PhD Doctorate without Masters - Is It Possible In India? [2024]

Yes, you can now pursue a PhD Program without a master's but to pursue a PhD with or without a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), candidates now need a minimum of 75% marks or equivalent grades in their four-year undergraduate course.Previously, candidates needed a master's degree with a minimum of 55% marks to qualify for the National Eligibility Test (NET).

According to UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar, students with four-year undergraduate degrees can now directly appear for NET and pursue a PhD. They can choose to appear in a subject they wish to pursue for their PhD, regardless of their bachelor's degree discipline.

Candidates who have completed a four-year or eight-semester bachelor's degree program must have at least 75% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade.A relaxation of 5% marks or its equivalent grade is allowed for SC, ST, OBC (non-creamy layer), differently-abled, economically weaker sections, and other categories as decided by the UGC.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has also announced that starting from 2024-25, PhD admissions will use National Eligibility Test (NET) scores, eliminating the need for separate entrance tests by universities.

Here's a breakdown of the new rules:

1) NET Scores for PhD Admissions: Candidates who qualify for UGC NET can be eligible for:

• PhD admission with Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and assistant professor posts
• PhD admission without JRF and for assistant professor posts
• PhD programs only

2) Merit List Criteria: For PhD admissions, 70% weightage will be given to UGC NET scores and 30% to interviews.

3) NET Exam Details: The NET is conducted twice a year, in June and December. Scores are valid for one year and are currently used for awarding JRF and eligibility for assistant professor positions for those with a Master's degree.

4) Upcoming Notification: The UGC NET June 2024 notification will be released soon on the official website of the UGC (University Grant Commission) 

5) Unified Admission Process: This change aims to streamline PhD admissions, reducing the burden on candidates by using a single, national-level test score.The move is expected to make doctoral programs more efficient and accessible, replacing the need for multiple entrance exams with a standardized process. Also Read | What is a Doctorate: Everything You Need to Know!

Bachelor's to PhD programs

Yes, according to the recent updates on the official website of the UGC (University Grants Commission), you can easily apply for the PhD program if you have completed your bachelor’s degree of 4 years with a minimum of 75 percent marks from a government-approved university.

Then you can easily apply for the UGC-NET exam and if you pass that exam, you will be eligible for the personal interview round, once you pass that also you will get admitted to a PhD Program. One thing you should know before directly opting for a PhD program after a bachelor’s.

What are the requirements to pursue a PhD after bachelors? 

Here’s what you need to get into a Ph.D. program after your bachelor’s:

• Strong Academic Record: You should have excellent grades and a high GPA in your bachelor’s degree.
• Mandatory Exams: Many universities require you to take the GRE or GMAT. A good score on these tests will boost your application.
• Statement of Purpose: You need to write a compelling statement of purpose that convinces the admission committee of your skills and knowledge.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Strong and convincing LORs can significantly improve your chances of getting accepted.
• Relevant Resume: Your resume should highlight your practical experience and show how it relates to the Ph.D. program you’re applying for.

This will help you stand out when applying for a Ph.D. right after your bachelor’s.

Do you need to get a master’s to pursue a PhD program? 

Yes, you can do a PhD without a Master’s. It depends on your experience, subject area, PhD duration, and location, as requirements vary by country.

It's more common in STEM or vocational subjects, while most Arts and Humanities PhDs require a Master’s. However, according to the new updates students are allowed to pursue a PhD Program without a master’s degree all they need is a 4-years of bachelor’s degree with 75 percent marks from a government-recognized university.

Even if a Master’s isn't required, having one can be an advantage in competitive fields. Moreover, I would like to tell you that if yu are planning to pursue a PhD program without a master’s you must know that you have to pass an entrance exam, but if in case you do not want to take any entrance exam, then you can opt for an Online DBA program, it is also a doctorate program and you can add a “Dr” title before your name, the advantage of choosing an Online DBA is you do not have to take any entrance exam and even if you have not completed your master’s you can still apply for an online DBA but you must have at least 5 years of working experience.

Many online universities offer you an online DBA program. Some of them are:

• Golden Gate University 
• Rushford Business School 
• Edgewood College 

What are the advantages of pursuing a PhD program without a master's? 

