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List of PhD Courses 2024 - Phd Programs In India

Kopal Srivastava Aug 12, 2024 1.3K Reads

The Ph.D. courses in India are the highest qualifications across various career streams. It offers aspirants the choice based on their preferences. Often seen as educational milestones, this degree is highly chosen by students and professionals like CEOs, directors, scientists, professors, and managers in diverse fields.

There are various fields of study available to aspiring candidates, including Humanities, Science, Commerce, Engineering, Business and Management, Law, Teaching, and Education.

Universities provide an engaging setting for study and research. A Ph.D. program not only produces a degree but also increases one's drive and capacity for success in a cutthroat environment. Students Also Ask | Doctorate Programs Online!

If you want an alternative to an online PhD, consider an online DBA program. It doesn't require daily attendance and still gives you the title "Dr." Many colleges offer online DBA programs. You can complete it in 3-5 years and learn from international faculty. Here are some universities offering online DBA programs.

Universities 

Fees 

Golden Gate University 

INR 8,14,000

Rushford Business School

INR 8,12,500

ESGCI International School of Management Paris 

INR 8,14,000

What are the eligibility requirements for a PhD Program?

To apply for a PhD Program, you must have to fulfill mentioned eligibility criteria :

  • Those with master's degrees can apply to PhD programs. A master's degree in philosophy is necessary for various courses.
  • After graduation, students have to receive at least 50–55% of their grades.
  • Certain institutions base their admission decisions on interviews, which might involve a written test.
  • Applicants with prior research work experience are given preference.

Popular PhD courses in Humanities

    PhD in Humanities

  PhD Economics

  PhD Geography

  PhD in Social Work

PhD in English

  PhD in Social Sciences

  PhD in Public and Economic Policy

  PhD in Humanities & Social Sciences

  PhD in Humanities and Life Sciences

  PhD in Psychology

  PhD in Arts

    PhD in International Relations and Politics

PhD in Physiology

  PhD in Public Policy

  PhD in Literature

Popular PhD Courses in Science

    PhD in Chemistry

    PhD in Clinical Research

  PhD in Science

  PhD in Bioscience

  PhD in Bioinformatics

    PhD Biotechnology

  PhD in Mathematical and Computational Sciences

    PhD in Environmental Science and Engineering

    PhD in Applied Chemistry & Polymer Technology

  PhD in Applied Sciences

PhD Zoology

  PhD in Physics

  PhD in Basic and Applied Sciences

  Phd in Mathematics

  PhD in Zoology

Popular PhD Courses in Commerce

  PhD in Commerce Management

    PhD in Accounting and Financial Management

Popular PhD Courses in Engineering

  PhD in Engineering

  PhD in Genetic Engineering

PhD in Civil Engineering

PhD Program in Quantitative Techniques

  PhD in Engineering and Technology

  PhD Electronics & Communication Engineering

    PhD Computer Science Engineering

PhD in Electronics and Communication Engineering

  PhD in Aeronautical and Automobile Engineering

  PhD in Information Technology

  PhD in Ceramic Engineering

  PhD in Production Engineering

    PhD in Marine Biotechnology

    PhD in Chemical Engineering

  PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Popular PhD Courses in Business & Management

    PhD Business Administration

    PhD in Management

PhD in Aviation Management

    PhD in Logistics and Supply Chain Management

  PhD in Accounting and Financial Management

  PhD in Marketing/ Brand Management

  PhD in Commerce

  PhD in Commerce and Management

Popular PhD Courses in Law

  PhD in Law

  PhD in Constitutional Law

  PhD in Law and Governance

  PhD in Legal Studies

Popular PhD Courses in Teaching & Education

  PhD in Education

  PhD in Teaching

Stream Wise Syllabus of PhD

Courses for Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD, are available in several subjects. The arts and humanities, science, and management are a few of the main streams. In India, there are several PhD programs accessible.

क्या Online PhD valid हैं? Distance से PhD कर सकते हैं?

The syllabus for a few PhD courses is broken down per stream in the table below :

  • Science Stream : PhD science students need to observe, question, model, conduct experiments, and do research to generate new ideas for their theses. After completing the course, students are equipped to work in a range of scientific sectors as teachers and learning strategists.The topics taught include computer science, biology, chemistry, physics, and the life sciences, with a focus on research. Geophysics and material science might be studied. At the beginning of the course, students must complete homework that covers important ideas and concepts. After class, students work individually on research projects, which they turn in as a thesis at the end of the semester.

Check the table below to know the topics you will get to learn in the science stream :

Advanced Computer Algorithms

Distributed COM

Advanced Database Management Systems

Distributed File System

Advanced Software Engineering

Distributed Systems

Component Object Model (COM) & interfaces in COM

Dynamic Programming

Computer Architecture

Frequencies for Radio Transmission

Computer System Design

Medium Access Control

CORBA, JAVA, and object web

Multiprocessor Architecture

  • Management Stream : A PhD in management helps you land a job in academics or research. You can become a professor or researcher in an academic institution. Additionally, you can work as a business specialist, policy analyst, or management consultant in corporate settings.

