India has an extensive and quality higher education system which offers many doctoral degrees across disciplines. There are several Universities in India that offer PhD Doctorate Degree Courses on regular and part time basis. Learn more about the eligibility for PhD program, Admission Process, Marks Requirement and Duration of PhD courses etc in this post.
Eligibility Requirements for PhD in India
The requirements for minimum eligibility for acceptance into full-time PhD programs in India generally comprise the following:
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- You must have completed a postgraduate degree in the area of specialization you are interested in with at least 55% marks aggregate( 50% for students from the reserved category)
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- Qualify for the national level PhD entrance tests such as UGC NET GATE or pass the entrance test of the particular university.
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- Some institutions also require requirements for work experience, like CSIR for PhDs in Science.
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- Good academic record consistently across previous courses
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- A strong research motivation is reflected in the SOP and recommendations.
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- No age limit, though the majority of people are between 23 and 28.
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- Relaxation in marks reserved for category candidates in accordance with rules.
The institute of study establishes the criteria for eligibility and can vary among disciplines. The goal is to identify those with a high academic standard with, a strong research personality and the ability to pursue advanced PhD research.
HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?
We Offer Guidance for PhD Admission to various universities like Vels University, DR MGR University, Dr MGR Education and Research Institute , Anna University, Bharathidasan University, Bharathiar University, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Annamalai University, Bharath University, Hindustan University etc and support for Journal publication, Plagiarism checking, Thesis writing support, etc. If you are searching for PhD guidance, you can contact Us.
PHD ADMISSION PROCESS
The PhD admissions process typically requires passing an entrance test such as UGC NET, JEST, GATE and so on. Certain universities have their own entrance tests to determine admission. The candidates who have been shortlisted are subject to an interview before making their final selection. The minimum requirement is having a postgraduate degree in the area of specialization with a minimum percentage of marks.( 55% for the General category and 55% for reserved category students) Many institutions highly prefer research experience, but not all. Admissions are highly competitive in the top universities.
PHD DURATION IN INDIA
The PhD program in India generally lasts between 3 to 4 years, including the coursework and dissertation. Part-time PhDs are also provided for professionals working with a low course load and duration of four years. Extensions of up to 2 years are allowed to finish dissertations.
LIST OF POPULAR PHD COURSES
The most popular PhD areas of specialisation in India include:
PhD in Computer Science: Computer science PhDs focus on the development of software systems intelligence, intelligent computing security networks, algorithms, and networks. The top institutes are IITs IIITs IISc, BITS Pilani and NITs, Anna University, SRM Chennai, Hindustan University Tamil Nadu among others.
PhD in management: The Management PhD focuses on research in finance, marketing operations, HR and strategy, among others. Some of the most prominent institutes include IIMs, XLRI, NMIMS, TISS, MDI, Vels University, Madurai Kamraj, Annamalai, MGR University etc.
PhD in Economics: A PhD in Economics involves the most advanced research in macroeconomics, trade, development, and so on. Some of the most reputable centres include Delhi School of Economics, IGIDR, ISI, Madras School of Economics and many more.
PhD in Psychology: Psychology PhD covers the cognitive process, social, clinical, developmental and organizational areas. Some of the top universities include NIMHANS, TISS, Calicut University ,Central Universities and many more.
PhD in English: English literature PhD research focuses on linguistics, the study of culture, comparative literature and so on. Some of the most prestigious institutes include JNU, DU, EFLU, Central Universities, etc.
PhD After MBA: Students can pursue a PhD following their MBA courses and specialize in management, business administration, commerce, and other areas. The best B-schools to offer this include IIMs, FMS, MDI, SPJIMR, XLRI, etc.
Doctorate in Nursing: Nursing PhD is a focus of research in public health, community health, policy, health administration, etc. The top institutes for quality research AIIMS, PGIMER, TISS, MGR University Tamil Nadu, Manipal University etc.
PhD in Mathematics: Maths PhD requires specializations in topology, algebra, analysis and statistics, among others. The most renowned centres are the IITs, IISc, CMI, ISI, TIFR, etc.
Ph.D. in Physics: Physics Ph.D. is specifically focused on nuclear physics, electronics, optics, and the condensed state of matter. The most renowned institutions are IITs, IISc, NISER, etc.