Undertaking a PhD right after your undergraduate course can save you time and money by eliminating a year of study. Another advantage is project availability. If you find a project you're really interested in, it's unlikely it will still be available in a year. By bypassing a Master’s and enrolling directly into a PhD, you increase your chances of securing the research project before it becomes unavailable.

These are only some of the advantages, there are many more advantages of pursuing a PhD program directly after a bachelor’s 

What are the disadvantages of pursuing a PhD program without a master’s?

A Master’s degree adds a year to your studies but can be incredibly helpful for your development and preparation for a PhD. Not having a Master’s might be a disadvantage during your application, as many other applicants will have one. A Master’s dissertation project gives you a taste of research work.

You can choose your dissertation topic, allowing you to explore a field in detail and confirm your interest in it before committing to a PhD. The dissertation project also lets you work closely with a supervisor. This experience helps you understand the PhD student-supervisor relationship and find a compatible supervisor for your PhD.

How do we know that we must pursue a master’s for a PhD program? 

PhDs often focus on niche topics, so you might work on a project you have no direct experience in. Instead, think about your relevant research experience. Have you managed a research project independently for a long time? Do you have skills that fit the type of research you want to do?

While a PhD is a learning period, consider if you feel confident in your skills and knowledge without a Master's degree.To decide if this path is right for you, talk to the right people. If you’re at university, ask an academic who knows you. They can advise if they think you’re ready for a PhD based on your academic ability. Also, talk to potential supervisors at the institutions you plan to apply to. They can tell you if they think you’re suitable based on your current academic experience.

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How can I get a PhD without a master’s? 

You can apply for a PhD without having a master’s. Here’s what you want to know about it

Get a 4-years bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 75 percent marks

You need to complete your bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 75 percent marks because as per the latest update on the official website of the UGC, you can directly apply for a PhD degree if you have achieved 75 percent marks from a government-approved university.

But the twist is you must have a 4 years bachelor’s degree. However, you will have to appear for UGC-NET and have to pass it. Once you pass the UGC-NET, the next move is you have to appear for a personal interview round, once you pass that also, you will be able to take admission to a PhD program. 

• Start researching early:  Doing research projects during your Bachelor's is a big plus. PhD projects are demanding, so showing you have the skills is important.If you've published papers or presented at conferences, that's great. It’s usually easier for Master’s students, but undergrads can also find ways to build research skills and get involved in academia.
• An integrated PhD program:PhDs that last four years often include one year of training before moving to a three-year PhD. These programs are called Integrated, 1+3, or part of a Doctoral Training Programme (DTP). If you get a spot with Research Council funding, you'll be funded for the whole program.An Integrated program has lectures, seminars, and workshops to boost your research skills for the PhD. Some even let you earn a Master of Research (MRes). In the first year, you'll complete a major research project related to your PhD topic. Most Integrated programs will review your progress or MRes project, and if you pass, you'll automatically move on to the PhD.These programs are great for those who don't meet the direct PhD entry requirements. You usually need a good undergraduate degree in a relevant field. They also save you the hassle of doing two separate postgraduate degrees, like searching and applying for a PhD during your Master’s year.
• Professional Experience: Another way to start a PhD without a Master’s is through professional experience. This might include an industrial year during your undergraduate degree or working for several years after finishing your degree. This is more common in STEM fields and vocational subjects like Social Work, Psychology, and Business. To make the most of your professional experience, show your relevant research and transferable skills. For a PhD, you need to place your topic in a broader research context. Applicants with professional experience usually apply to research a specific subject or case study they have worked on.
• Develop a strong CV: This route is less common, but a strong research CV and academic record can be enough, especially for STEM subjects. If you excel during your Bachelor’s and plan to continue to postgraduate study, talk to an academic advisor or your personal tutor. They can assess your fit for current and future research opportunities and suggest internships or summer projects to strengthen your PhD applications.

Popular PhD Specialization In India!
PhD In Commerce	PhD In Digital Leadership
PhD In Information Technology	PhD In Human Resource
PhD In Data Science	PhD In Law
PhD In Computer Science	PhD In Psychology
PhD In Artificial Intelligence	PhD In Business Administration
PhD In Management	PhD In Emerging Technologies
PhD In Generative AI

What are the benefits of pursuing a master’s degree before a PhD program? 

