PhD After Master’s Degree – Eligibility, Benefits & Career Scope

Are you also wanting to upgrade and thinking of doing a PhD after a master’s degree? Then it is a great way to become an expert in your field. A PhD is the highest academic degree and focuses on research, deep thinking, and creating new knowledge. Many students choose to do a PhD after their master’s to get better job opportunities, teach at universities, or work on advanced projects. It takes time, hard work, and dedication, but the rewards can be big. Moreover, you even get recognised with the “Dr” title once you complete the PhD program. If you love learning and want to dive deeper into your subject, a PhD after a master’s could be the right next step for you.

Is It Possible To Do A Phd After A Master’s? 

Yes, it is possible to pursue a PhD after a master’s degree. But to pursue a PhD after a master's degree, you must pass the UGC-NET exam. UGC-NET is an entrance exam for Phd admission to colleges and universities. Moreover, there are also other entrance exams like GATE, CSIR-NET, IIT JAM, etc. In short, you must pass an entrance exam to pursue a PhD after a master’s.

If in case you are someone who does not want to take any entrance exam, then you must give a try to an Online DBA program. It is also a doctorate program and equivalent to a PhD program, and the best part you do not have to pass any entrance exam to pursue an Online DBA program.

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What are the Eligibility Criteria for a PhD? 

The PhD admission eligibility may vary from one college to another. However, the minimum eligibility criteria that every aspirant is expected to fulfil include:

• Completion of a Master's degree in a relevant field from a recognized institute.
• Secure a minimum of 55 to 60% aggregate score in the degree program.
• Moreover, it is a must for you to pass an entrance exam such as UGC-NET, GATE, etc

*Note: It is a must for you to pass an entrance exam if you want to pursue a PhD program after a master's. 

What Entrance Exams are Conducted for a PhD? 

If you're going to take a PhD in India, you need to know about the various university-level entrance tests. These tests evaluate your research ability and subject understanding. The following is a summary of some major PhD entrance tests being conducted throughout India:

• UGC NET / CSIR NET​​​​​​:The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research NET (CSIR NET) are tests conducted at the national level, based on which a candidate becomes eligible for lectureship and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). Most universities take the NET scores into account during PhD admissions. NET holders can be exempted from entrance tests at the university level.
• GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering): ​The GATE Exam is mainly for engineering and science graduates for admission to postgraduate courses and also for doctorate programs, such as the PhD program. Some institutes also use GATE scores for PhD admissions in technical and engineering fields.
• JEST (Joint Entrance Screening Test)​​ ​​​​​:JEST is a national-level entrance examination for candidates who wish to pursue PhD programs in physics, theoretical computer science, neuroscience, and computational biology. It is accepted by different research institutes in India.

• University-Specific Entrance Exams:​​ ​​​Numerous universities also hold their own PhD entrance exams. Some of them are:

• University of Allahabad: Holds Combined Research Entrance Test (CRET) for PhD admission in different departments.

Several major Indian universities have their own PhD entrance tests:

• Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU): It has a PhD entrance exam by the name JNUEE.
• Delhi University (DU): Delhi University conducts the DUET exam for admission to PhD.
• Banaras Hindu University (BHU): It takes an entrance exam named the BHU RET (Research Entrance Test) for PhD admission.
• Aligarh Muslim University (AMU): It also has its own PhD entrance exam.
• Private Universities: Some private universities, such as BITS Pilani, Manipal University, VIT Vellore, and Amrita University, conduct their own PhD entrance exams.
• Other Universities: Similar universities such as the University of Hyderabad and Gujarat Technological University (GTU) also give their own entrance tests.
• CUET (PhD) by NTA: The National Testing Agency (NTA) gives a common entrance test named CUET (PhD) to numerous universities such as DU, JNU, BHU, and BBAU.

State-Level Entrance Tests

Certain states conduct combined entrance tests for admission to PhD:

• Uttarakhand State Combined Ph.D. Entrance Test: Conducted for admissions to different PhD courses in state universities.
• Patna University PhD Admission Test (PAT): Consists of two written papers and an interview, exempted for candidates with specific fellowships.

Specialized Entrance Exams

Some disciplines have specialized entrance tests:

• CEED (Common Entrance Examination for Design): For design discipline PhD courses, measuring creativity and design ability.
• MUHS PhD Entrance Test (PET): Conducted by the Maharashtra University of Health Sciences for PhD admission in health sciences.

What is the Importance of a PhD Program? 

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is the highest degree you can achieve. It is awarded to students who conduct original research and bring something new into their area of study. A PhD indicates that you have in-depth knowledge in a field and is valued globally.

• Highest Degree: A PhD is the top degree and indicates firm commitment and knowledge.
• New Ideas: To qualify for a PhD, you will have to compose an original thesis contributing new information to your field.
• Improved Job Opportunities: Most teaching and research positions in universities and industry require a PhD.
• Increased Research Ability: A PhD enables you to develop sophisticated research and problem-solving capabilities.

