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PH-D-LAW in Human Rights at Symbiosis Law School, Pune
Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Human Rights at Symbiosis Law School, Pune Pune?
This Human Rights specialization within the Ph.D. (Law) program at Symbiosis Law School, Pune focuses on advanced research into critical issues concerning human dignity and justice, both globally and within the Indian context. It delves into the legal, social, and political dimensions of human rights, fostering profound analytical skills. The program''''s interdisciplinary approach addresses the evolving landscape of rights, making it highly relevant to contemporary societal and legal challenges in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for legal scholars, academicians, policy analysts, and experienced practitioners in law and social sciences who possess a strong foundational understanding of human rights. It targets individuals holding an LL.M. or an equivalent Master''''s degree, keen on contributing original research to the field, impacting policy, and shaping legal discourse. Researchers seeking to advance human rights advocacy and education in India would find this program particularly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers, join national and international human rights organizations, or serve as legal advisors to governmental and non-governmental bodies in India. They can contribute to policy formulation, legal reform, and impact litigation. While salary ranges vary widely, professionals with a Ph.D. often command higher positions and competitive packages, especially in senior research or academic roles, typically starting from INR 8-15 lakhs annually depending on the sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Ethics- (Initial 1-2 Semesters (Coursework Phase))
Engage deeply with the compulsory coursework, particularly Research Methodology and Research & Publication Ethics. Focus on understanding diverse research paradigms, quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques, and ethical considerations crucial for legal and social science research. Develop a robust theoretical framework for your chosen human rights topic.
Tools & Resources
SIU Library resources, JSTOR, Manupatra, LexisNexis, Workshops on statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R)
Career Connection
A strong methodological foundation is critical for producing publishable research and excelling in academic or policy analysis roles, enabling evidence-based advocacy.
Develop a Rigorous Literature Review- (Initial 1-2 Semesters (Coursework Phase))
Dedicate significant time to conducting an exhaustive literature review on your chosen human rights research area. Identify key debates, theoretical gaps, and areas requiring fresh inquiry. This forms the bedrock of your research proposal and helps refine your research questions. Engage in critical reading and synthesis of scholarly works.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, University databases, Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero)
Career Connection
This skill is vital for academic writing, grant proposal development, and for establishing expertise in your specific human rights domain.
Craft a Compelling Research Proposal- (Initial 1-2 Semesters (Coursework Phase))
Work closely with your supervisor to develop a clear, concise, and impactful research proposal. Ensure it outlines a feasible research question, appropriate methodology, and potential contributions to the field of human rights law. Present your proposal in institutional review meetings for constructive feedback.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, Research proposal templates, Peer review groups, University research workshops
Career Connection
A well-articulated proposal showcases your research acumen, crucial for securing research grants, academic positions, and demonstrating leadership in research planning.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Fieldwork and Primary Data Collection- (Semesters 3-5 (Research Phase))
For empirical human rights research, plan and execute fieldwork, interviews, surveys, or case studies. Obtain necessary ethical clearances and ensure strict adherence to research ethics, especially when dealing with vulnerable populations or sensitive topics in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Interview guides, Survey software (Google Forms, SurveyMonkey), Voice recorders, Institutional Ethics Committee
Career Connection
Practical research experience is highly valued in human rights organizations, policy think tanks, and adds credibility to academic profiles.
Master Advanced Analytical Techniques- (Semesters 3-5 (Research Phase))
Apply appropriate qualitative or quantitative analysis techniques to your collected data. For qualitative data, consider thematic analysis, discourse analysis, or content analysis. For quantitative data, utilize statistical methods to draw meaningful conclusions relevant to human rights law.
Tools & Resources
NVivo, ATLAS.ti (for qualitative data), SPSS, R, Python (for quantitative data)
Career Connection
Strong analytical skills are indispensable for any research-intensive role, enabling you to interpret complex human rights issues and formulate evidence-based recommendations.
Present Research at Conferences and Workshops- (Semesters 3-5 (Research Phase))
Actively seek opportunities to present your ongoing research at national and international conferences, seminars, and workshops. This helps refine your arguments, receive peer feedback, and expand your academic network within the human rights community in India and abroad.
Tools & Resources
Call for papers databases (e.g., SSRN), Professional associations (e.g., Indian Society of International Law), University travel grants
Career Connection
Presenting builds confidence, enhances communication skills, and boosts your academic visibility, paving the way for collaborations and future career prospects.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Consistent Thesis Writing- (Semesters 6-8 (Thesis Writing Phase))
Establish a disciplined writing routine to consistently work on your thesis. Break down the daunting task into manageable sections and aim for regular progress. Seek continuous feedback from your supervisor and incorporate revisions diligently. Focus on clarity, coherence, and scholarly rigor.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing handbooks, Grammarly, Turnitin for plagiarism checks, Writing retreats, Supervisor feedback sessions
Career Connection
Completing a high-quality thesis is the primary output of a Ph.D. and a testament to your research capabilities, essential for all post-doctoral opportunities.
Engage in Peer Review and Mock Defense- (Semesters 6-8 (Thesis Writing & Pre-defense Phase))
Share drafts of your thesis chapters with peers or senior scholars for critical review. Organize a mock viva-voce session within your department to prepare for the final thesis defense. Practice articulating your research findings, methodology, and contributions clearly and concisely under scrutiny.
Tools & Resources
Peer group meetings, Departmental seminars, Faculty mentors beyond your supervisor
Career Connection
Effective communication and defense of your research are crucial skills for academic interviews, public speaking, and establishing your authority as an expert in human rights law.
Plan for Publication and Dissemination- (Semesters 6-8, extending beyond graduation (Publication Phase))
Identify suitable peer-reviewed journals for publishing sections of your thesis even before the final defense. Plan for dissemination of your research findings through articles, policy briefs, or presentations to relevant stakeholders and human rights advocacy groups in India.
Tools & Resources
Journal impact factor databases, Publication ethics guidelines, University publication support cells, Academic mentors
Career Connection
Publications enhance your academic CV significantly, open doors to post-doctoral fellowships, faculty positions, and increase the societal impact of your research in the human rights domain.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in Law (LL.M.) or equivalent with at least 55% aggregate marks (or equivalent grade B in UGC 7-point scale). A relaxation of 5% marks (from 55% to 50%) is allowed for SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/EWS/Differently-abled categories. Candidates who have cleared NET/SET/GATE/M.Phil. are exempt from the Entrance Test but must appear for the Personal Interview (PI) round.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (full-time), Maximum 6 years (full-time). Coursework typically completed within the first year/two semesters.
Credits: 14 (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50% (for coursework, with specific breakdown per course determined by faculty. Thesis evaluation is primarily external via viva-voce)
