PhD Course: Eligibility, Duration, Admission, Entrance Exam & Fee

PhD Course: The PhD or Doctoral level degree program duration is from 3 years to 6 years. PhD is the highest level of degree program offered in a particular stream. The full form of a PhD is “Doctor of Philosophy”. The learners can opt for PhD programs in arts, humanities, commerce, science, management, law, and other streams. A degree at the PhD level will help students to gain a profession in the associated background.

If we talk about getting admission into a PhD course, candidates must have completed a master’s degree from a UGC-approved university or institution. In the PhD course (doctoral level), entrance tests play an important role. And for the upcoming section, we have provided the list of entrance exams.

PhD programs have course-by-course syllabus for entrance exams and traditional learning. The program syllabus has units. Theory, practical, viva, etc. are taught in courses. The program teaches students research methodology, tools, formulation, literature review, and more.

After passing the Doctoral or PhD degree from a distance or regular institution in India candidates shall have a tremendous opportunity to either remain in academia or 

Find work in well-honored organizations. Those who wish to continue their academic life can pick any of the options given such as Post-Doctorate, Faculty Member, Adjunct Position, Academia Teaching, and more. 

More wide professional options are open for the candidates in the following manner: Entrepreneur, Consultant, Digital Marketing Specialist, Research Associate, etc. The average salary of the professional in the mentioned job profiles can be seen between 7.14 to 14.2 LPA.

Students can learn about the Doctorate level degree program with the following points will cover such as admission, fee, entrance test, duration, universities/colleges, and much more, by reading the article completely.

PhD Course Highlights

PhD Course Details

A PhD program’s minimum duration is 3 years and its maximum duration is 6 years. We outline the details of PhD courses in the following section, including their duration, eligibility criteria, and more.

• PhD stands for doctor of philosophy.
• In fact, a PhD is a research doctorate. In general, a Doctor of Philosophy curriculum lasts three years, although a student can complete it as quickly as six years.
• The University Grants Commission (UGC) defines the framework for PhD courses in India.
• An MPhil or post-graduate degree and a valid percentage of 55% are prerequisites for a doctoral degree.
• The GATE scoring rate is essential for candidates who wish to pursue a PhD in Technology and Engineering.
• The length of the doctorate is also affected by several factors, such as knowledge of the research area, supervisory knowledge, communication skills, the number of review courses, access to resources, research experience, and the significance of the research.
• A large number of PhD Scholarships are offered in the country to support learners in pursuing their PhD Course goals.
• For a PhD program, you must complete university courses, submit status reports, a synopsis or research proposal, give a pre-submission presentation, and then defend the dissertation in a verbal discussion environment.
• Upon winning a doctoral degree, students may choose from a variety of Doctor of Philosophy employment options and earn between INR 7.12 to INR 14.2 LPA.

What is PhD course?

The Doctor of Philosophy or PhD is concerned with research activities on a particular topic. PhD programmes are present in 3 modes: full-time, part-time, and web-based.

The PhD full form is a doctor of Philosophy. And we don’t have to be confused by the name “Philosophy,” because it has nothing to do with the particular topic of philosophy. And the meaning of the word “philosophy” is “Lover of Wisdom”, which is taken from the Greek language.

The primary mission is to strengthen the line of work whereas introducing innovative theories and concepts. PhD courses concentrate on obtaining maximum educational performance and conducting research studies. The PhD program lasts three years and, therefore, can be lengthened. A student typically accomplishes their Doctor of Philosophy in 5 to 6 years.

Why Study PhD Course?

PhD is also known as “Doctor of Philosophy,” the minimum duration of the PhD course is three years, and the maximum duration of this course is six years. And if we talk about the eligibility criteria, students must have a Master’s degree with good marks from an authorized university or institution. By enrolling in a PhD course, the students get engaged with an environment and atmosphere where they will get to elaborate and learn in brief about a certain discipline.

There are several specializations available in the PhD program. It is possible for students to choose this course according to their interests. PhD degrees are the highest degrees in education with the most knowledge, skills, and experience. Postgraduate students can choose a PhD degree as an encouraging and solid career choice.

In their course curriculum, PhD students will get the opportunity to make a prosperous career in the field they choose as best for them. Since the doctorate course is considered the highest level of degree that a student can achieve in their career, students will get lots of opportunities to get involved in a job prospect that will help them in bringing a positive change to a task.

Advantages of pursuing PhD course? 