Having a PhD makes you more believable and provides entry into expert-level positions. Employers prefer PhD holders for jobs that require in-depth research, critical thinking, and leadership.

It's a wise move for those looking for top jobs in their profession.

Top Specializations for PhD for Working Professionals in 2025
Applied Finance	Artificial Intelligence	Aviation Management	Banking and Finance
Banking and Insurance	Bio-Tech	Blockchain	Business Administration
Business Analytics	Business and Corporate Law	Commerce	Computer Science
Customer Behaviour Management	Cyber Security	Data Analytics	Data Science
Digital Leadership	Disaster Management	Digital Marketing	Emerging Technologies
Energy Management	Entrepreneurship	Export and Import Management	Fashion Management
Finance Management	Financial Marketing	FinTech	Food Technology
Forensic Accounting	Generative AI	Healthcare Management	Hospital Management
Hospitality Management	Human Resource	Information  Technology	International Business
International Finance	International Trade	Investment Banking	IT Management
Law	Management	Management Information Systems	Marketing
Operations Management	Pharmaceutical Management	Power Management	Project Management
Psychology	Public Policy	Quality Management	Real Estate Management
Retail Management	Sports Management	Supply Chain Management	Tourism and Hospitality
Wealth Management	-	-	-

PhD After Master’s in Psychology 

Yes, it is possible to pursue a PhD after a Master’s in Psychology. Psychology classes are what educate us regarding the functioning of the mind and why individuals think, feel, and act the way they do. Psychology classes deal with emotions, thoughts, behavior, and perception of the world around us.

A PhD in Psychology enables students to delve deeper into a specific field and conduct their own research, particularly in areas such as medicine or teaching. With this doctorate, students are able to conduct independent research projects and publish their work.

The area of Psychology encompasses numerous subjects such as Cognitive Psychology, Biological Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Sports Psychology, Educational Psychology, Industrial Psychology, Neuropsychology, and Social Psychology.

To pursue a PhD in Psychology, students require a postgraduate degree (such as an MA in Psychology) from a reputed college with a minimum of 55% marks. Students from any field can apply, but it is advantageous if they have studied Psychology or something similar. Selection for a PhD in Psychology relies on academic record as well as entrance exams. Popular exams are UGC NET, CSIR NET, and GATE. 

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What is the Duration of a PhD Program? 

The minimum duration of a PhD Program is 3-5 years. It may take longer or shorter, depending on various factors. A PhD, a doctorate, is the highest level of degree you can get in psychology, engineering, education, and mathematics. Since it is a highly advanced degree, it takes longer to complete compared to a master's or bachelor's degree.

Most PhD programs are designed to last four to five years. However, in actuality, it usually takes longer due to the time spent conducting research and writing a dissertation. In 2023, students completed their PhD an average of 7.2 years after beginning graduate school, and approximately 5.7 years after starting the doctorate program. Moreover, if you want to complete your doctorate program in less time, then you can opt for an Online DBA program, it can be completed in a minimum duration of 3-5 years only and you do not even have to quit your job to pursue an Online DBA. 

How long does a PhD take in the USA?

If you are studying full-time, a PhD in the USA takes around 5 to 6 years to complete. Those who study part-time can take 8 to 10 years. If you have a master's degree in a related field, you could complete it in 4 to 5 years. When you move to the USA, you will require a valid passport, visa, and other related documents. Additionally, note that the USA is a very expensive country to live in.

If you don't wish to relocate to another country but wish to earn a doctorate from a foreign university, you can opt for an Online DBA (Doctor of Business Administration). It is a convenient option and also allows you to prefix your name with "Dr".

What is the Duration of a PhD Course in the UK?

In the UK, a PhD that is completed full-time would take 3 to 4 years. A part-time PhD would take 5 to 6 years. The duration can vary depending on your funding, university, and how complicated your research is. All these contribute a great deal to how long it takes to finish your degree.

What is the Duration of a PhD Program in the IITs?

In IITs of India, a PhD takes approximately 4 to 6 years. Entry into these premier institutions is challenging and requires research skills and hard work. For selection, your study record, scores in entrance exams (such as GATE or NET), interview performance, and research experience are important.

You can improve your chances by working on research projects, internships, and publishing your work. Admission is possible even if your earlier college is not well known—what matters most is your preparation and passion.

What is the PhD Duration in Germany?

A PhD in Germany usually takes 5 to 6 years. You’ll spend this time doing deep research on a specific topic. It can be costly to live in Germany. If you do not want to relocate there, you can opt for doing an Online DBA from a foreign university. It provides the same "Dr" title and assists you in developing a worldwide academic record without migrating.

What is the PhD Duration after M.Tech in India?

Once you have completed your M.Tech in India, a PhD would take 3 to 5 years. The duration varies based on your discipline and the college.

For admission into premier institutes such as IITs or NITs, you will usually have to qualify through entrance exams such as GATE. Hard work in research and preparation will enable you to gain admission into these courses. 

What are the Fees of a PhD Program in India? 