PhDs in Chemistry: Chemistry PhD research encompasses physical, organic, inorganic and analytical chemistry. Some notable institutes include IITs, IISc, NCL, CSIR labs, IISERs, etc.
Ph.D. in Pharmacology: Pharmacology research program focuses on developing new drugs, toxicology, clinical trials, etc. Top institutes include NIPER, IITs, and AIIMS etc.
Ph.D in Yoga: PhD in Yoga is a top-rated research program in India. Yoga PhD is a study of ancient yoga texts, theories, philosophies, treatments and techniques to integrate the body, mind, spirit and overall health. SVYASA Bangalore and Vels University are the top universities for Doctorate programs in Yoga.
Ph.D. in Astrology: This Astrology Ph.D. focuses on the study of old Indian systems of astrology such as Vedic, Nadi, Tajika and many more. The most prominent universities are Banaras Hindu University, Vels University Tamil Nadu and many more.
Ph.D. in Vedic Sciences: Vedic Sciences PhD focuses on the research into ancient scriptures that deal with the philosophy of astronomy, spirituality and rituals, phonetics, etc. Notable institutes are Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth and Vels University etc.
PhD in pharmacy: Pharmacy PhD research is focused on drug design, innovative delivery systems for drugs as well as pharmaceutical analysis and clinical trials, etc. Most prestigious institutions include NIPERs BITS Pilani Manipal University, IIT and DR MGR University etc.
Ph.D. in law: Law PhDs are pursued in areas such as criminal law, intellectual property rights, corporate law rights, etc.. The top institutes include NLSIU, NALSAR, WBNUJS, NLIU, GNLU, etc.
PhD in Geography: PhD in Geography: Geography PhD covers urban geography, resources mapping, climate science, geospatial technology etc. Popular research centers are the University of Delhi, BHU, Mumbai University, MSU and many more.
BTech-PhD: Direct PhD programs are available at some universities. The specializations include artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, data science robotics, robotics, and robotics.
MORE PHD PROGRAM OPTIONS WITHIN INDIA
Other popular PhD specializations provided by Indian universities are a PhD after an MBA, PhD in Geography, Biology, Maths, Physics, Chemistry, IT, Philosophy, Engineering, Social Sciences, Pharmacy and allied disciplines, Geography and more. These programs are designed specifically designed for BTech graduates. The Pharmacy PhD focuses on new drugs and research in clinical.
FULL-TIME & PART-TIME PHD DIFFERENCES
The primary distinctions between regular and part-time PhD programs lie in the duration, residency requirements, and course syllabus. The total length of the Doctorate course will last one year longer than a full-time degree. Part-time students do not have to remain on campus full-time. Their courses are organized mostly on holidays and weekends.
Candidates are not required to live on campus full-time, and their coursework is organized through the evening or on weekends. The amount of credits and courses is reduced for part-time students each semester. Research timeframes are flexible for students who are part-time Ph.D. in line with the candidate’s employment obligations. The admissions procedure, the qualification requirements and overall course credits and dissertation quality, as well as rigorousness, are the same.
Part-time PhD programs aim to provide flexibility and adjust program delivery to the needs of professionals working full-time without compromising research quality.
BENEFITS OF A PHD IN INDIA
PhD Course in India offers many advantages:
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- The government institutes charge low course fees.
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- Research of the highest quality under the renowned faculty
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- Access to well-equipped labs and infrastructure
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- Scholarships/fellowships for meritorious candidates
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- The latest technology and methods
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- Option for flexible/part-time PhD programs
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- Help with placement on campus for R&D jobs following PhD
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- Opportunities for academic careers
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- Better prospects for careers in research field.
PHD ADMISSION PROCESS
Admission requirements and procedure to apply for PhD programs
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- Find institutes that offer PhD course you are interested in.
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- Check eligibility requirements in terms of academic history or entrance exams, work experience, and other requirements.
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- Participate in national or institute-level PhD entrance examinations.
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- Candidates who have been shortlisted are invited to an interview.
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- The panel examines the statement of intent and research interests, as well as abilities.
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- Final admissions decisions are based on the same academic excellence as well as a profile for the relevant industry abilities to research and perform well in interviews.
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- The candidates who have been selected are admitted by filling out the required paperwork and paying the fees.
