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FPM in Production Operations And Decision Sciences at XLRI – Xavier School of Management
East Singhbhum, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Production, Operations and Decision Sciences at XLRI – Xavier School of Management East Singhbhum?
This Production, Operations and Decision Sciences (PODS) program at XLRI focuses on developing rigorous researchers who can address complex challenges in manufacturing, service operations, supply chain management, and decision-making. With India''''s rapidly evolving industrial landscape and global supply chain integration, the program equips scholars with advanced analytical and quantitative skills crucial for optimizing operational efficiencies and strategic decision-making in various sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, researchers, and high-level consultants seeking to contribute to the body of knowledge in operations and decision sciences. It attracts master''''s degree holders, engineers, and professionals with significant industry experience who possess strong analytical aptitude and a passion for in-depth research, aiming to solve real-world operational problems with robust theoretical foundations.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as faculty in premier business schools in India and abroad, or as lead researchers in think tanks and R&D divisions of large Indian and multinational corporations. They gain expertise in areas highly relevant to India''''s manufacturing and logistics sectors, leading to significant contributions in operational excellence and strategic planning. Doctoral graduates often command competitive salaries in academic and research roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Research Methodologies- (Year 1-2 (Coursework Phase))
During the first two years of coursework, meticulously engage with both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies. Attend advanced workshops on statistical software (e.g., R, Python, SPSS, Stata) and qualitative analysis tools (e.g., NVivo, ATLAS.ti) to build a strong analytical foundation for your future thesis research. This ensures preparedness for rigorous academic inquiry.
Tools & Resources
R/Python programming, SPSS/Stata/EViews, NVivo/ATLAS.ti, Academic databases (JSTOR, Scopus)
Career Connection
A robust methodological foundation is indispensable for producing high-quality publishable research, critical for securing academic positions and influencing policy.
Identify and Engage with Faculty Mentors- (Year 1-2 (Coursework Phase))
Proactively engage with faculty members in the Production, Operations and Decision Sciences area. Discuss your burgeoning research interests, seek guidance on relevant literature, and identify potential thesis advisors. Early mentorship helps in refining your research problem and aligning it with faculty expertise, crucial for the comprehensive exam and thesis proposal.
Tools & Resources
Faculty office hours, Research seminars, Departmental meetings, Academic conferences
Career Connection
Strong faculty mentorship not only guides your research but also opens doors to collaborative projects, co-authorships, and vital academic networking.
Participate in Academic Seminars and Workshops- (Year 1-2 (Coursework Phase))
Regularly attend and actively participate in departmental seminars, research workshops, and guest lectures, both internal to XLRI and external. This exposure to diverse research ideas and contemporary topics helps in broadening your knowledge base, identifying research gaps, and staying current with the latest advancements in PODS.
Tools & Resources
XLRI Research Seminar Series, Webinars by professional bodies (INFORMS, POMS), PhD consortia
Career Connection
Exposure to cutting-edge research enhances critical thinking, aids in thesis topic selection, and builds a professional network for future collaborations.
Intermediate Stage
Prepare Rigorously for Comprehensive Examinations- (After Year 2 Coursework, before Thesis Proposal)
After completing coursework, dedicate focused time to prepare for the comprehensive examination. Form study groups, review core and specialized course materials thoroughly, and practice with past papers (if available). This exam assesses your mastery of the field and readiness to undertake independent research.
Tools & Resources
Course notes and textbooks, Study groups, Mock exams, Faculty review sessions
Career Connection
Passing comprehensives is a critical milestone, demonstrating your comprehensive understanding of the field, which is essential for thesis progression and academic credibility.
Develop a Strong Thesis Proposal- (Following Comprehensive Exams, leading to Thesis Proposal Defense)
Work closely with your chosen advisor to develop a well-structured and rigorous thesis proposal. This involves identifying a significant research gap, formulating clear research questions, outlining the theoretical framework, and detailing the methodology. Present your proposal in internal forums for feedback before the official defense.
Tools & Resources
Research proposal templates, EndNote/Zotero for referencing, Academic writing workshops, Departmental review panels
Career Connection
A robust proposal is the blueprint for your doctoral research, ensuring a focused and feasible study, and is vital for securing research funding or grants.
Engage in Early Conference Presentations- (Year 2-3 (Post-coursework, pre-thesis defense))
Transform your research ideas or early findings from coursework and literature reviews into conference papers. Presenting at national and international conferences, especially in India (e.g., SOM, IIM/IIT conferences), allows for early feedback, networking with peers, and building your academic presence. This also hones your presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Conference databases (All Conference Alert), Presentation software, Faculty guidance on submissions
Career Connection
Early conference presentations are crucial for gaining visibility, receiving constructive criticism, and establishing connections within the academic community, beneficial for future collaborations and job searches.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing and Publication- (Year 3-6 (Thesis Research and Writing Phase))
Systematically dedicate time to writing your doctoral thesis, chapter by chapter, with regular feedback loops from your advisor. Simultaneously, aim to convert thesis chapters or distinct research essays into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals. Targeting top-tier journals is critical for academic career progression.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/Word for thesis writing, Journal submission platforms, Grammarly/Turnitin for editing, Publication ethics guidelines
Career Connection
Publications in reputable journals are the cornerstone of an academic career, significantly enhancing your profile for faculty positions in India and globally, and demonstrating research impact.
Build a Strong Professional Network- (Throughout the program, intensifying during Year 3-6)
Actively network with academics, researchers, and industry professionals at conferences, workshops, and through online platforms like LinkedIn. Participate in professional organizations specific to operations research, supply chain, and decision sciences (e.g., INFORMS India Chapter). These connections are invaluable for future collaborations, mentorship, and career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences (INFORMS, POMS, SOM), Academic associations, XLRI Alumni Network
Career Connection
A strong network provides access to job opportunities, collaborative research projects, and expert advice, accelerating your career growth in academia or industry.
Prepare for the Thesis Defense and Academic Job Market- (Final year of the program (Year 4-6))
Prepare meticulously for your final thesis defense, practicing your presentation and anticipating questions. Concurrently, start preparing for the academic job market: develop a strong CV, research statement, teaching philosophy, and practice job talks. Seek guidance from your advisor and the career services team for job application strategies.
Tools & Resources
Mock defense presentations, XLRI career services, Job search platforms (HigherEdJobs, AcademicKeys), Personal website/portfolio
Career Connection
A successful defense culminates your doctoral journey, while thorough job market preparation is crucial for securing a desired academic or research position commensurate with your expertise.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree or Post Graduate Diploma (2 years) in any discipline with at least 55% marks (equivalent to a first-class degree) OR B. Tech / BE Degree with 60% marks and at least two years of work experience OR CA/ICWA/CS with a Bachelor''''s degree and 55% marks. Relaxation of 5% marks for SC/ST/NC-OBC candidates. Acceptable scores in XAT, GATE, GRE, GMAT, UGC-NET or JRF.
Duration: Typically 4-6 years (2 years coursework + thesis)
Credits: 87 (Coursework Only - assuming 3 credits per course) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
