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PHD in Science Humanities at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Science & Humanities at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This PhD program in Science & Humanities at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on fostering interdisciplinary and specialized research across foundational sciences, social sciences, and humanities disciplines. It aims to cultivate critical thinking, rigorous methodology, and original contributions relevant to India''''s evolving academic and societal landscape, addressing diverse challenges from scientific breakthroughs to cultural studies. The program encourages scholars to delve deep into their chosen area while embracing the broader implications for Indian society and global knowledge.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s degree holders in science, social science, or humanities disciplines seeking to pursue advanced academic research. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring for research careers in academia or R&D, as well as working professionals looking to transition into research or enhance their credentials for senior academic roles in Indian universities. Candidates with a strong inclination for independent inquiry, critical analysis, and a commitment to contributing to existing knowledge are best suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as Assistant Professors, researchers in academic institutions, or scientists/experts in think tanks and research organizations across India. Entry-level salaries for PhD holders in academia in India typically range from INR 6-10 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential based on publications and experience. The program prepares scholars for leadership roles in research, policy analysis, and educational development, aligning with the growing demand for specialized knowledge in India''''s booming higher education and research sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with Research Methodology and Research & Publication Ethics coursework. Understand statistical tools, qualitative methods, and ethical guidelines. Participate in discussions, complete assignments diligently, and seek clarification on complex concepts early on. Attend workshops on research software like SPSS, R, NVivo.
Tools & Resources
Syllabus texts, library resources, online courses on NPTEL/Coursera for advanced statistics/qualitative methods, ethical guidelines from UGC/SRMIST
Career Connection
Strong methodological foundation is crucial for successful thesis work and enhances credibility for future academic/research roles, making your research impactful and ethically sound.
Identify and Refine Research Area- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with your supervisor, conduct extensive literature reviews beyond coursework, and explore interdisciplinary connections within Science & Humanities. Attend departmental seminars and initial research presentations to identify gaps and refine your specific research question. Start drafting a preliminary research proposal.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST Digital Library, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Zotero/Mendeley for reference management, supervisor consultations
Career Connection
A well-defined and original research area is foundational to completing a PhD efficiently and securing grants or post-doctoral positions aligned with your expertise.
Build a Strong Academic Network- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental activities, interact with senior PhD scholars and faculty members. Seek feedback on your initial ideas. Attend institutional research colloquiums and local conferences to understand diverse research ongoing within SRMIST and beyond. Join relevant student research groups.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, SRMIST research calendar, professional body student chapters (if applicable)
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to collaborations, provides mentorship, and can be vital for future academic appointments or research projects in India.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Advanced Subject Expertise- (Year 2-3)
Beyond coursework, delve into specialized readings, advanced workshops, and online courses relevant to your specific research domain. Aim to become a mini-expert in your niche. If possible, co-supervise minor projects for M.Sc/M.A students to deepen your understanding and leadership skills.
Tools & Resources
Advanced textbooks, research articles, specialized online courses (e.g., Coursera, edX), relevant professional body memberships
Career Connection
Deep expertise is essential for making original contributions, publishing in high-impact journals, and establishing yourself as an authority in your field, critical for securing faculty positions.
Engage in Early Publication and Presentations- (Year 2-3)
Transform your literature review or preliminary findings into review papers or small research articles for peer-reviewed journals. Present your work at national/international conferences. This helps in receiving feedback, improving writing skills, and building a publication record early.
Tools & Resources
Scopus/UGC CARE List for journal identification, conference proceedings, academic writing workshops
Career Connection
A strong publication record is paramount for securing post-doctoral fellowships, faculty positions, and demonstrating research productivity in the highly competitive Indian academic landscape.
Seek Research Funding and Grants- (Year 2-3)
Work with your supervisor to identify and apply for small research grants or travel grants offered by SRMIST, UGC, ICSSR, DST, or other Indian funding agencies. Learning grant writing is a crucial skill for independent research careers.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST Research Office, websites of UGC, ICSSR, DST, specific professional associations
Career Connection
Successfully securing grants demonstrates your ability to manage research projects independently, a key requirement for senior research and academic roles in India.
Advanced Stage
Intensify Thesis Writing & Defence Preparation- (Year 3-5)
Structure your thesis logically, focusing on clear argumentation, evidence, and original contribution. Regularly send chapters to your supervisor for feedback and integrate revisions promptly. Prepare meticulously for your comprehensive viva and pre-submission seminar, practicing presentations and anticipating questions.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, peer review with fellow scholars, presentation software, mock viva sessions
Career Connection
A well-written and successfully defended thesis is the ultimate output of your PhD, directly impacting your academic and research career prospects in India and globally.
Expand Professional Visibility & Impact- (Year 4-6)
Beyond thesis submission, aim for at least two high-quality publications from your thesis work. Create a professional academic profile (e.g., Google Scholar, ResearchGate) to showcase your work. Network proactively with potential employers/collaborators at national and international forums.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar profile, ResearchGate, LinkedIn, academic conferences, departmental alumni network
Career Connection
High visibility and impact increase your chances of securing desirable academic positions, post-doctoral opportunities, and research projects in India''''s competitive environment.
Prepare for Post-PhD Career Paths- (Year 4-6)
Attend career workshops, prepare an academic CV, teaching statement, and research statement. Explore post-doctoral opportunities, faculty positions, or industry research roles in India. Practice interview skills, tailoring your experience to specific job requirements.
Tools & Resources
SRMIST Career Services, online job portals for academia (e.g., Times Higher Education, individual university websites), mentorship from senior faculty
Career Connection
Strategic career planning ensures a smooth transition from PhD completion to a fulfilling and impactful professional role, leveraging your advanced research skills in India''''s diverse job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (M.Sc/M.A/M.Phil) in a relevant discipline with a minimum of 55% marks (or 50% for SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer). Must qualify in SRMIST Research Entrance Examination (SREE) or be exempted if UGC-NET/CSIR-NET/GATE/SLET qualified.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (Full-time), Minimum 4 years (Part-time), Maximum 6 years (Full-time), Maximum 7 years (Part-time)
Credits: 10-14 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDC001 | Research Methodology | Core (Compulsory) | 4 | Fundamentals of Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection and Analysis, Hypothesis Testing, Scientific Writing and Report Preparation |
| PHDRPE001 | Research and Publication Ethics | Core (Compulsory, as per UGC mandate) | 2 | Philosophy and Ethics, Scientific Conduct, Publication Ethics, Open Access Publishing, Research Misconduct |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDA0XX | Advanced Topics in Science/Humanities | Discipline-Specific Core/Elective | 4 | Review of Literature in Specific Domain, Advanced Concepts in Chosen Research Area, Current Trends in Science/Humanities, Specialized Tools and Techniques, Emerging Paradigms |