ONLINE PHD PROGRAMS VALID?
According to the University Grants Commission Circular , September 2022, Online PhD programs will not be valid in India.
PHD DOCTORATE DEGREE IN INDIA -TOP UNIVERSITIES
List of Top Universities in India for PhD Doctorate Degree Programs.
| Institution | Place | Duration | Fee in Rs/Year | About |
| Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi | New Delhi | 3-4 years | 10,000-20,000 | Top institute for STEM research |
| Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru | Bengaluru | 3-5 years | 20,000-40,000 | Premier institute for scientific research |
| Jawaharlal Nehru University | New Delhi | 3-5 years | 1,000-5,000 | Leading social sciences and arts university |
| University of Hyderabad | Hyderabad | 3-5 years | 5,000-20,000 | Wide range of PhD disciplines |
| Anna University | Chennai | 3-4 years | 30,000-50,000 | Large public university, engineering focus |
| Bharathiar University | Coimbatore | 3-4 years | 30,000-50,000 | PhD programs in sciences, arts, education |
| Bharathidasan University | Tiruchirappalli | 3-4- years | 10,000-25,000 | Research programs in arts, sciences |
| Madurai Kamaraj University | Madurai | 3-4 years | 10,000-25,000 | Major south Indian university, broad PhD disciplines |
| SRM Institute of Science and Technology | Chennai | 3-4 years | 50,000-80,000 | Engineering, sciences, humanities |
| Manipal University | Manipal | 3-4 years | 2-3 lakhs | Premier private university, PhD programs in medical, tech fields |
| JSS University | Mysuru | 3-4 years | 50,000-1 lakh | Private university, PhDs in sciences, arts, management |
| Christ University | Bengaluru | 3-5 years | 1-1.5 lakhs | Private university, PhD programs in humanities, sciences |
| Alagappa University | Karaikudi | 3-4 years | 10,000-20,000 | PhD programs in sciences, arts, education |
| Annamalai University | Annamalai nagar | 3-4 years | 20,000-40,000 | Broad mix of disciplines |
| Bharath University | Chennai | 3-4 years | 50,000-60,000 | Management, sciences, arts |
| Vels University | Chennai | 3-4 years | 50,000-1 lakh | Sciences, engineering, management research |
| SRM Institute of Science and Technology | Chennai | 3-4 years | 50,000-80,000 | Engineering, sciences, humanities research |
| Vels University | Chennai | 3-4 years | 50,000-1 lakh | Sciences, engineering, management research |
| Alagappa University | Karaikudi | 3-4 years | 10,000-20,000 | PhD programs in sciences, arts, education |
| Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University | Chennai | 3-4 years | 35,000-40,000 | Medical and allied sciences |
| Dr MGR University | Chennai | 3-4 years | 30,000-60,000 | Health sciences, engineering, management research |
| Hindustan University | Chennai | 3-4 years | 50,000-1 lakh | Engineering, sciences, humanities research |
| University of Madras | Chennai | 3-4 years | 10,000-25,000 | Broad mix of arts, science, and professional PhDs |
Contact for PhD Admission Support
7 STAGES OF PHD JOURNEY
Pursuing a PhD in India: A Step-by-Step Guide
To earn the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in India requires commitment, persistence, and an intense academic commitment. Usually, Part-time PhD courses take between 4-5 years and include a series of important steps. Let’s take a look at the journey from beginning to end.
- Finding a University and Research Area
- Applying to PhD Program
- Getting Admission
- Conducting research and Collecting results
- Writing your thesis
- Completing Coursework
- Defending Your PhD Research
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q1. How long will a PhD program take to finish?
A PhD usually takes between three to four years, including coursework research, dissertation defence and writing. Specific programs are designed for 4-5 years.
Q2. What is a PhD dissertation?
A PhD dissertation outlines the research done by the candidate that includes literature reviews, study methodology, methodological approach to study and data analysis, as well as conclusions and findings.
Q3. Who is able to guide the PhD researcher?
PhD research researchers work under the supervision of approved faculty supervisors who are experienced researchers with PhD qualifications in a similar or allied subject.
Q4. Do I have to write research papers during my PhD?
It’s not required but strongly advised to publish research articles in peer-reviewed journals throughout your PhD since it adds credibility and a greater exposure to the work.