• Aspirants who would like to work in academic or scientific studies must undertake a Doctor of Philosophy degree.
• By opting for the PhD course, students will get the opportunity to chase their passion and change the way others look at it. They will get their mindset and skills ready for the challenges that they need to face during their professional career.
• To determine if you are eligible to seek a PhD. Course, the person should engage in deep conversations with teachers and previous PhD scholars who can provide good advice.
• Students must research various Doctor of Philosophy projects to gain a reasonable overview of what Doctor of Philosophy degree courses consists of. Just after students have grasped the entire system, they plan to continue a Doctor of Philosophy.

When to pursue a PhD Course?

• When a student completes their master’s degree education, such students can start pursuing a PhD course.
• A PhD degree must be chosen by students when they decide on a particular topic on which they will start research. For this purpose, they must have the right skills to be utilized at every stage of the PhD program.
• Students, while enrolling in a PhD program, must check their capabilities and whether they are interested in moving to the research area or not, and this will be a time when you take an essential decision.

Types of PhD Course

In India, Students have multiple options that they can pursue PhD courses through three modes, such as Full-time PhD, online PhD, and part-time PhD. In the next section, we have given complete details about the types of PhD courses.

Full-Time PhD Course

A Full-Time PhD program is a standard Doctor of Philosophy course. The timeframe of such PhD studies varies from 4 to 6 years, and candidates devote most of their concentration and memory to PhD areas of study.

As opposed to other kinds of Doctoral courses, the fee of a full-time PhD program is the maximum. There are three kinds of PhD candidates aspiring to pursue a Full-Time Doctor of Philosophy. Public Support group Beneficiaries, Scholars like Academic Researchers with Instructional Guidance, and Conscience Aspirants are the 3 kinds of Doctor of philosophy researchers.

Part-Time PhD Course

PhD courses can often be completed part-time. Part-time PhD are usually committed to aspirants who collaborate in reputable research groups, education institutions, and sectors near the university.

Part-time PhD candidates must submit a similar range of educational certificates and other prerequisites as regular students, so it takes 7 to 8 years to finish a doctoral degree.

Individuals pursuing a Part-Time Doctorate would be obliged to visit a restricted amount of sessions. Doctorate candidates pursuing a part-time Doctoral should have a minimum of one year of a professional career and a letter of recommendation from their organization.

Part-time PhD courses are primarily concerned with studies for the advancement of the corporation instead of independent research projects.

PhD Admission 2023

Admission to PhD courses has started at many leading PhD institutes in India. Entrance exams such as GPAT, NET, and others may be required; however, some universities admit doctoral students based solely on qualifications and individual interviews.

To be able to enrol in the PhD program for the academic year 2023, students must have a total of 55% equivalent grade or comparable grade point average rating in their master’s program. Also, students need to appear for an interview or formative assessments; institutes prepare merit lists after several rounds.

Trending Updates for PhD Course Admission 2023

Trending Online Courses in India 2023

• The IKSV PhD course admission test will take place on 11 July 2023.
• The last date to apply for Visva Bharati University’s PhD course admission is 22 June 2023.
• Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute has opened its PhD course admissions process. The deadline for applications is 15 June 2023.

PhD Admission Process 2023

Admission to numerous IIT and IIM colleges in India is now accessible. Students interested in pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Management at one of India’s IIMs should sign up by January 2023. Numerous IITs in India accept applications for Routine Doctor of Philosophy, Exterior Doctorate, Direct, and Section PhD initiatives, including IIT Ropar, which has an application deadline of November of every year.

• Acceptance to Doctoral programs is merit-based and an entry test assessment procedure. The enrolment for both classes, as well as the fundamental entry requirements, is described below.
• PhD Course admittance to leading universities is on a performance basis.
• The academy could request that applicants offer an overview of their proposed study for this purpose.
• This is completed primarily to analyze the applicants, and the successful applicants are alerted at the final step.
• In addition, the applicants must satisfy the minimum enrolment requirement of 50 to 55% in the Post-graduate class.
• Institutional and national entry point exams are held to acknowledge PhD programs.
• For enrolment in Doctoral programs, a few universities sometimes hold individual interviews in addition to admission tests.

PhD Eligibility Criteria

Students who are seeking admission to the PhD course must fulfill the institution’s eligibility requirements. There are different eligibility requirements for this course that vary from university to university. Below, students can take a look and know whether they are eligible or not.

• To opt PhD courses, students must have completed a postgraduate degree.
• Applicants should have a minimum of 55% to 60% of their PG instructional points or test scores from a reputed institute.
• Aspirants with relevant experience in research are valued highly by academic institutions.

