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PHD in Commerce at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Commerce at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Chennai?
This PhD Commerce program at Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies focuses on advanced research and scholarly inquiry into various facets of business, finance, accounting, and management. It aims to develop critical thinking and research skills essential for contributing new knowledge to the Indian and global commerce landscape. The program emphasizes contemporary issues and provides a robust framework for independent research.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for M.Com or M.Phil graduates in Commerce seeking an academic career, or working professionals with a strong research inclination in finance, banking, or corporate sectors. It targets individuals passionate about scholarly contributions, aiming to become professors, researchers, or policy analysts in India, requiring a strong foundation in research methodology and a keen interest in economic and business phenomena.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as university professors, independent researchers, consultants, or senior analysts in financial institutions and think tanks within India. The advanced research skills honed during the PhD empower them to address complex business challenges, potentially leading to leadership roles in academia and industry, with competitive salary prospects in the Indian academic and research sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Statistics- (Semester 1)
Diligent engagement in the ''''Research Methodology and Statistics'''' coursework. Focus on understanding econometric tools, statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, Python for data analysis), and advanced research design principles critical for commerce studies. Apply theoretical concepts to practical problem statements.
Tools & Resources
VELS Library (e-resources, research databases), SPSS/R/Python tutorials, NPTEL courses on advanced statistics, Academic journals in commerce
Career Connection
A strong grasp of research methods is foundational for any academic or research role, ensuring the validity and reliability of future doctoral work and publications, crucial for faculty positions in Indian universities.
Identify and Refine Research Area- (Semester 1-2)
Engage in extensive literature review, consult with supervisors, and attend departmental seminars to identify a specific, novel, and impactful research problem within the Commerce domain. Formulate clear research questions and objectives.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, UGC-CARE list journals, VELS Departmental Research Colloquia
Career Connection
A well-defined research problem is the cornerstone of a successful PhD, directly impacting thesis quality and future publication potential, which are key metrics for academic career progression in India.
Build a Strong Supervisor-Scholar Relationship- (Ongoing from Semester 1)
Establish regular, proactive communication with your PhD supervisor. Discuss progress, challenges, and receive feedback on your literature review, research design, and initial findings. Be open to constructive criticism and adapt your research direction as advised.
Tools & Resources
Regular scheduled meetings, Email communication, Departmental research ethics guidelines
Career Connection
An effective supervisor relationship is vital for navigating the PhD journey, securing timely completion, and gaining mentorship for future academic and professional endeavors within the Indian research ecosystem.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Advanced Data Analysis Skills- (Year 2)
Acquire proficiency in specialized statistical or econometric software (e.g., EViews, STATA, AMOS for structural equation modeling, NVivo for qualitative analysis) relevant to your commerce research. Apply these tools rigorously to collect, clean, and analyze your research data.
Tools & Resources
University software licenses, Specialized workshops, Online courses (Coursera, edX) in advanced econometrics or qualitative data analysis
Career Connection
Expertise in advanced data analysis makes a PhD scholar highly marketable for research positions in academia, market research firms, and data-driven roles in finance and business consulting in India.
Engage in Academic Networking and Presentations- (Year 2-3)
Actively participate in national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars. Present your preliminary research findings, engage with other scholars, and build an academic network. Seek opportunities to publish initial research papers in peer-reviewed journals.
Tools & Resources
Conference alerts, Departmental funding for presentations, Journal submission platforms (e.g., Elsevier, Springer)
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for academic career growth in India, leading to collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, and enhanced visibility for securing faculty positions. Publications are essential for PhD progression and job applications.
Practice Academic Writing and Ethics- (Ongoing from Year 1-3)
Regularly practice academic writing, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and adherence to established citation styles (e.g., APA, MLA). Understand and rigorously apply research ethics principles, especially regarding plagiarism, data integrity, and informed consent.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Mendeley/Zotero, VELS research ethics guidelines, Workshops on academic writing
Career Connection
Strong academic writing is paramount for thesis completion and successful publication, which directly impacts academic and research career prospects in India. Ethical conduct builds credibility and professional reputation.
Advanced Stage
Systematic Thesis Writing and Revision- (Year 3-4+)
Dedicate consistent time to writing your thesis chapters, ensuring logical flow, coherent arguments, and robust evidence. Regularly revise based on supervisor feedback, paying meticulous attention to detail, language, and referencing.
Tools & Resources
Word processing software, Citation management tools, Supervisor''''s expertise, Peer review from trusted colleagues
Career Connection
A well-written, rigorously structured thesis is the culmination of PhD work and is essential for successful defense, leading to degree conferral and validation of your research capabilities for academic roles.
Prepare for Viva Voce Examination- (Towards the end of Year 3-4+)
Understand the viva voce process, anticipate potential questions from examiners, and practice articulating your research findings, methodology, contributions, and implications clearly and confidently. Be prepared to defend your work rigorously.
Tools & Resources
Mock vivas with supervisor/peers, Reviewing common viva questions, Practicing oral presentation skills
Career Connection
A successful viva voce is the final hurdle to obtaining the PhD degree, demonstrating your comprehensive understanding and ability to present your research effectively, which is vital for academic and research interviews.
Plan Post-PhD Career Trajectory- (Year 3-4+)
Actively explore post-doctoral positions, faculty openings, or research roles in industry/think tanks. Prepare your CV, research statements, teaching philosophy statements, and cover letters. Network with potential employers and mentors.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job portals (e.g., Times Higher Education, jobs.ac.uk, Indian university websites), LinkedIn
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-PhD, maximizing opportunities for securing desirable academic or research positions aligned with your expertise in the competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (M.Phil / Master''''s degree or its equivalent) in a relevant discipline with at least 55% marks or equivalent grade B in UGC 7-point scale. A relaxation of 5% marks (from 55% to 50%) is allowed for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-Abled candidates as per UGC norms.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (Full-Time), Maximum 6 years (Full-Time)
Credits: 12 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