Check the table below to know the fees of government colleges offering a PhD Program in India:

College Name	Fees (INR)
JNU	Rs. 50,000- 5 Lakhs
Jai Narayan Vyas University	Rs. 10,000- 50,000
BHU	Rs.10,000- 50,000
Jamia Millia Islamia	Rs. 23,100- 50,000
Aligarh Muslim University	Rs. 10,000- 50,000
DIPSAR	Rs. 30,385- 60,000
NIT Durgapur	Rs. 64,100- 1,00,000
Calcutta University	Rs. 14,000- 50,000
Jadavpur University	Rs. 12,000- 50,000
IGNOU	Rs. 16,800- 50,000
DU	Rs. 2,000 to 5,00,000
Lucknow University	Rs. 1 to 5,00,000
Allahabad University	Rs. 1 to 5,00,000

Private Colleges- Check the table below to know the fees of a PhD Program at private universities: 

College Name	Fees (INR)
VIT	Rs. 50,000- 4,00,000
Manipal Academy of Higher Education	Rs. 65,000- 4,00,000
PRIST University	Rs. 30,000- 4,00,000
DA-IICT	Rs. 65,000- 5,00,000
Bombay College of Pharmacy	Rs. 1,50,850- 5,00,000
Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education	Rs. 25,000- 3,00,00
IIIT-B	Rs. 1,07,000- 3,00,000
JRNRVU	Rs. 30,000- 1,00,000
BVIMSR	Rs. 75,000-2,00,000
Amity University	Rs. 75,000-4,00,000

What Does Your Career Look Like After Pursuing a PhD After a Master's? 

Once you complete a PhD after a Master’s, you can apply to various job roles mentioned below:

Field	Opportunity	Salary (Approx.)	Top Recruiters	Course Duration
Healthcare	Clinical Researcher	Rs. 6,00,000 – Rs. 12,00,000	Hospitals and Clinical Trials	3-5 years
Academia	Research Fellow	Rs. 8,00,000 – Rs. 15,00,000	Research Institutes	3-5 years
Corporate Sector	Product Manager	Rs. 10,00,000 – Rs. 20,00,000	Google, Amazon	3-5 years
Consulting Firms	Business Analyst	Rs. 7,00,000 – Rs. 15,00,000	Deloitte	3-5 years
Non-Governmental Organizations	Grant Writer	Rs. 4,00,000 – Rs. 10,00,000	Various NGOs	3-5 years
Emerging Fields	AI Researcher	Rs. 10,00,000 – Rs. 20,00,000	Tech Companies	3-5 years
Government/Public Sector	Research Associate	Rs. 5,00,000 – Rs. 10,00,000	NGOs, Government Research Labs	3-5 years
Entrepreneurship	Startup Founder	Variable (high potential)	Self-employed	3-5 years
Corporate Sector	Consultant	Rs. 10,00,000 – Rs. 25,00,000	McKinsey & Company, BCG	3-5 years
Academia	Professor/Associate Prof	Rs. 12,00,000 – Rs. 30,00,000+	Universities, Colleges	3-5 years
Environmental Science	Environmental Consultant	Rs. 6,00,000 – Rs. 14,00,000	Environmental NGOs and Consulting Firms	3-5 years
Emerging Fields	Biotech Researcher	Rs. 8,00,000 – Rs. 15,00,000	Pharmaceutical Companies	3-5 years
Government/Public Sector	Policy Analyst	Rs. 6,00,000 – Rs. 12,00,000	Government Agencies	3-5 years
Corporate Sector	Data Scientist	Rs. 8,00,000 – Rs. 18,00,000	IBM, Microsoft	3-5 years
Non-Governmental Organizations	Program Director	Rs. 8,00,000 – Rs. 15,00,000	International NGOs	3-5 years

Want to be recognized with the “Dr” title, that too without appearing In Any Entrance Exam? 

Do not worry, if you do not want to appear for any entrance exam and still want to get recognized with the “Dr” title, then you can opt for an Online DBA program. An online DBA program is a doctorate program similar to a PhD program. Moreover, it is equivalent to a PhD program. If I compare, then an Online DBA is a much wiser decision because you can pursue it without quitting your job.

Moreover, the duration of an Online DBA is 3-5 years, whereas a PhD can take a longer duration:

Universities	Fees
Birchwood Online University DBA Online	INR 6,00,000
Golden Gate University DBA Online	INR 8,14,000
Rushford Business School DBA Online	INR 8,12,500
ESGCI International School of Management Paris DBA Online	INR 8,14,000
EIMT Online DBA	INR 5,50,000
Swiss School of Business Management DBA Online	INR 7,50,000
Edgewood College DBA Online	INR 7,00,000

Conclusion 

Pursuing a PhD after a master’s degree is a smart choice if you want to become an expert, do deep research, or work in top academic or professional roles. It gives you the respected “Dr.” title and opens many career opportunities. However, it requires passing entrance exams and can take several years to complete. If you want a flexible option without entrance exams, an Online DBA is a great alternative. It is equal to a PhD and lets you study without quitting your job. Whether you choose a PhD or an Online DBA, both can lead to great success in your field.