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PHD in Commerce at St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur
Thrissur, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Commerce at St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur Thrissur?
This PhD in Commerce program at St. Thomas College, Thrissur, affiliated with the University of Calicut, focuses on developing advanced research capabilities in various domains of commerce. It emphasizes rigorous methodological training and in-depth exploration of contemporary business challenges and opportunities prevalent in the Indian economy. The program aims to foster critical thinking and scholarly contributions relevant to industry and academia.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong academic background in Commerce, MBA graduates, or M.Phil. holders aspiring for research careers in universities, think tanks, or corporate research divisions. It particularly suits those aiming to contribute new knowledge to areas like finance, marketing, human resources, and entrepreneurship in the Indian context.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue esteemed academic positions as professors and researchers in Indian universities and colleges. They can also secure roles as business analysts, economic consultants, or research heads in Indian corporates and government agencies, with potential salary ranges from INR 6-15 lakhs annually depending on experience and sector, offering significant growth trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly engage with the coursework on research methodology, focusing on statistical tools, software like SPSS or R, and ethical considerations. Practice writing research proposals and literature reviews early on.
Tools & Resources
SPSS software, R programming language, NPTEL courses on Research Methodology, University Library database access
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is critical for successful thesis completion and for any future role involving data analysis or research design.
Identify and Refine Research Area- (Semester 1-2)
Collaborate closely with your research supervisor to identify a specific, relevant, and impactful research problem within Commerce that aligns with your interests and societal needs. Conduct an extensive preliminary literature review.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science, University''''s digital library resources
Career Connection
A well-defined research problem forms the backbone of your PhD, enhancing your expertise and marketability in a niche area.
Develop Academic Writing Skills- (Throughout Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in workshops on academic writing, scientific paper presentation, and thesis structuring. Seek feedback on drafts of literature reviews and initial chapters from peers and mentors.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly (premium for academic features), Mendeley/Zotero for citation management, University''''s Writing Centre (if available)
Career Connection
Excellent academic writing is essential for publications, thesis submission, and future roles in academia or advanced research.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Interdisciplinary Learning- (Year 2-3)
Attend seminars and workshops from other departments or research centres that offer perspectives relevant to your Commerce research (e.g., Economics, Statistics, Psychology). This broadens your analytical framework.
Tools & Resources
University seminar schedules, Inter-departmental colloquia, Online courses on related subjects (e.g., Coursera, edX)
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary skills are highly valued in modern research, opening up diverse career opportunities and enriching your problem-solving approach.
Present at National/International Conferences- (Year 2 onwards)
Prepare and submit research papers to reputed national and international conferences. Presenting your work helps in gaining feedback, networking, and building your academic profile.
Tools & Resources
List of UGC-CARE approved journals/conferences, Conference alerts websites, Departmental funding for travel
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance your visibility, communication skills, and build a network vital for future collaborations and job opportunities.
Pursue Research Internships/Collaborations- (Year 2-3)
Explore short-term research internships at research institutions, policy think tanks, or corporate R&D divisions in India. Collaborate with fellow researchers or faculty on ongoing projects.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for research opportunities, University career services, Networking with faculty
Career Connection
Practical research experience strengthens your resume for both academic and industry roles, providing exposure to real-world applications of your research.
Advanced Stage
Target High-Quality Publications- (Year 3-5)
Strategically aim for publications in UGC-CARE listed journals or peer-reviewed international journals. Focus on quality, rigor, and originality to ensure your work has significant impact.
Tools & Resources
Journal Finder tools, University''''s research support cell, Experienced faculty mentors
Career Connection
High-impact publications are crucial for securing academic positions, promotions, and establishing your credibility as a researcher.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Thesis Defense- (Final Year (Year 4-5))
Engage in multiple mock viva sessions with your supervisor and departmental committee. Practice articulating your research contribution, methodology, and findings clearly and concisely.
Tools & Resources
Previous PhD thesis examples, Departmental guidelines for viva voce, Feedback from mock sessions
Career Connection
A strong defense demonstrates your mastery of the subject and research process, which is vital for any professional research role.
Network for Post-Doctoral/Career Opportunities- (Final Year (Year 4-5))
Actively network with faculty, industry leaders, and alumni. Explore post-doctoral fellowships, faculty positions, or specialized research roles in relevant organizations in India and abroad.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations in Commerce (e.g., ICAI, FICCI), Academic job portals, University alumni network
Career Connection
Effective networking can open doors to diverse career paths, mentorship opportunities, and future collaborations, providing a smooth transition post-PhD.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (M.Phil./M.Com/M.B.A. or equivalent) with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade ''''B'''' in the UGC 7-point scale. A relaxation of 5% marks (from 55% to 50%) is allowed for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-Abled candidates as per University norms.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (full-time research program). Coursework is typically 1 semester duration.
Credits: Minimum 12 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDCMCR01 | Research Methodology and Computer Applications | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research and Research Process, Types of Research and Research Design, Data Collection Methods and Instruments, Sampling Design and Techniques, Data Analysis Techniques (Descriptive and Inferential), Hypothesis Testing and Interpretation, Computer Applications in Research (SPSS, Excel), Research Report Writing and Ethics |
| PHDCMCR02 | Advanced Research in Commerce | Core | 4 | Contemporary Issues in Finance, Advanced Marketing Research, Emerging Paradigms in Human Resource Management, International Business Environment and Research, Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility, Accounting Theory and Practice, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Studies |
| PHDCMCR03 | Elective Paper | Elective | 4 | Behavioral Finance and Investment Strategies, Digital Marketing and Consumer Analytics, Organizational Behavior and Change Management, Supply Chain Analytics and Logistics, Financial Technology (FinTech) and its Applications, Rural Marketing and Sustainable Business Practices |