Check the table below to know the topics you will get to learn in the Management stream :

Computer Applications

Logistics

Dissertation

Marketing

Elective I

Operations Management

Financial Management

Project Work

General Management

Quantitative Analysis

Human Resource Management

Research Methodology

Information Technology Management

Retail Merchandising

  • Art and Humanities Stream : You acquire advanced skills for careers in the arts and humanities. A dissertation on the subject of the student's studies is necessary. Their knowledge of several art forms, historical events, and techniques is considerable due to their experience. Ideal for those who are creative and energetic. Among the specializations are the visual arts, music, psychology, history, and English literature. Graduates might find employment as teachers and researchers at research institutes, colleges, and universities.

Check the table below to know the topics you will get to learn in the Art and Humanities stream :

Advanced Course in Logic

Communication Theory

Advanced Course in Philosophy of Science

Data Collection and Organization

Advanced Course in Formal Methods

Decision Theory

Advanced Econometric Methods

Environment and Development

Advanced Economic Theory

Environment Philosophy

Advanced Macroeconomics Theory

Fieldwork

Advanced Microeconomics Theory

Governance and the Political Economy of Development

What do I learn in the PhD program?

  • First year: To organize your research and establish deadlines, you will meet with your supervisor. You'll finish a review of the literature to assess previous research and make sure your study is unique.
  • In your second year: you will concentrate on acquiring data, refining your thesis, and perhaps even drafting thesis chapters. Moreover, you might work with colleagues, speak at conferences, acquire teaching experience, and share your findings through publications or seminars.Writing your thesis is the primary task for the
  • third year: Submit your thesis and give viva in front of internal and external examiners when your supervisor gives the go-ahead.

What are the types of PhD Programs? 

There are various types of a PhD programs. Some of them are mentioned below :

  • Regular PhD Program : In a regular PhD program, you have to attend classes regularly, and the duration to complete it is a minimum of 3-5 years. Furthermore, you have to take an entrance exam if you want to opt for a regular PhD program. Moreover, you also have to be completely focused on research.
  • Part-Time PhD Program : This part-time PhD program is specially designed for working professionals. You need to attend evening classes. Candidates working in reputed research organizations, academic institutes, or industries near the campus are usually granted part-time PhDs. A part-time PhD takes 7-8 years to complete, as students must fulfill the same academic credits and requirements as full-time students. Part-time PhD students attend a limited number of classes. They must have at least 1 year of work experience and an NOC from their employer. Part-time Ph.D. focuses on research that benefits the company rather than individual research.
  • Online PhD Program : Online PhD is still not recognized by the UGC, hence it is not a valid option, but you can opt for an alternative which is an Online DBA (Doctor of Business Administration). It is also a doctorate program and can be completed in a minimum of 3-5 years. Moreover, you also do not need to visit college to pursue it.
  • PhD for Working Professionals : It might be difficult to pursue a Ph.D. while working a full-time job. Nonetheless, a lot of colleges provide working people with flexible curriculum options known as PhD for working professionals. These courses assist students in juggling employment and education. To pursue this PhD for working professionals program, you must have a Master's degree with a minimum of 60% marks, work experience, and a valid GATE/NET score (if applicable).
  • PhD Global : A Global PhD is a PhD for working professionals that can be pursued from a foreign university. It is a little different from a PhD program offered in an Indian university in terms of eligibility criteria, selection process, fees, syllabus, and job roles. In this mode, you have to pass the entrance exam, and once you pass it, only then you can apply for a PhD Global program.
  • PhD Abroad : The duration of a Ph.D. abroad is three to six years, with ample chances. To get admitted, candidates must pass entrance examinations such as the GMAT, SAT, GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS. Ph.D. programs are offered by prestigious universities in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Japan, Canada, Singapore, and France.

Integrated PhD Program This integrated doctoral program is comprehensive and incorporates both a master’s and a doctorate program. The duration to complete it is a minimum of 5-6 years. You can apply for this program right after your bachelor’s.

Universities Offering a PhD Program? 

Various government and private colleges are offering a PhD program, Some of them are mentioned below. Moreover, you can also check the entrance exam accepted in these colleges and universities. 

