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PH-D in Commerce at University of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Commerce at University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram?
This Ph.D. Commerce program at the University of Kerala focuses on cultivating advanced research capabilities in various domains of commerce. It addresses contemporary issues in Indian business, economics, finance, and management, preparing scholars for academic and industry leadership. The program emphasizes critical thinking and rigorous methodological training relevant to India''''s evolving economic landscape, fostering contributions to both theory and practice.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong academic record in Commerce or allied fields, seeking to pursue an advanced research career. It caters to aspiring academicians, research fellows, and professionals aiming to contribute original knowledge to the field of commerce, particularly those interested in India-centric business challenges and opportunities.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as university professors, research scientists, and consultants in leading Indian academic institutions and think tanks. Potential career paths also include roles in government policy analysis, corporate research and development, and senior management. Salary ranges for Ph.D. holders vary widely, starting from INR 6-10 LPA for entry-level academic roles to significantly higher for experienced professionals in industry.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Fundamentals and Software Skills- (Coursework Semester)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand research methodologies, statistical analysis, and ethical guidelines. Actively engage with the coursework, participate in seminars, and gain hands-on proficiency in statistical software like SPSS or R, which are crucial for data analysis in commerce research. This builds a strong analytical base for future research endeavors.
Tools & Resources
SPSS software tutorials, Online courses on Research Methodology (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera), University library resources on research ethics
Career Connection
Strong foundational research skills are indispensable for any academic or industry research role, enabling accurate data interpretation and robust study design, key for thesis completion and future career prospects.
Engage in Extensive Literature Review and Gap Identification- (Coursework Semester and early research phase)
Beyond coursework, regularly read and critically analyze research papers in your area of interest. Utilize the university''''s digital library resources and databases to identify significant research gaps and emerging trends. Participate in departmental discussions and workshops focused on literature review techniques.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, University''''s digital library portal
Career Connection
A comprehensive understanding of existing literature and the ability to identify research gaps are vital for developing a novel thesis topic, a cornerstone for academic and research success.
Network with Faculty and Fellow Researchers- (Throughout the Ph.D. program, especially during coursework)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and research colloquia. Engage with your supervisor and other faculty members to seek guidance on research ideas and career paths. Collaborate with fellow Ph.D. scholars for peer review, discussion, and mutual learning, fostering a supportive research environment.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Research group meetings, Professional networking events within the university
Career Connection
Building a strong academic network can open doors to collaborative projects, mentorship, and future job opportunities in academia and research institutions across India.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal and Presentation Skills- (After coursework, Year 1-2 of Ph.D.)
Work diligently with your supervisor to refine your research proposal, ensuring its originality, feasibility, and methodological soundness. Practice presenting your research ideas concisely and compellingly in mock vivas or internal presentations to enhance your communication skills.
Tools & Resources
University''''s research guidelines for proposal submission, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Feedback from peers and faculty
Career Connection
A well-articulated research proposal and strong presentation skills are crucial for securing research grants, presenting at conferences, and effectively communicating your findings to diverse audiences.
Attend and Present at National Conferences- (Year 2-3 of Ph.D.)
Aim to present your ongoing research at national and regional conferences focusing on commerce, management, and economics. This provides valuable feedback, exposes you to broader academic discourse, and helps in refining your research methodology and findings.
Tools & Resources
Calls for papers from relevant professional associations (e.g., Indian Accounting Association, Indian Commerce Association), University travel grants
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds your academic profile, expands your network, and is often a prerequisite for publishing in peer-reviewed journals, which are essential for an academic career.
Engage in Guest Lectures and Teaching Assistantships- (Year 2-4 of Ph.D.)
Seek opportunities to deliver guest lectures in undergraduate or postgraduate commerce courses or apply for teaching assistant positions within the department. This hones your pedagogical skills, enhances subject matter expertise, and provides valuable teaching experience for future academic roles.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notices for teaching opportunities, Feedback from faculty mentors
Career Connection
Teaching experience is highly valued in academic recruitment processes for Assistant Professor positions in Indian universities and colleges.
Advanced Stage
Aim for Quality Publications in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Year 3-5 of Ph.D.)
Prioritize publishing parts of your Ph.D. work in reputable, peer-reviewed journals, ideally UGC-CARE listed or Scopus-indexed. Work closely with your supervisor to prepare manuscripts, address reviewer comments, and navigate the publication process. Quality publications significantly boost your academic career prospects.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission guidelines, Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Proofreading tools
Career Connection
High-quality publications are a critical metric for faculty recruitment, promotions, and research funding in India, distinguishing you as a serious scholar.
Prepare for Thesis Defense (Viva-Voce)- (Final 6-12 months of Ph.D.)
Thoroughly prepare for your final viva-voce by conducting mock defenses with your research committee and peers. Practice articulating your research objectives, methodology, key findings, and contributions clearly and confidently. Anticipate potential questions and prepare well-reasoned answers.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, Feedback from supervisor and committee members, Review of Ph.D. thesis defense guidelines
Career Connection
A successful and impactful thesis defense is the culmination of your Ph.D. journey, validating your research and marking your readiness for advanced academic or research roles.
Develop a Post-Ph.D. Career Plan and Job Search Strategy- (Final year of Ph.D.)
Towards the completion of your Ph.D., start identifying potential academic positions (Assistant Professor, Postdoctoral Fellow) or research roles in industry/government. Prepare tailored CVs, cover letters, and teaching/research statements. Actively apply for positions and network with potential employers.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job portals (e.g., Naukri, LinkedIn, specific university portals), Professional networking events
Career Connection
A proactive and strategic job search, leveraging your academic achievements and network, is essential for a smooth transition into your desired career path post-Ph.D.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree in Commerce or an allied subject with a minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent grade B in UGC 7-point scale). A relaxation of 5% of marks is allowed for SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/PwD candidates. Candidates who have qualified UGC-NET/CSIR-NET/JRF/GATE/GPAT/Teacher Fellowship or M.Phil. degree holders who have completed coursework are exempted from the entrance examination. Other candidates must pass the Ph.D. Entrance Test conducted by the University.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (Full-time); Coursework: 1 Semester
Credits: 12 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (for coursework papers, based on assignments, seminars, viva-voce), External: 50% (for coursework papers, based on written examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD RMCA | Research Methodology and Computer Application | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Formulation of Research Problem, Research Design, Sampling Techniques, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing, Use of Statistical Software (SPSS, Excel) |
| PHD ASC | Advanced Studies in Commerce | Core | 4 | Conceptual Framework of Commerce, Indian Business Environment and Policy, Advanced Financial Management and Markets, Contemporary Marketing Strategies, Human Resource Management in Global Context, Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management, Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility |
| PHD RLRD | Review of Literature and Research Design | Core | 4 | Significance of Literature Review, Sources of Literature (Databases, Journals), Methods of Literature Survey, Identifying Research Gaps, Formulation of Research Objectives, Development of Research Hypotheses, Structuring the Research Proposal, Ethical Considerations in Research |
