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PH-D-LAW in Law Development And Economics at Symbiosis Law School, Pune
Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Law, Development and Economics at Symbiosis Law School, Pune Pune?
This ''''Law, Development and Economics'''' Ph.D. program at Symbiosis Law School, Pune, focuses on the intricate interplay between legal systems, economic policies, and societal development, with a keen emphasis on the Indian context. It delves into how legal frameworks influence economic growth, poverty alleviation, and sustainable development. The program distinguishes itself by fostering interdisciplinary research at the intersection of these vital fields, addressing complex challenges faced by India and the global South. It is designed to cultivate rigorous academic inquiry into contemporary socio-economic legal issues.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for legal professionals, economists, and social science researchers holding a Master''''s degree, seeking to conduct in-depth doctoral research at the convergence of law, economics, and development. It targets individuals passionate about policy analysis, legal reforms, and contributing to scholarly discourse and practical solutions for developmental challenges in India. Aspiring academics, policy advisors, and researchers working with NGOs or international organizations focused on development will find this specialization particularly rewarding, provided they possess strong analytical and research skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to emerge as leading experts in the niche field of Law, Development and Economics. Career paths often include roles in academia as professors or research fellows, positions in think tanks, legal policy advisory roles for government bodies or international organizations like the World Bank and UN agencies, and consultancies specializing in socio-economic development. In India, demand is growing for such expertise in various ministries, regulatory bodies, and development agencies. Entry-level doctoral salaries for researchers in India typically range from INR 6-12 LPA, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals in policy and academia.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Legal Theory- (Semester 1-2 (Coursework Phase))
Thoroughly engage with coursework on research methodology and legal theory. Focus on understanding diverse research paradigms, quantitative and qualitative methods, and foundational legal philosophies. Attend workshops on research software (e.g., SPSS, NVivo) and academic writing to build a strong base.
Tools & Resources
SIU Library E-resources, Academic writing workshops, Statistical software tutorials, Leading journals in legal theory and research methods
Career Connection
A robust methodological foundation is crucial for credible doctoral research, enabling future roles in academic research, policy analysis, and evidence-based legal advocacy.
Deep Dive into Specialization Literature- (Semester 1-2 (Coursework Phase and early research conceptualization))
Beyond coursework, extensively read scholarly articles, books, and policy papers at the intersection of law, development, and economics. Identify key debates, theoretical frameworks, and research gaps. Start formulating potential research questions that align with current Indian developmental challenges.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, HeinOnline, SSRN, World Bank publications, RBI reports, Economic Survey of India
Career Connection
Developing deep domain knowledge early on is essential for crafting a compelling thesis proposal and establishing expertise, which is valued in academia and policy-making.
Engage in Early Scholarly Communication- (Semester 1-2 (Coursework Phase))
Actively participate in departmental seminars, Ph.D. colloquia, and student conferences. Present preliminary ideas or literature reviews to gain feedback from peers and faculty. This builds presentation skills and helps refine research direction early in the program.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar series, SIU research forums, Junior researcher conferences
Career Connection
Early engagement in scholarly dialogue enhances critical thinking, networking opportunities, and confidence, vital for presenting research at national and international platforms later.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (After coursework completion, Year 1-2)
Collaborate closely with your Doctoral Committee to refine your research question, objectives, methodology, and theoretical framework. Ensure your proposal is innovative, feasible, and contributes significantly to the field of Law, Development, and Economics, with a clear focus on the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Doctoral Committee guidance, Research proposal templates, Methodology handbooks, Symbiosis Research and Innovation Centre (SRIC) resources
Career Connection
A well-articulated proposal demonstrates research acumen and is a critical milestone for securing research grants and future academic positions.
Participate in Interdisciplinary Workshops and Conferences- (Year 2-3)
Seek out and attend national and international workshops, seminars, and conferences focused on law and economics, development studies, or public policy in India. Network with established scholars and present your work to receive broader academic feedback.
Tools & Resources
Research funding for conference travel (internal/external), Academic event listings (e.g., in economic and legal journals), Professional associations
Career Connection
Exposure to diverse perspectives and networking with experts can open doors for collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, and enrich your thesis with cutting-edge insights.
Start Publishing Peer-Reviewed Work- (Year 2-4)
Convert segments of your literature review, pilot study findings, or conceptual framework into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals. Target reputable Indian and international journals in Law, Economics, or Development Studies.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms (e.g., Elsevier, Springer), SLS Pune research mentors, Academic publishing workshops
Career Connection
Early publications are crucial for building an academic CV, enhancing your standing for faculty positions, and demonstrating research productivity and impact.
Advanced Stage
Systematic Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Year 3-6 (Final years of thesis submission))
Maintain a rigorous writing schedule, working closely with your supervisor to ensure timely completion of chapters. Focus on clear arguments, robust evidence, and adherence to academic standards. Practice your thesis defense presentation extensively.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, Citation management software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley), Mock viva sessions with faculty and peers
Career Connection
A well-written and successfully defended thesis is the cornerstone of your doctoral degree, signifying your capability for independent, high-level research and laying the groundwork for post-doctoral work or academic careers.
Engage in Grant Writing and Post-Doctoral Exploration- (Year 4-6)
Towards the completion of your Ph.D., explore post-doctoral fellowships or research grants in your area of specialization. Develop grant proposals and network with potential mentors for post-doctoral work, both in India and internationally.
Tools & Resources
UGC post-doctoral schemes, ICSSR research grants, International fellowship databases, Symbiosis Career Cell for guidance
Career Connection
Proactive pursuit of grants and fellowships helps secure funding for continued research, facilitates career progression, and allows for deeper specialization and independent academic leadership.
Mentor Junior Researchers and Participate in Policy Advocacy- (Year 4-6 and beyond)
Share your expertise by mentoring Master''''s or junior Ph.D. students. Seek opportunities to contribute to policy discussions through expert groups, governmental committees, or by publishing policy briefs, particularly relevant to Law, Development, and Economics in India.
Tools & Resources
University mentoring programs, Policy think tanks, Government advisory panels, Op-ed publications
Career Connection
Leadership in mentoring and policy advocacy demonstrates influence and expertise beyond pure research, opening doors to senior academic roles, leadership in research organizations, or high-level policy advisory positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (LL.M.) in Law or a professional degree declared equivalent to the Master''''s degree by a 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% marks for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-abled candidates. Qualification in Symbiosis International University Ph.D. Entrance Test (PET) and Personal Interview is mandatory. UGC-NET/JRF/SET/GATE qualified candidates are exempt from PET but must appear for the Personal Interview.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (Full-time), 4 years (Part-time); Maximum 6 years (Full-time), 7 years (Part-time). Coursework typically lasts for one semester, potentially extending to two.
Credits: 12-16 credits for mandatory coursework component. The overall Ph.D. program is research-based, and thesis credits are not typically expressed in the same way as coursework. Credits
Assessment: Internal: Assessment for coursework typically includes continuous internal assessments such as assignments, presentations, and quizzes. Specific weightage may vary per subject and faculty., External: An end-semester examination is conducted for the coursework component. Specific weightage may vary.