Taking time out or gaining professional experience before starting a PhD has its benefits:

• Real-World Experience: Working outside academia helps you decide if a PhD is the right choice and how it fits into your career goals.
• Transferable Skills: Skills like time and project management from professional work can help you handle a PhD’s demands better.
• Professional Connections: A strong network from your job can lead to collaborations during your PhD or help you in the job market later.
• Financial and Time Savings: Relevant work experience makes your application stronger and avoids the extra costs and time of studying for a Master’s. However, consider that transitioning from a job to a PhD might affect your earnings.On the other hand, pursuing a Master’s has its own advantages. Think about these factors to decide if skipping a Master’s for a PhD is right for you.

Considering a Masters before a PhD has its perks:

• Postgraduate Experience: A Master's gives you a taste of independent work and helps you decide if you’re ready for the longer commitment of a PhD.
• Relevant Skills: The skills you pick up in a Master's can be directly useful for a PhD, helping you focus on your research topic.
• Academic Connections: A Master’s lets you work closely with an academic supervisor and build connections with other researchers and students.
• Strong Application: With a Master’s, you gain relevant experience, making your PhD application more competitive.

Should I opt for a PhD program without having a master’s degree? 

Deciding whether to apply for a PhD without a Masters depends on you. The first year might be tougher since you’ll have less experience with supervisor relationships, original research, and writing up findings.

But don’t worry if it feels overwhelming at first. You can catch up, and you shouldn’t face unrealistic expectations from your peers or supervisors. With or without a Masters, and with or without professional experience, it’s possible to have a successful PhD experience. 

Not having a Master’s can be a disadvantage because most of your competition will likely have one. A Master’s shows the committee that you have solid research skills and knowledge.But don’t worry, you can still catch up. If you're passionate about your PhD project, you’ll learn quickly. Moreover, if you’re returning to academics after working in the industry, you might have a better grasp of your research and its impact.

So, if you’re ready to tackle a few challenges and are clear about your goals, go for it. There are various reasons for choosing a master’s before opting for a PhD program, some of which are mentioned below: 

1) A Master’s Helps You Decide If a PhD Is Right for You

Think of a Master’s as a test drive before buying the car—it's a way to see if a PhD is truly for you. In your undergrad, you get a general overview of your field and a bit of specialization through your final project. But a Master’s is more focused and research-driven.

It lets you dive deeper into your subject and experience what a PhD would be like. If you handle the Master’s well and find it engaging, you’ll have a better idea if you’re ready for the commitment of a PhD. If you find the Master’s overwhelming or less interesting, it might be a sign that a PhD in that area isn’t right for you.

2) Better Chances of PhD Admission

Having a Master’s degree can significantly boost your chances of being admitted to a PhD program. Even if a Master’s isn’t required, it shows that you have more experience and knowledge in your field. Universities often prefer candidates with a Master’s because it indicates that they’re well-prepared for advanced research. Moreover, if your Bachelor’s grades weren’t stellar, a strong performance in a Master’s can improve your application. Doing a Master’s at the same university where you want to do your PhD is also a smart move. It shows commitment and helps you build connections with faculty, making it easier to get accepted into a PhD program.

3) Transitioning to a New Field

If you want to switch fields for your PhD, a Master’s is usually necessary. It provides specialized knowledge and prepares you for research in a new area. Without a relevant Master’s, your chances of being accepted into a PhD program in a different field are slim. A Master’s helps bridge the gap between your previous studies and your new research interests.

4) A Master’s Can Speed Up Your PhD

In some cases, having a Master’s can actually save you time. In countries like the USA and Canada, you might be able to transfer some credits from your Master’s towards your PhD, reducing the time needed to complete your doctorate. Even if credits can’t be transferred, the knowledge and research you gain during your Master’s can put you ahead by one to two years in your PhD studies. This head start can make your doctoral journey smoother and quicker.If you’re unsure about whether to pursue a Master’s before a PhD, seek advice from professors, current Master’s and PhD students, and academic advisors. Take your time to make an informed decision, and remember, it’s okay to change your mind if needed.

PhD without a master's in a foreign country 

• PhD in the UK without a master’s degree: You can apply for a PhD with just a Bachelor’s degree. Some universities, like the University of Liverpool, don’t require a Master’s.
• PhD in Germany without a master’s degree: You might be able to skip the Master’s with a fast-track option. This involves a 1-year study program that prepares you for a PhD right after your Bachelor’s.
• PhD in Canada without a master’s degree: Most PhD programs require a Master’s, but there’s a fast-track option for those who complete an MSc. You can move to a PhD after one year of the Master’s program.
• PhD in Australia without a master’s degree: Generally, you need a Master of Research. However, if you have an Honours or double degree from your Bachelor’s, you might still be considered for a PhD.
• PhD in USA without a master’s degree: It’s rare to need a Master’s before a PhD. American universities often don’t require it, and PhD programs there usually take 6-8 years, compared to 3-4 years in Europe.

