PhD in Development Studies Admission 2024-25, Results, Result, Exams

PhD in Development Studies Course About

The PhD in Development Studies, also known as the Doctor of Philosophy in Development Studies, is an interdisciplinary course that lasts three years, with examinations mainly held each semester.

This three-year Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Developmental Studies is open to candidates who have completed postgraduate studies in related arts-based fields such as history, social sciences, political science, and the humanities. There are several universities that offer courses. Economics, geography, philosophy, journalism, law, to name a few.

The minimum admission criteria serve as a necessary prerequisite for the admission of a candidate for the degree of Ph.D. This includes:

An MPhil/PhD in Development Studies is a research-oriented academic degree program that focuses on the study of the processes and challenges of economic, social, and political development in different countries and regions of the world. The program combines rigorous training in research methods and theoretical approaches to development with the opportunity to conduct independent research on a topic of the student's choice.

The program typically takes between three to five years to complete, and students are expected to produce a dissertation that makes an original contribution to the field of development studies. The dissertation should demonstrate a deep understanding of the relevant theories and concepts in development studies, as well as proficiency in research methods and data analysis.

The courses in the program cover topics such as the history and theories of development, globalization and development, poverty and inequality, political economy of development, and social and environmental sustainability. Students are also encouraged to specialize in a particular area of development studies based on their research interests and career goals.

PhD in Development Studies Highlights

Some highlights of an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies include:

Research-oriented: The program is research-focused, providing students with the opportunity to develop advanced research skills and conduct independent research on a topic of their choice.

Interdisciplinary: Development Studies is an interdisciplinary field, drawing on theories and methodologies from economics, sociology, political science, anthropology, and geography. The program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex processes of economic, social, and political development.

Customizable: Students can specialize in a particular area of development studies based on their research interests and career goals. The program provides flexibility for students to tailor their coursework and research to their specific interests.

International perspective: The program takes a global perspective, analyzing development challenges in different regions of the world. Students have the opportunity to conduct field research in developing countries, gaining first-hand experience of development challenges and solutions.

Career prospects: Graduates of an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies can pursue careers in academia, research institutions, international organizations, government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations. The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to analyze and address complex development challenges.

PhD in Development Studies Entrance Exam:

The admission process for an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies varies depending on the university and country. Some universities may require applicants to take an entrance exam, while others may only require a statement of purpose, research proposal, and/or letters of recommendation.

GATE IITB

UGC NET (June Session)

CSIR NET

JNU PhD Entrance Test

PhD in Development Studies Admission and Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for admission to an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies, candidates must typically hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher, although some universities may require a master's degree. In addition, applicants must provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a research proposal.

Postgraduate courses are mainly from the arts field and may include master's courses in sociology, humanities, history, geography, social science, development studies, anthropology, political science, and other allied and related fields.

In certain institutions like Christ University, Bangalore, an M. Phil degree is a mandatory criterion for admission into the university for candidates who do not have CSIR NET, GATE or other national-level entrance qualifications.

Some universities set the age limit for the general quota up to 55 years.

Apart from this, reservations for foreigners, scheduled castes, and scheduled tribes exist to some extent in almost all universities.

The preliminary round is based on the entrance exam conducted by the university and candidates have to qualify with a high rank.

This entry is followed by an interview or viva round, which the candidate must pass with flying colors.

Final selection and ranking will be determined based on the cumulative results of graduation, admission, and interviews.

PhD in Development Studies Course Duration:

The duration of the program is typically three to five years, although it may vary depending on the university and the student's progress.

PhD in Development Studies Selection Criteria:

The selection criteria for an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies vary depending on the university and the program. Generally, selection is based on academic achievement, research potential, relevant experience, and fit with the program's research interests.

PhD in Development Studies How to Apply:

To apply for an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies, candidates must typically complete an online application form and submit supporting documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a research proposal. Some universities may also require an entrance exam or an interview as part of the selection process.