Institute

Exams Accepted

Jawaharlal Nehru University

UGC NET- JRF

University of Delhi

NET/JRF

Hidayaullah National Law University

Entrance Exam, UGC NET JRF

Aligarh Muslim University

University Entrance Exam, UGC NET JRF

Mizoram University

University Entrance Exam, UGC NET JRF

North Eastern Hill University

Entrance Exam, UGC NET JRF

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham

GATE

Manipal University

PhD Manipal Entrance Test (MET)

VIT Vellore

VITREE

KIIT University

KIITEE

BITS Pilani

BITS PhD Entrance Exam

Bharathidasan University

University-Level Exam 

PhD from Delhi University 

For admission to Delhi University's Ph.D. program, candidates must have a Master's degree or M.Phil with at least 55% marks from Delhi University or another recognized university. Admission is through the DUET entrance test, which shortlists candidates for an interview.

Streams

Commerce

German

Business Administration

Dermatology

Pharmacology

Obstetrics and Gynecology Nursing

History

Electronics and Communication

Political Science

Anaesthesiology

Resource Management and Design Application

Pediatrics

Fabric and Apparel Science

Business Economics

English

Urdu

Physical Education

Russian

Education

Sanskrit

Philosophy

Punjabi

Anthropology

Manufacturing Process and Automation Engineering

Economics

Persian

Physical Education

Electronics

Library and Information Science

African Studies

Psychology

Radiology

Home Science

French/ Italian/ German/ Hispanic studies

Surgery

Human Development and Childhood Studies

Botany

Buddhist Studies

Social Work

Pulmonary Medicine

Geology

Biophysics

Microbiology

Pathology

Chemistry

Instrumentation and Control

Hindi

Music

Operational Research

Plant Molecular Biology

Medicine

Adult Continuing Education and Extension

Sociology

Environment Studies

Linguistics

Arabic

Genetics

Biochemistry

Community Medicine

Computer Science

Pulmonary Medicine

Financial Studies

Statistics

Physiology

Biomedical Sciences

Medicinal Microbiology

Applied Science and Humanities

-

PhD from IGNOU 

It is necessary to have completed post-graduation in the relevant field in order to apply for a PhD at IGNOU. For the unreserved category, a minimum of 55% post-graduation is needed. It is not necessary to take the IGNOU admission test in order to be considered for a PhD if a candidate has an MPhil or has completed the NET or an equivalent exam.

Subjects 

PhD in Anthropology

PhD in Psychology

PhD in Economics

PhD in Public Administration

PhD in Library and Information Science

PhD in Sociology

PhD in Political Science

PhD in Biochemistry

PhD in Chemistry

PhD in Geography

PhD in Geology

PhD in Statistics

PhD in Law

PhD in Nursing

PhD in Social Work

PhD in Translation Studies

PhD in Vocational Education and Training

PhD in French

PhD in Food and Nutritional Science

PhD in Home Science

PhD in Commerce

PhD in Management

PhD in Education

PhD in Gender and Development Studies

PhD in Journalism and Mass Communication

PhD in Dairy Science and Technology

PhD in Development Studies

PhD in Computer Science

Is an Online PhD valid in India? 

If you are willing to enroll in an Online PhD, you must know that an Online PhD is not valid in India as it is not recognized by the UGC (University Grants Commission), and hence no Indian Universities offer you an online PhD.

You can opt for an Online DBA. It stands for a Doctor of Business Administration. It is also a doctorate program. Moreover, it offers you various advantages such as it can be completed in a minimum of 3-5 years whereas PhD takes 5-7 years to complete it.

Furthermore, in an Online DBA, you get an opportunity to study from an international Faculties. You also get to immersion of 2- days means you can visit the university campus. Many universities offer you an Online DBA. Some of them are mentioned below 

Universities 

Fees 

Golden Gate University 

INR 8,14,000

Rushford Business School

INR 8,12,500

ESGCI International School of Management Paris 

INR 8,14,000

What is the career scope after completing a PhD Program? 

The value of a PhD degree lies in the knowledge and skills you gain. These traits are essential for excelling in your chosen career. The most sought-after jobs for PhD graduates are university professors, industrial R&D lab professionals, and start-up mentors. Industrial R&D organizations have dedicated PhD groups involved in research, product design, and strategic meetings. Salaries in these labs are higher compared to development centers.

An engineering graduate with five years of experience earns less than a fresh PhD graduate in an industrial R&D lab. Sometimes, development centers offer PhD graduates roles with salaries equal to or higher than those in R&D labs. Overall, PhD graduates in research labs or development centers receive higher salaries and designations compared to other graduates with significant experience.

PhDs are now working in many sectors, not just academics. Professionals are moving from academic research to corporate jobs to use their skills in new ways. To work in the banking sector, a PhD in finance is often required. This program allows PhDs to work beyond their original area of study.

How Much Does a PhD Holder Earn? 

The specialization of a PhD influences job opportunities in the private sector. PhD candidates have many opportunities because they work in various fields, but their employment depends on their specialization. Private universities, Google, Microsoft, Deloitte, and Infosys are leading employers in the private sector.