Universities	In INR	QS World Ranking 2023
Harvard University	45.32 Lakh	5
Princeton University	47.51 Lakh	16
University of Oxford	29.51 Lakh	4
Yale University	38.81 Lakh	18
Massachusetts Institute of Technology	23.83 Lakh	1
Stanford University	40.52 Lakh	3
California Institute of Technology	81.01 – 84.49 Lakh	6
University of Cambridge	35.20 Lakh	2
University of Chicago	57.98 Lakh	10
University of California, Berkeley	21.37  Lakh	27

Universities offering a PhD Program without a master’s 

There are various government and private colleges offering a PhD program, Some of them are mentioned below:

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
VIT Vellore	VITREE
KIIT University	KIITEE
BITS Pilani	BITS PhD Entrance Exam
Bharathidasan University	University-Level Exam
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)

What is the admission procedure for a PhD program? 

If you're a Ph.D. candidate, you can apply to any university through the National Eligibility Test (NET), or the university's own entrance exams. Universities must follow the Ministry of Education or UGC guidelines on common entrance exams.

Here's what colleges and universities offering Ph.D. programs need to do:

• Decide How Many Candidates to Accept: Each year, they must figure out how many Ph.D. candidates they can take. This depends on the available facilities and the number of supervisors.
• Publicize PhD Openings: They should announce the number of available seats and entrance requirements. This information must be posted on their website and published in two national newspapers. One of these publications must be in the local language.By breaking down the process, we ensure clear communication and make it easier for prospective Ph.D. candidates to understand their application options and requirements. To get into a Ph.D. program, universities must follow state and federal reservation laws, as well as UGC and other legal requirements. Here's how the admission process works:
• Two-Stage Admission Process: Universities will use National Level Entrance Exams or similar tests for admissions.

Seat Allocation:

• 60% of seats are for candidates who qualify through the NET and JRF.
• 40% of seats are for those who pass the university or common admission exams.
• Candidates from other categories can fill open seats based on reservation policies and merit.

Entrance Exam:

• The exam will test research, analytical, understanding, and mathematical skills.
• The qualifying mark is 50% (45% for SC/ST/OBC and differently-abled candidates).
• The exam will be held in designated centers.
• Special Admission Drive: If reserved seats are not filled, a special admission drive will be conducted within a month.

Interview:

• Candidates will explain their research interests.
• Selection for those who pass the entrance exam will be in a 70:30 ratio.
• For JRF/NET candidates, selection will be based solely on the interview.
• Merit lists will be published.

Interview Evaluation:

• Research proficiency of the candidate.
• The institution's capacity to fund the study.
• Relevance of the study topic.

Publication of Ph.D. Candidates:

• Every year, institutions must publish a list of all Ph.D. candidates on their website.
• This list should include the candidate's name, research subject, supervisor's name, and registration date.This process ensures clarity and fairness in Ph.D. admissions, making it easier for candidates to understand their application options and requirements.

PhD through Distance or Online Mode 

Ph.D. programs cannot be offered online or via distance learning. On the other hand, candidates who are currently employed may pursue a Ph.D. if they fulfill all eligibility requirements outlined in the Ph.D. regulations.

Moreover, you have the option to pursue an online DBA instead of an online PhD if that is what you would like to do. The title "Dr." is added before your name and the program is called Doctor of Business Administration, or DBA. Numerous colleges provide you with an online DBA.