Candidates should check the specific requirements and application deadlines for each university they are interested in applying to. It is recommended to start the application process well in advance to allow for sufficient time to complete all required materials and to ensure consideration for scholarships or financial aid opportunities.

PhD in Development Studies Admission Process

The application process for an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies varies depending on the university. Generally, candidates must complete an online application form and submit supporting documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a research proposal. Some universities may also require an entrance exam or an interview as part of the selection process.

Research programs: Start by researching universities that offer PhD programs in development studies. Find a program that matches your research interests and career goals.

Eligibility Criteria: Check the admission criteria. This typically includes a master's degree in a related field such as development studies, economics, sociology, political science, or anthropology. Some programs may also require relevant work experience.

Gather Documents: Gather all documents required for the application process. This typically includes letters of recommendation from previous degrees, a letter of recommendation outlining your research interests and goals, a curriculum vitae, and proof of English language skills if applicable.

Contact potential advisors: Contact potential advisors or faculty whose research aligns with yours. Building connections with faculty will strengthen your application and help you understand whether the program is right for you.

Research proposal preparation: Many doctoral programs in development studies require a detailed research proposal outlining the proposed research topic, objectives, methodology, and expected contribution to the field.

Submit your application: Follow the university's application process. This typically involves submitting documents online through the university's application portal. To avoid any trouble, please pay attention to the deadline and submit your application well in advance of the deadline.

Interview (if required): Some universities may require an interview as part of the selection process. Prepare for the interview by familiarizing yourself with the research proposal and being prepared to discuss your educational and professional background.

Wait for a decision: After submitting your application and completing all required interviews, wait for admission decision. Depending on the university's verification process, this can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Acceptance and Registration: If you are accepted, you will receive an admission letter. Follow the instructions provided to complete the registration process, including additional requirements such as submitting financial documents and applying for a student visa while studying abroad.

PhD in Development Studies Fee:

The application fee for an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies varies depending on the university and country. The fee can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the university's location and reputation.

PhD in Development Studies Syllabus:

The syllabus for an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies typically includes courses in development theories and concepts, research methods, globalization and development, poverty and inequality, political economy of development, and social and environmental sustainability. Students can also specialize in a particular area of development studies based on their research interests.

Job Role After Completed PhD in Development Studies

Graduates with an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies can pursue a variety of careers, including academic positions in universities and research institutions, as well as roles in government agencies, NGOs, international organizations, and private sector organizations. Salaries for these positions vary widely depending on the country, organization, and the individual's experience and qualifications.

• Lecturer or Professor
  
• Social servant/worker
• Brand Manager
• Policy Analysts
• Foreign Service Officer

PhD in Development Studies Career Opportunities

Graduates with an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies can pursue careers in a range of fields related to development, including:

• Academic research and teaching
• Policy analysis and development
• International development consulting
• Social entrepreneurship
• Humanitarian and development aid
• Environmental sustainability and natural resource management
• Rural and urban development

PhD in Development Studies Top Colleges in India:

Some of the top colleges in India offering an MPhil/PhD in Development Studies include:

• Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
• Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai
• University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
• Delhi School of Economics, Delhi University
• Institute for Social and Economic Change, Bangalore

PhD in Development Studies Admission Procedure

• Application for the entrance exam 
• Result declaration
• Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
• Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
• Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
• Course work examination
• Result declaration of coursework
• Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
• Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
• A registration letter shall be issued
• Research work started by scholar
• 6 progress reports shall be submitted
• Soft copy thesis submit
• plagiarism report check by the university
• Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
• After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
• After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
• Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

Documents Checklist For PhD in Development Studies

• Documents (10th onwards)
• Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
• Migration Certificate (Original)
• NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
• Affidavit (undertaking)
• Guide Willing
• Assignments
• Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
• Library No Dues
• Lab Letter
• Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
• No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
• Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
• C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
• Conference Certificate - 2
• Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
• summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
• Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About PhD in Development Studies Program 

Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.

Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?

ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.

Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?

ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.

Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?

ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.

Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.

Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?

ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?

ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.

Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?

ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.

Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?

ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.

Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?

ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.

Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?

ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.

Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?

ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.

Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?

ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.