The PhD Ecology and Environmental Science or Doctor of Philosophy in Ecology and Environmental Science is a three-year doctoral program that involves the study of the environment in chemistry, biology, and physical contexts.
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Ecology and Environmental Sciences is an advanced degree that focuses on the study of the interactions between organisms and their environment, including human impacts on the natural world. This program typically involves coursework, research, and the completion of a dissertation.
PhD students in Ecology and Environmental Sciences typically conduct research in a specific area of interest, such as conservation biology, ecosystem ecology, environmental toxicology, or climate change. They may also study topics such as biodiversity, environmental policy, and sustainable resource management.
The program typically takes four to six years to complete and requires students to take advanced courses in ecology, environmental science, statistics, and research methods. Students are expected to conduct original research, analyze data, and write a dissertation that contributes to the field of ecology and environmental sciences.
Course Level | Doctorate |
Full-Form | Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science |
Duration | 3 years |
Examination Type | Semester-based or Annual |
Eligibility Criteria | Master’s Degree/ Post-graduation with a minimum of 55% |
Admission process | Merit-based / Entrance Examination |
Job Positions | Wildlife Film-maker, Research Assistant, Environment Journalist, Forest Carbon Specialist, Conservation Hydrologist, Senior Program Officer, Environment Photographer, Waste Management Director, Senior Catastrophe Risk Modeler, Environment Management Analyst, Zoologist, Research Associate, Hydrologist, etc. |
Here are some key highlights of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Ecology and Environmental Sciences:
Advanced coursework: The program typically involves advanced courses in ecology, environmental science, statistics, and research methods. Students are expected to have a strong background in biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics.
Research opportunities: PhD students have the opportunity to conduct original research in a specific area of interest, such as conservation biology, ecosystem ecology, environmental toxicology, or climate change. They work closely with faculty advisors and may collaborate with other researchers or institutions.
Dissertation: A major requirement of the program is the completion of a dissertation, which involves conducting original research, analyzing data, and presenting findings in a written format. This requires a significant amount of independent work and critical thinking.
Career opportunities: Graduates of the program can pursue careers in academia, research, or environmental consulting. They may work for government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or private companies in roles such as environmental scientists, conservation biologists, or sustainability analysts.
Impactful research: PhD students in Ecology and Environmental Sciences have the opportunity to make significant contributions to the field and address critical environmental issues facing the world today. Their research can help inform policy, promote conservation efforts, and develop sustainable resource management practices.
The entrance exam requirements for a PhD in Ecology and Environmental Sciences program can vary depending on the institution. Some universities may require a standardized test such as the GRE (Graduate Record Examination), while others may require a subject-specific exam or a personal interview with faculty members.
Doctoral Entrance Examination Syllabus The Doctorate in Ecology and Environmental Science varies from university to university. However, most exams focus on environmental knowledge and skills.
Students should know the entire syllabus of the entrance exam they are taking as some of these exams are based solely on environmental knowledge.
Candidates should prepare adequately by purchasing study materials or previous years' doctoral entrance exam question papers and considering practicing for the Ecology and Environmental Science doctoral entrance exam. The
Environmental Science Course Book is also a great study material for these exams.
Generally, to be eligible for admission to a PhD program in Ecology and Environmental Sciences, applicants are required to hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field such as biology, ecology, environmental science, or a related discipline. Additionally, they may be required to demonstrate a strong academic record, research experience, and relevant coursework in ecology and environmental sciences.
The duration of a PhD program in Ecology and Environmental Sciences is typically four to six years, depending on the research and dissertation requirements.
The selection criteria for a PhD program in Ecology and Environmental Sciences often include academic qualifications, research experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Admissions committees may also consider the fit between the applicant’s research interests and those of the faculty members.
To apply for a PhD program in Ecology and Environmental Sciences, prospective students typically need to submit an application through the university’s website or online application portal. The application typically includes transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, a resume or CV, and standardized test scores if required. Some programs may require an application fee. Applicants are encouraged to check with the institution for specific application requirements and deadlines.
The application process for a PhD program in Ecology and Environmental Sciences typically involves the following steps:
Merit-Based Admission | Most private universities offering PhD programs in environmental science typically admit students based on the grades they achieve in their master's/graduate school. In addition, these universities may conduct in-person interviews or written tests to learn more about the candidate's skills. |
Entrance Exam Based | Top PhD colleges like Banaras Hindu University, Jawaharlal University, Amity University usually consist of MCQ-based questions on environment-oriented topics and help colleges on environment-oriented topics. We offer admission to the Environmental Science PhD program through an entrance examination. Candidates are suitable for admission. |
The application fee for a PhD program in Ecology and Environmental Sciences varies depending on the institution. On average, the fee can range from $50 to $100.
The syllabus of a PhD program in Ecology and Environmental Sciences can vary depending on the institution and specific research interests of the student. However, some common courses and topics covered in the program include:
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Graduates with a PhD in Ecology and Environmental Sciences can pursue careers in academia, research, or environmental consulting. Some common job titles and average salaries include:
Job Profile | Description |
Research Associate | The main job of a Research Associate is to involve in detailed analyses of projects and their effects on the environment. They also do research based on which they formulate techniques for the protection of the environment |
Ecologist | They have responsibilities like generating environmental impact reports, habitat maintenance, teaching in schools, helping with legislation, conducting surveys, and various others. They are also involved in surveying ecosystems and creating assessments pertaining to the diversity, behavior, and population of the different organisms within the ecosystems. |
Zoologist | They are scientists who study living organisms, specifically animals, and often work in outdoor environments. |
Hydrologist | These professionals work for a government agency or a private organization that studies water and its properties, availability, and cycle. Hydrologists help solve water-related issues like storm surges, floods, and droughts. |
Assistant Professor | They professionally engage in teaching the discipline to undergraduate/graduate students and assessing their academic performances. |
Graduates of a PhD program in Ecology and Environmental Sciences have a wide range of career opportunities in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. Some common career paths include:
Some of the top universities for a PhD in Ecology and Environmental Sciences include:
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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.