A PhD in Science, Technology, and Society Studies (STS) is an interdisciplinary program that combines science and technology studies with social and cultural analysis. The goal of this program is to train students to critically analyze the complex relationships between science, technology, and society.
Students in a PhD program in STS will typically take courses in science and technology studies, philosophy of science, sociology, anthropology, history of science, and cultural studies. They may also choose to specialize in a particular area of STS, such as the sociology of science or the history of technology.
Throughout the program, students will be expected to conduct original research and produce a dissertation on a topic related to STS. This research may involve analyzing the social and cultural implications of a particular scientific or technological development, exploring the ways in which science and technology shape society and culture, or examining the politics of science and technology.
Stream | Doctor of Philosophy |
Course | PhD In Science Technology and Society Studies |
Full Name | Doctor of Philosophy in Science Technology and Society Studies |
Eligibility Criteria | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Duration | 3 Years |
Fees | Notified Soon |
Type | Degree |
Mode | Year |
Most PhD programs in Science, Technology, and Society Studies (STS) do not require an entrance exam.
However, some universities may require applicants to take the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) or a subject-specific test.
To be eligible for admission to a PhD program in STS, applicants typically need to have a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field, such as science and technology studies, sociology, anthropology, history, or philosophy.
They may also be required to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample.
The eligibility requirements for a PhD program in STS may vary by university, but generally, applicants should have a strong academic background and research experience in a related field.
Some universities may require a master's degree in a related field, while others may accept applicants with a bachelor's degree.
A PhD program in STS is typically 4-6 years, depending on the university and the student's progress. The program may include coursework in the first few years, followed by research and dissertation writing. |
The selection criteria for a PhD program in STS may vary by university, but generally, admission decisions are based on academic record, research experience, letters of recommendation, and the applicant's fit with the program's research interests.
Some universities may also require an interview or a writing sample as part of the selection process.
1. To apply for a PhD program in STS, applicants should first research different universities and programs to find the ones that best match their interests and career goals.
2. They should then check the application requirements and deadlines for each program and prepare their application materials accordingly.
3. Applications are typically submitted online, and may require transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample.
4. It is important to submit applications well before the deadline to allow time for processing and review.
The application form and process for a PhD program in Science, Technology, and Society Studies (STS) varies by university, but generally, applicants need to submit an online application along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample. Applicants should check the specific requirements and deadlines for each program and submit their applications well before the deadline to allow time for processing and review.
The application fee for a PhD program in STS varies by university and may range from a few hundred to a few thousand rupees. Some universities may also offer fee waivers or reductions for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Year 1 |
|
Year 2 |
|
Year 3 |
|
Job Role/Title | Description | ||
Professor/Researcher | Conduct original research, publish scholarly articles, and teach STS courses. | ||
Postdoctoral Researcher | Further research in STS or related fields under the mentorship of senior scholars. | ||
Policy Analyst/Advisor | Analyze science and technology policies, provide advice to policymakers. | ||
Science and Technology Officer | Develop and implement government strategies related to science and technology. | ||
Science Communicator/Journalist | Translate technical information for broader audiences, contribute to public discourse. | ||
Advocacy Officer | Advocate for evidence-based decision-making in science and technology policy. | ||
Technology Assessment Specialist | Assess the societal impacts of emerging technologies, advise industry stakeholders. | ||
Ethics and Compliance Officer | Develop ethical frameworks and guidelines for technology companies. | ||
Technology Consultant | Provide advisory services on technology adoption, risk assessment, and innovation strategies. | ||
Sustainability Consultant | Advise businesses on sustainable practices and stakeholder engagement. | ||
Development Specialist | Lead technology transfer and sustainable development projects. | ||
Global Affairs Analyst | Analyze international science and technology policies and agreements. | ||
Founder/CEO of a Tech Startup | Establish startups focusing on socially responsible technological innovation. | ||
Social Entrepreneur | Launch social enterprises addressing societal needs through technology. | ||
Postdoctoral Researcher | Conduct research in STS or related fields, gain additional expertise. | ||
Continuing Education Instructor | Teach courses or workshops on STS topics for professionals or students. |
Graduates of a PhD program in STS have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. Some of the most common career paths for STS graduates include:
Academia: Many STS graduates go on to careers in academia as professors, researchers, and postdoctoral fellows.
Government: STS graduates may work for government agencies as policy analysts or advisors, helping to shape policy related to science and technology.
Non-profit organizations: STS graduates may work for non-profit organizations focused on science and technology policy, advocacy, or education.
Private sector: STS graduates may work for private companies in a variety of roles, such as research and development, marketing, or corporate social responsibility.
Some of the top colleges in India offering PhD programs in STS include:
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.