

PHD in Public Administration at University of Mysore


Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Public Administration at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This Public Administration PhD program at University of Mysore offers advanced study and research in governance, policy analysis, and administrative reforms. It equips scholars to critically examine contemporary challenges in India''''s public sector, fostering deep analytical skills and innovative approaches to improve public service delivery and policy effectiveness. The program is designed to contribute significantly to both academic knowledge and practical governance solutions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for individuals holding a Master''''s degree in Public Administration, Political Science, or allied social sciences, particularly those aspiring to academic careers, senior policy research roles, or leadership positions in governmental and non-governmental organizations in India. It targets candidates with a strong research aptitude, a desire for rigorous intellectual inquiry, and a commitment to addressing complex societal issues through administrative scholarship.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue prominent careers as university professors, policy advisors to central and state governments, researchers in esteemed think tanks, or consultants for national and international development agencies. The specialized knowledge and research expertise are highly valued in both public and private sectors in India, facilitating roles that influence public discourse and administrative practices, often commanding competitive salary ranges based on experience and impact.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Research Methodologies- (Semester 1 (during coursework))
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework, mastering both qualitative and quantitative research designs, data collection techniques, and analytical tools. Actively seek clarification from faculty and participate in university-level research workshops.
Tools & Resources
Research Methodology textbooks, SPSS/R/NVivo software tutorials, University library''''s research guides
Career Connection
A strong grasp of research methodology is foundational for conducting credible independent research, which is paramount for any academic, policy analysis, or research-oriented career.
Build a Strong Theoretical Foundation- (Semester 1 (during coursework))
Engage deeply with the core theories and concepts of Public Administration as covered in the specialized papers. Actively participate in seminars, present your understanding, and critically analyze how these theories apply to the Indian administrative context.
Tools & Resources
Prescribed academic journals and books, Departmental seminar series, Discussion groups with peers
Career Connection
Understanding diverse theoretical perspectives enables sophisticated analysis of administrative issues, a critical skill for developing impactful policy recommendations and scholarly contributions.
Develop Advanced Academic Writing Skills- (Semesters 1-2 (ongoing during coursework and proposal development))
Focus intently on refining academic writing, argumentation, and referencing styles required for scholarly publications and the dissertation. Utilize university writing centers or seek feedback from faculty on early research papers.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL guide, Zotero/Mendeley for referencing, Feedback sessions with supervisors
Career Connection
High-quality academic writing is essential for successful publication in peer-reviewed journals, securing research grants, and effectively communicating complex ideas in academia and policy.
Intermediate Stage
Refine Research Proposal and Identify Supervisor- (After coursework, typically 6-12 months into the program)
Based on interests solidified during coursework, meticulously refine your research problem, objectives, and methodology into a robust proposal. Engage actively with faculty to identify and secure a supervisor whose expertise aligns perfectly with your chosen research area.
Tools & Resources
Departmental PhD guidelines, Faculty research profiles, Networking with potential supervisors
Career Connection
A well-defined research proposal and an expert supervisor are crucial for guiding your research effectively, ensuring originality, and facilitating timely completion of your PhD.
Actively Participate in Academic Forums- (Ongoing from Year 2 onwards)
Regularly attend and present your evolving research at departmental seminars, university colloquia, and national-level conferences. Engage in discussions, seek constructive criticism, and network with scholars in your field across India.
Tools & Resources
University event calendars, Call for papers from academic associations, Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn
Career Connection
Presenting research builds confidence, hones presentation skills, provides invaluable feedback, and helps establish your presence within the academic community, crucial for future job prospects.
Conduct Comprehensive Literature Review and Plan Fieldwork- (Year 2-3 of the PhD program)
Undertake an exhaustive review of national and international literature relevant to your topic, utilizing university e-resources and databases. Systematically plan your fieldwork, including site visits, data collection strategies, and securing necessary ethical clearances and permissions from relevant Indian authorities.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Scopus, Google Scholar, University''''s ethical clearance protocols, Fieldwork permissions guidelines
Career Connection
A thorough literature review ensures the novelty of your research, while meticulous fieldwork planning guarantees the validity and reliability of your primary data, both critical for a high-impact dissertation.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Drafting and Advanced Data Analysis- (Year 3-5 of the PhD program)
Dedicate consistent effort to drafting your thesis chapters, ensuring coherent arguments, logical flow, and rigorous analysis. Master advanced qualitative or quantitative data analysis techniques and software relevant to your research findings.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software, NVivo/Atlas.ti for qualitative analysis, STATA/R/Python for quantitative analysis, University thesis format guidelines
Career Connection
Systematic and high-quality thesis writing, coupled with proficient data analysis, is the direct pathway to producing a publishable dissertation and successfully defending your PhD.
Publish Research Papers and Broaden Visibility- (Year 4-6 of the PhD program)
Aim to publish at least two research papers derived from your thesis in UGC CARE listed or other reputable peer-reviewed national/international journals. Actively seek opportunities to present your findings at specialized workshops and conferences, enhancing your scholarly profile.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE website, Journal finder tools, Academic conference listing websites
Career Connection
Publications are critical for academic career progression, demonstrating research productivity and engagement. Increased visibility can lead to collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, and faculty positions.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Strategic Career Planning- (Final year of PhD and immediately after submission)
Thoroughly prepare for your final Viva Voce examination, anticipating potential questions and practicing your defense with peers and your supervisor. Simultaneously, begin actively networking for academic positions, policy advisory roles, or other career opportunities in India and abroad, leveraging your research expertise.
Tools & Resources
Mock Viva Voce sessions, Career counseling services (if available), Professional networking events and platforms
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the culmination of your PhD, while proactive and strategic career planning ensures a seamless transition into your desired professional path, maximizing the impact of your doctoral work.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in Public Administration, Political Science, or allied subjects from the University of Mysore or any other recognized University, with not less than 55% marks in aggregate (50% for SC/ST/Cat-I/OBC candidates as per Government of Karnataka rules). Must qualify in an Entrance Examination conducted by the University.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (overall PhD program); Coursework component is typically 1 semester
Credits: 16 credits (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% for Paper I (Research Methodology); 25% for Paper II, III, and IV (Specialization and Elective papers), External: 50% for Paper I (Research Methodology); 75% for Paper II, III, and IV (Specialization and Elective papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDPA101 | Research Methodology | Core (Compulsory for all PhD candidates in the Faculty of Arts) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Research, Research Design and Types of Research, Methods of Data Collection (Primary & Secondary), Sampling Techniques and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Statistical Tools, Research Report Writing, Referencing, and Ethics |
| PHDPA102 | Political Science and Public Administration – I | Core (Specialization Specific) | 4 | Approaches to the Study of Public Administration, Classical and Contemporary Theories of Administration, Public Policy: Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Administrative Law, Accountability, and Control, Comparative Public Administration and Governance, New Public Management and New Public Service |
| PHDPA103 | Political Science and Public Administration – II | Core (Specialization Specific) | 4 | Decentralization, Local Governance, and Panchayati Raj, Public Sector Reforms and Liberalization in India, E-Governance, Digital India, and Citizen-Centric Administration, Financial Administration, Budgeting, and Fiscal Policy, Ethics, Values, and Integrity in Public Service, Development Administration and Sustainable Development Goals |
| PHDPA104 | Elective Paper | Elective (Chosen in consultation with the Research Supervisor from a range of options) | 4 | Human Rights and Social Justice Administration, Urban and Rural Governance Systems, Environmental Politics and Public Policy, Public Policy Analysis and Evaluation Models, International Relations and Global Administrative Systems, Security Studies and Disaster Management Policies |