PhD holders are also recruited by government organizations. After earning a PhD, candidates can work for chemical or pharmaceutical companies, the oil and gas industry, the research sector, NGOs, and more. Salary structures vary between the commercial and public sectors.

Streams

PhD Specialisations

Average Salary

Arts

PhD English

Rs 4,00,000 – Rs 12.00,000

PhD Economics

PhD History

PhD Sociology

PhD Psychology

Law

PhD Legal Studies

Rs 2,00,000 – Rs 13,00,000

PhD Law

Engineering

PhD Biomedical Engineering

Rs 3,00,000 – Rs 15,00,000

PhD Information Technology

PhD Mechanical Engineering

PhD Bioinformatics

Medical

PhD Neuroscience

Rs 4,00,000 – Rs 11,00,000

PhD Pathology

PhD Physiotherapy

Management

PhD Human Resource Management

Rs 4,00,000 – Rs 12.00,000

PhD Marketing

PhD Business Management

PhD Finance

Science

PhD Chemistry

Rs 4,00,000 – Rs 14,00,000

PhD Computer Science

PhD Biology

Mathematics

PhD Mathematics

Rs 3,00,000 – Rs 10,00,000

Here's information about PhD salaries in India for positions like Professor, Associate Professor, and others. Candidates can refer to the table to see what PhD professors earn in India.

Job Profile

Average Annual Salary 

Associate Professor

Rs 4 to 8 Lakhs 

Professor

Rs 7.80 to 30 Lakhs 

Consultant

Rs 8 to 10 Lakhs

Research Scientist

Rs 6 to 12 Lakhs

Research Assistant

Rs 3.10 to 5 Lakhs

Computer Engineer

Rs 4 to 9 Lakhs

Legal Assistant

Rs 4 to 8 Lakhs

Senior Writer

Rs 10 to 14 Lakhs

Is a PhD More than a Degree? 

Simply having a "Dr." title won't get you a job. Being a PhD graduate is more than a degree, it's about research and training. A PhD involves in-depth research, understanding issues, and solving problems with strong analytical skills. A PhD graduate must work long hours, solve complex problems, and stay calm in tough situations. These skills are needed in academics, research, finance, and public service.

Is PhD all about becoming a “Professor”?

It's a common myth that a PhD is just for becoming a university professor. While this is partly true, the scope of a PhD goes beyond academia. Few PhD holders actually join academia compared to the number of PhD graduates.

The job market in India and other countries is changing, leading PhD students to explore other career options. Nowadays, PhD graduates look for jobs in writing, research, investment banking, law, and more.

Is PhD Difficult? 

A PhD is difficult because it involves completing and writing an advanced research project that must pass rigorous peer review. By the end, you must show that you're a world-leading expert on your topic.

Here are key obstacles many doctoral students face :

  • Maintaining motivation: Completing a PhD takes at least three to five years. While your supervisor supports you, you are responsible for your progress. Staying motivated for this long is challenging.
  • Time pressure: Three years includes doing a literature review, a research project, and writing your thesis. Meeting deadlines often matters more than perfection.
  • Returning to university: Many PhD students come from jobs and must readjust to academic life. It takes time to get used to the different work styles.
  • Adaptability: Research rarely goes as planned. Processes can take longer, and results may be unexpected. You must handle setbacks and adapt as needed.
  • Self-doubt: Supervisors provide critical feedback, which can cause self-doubt. Learning to handle and use feedback effectively is crucial.

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Conclusion 

The Ph.D. courses in India are the highest qualifications across various career streams. It offers aspirants the choice based on their preferences. There are various fields of study available to aspiring candidates, including Humanities, Science, Commerce, Engineering, Business and Management, Law, Teaching, and Education. Universities provide an engaging setting for study and research. Moreover, you can even opt for an Online DBA. It stands for a Doctor of Business Administration. It is also a doctorate program and adds up the “Dr” title before your name.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

A PhD takes three to four years of full-time study. It involves completing original research presented as a thesis or dissertation. Some programs accept a portfolio of published papers, and some countries require coursework.

PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy, the highest postgraduate achievement. It involves significant and original research. You'll develop deep knowledge and understanding of a specific research area.

In India, PhD student salaries range from Rs. 0.5 Lakhs to Rs.18.0 Lakhs per year. The average annual salary is Rs. 4.1 Lakhs.

The PhD admission process in India varies by university, but generally, clearing entrance exams like the  UGC- NET is mandatory.

Yes, a PhD is difficult. It involves completing and writing up an advanced research project that must pass rigorous peer review. You must demonstrate expertise in your topic.

Starting from the 2024-25 academic session, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has approved using National Eligibility Test (NET) scores for PhD admissions. This simplifies the process and provides flexibility for candidates across institutions.

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By Kopal Srivastava

10 Years of Experience / Storyteller / Research-driven Writer

Loves to create story and narrating them through a Podcast

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