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PH-D in Knowledge Management at University of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Knowledge Management at University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram?
This Knowledge Management (KM) Ph.D. program at the University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, focuses on advanced research into how organizations create, share, and utilize knowledge effectively. It addresses critical needs in India''''s rapidly growing service and tech sectors, where leveraging intellectual capital for innovation and competitive advantage is paramount. The program''''s interdisciplinary nature sets it apart.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for research enthusiasts holding Master''''s degrees in Library & Information Science, Management, Computer Science, or related fields, seeking to contribute original insights to the domain. It targets individuals passionate about exploring complex organizational knowledge challenges, pursuing academic careers, or high-level strategic roles in knowledge-intensive Indian and global enterprises.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect to pursue academic positions as professors/researchers, or high-impact roles like Chief Knowledge Officers (CKOs), Knowledge Strategists, or Information Architects in Indian companies, government bodies, and MNCs. Potential salary ranges in India can start from INR 8-15 lakhs for entry-level researchers to 25+ lakhs for experienced specialists, with strong growth trajectories and significant impact potential.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)
Rigorously engage with the coursework on Research Methodology, focusing on developing a strong conceptual understanding of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods. Actively participate in seminars, and meticulously complete assignments to build a solid foundation for your thesis.
Tools & Resources
SPSS, R for statistical analysis, NVivo/Atlas.ti for qualitative data, Mendeley/Zotero for reference management, University library databases
Career Connection
A robust understanding of research methods is fundamental for academic publishing, grants, and leading research initiatives in any knowledge-intensive organization.
Cultivate a Strong Literature Review Habit- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, dedicate significant time to comprehensive literature reviews in Knowledge Management. Identify gaps, emerging trends, and theoretical foundations to pinpoint a unique and impactful research problem for your dissertation. Engage with your supervisor frequently.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, institutional access to e-journals (e.g., Emerald Insight, IEEE Xplore)
Career Connection
This skill is critical for developing original research, contributing to academic discourse, and informing evidence-based decision-making in industry.
Network with Faculty and Fellow Researchers- (Semester 1-2)
Actively seek mentorship from faculty members beyond your supervisor and engage with fellow Ph.D. scholars in your department or related fields. Participate in departmental colloquia, workshops, and research presentations to gain diverse perspectives and build a supportive academic community.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, university research groups, professional associations (e.g., IATLIS for LIS)
Career Connection
Building an academic network facilitates collaboration, opens doors for post-doctoral opportunities, and provides valuable insights for navigating academic and research careers.
Intermediate Stage
Focus on Original Data Collection and Analysis- (Semester 3-5)
Systematically execute your research design, conducting fieldwork, interviews, surveys, or experimental studies as planned. Master the chosen data analysis tools to derive meaningful insights and address your research questions effectively. Maintain rigorous data integrity.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey/Google Forms, statistical software like SPSS/R/Python, qualitative software like NVivo, institutional ethical review board (IRB) guidelines
Career Connection
Developing robust data collection and analytical skills is essential for generating credible research findings and building a strong research portfolio for academic and industry roles.
Aim for Early Publication in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Semester 3-5)
Convert your coursework papers, literature reviews, or initial research findings into publishable manuscripts. Target reputable national and international peer-reviewed journals in Knowledge Management, Library Science, or Management. Seek feedback from your supervisor and peers before submission.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms, academic writing workshops, Grammarly/QuillBot for language refinement
Career Connection
Early publications are crucial for establishing an academic profile, enhancing CV for faculty positions, and demonstrating research productivity to potential employers.
Present Research at National Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Prepare and present your ongoing research at national-level academic conferences relevant to Knowledge Management, Library Science, or Information Systems. This helps in receiving feedback, networking with experts, and gaining confidence in public speaking about your research.
Tools & Resources
Conference proceedings, professional associations (e.g., IATLIS, IIM conferences), presentation software like PowerPoint/Keynote
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance your visibility in the academic community, provide networking opportunities for collaborations, and are a key part of academic career progression.
Advanced Stage
Systematically Write and Refine Your Thesis- (Semester 6-8)
Dedicate consistent time to writing your dissertation, ensuring logical flow, coherent arguments, and adherence to academic writing standards. Regularly share drafts with your supervisor, incorporate feedback, and focus on developing a compelling and original contribution to knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Word/LaTeX, citation managers, academic writing guides, institutional thesis formatting guidelines
Career Connection
A well-written thesis is the crowning achievement of a Ph.D., demonstrating your ability to conduct independent research, synthesize complex information, and contribute new knowledge, crucial for any high-level research role.
Prepare for Viva-Voce and Dissertation Defense- (Semester 6-8)
Practice defending your research findings, methodology, and conclusions. Anticipate potential questions from examiners and refine your presentation to clearly articulate your contribution, its significance, and implications. Be ready to discuss the limitations and future research directions.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with faculty/peers, presentation preparation, deep understanding of your own work
Career Connection
A successful viva-voce demonstrates mastery of your research area and critical thinking skills, enhancing your credibility for both academic and research-oriented industry roles.
Develop a Post-Ph.D. Career Strategy- (Semester 6-8)
Actively explore academic job markets (post-docs, assistant professorships) or industry research roles. Prepare your CV, teaching philosophy statement, and research statement. Network with potential employers and mentors, and attend career fairs.
Tools & Resources
University career services, academic job portals (e.g., Times Higher Education, jobs.ac.uk), LinkedIn, professional networking events
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-Ph.D., leveraging your expertise into fulfilling and impactful roles in academia, government, or knowledge-intensive industries in India and globally.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Library and Information Science, Management, Computer Science, or a cognate discipline with a minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent grade). A relaxation of 5% marks is allowed for candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer/Persons with Disabilities. Candidates must have qualified the University Ph.D. Entrance Test or hold a valid JRF/NET/GATE/SET/M.Phil. Degree.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (full-time), Maximum 6 years (full-time); Minimum 4 years (part-time), Maximum 8 years (part-time)
Credits: 8 credits (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (for coursework, based on seminars, assignments), External: 50% (for coursework, based on end-semester examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ph.D. RM Paper I | Research Methodology | Core (Compulsory) | 4 | Introduction to Research and Types of Research, Research Problem, Hypotheses, and Research Design, Data Collection Techniques and Sampling Methods, Data Analysis (Quantitative, Qualitative, Mixed Methods), Research Ethics, Plagiarism, and Academic Integrity, Interpretation, Report Writing, and Thesis Presentation |
| Ph.D. KM Paper II | Advanced Topics in Knowledge Management | Core (Specialization Specific) | 4 | Foundations and Models of Knowledge Management, Knowledge Creation, Capture, and Storage, Knowledge Sharing, Transfer, and Diffusion, Knowledge Management Technologies and Systems, Intellectual Capital, Knowledge Audit, and Metrics, Knowledge Management Strategy, Organizational Learning, and Innovation |
