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PHD in Urban And Regional Planning at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Urban and Regional Planning at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This Urban and Regional Planning PhD program at University of Mysore focuses on advanced research in sustainable urban development, regional disparities, and spatial governance. Given India''''s rapid urbanization and Smart City initiatives, the program addresses critical issues like infrastructure planning, environmental impact, and equitable growth, equipping scholars to contribute to policy formulation and developmental projects.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate degree holders in Geography, Planning, Architecture, Environmental Science, Sociology, or allied fields with a strong research aptitude. It targets individuals passionate about addressing complex urban challenges, fresh graduates seeking academic or research careers, and working professionals from government, NGOs, or planning agencies aspiring to contribute to advanced knowledge and policy-making.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue impactful careers in academia, urban planning bodies, government departments, and international development agencies across India. Roles include Urban Planner, Policy Analyst, Research Scientist, or Professor. Entry-level research positions might start from INR 5-8 LPA, with experienced professionals and academics earning significantly more, contributing to India''''s planned urban future.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology- (Semester 1)
Diligently study research methodologies, focusing on quantitative and qualitative techniques relevant to urban studies. Actively participate in coursework seminars, practice statistical software like SPSS/R, and learn GIS for spatial analysis. This forms the bedrock for your entire research journey.
Tools & Resources
UoM Library databases, NPTEL courses on Research Methodology, SPSS, QGIS/ArcGIS tutorials
Career Connection
Strong methodological skills are crucial for designing robust studies, a prerequisite for any research or planning role in academia, government, or consultancies.
Deep Dive into Urban Theories and Indian Context- (Semester 1)
Beyond the coursework, read extensively on classical and contemporary urban theories, planning models, and Indian urban policy documents. Engage with journal articles, case studies of Indian cities, and join online forums/webinars to broaden your theoretical understanding and contextual awareness.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, Urbanization India Journal, MOOCs on Urban Studies
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation and understanding of the Indian urban context is essential for developing impactful research questions and contributing to policy discussions.
Cultivate Peer Learning and Academic Writing- (Semester 1)
Form a study group with fellow PhD scholars to discuss concepts, critiques, and research ideas. Practice academic writing consistently, seeking feedback from peers and supervisors. Attend workshops on scientific writing, citation management, and avoiding plagiarism.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero, Grammarly, University Writing Center (if available)
Career Connection
Effective academic communication and collaboration are vital for successful research and subsequent publication, opening doors to academic positions and research grants.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Year 1-2)
Work closely with your supervisor to refine your research topic, formulate clear objectives, and develop a comprehensive methodology. Regularly present your progress in departmental seminars and incorporate feedback to strengthen your proposal for ethical clearance and registration.
Tools & Resources
Research supervisor guidance, Departmental seminar series, Institutional ethics committee guidelines
Career Connection
A well-defined research proposal is the blueprint for your PhD and demonstrates your ability to conceive and execute complex research projects, a key skill for R&D roles.
Engage in Fieldwork and Data Collection- (Year 1-2)
Plan and execute your fieldwork meticulously, whether it involves extensive surveys, interviews, or spatial data acquisition using GPS/drones. Build rapport with local communities and authorities, and manage your data systematically. This practical experience is invaluable.
Tools & Resources
Open Data Kit (ODK), GPS devices, Mapping software, University ethical guidelines for fieldwork
Career Connection
Hands-on data collection and fieldwork experience makes you a valuable asset for planning agencies, consultancies, and research organizations seeking practical skills.
Present Research at Conferences & Workshops- (Year 1-2)
Actively seek opportunities to present your preliminary findings at national and regional conferences focused on urban planning, geography, or environmental studies in India. This helps in networking, getting feedback, and refining your arguments before publication.
Tools & Resources
UGC-approved conference lists, Department funding for travel, Professional associations like ITPI (Institute of Town Planners, India)
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance your academic profile, build your professional network, and are crucial for securing post-doctoral positions or academic jobs.
Advanced Stage
Focus on High-Quality Publications- (Year 2-3 and beyond)
Convert your research chapters into publishable articles for UGC-CARE listed or Scopus/WoS indexed journals. Prioritize quality over quantity, focusing on clear communication, rigorous analysis, and significant contributions to the field of Urban and Regional Planning.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE List, Scopus/Web of Science databases, Journal submission platforms, Supervisor feedback
Career Connection
A strong publication record is paramount for academic careers, securing research grants, and demonstrating expertise in your specialization to potential employers.
Prepare for Thesis Defense & Viva-Voce- (Year 3 and beyond)
Structure your thesis logically, ensuring coherence between chapters and a clear articulation of your contribution to knowledge. Practice your defense presentation thoroughly, anticipating questions from internal and external examiners. Seek mock viva sessions.
Tools & Resources
University PhD thesis format guidelines, Departmental mock viva sessions, Previous PhD theses from the department
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the culmination of your PhD, opening doors to advanced research positions, post-doctoral fellowships, and faculty roles.
Build a Professional Online Presence- (Throughout PhD, intensified in final year)
Create a professional online profile (e.g., Google Scholar, ResearchGate, LinkedIn) to showcase your publications, research interests, and expertise. Network with professionals in urban planning and development through online platforms and alumni events.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, ResearchGate, Google Scholar profile, Professional networking events
Career Connection
An active online presence and professional network are crucial for job searching, collaborations, and establishing yourself as an expert in the Urban and Regional Planning domain in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (M.A./M.Sc.) in a relevant subject (e.g., Geography, Urban Planning, Environmental Science, Sociology, or allied fields) from a recognized university with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks (50% for SC/ST/Cat-I/Differently-abled candidates as per G.O.I. norms). Must qualify in the University''''s PhD Entrance Test or be exempted from the test as per UGC regulations (e.g., UGC-NET/JRF, GATE, SLET, Teacher Fellowship holders).
Duration: 1 semester (for coursework), Minimum 3 years (overall PhD program)
Credits: 12 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50% (Based on attendance, assignments, seminars, mid-term tests for Papers I & II), External: 50% (Based on end-semester examination for Papers I & II, and Viva-voce/report for Paper III)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GEH 1 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Nature, Scope and Significance of Research in Geography, Identification, Formulation of Research Problem and Hypothesis Testing, Research Design and Types of Research Studies, Methods of Data Collection (Primary and Secondary), Sampling Techniques, Data Processing, Analysis, Statistical Methods, and GIS/Remote Sensing Applications, Scientific Report Writing, Referencing, Plagiarism, and Research Ethics |
| GEH 2 | Advanced Course pertaining to Urban and Regional Planning | Core (Specialization Specific) | 4 | Theories and Models of Urbanization and Regional Development, Urban Systems, Hierarchies, and Metropolitan Planning, Urban Land Use Planning, Policies, and Governance, Sustainable Urban Development, Environmental Planning, and Resilience, Application of GIS, Remote Sensing, and Spatial Analysis in Planning, Regional Disparities, Development Strategies, and Inclusive Planning |
| GEH 3 | Review of Literature and Seminar | Core | 4 | Identifying Research Gaps and Framing Research Questions, Synthesizing and Critically Analyzing Existing Literature, Developing Theoretical and Conceptual Frameworks for Research, Presenting Research Proposal, Findings, and Methodologies, Academic Writing Skills, Citation Management, and Ethical Considerations |