A few of them are listed below:

Universities	Fees
Golden Gate University DBA Program	INR 8,14,000
Rushford Business School DBA Program	INR 8,12,500
ESGCI International School of Management Paris DBA Program	INR 8,14,000

Top Online DBA Doctorate Specialization:

Top Online DBA Doctorate Specialization
Online DBA Doctorate In Supply Chain	Online DBA Doctorate In Generative AI
Online DBA Doctorate In Human Resource	Online DBA Doctorate In Emerging Technology
Online DBA Doctorate In Finance	Online DBA Doctorate In Business and Data Analytics
Online DBA Doctorate In Marketing	Online DBA Doctorate In Healthcare Management
Online DBA Doctorate In Leadership and Strategy	Online DBA Doctorate In International Business
Online DBA Doctorate In Data Science	Online DBA Doctorate In Sustainability
Online DBA Doctorate In Accounting	Online DBA Doctorate In Technology Entrepreneurship
Online DBA Doctorate In Cyber Security	Online DBA Doctorate In Project Management
Online DBA Doctorate In Social Impact Management	Online DBA Doctorate In Digital Leadership
Online DBA Doctorate In Big Data

Online PhD without master's: Is it valid? 

I would like to inform you that you must know that UGC has stated that PhD through Online or Distance learning will not be valid. So if you are someone who wants to pursue a PhD while working, then you have other options as well such as PhD for working professionals, online DBA, and many more.

Some of those options are mentioned below:

• Part-Time Ph.D. Program: The part-time Ph.D. program is designed for working professionals and takes 4-6 years to complete. You’ll need to attend evening classes. This option is usually available to those working in research organizations, academic institutes, or industries close to the campus. Though it may take 7-8 years, the academic requirements are the same as for full-time students. You must have at least 1 year of work experience and an NOC from your employer. The research in this program often benefits the company rather than being purely individual.
• Online Ph.D. Program: Currently, an online Ph.D. is not recognized by the UGC, making it an invalid option. However, you can consider an alternative such as an Online DBA (Doctor of Business Administration). This program can be completed in 3-5 years and does not require you to visit a college. Moreover, in this format, you can easily earn your doctorate degree from an international university that too without relocating to another country. 
• Ph.D. for Working Professionals: Pursuing a Ph.D. while working a full-time job can be challenging. However, many colleges offer flexible programs for working professionals. To qualify, you need a Master’s degree with at least 60% marks, relevant work experience, and a valid GATE/NET score (if applicable). Click Here for PhD for Working Professionals In India!
• Global PhD Program: A Global Ph.D. is designed for working professionals and can be pursued at foreign universities. It differs from Indian Ph.D. programs in eligibility criteria, selection process, fees, syllabus, and job roles. You must pass an entrance exam before applying.
• Ph.D. Abroad: Ph.D. programs abroad take 3-6 years to complete and offer many opportunities. To get admitted, you’ll need to pass entrance exams such as GMAT, SAT, GRE, TOEFL, or IELTS. Prestigious universities in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Japan, Canada, Singapore, and France offer these programs.
• Integrated Ph.D. Program: An integrated Ph.D. program combines a Master’s and Ph.D. into a single program. It takes 5-6 years to complete. You can apply for this program right after earning your bachelor’s degree. This format should make it easy to understand each type of Ph.D. program step by step. Click Here | Integrated Doctoral Programs!
• Regular PhD Program: In a regular Ph.D. program, you must attend classes regularly. It takes 5-7 years to complete. You are required to take an entrance exam, and your focus needs to be entirely on research. The only disadvantage to choosing this program, you must quit your job to pursue it and you have to focus on your research more.

Why should I opt for a PhD program?

Here are the top reasons to pursue a Ph.D:

• Deepen Your Knowledge: A PhD helps you gain in-depth knowledge in your chosen subject, which can make a real impact on your career.
• Expand Career Opportunities: Earning a PhD can open up more career opportunities in your field.
• Gain Expertise: You’ll become an expert in your subject by pursuing a Ph.D.
• Increase Your Salary: The skills and knowledge you gain during your Ph.D. can lead to a higher salary.
• Reach Your Full Potential: A PhD challenges you to use your maximum potential.
• Grow Personally and Professionally: A Ph.D. can boost both your personal and professional growth.

These are just some of the reasons why pursuing a Ph.D. can be a great choice.

Conclusion 

In order to pursue a PhD program, students must now have completed their four-year undergraduate degree with a minimum of 75% marks, or equivalent grades, with or without a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). Previously, to be eligible for the National Eligibility Test (NET), candidates had to have a master's degree with at least 55% of the possible points.Students with four-year undergraduate degrees can now simply apply for the NET and pursue a PhD, according to UGC Chairman Jagadesh Kumar. Regardless of the field in which students received their bachelor's degree, they are free to select whatever topic they want to study for their PhD.