an expert in your specialized field.
Prepare Thoroughly for Thesis Defense and Viva-Voce- (Semester 7-8)
Systematically prepare for the final thesis defense by thoroughly reviewing your entire research work, anticipating potential questions from the examination committee, and practicing your presentation extensively. Actively seek mock viva sessions with your supervisor and academic peers to build confidence, refine your responses, and address any weaknesses.
Tools & Resources
Institutional thesis defense guidelines, Examples of past successful thesis defense presentations, Mock viva panels and practice sessions, Presentation skills workshops
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the culmination of your PhD journey, leading directly to the formal conferral of your degree and enabling you to apply for advanced academic and research leadership roles.
Network Strategically and Explore Career Opportunities- (Semester 7-8 and beyond)
Actively attend academic job fairs, connect with faculty members from other institutions, and thoroughly explore post-doctoral or faculty positions both within India and internationally. Leverage your research network, supervisor''''s guidance, and alumni connections to strategically identify and apply for roles that precisely align with your expertise and long-term career aspirations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, Academic job portals (university recruitment sites), Professional associations (e.g., AIMA, NIPM), Career counseling services, alumni network platforms
Career Connection
Proactive networking and highly targeted applications significantly enhance your chances of securing a desirable academic, research, or consulting position in the highly competitive Indian and global job markets post-PhD.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., MBA, M.Com, MHRM) with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-Abled candidates), or an M.Phil. degree with at least 55% marks from a recognized university.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years
Credits: Minimum 12 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified