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PHD in Humanities And Social Sciences 33 41 at Siksha 'O' Anusandhan
Khordha, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is Humanities and Social Sciences [33, 41] at Siksha 'O' Anusandhan Khordha?
This Humanities and Social Sciences PhD program at Siksha ''''O'''' Anusandhan focuses on advanced research across diverse disciplines like literature, linguistics, economics, psychology, sociology, and political science. It aims to foster critical thinking and scholarly inquiry into complex societal issues and cultural phenomena, aligning with India''''s evolving academic and policy landscape. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and rigorous methodological training.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in relevant disciplines, including arts, social sciences, and management, seeking to contribute original research. It attracts aspiring academics, researchers, policy analysts, and professionals looking to deepen their expertise. Candidates with a strong research aptitude and a desire to address real-world challenges in an Indian context are particularly well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers in academia as professors or post-doctoral researchers, in think tanks, government agencies, NGOs, or policy research roles. With strong analytical and research skills, they are highly valued in roles requiring critical insight. Typical entry-level salaries in research can range from INR 4-8 LPA, with significant growth potential in senior academic or research positions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Ethics- (Semester 1-2 (Coursework phase))
Rigorously engage with the mandatory coursework in Research Methodology and Research and Publication Ethics. Focus on understanding quantitative and qualitative research paradigms, statistical tools, data analysis software like R/SPSS, and ethical considerations for human subject research, crucial for social sciences.
Tools & Resources
SOA library resources, NPTEL courses on research methodology, Workshops on SPSS/R, Online ethics guidelines (UGC-CARE, ICMR)
Career Connection
A strong methodological foundation is essential for designing credible research, leading to high-quality publications and enhancing employability in research-intensive roles.
Identify and Refine Research Niche- (Semester 1-2 (Concurrent with coursework))
Actively work with your supervisor to identify a compelling and feasible research problem within Humanities and Social Sciences, ensuring it aligns with your interests and societal relevance in India. Conduct extensive literature reviews to pinpoint research gaps and formulate clear research questions.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, JSTOR, Specific disciplinary databases, EndNote/Mendeley for reference management
Career Connection
A well-defined research problem is the cornerstone of a successful PhD, paving the way for impactful contributions and academic recognition.
Engage with Scholarly Community- (Semester 1-2)
Attend departmental seminars, workshops, and national conferences in your chosen field. Present preliminary ideas or literature review findings to gather feedback from peers and experienced scholars. This helps build confidence and refine your academic communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Conference alert websites (e.g., academia.edu), Departmental notice boards, Supervisor recommendations
Career Connection
Networking and early scholarly engagement are vital for future collaborations, job opportunities, and establishing a professional profile.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Robust Data Collection and Analysis Skills- (Years 2-3)
Implement chosen research methodologies, which might involve designing surveys, conducting interviews, field observations, or textual analysis. For social sciences, focus on ethical data collection protocols. For humanities, hone critical interpretive and analytical skills for textual or archival data.
Tools & Resources
Qualtrics/SurveyMonkey, Interview guides, NVivo/Atlas.ti for qualitative analysis, Statistical software, Archival research techniques
Career Connection
Proficient data handling and analytical skills are highly sought after across research and data-driven industries.
Aim for Early Publication and Presentation- (Years 2-4)
Convert parts of your literature review, pilot study findings, or methodological chapters into publishable papers for peer-reviewed journals or presentations at reputed national/international conferences. This enhances your CV and helps solicit feedback.
Tools & Resources
Journal databases, Supervisor guidance, University writing centers, Academic editing services
Career Connection
Publications are critical for academic career progression and demonstrate your research capabilities to potential employers.
Build a Strong Academic Network- (Years 2-4)
Collaborate with fellow PhD scholars, actively participate in reading groups, and seek mentorship beyond your primary supervisor. Attend guest lectures and connect with visiting faculty or industry experts relevant to your research domain.
Tools & Resources
Professional academic organizations (e.g., Indian Council of Social Science Research), LinkedIn, Research forums
Career Connection
A robust network can lead to post-doctoral opportunities, collaborations, and job referrals.
Advanced Stage
Master Academic Writing and Thesis Structuring- (Years 4-5)
Dedicate significant time to writing and refining your thesis chapters. Focus on clear, concise, and scholarly language, logical flow of arguments, and adherence to academic conventions. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and incorporate revisions diligently.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, LaTeX/Word document formatting, Thesis writing workshops, Examples of successful dissertations
Career Connection
A well-written thesis is a testament to your research rigor, crucial for securing academic positions and further research grants.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Viva Voce- (Year 5 onwards)
Practice presenting your research findings concisely and effectively. Anticipate questions from the viva panel and prepare articulate answers. Understand the broader implications of your research and its contribution to your field.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with peers/mentors, Presentation software (PowerPoint/Keynote), Internal university guidelines for defense
Career Connection
A successful defense is the final step to earning your PhD and demonstrating your ability to articulate and defend complex research.
Strategic Career Planning and Job Search- (Year 5 onwards (concurrent with thesis submission))
Beyond thesis completion, actively prepare for the job market. Tailor your CV/resume, prepare teaching statements or research proposals, and practice for academic interviews. Explore diverse career paths including academic, research, policy, or editorial roles.
Tools & Resources
Career services department, Academic job boards (e.g., University Grants Commission (UGC) portal, individual university career pages), Networking
Career Connection
Proactive job searching and tailored application materials are crucial for successfully transitioning from doctoral studies into a professional career.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree or a professional degree declared equivalent to the Master''''s degree by the corresponding statutory regulatory body, with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade ''''B'''' in the UGC 7-point scale. A relaxation of 5% of marks (from 55% to 50%) or an equivalent relaxation of grade is allowed for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-abled, Economically Weaker Section (EWS) and other categories of candidates.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (full-time)
Credits: Minimum 8, Maximum 16 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (Continuous Evaluation 20%, Mid-Semester Evaluation 30%), External: 50% (End-Semester Examination)