PhD Entrance Exam 2023

PhD admittance is based on enrolment in several institutions, and academic institutions respect the result of a nationwide or university entry exam. The details about some important PhD entrance exams are given:

• UGC NET: UGC NET exam is a national-level exam conducted by the UGC for PhD admission, and students who clear their exam get the opportunity to pursue a PhD course at a recognized institution. This exam is conducted by the NA at the national level and is considered the criteria for admission by multiple institutions.
• VIT MEE: The Vellore Institute of Technology Master’s Entrance Examination (VITMEE) is an educational establishment aptitude test for admittance to integrated PhD courses and other PG programs such as M-Tech and MCA. The Vellore Institute of Science and Technology is held once a year and is primarily for enrollment in VIT establishments. The time allotted to students is 2 hours, and the exam mode is online.
• GPAT: Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test or GPAT is an annual nationwide aptitude test for enrolment to masters in Pharmacy and other comparable coursework such as Incorporated PhD. The National Testing Agency administers the GPAT (NTA). This test is given entirely web-based, and the assessment lasts 180 minutes and is worth 500 points.

Best PhD Colleges In India

PhD Entrance Exam Syllabus

The syllabus for PhD admission test includes topics from 12th class, bachelor’s, and master’s degree levels, such as general aptitude, sciences, mathematics, life sciences, and technology.

PhD Course Syllabus

Each PhD field and thread has its own topics and themes in the Doctorate Curriculum. With a strong emphasis on academic concepts, the Ph.D. Curriculum topics focus on investigations and relevant applications of the topic. The syllabus covers required courses and electives, as well as research tasks and scientific studies, which are presented after the Doctorate class ends.

Generally, the curriculum lasts three years, but it can take up to six years to complete. Doctorate programs are determined by the universities and colleges that can provide the classes. Among the areas of study available to students are science, arts, commerce, technology, etc.

PhD After BTech

Students can choose PhD degree after completing their master’s in relevant subjects. BTech is an undergraduate degree of 4 years duration. Students need an MTech degree to pursue PhD in the relevant subject. Students can pursue full-time or part-time PhD according to their ease. An Integrated BTech degree provides a chance to pursue PhD courses.

PhD Course in India

In India, there are various colleges/universities that provide PhD course to eligible students based on their performance in several entrance tests. The specialization of PhD degrees is wide including Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Education, Economics, Political Science, & more. It is mandatory for students to first appear for the research-level entrance test. Also, it depends upon the institutes providing the research education that their might be additional selection stages like Interview Round & Viva voce. 

Which PhD Course is best in India?

There are various PhD Course Specializations available in India that are the best and most pursued by students:

• PhD Business Administration
• PhD in Management
• PhD in Marketing
• PhD in Commerce
• PhD in English
• PhD in Hindi
• PhD in Zoology
• PhD in Botany
• PhD in Aviation Management
• PhD in Law

Best PhD Colleges in Delhi

In Delhi, there are multiple academic colleges or universities where PhD courses are taught In this list of top institutes, some are public and some are private, so the fees differ accordingly. Some of the recommended institutes are:

• Jawahar Lal Nehru University
• Jamia Millia Islamia
• Amity Noida
• Indian Institute of Technology
• IGNOU
• Galgotias University
• Indian Institute of Foreign Trade
• Faculty of Management Studies
• Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology

Best PhD Colleges in UP

Uttar Pradesh is the choice of thousands of students for pursuing their higher education such as Doctor of Philosophy. Students can get admitted to various colleges in UP for this purpose. There are more than 21 colleges that offer PhD courses with many specializations. These top PhD colleges in Uttar Pradesh include:

Best PhD Colleges in Haryana

There are many colleges in Haryana for doctoral degree programs. Some of the top colleges, universities, or institutions are marked below: Central University of Haryana (Mahendregarh), Maharshi Dayanand University (Rohtak), SRM University (Sonepat), Lingaya’s Vidyapeeth (Faridabad), NIILM University (Kaithal) & Amity University (Gurgaon).

Best PhD Colleges in Punjab

In Punjab, there are also a number of colleges that offer PhD programs. The online application process for these universities can be found on their websites. Final candidate selection is based on NET JRF-like entrance tests. The most notable PhD Colleges in Punjab are:

• Khalsa College
• Central University of Punjab
• DAV University
• Punjabi University
• Chandigarh University
• Chitkara University
• Desh Bhagat University
• Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law
• Punjab Engineering College
• Post Graduate Government College
• Dr B R Ambedkar National Institute of Technology
• Punjab Agricultural University
• Guru Nanak Dev Engineering College

Best PhD Colleges in Hyderabad

In Hyderabad, students can find many academic institutes where they can take admission for PhD courses. There exist private and public institutes, and the tuition fee is thus varying. Few top PhD colleges in Hyderabad are IIT Hyderabad, University of Hyderabad, Manipal University, NLU Hyderabad, Osmania University, KIMS, MNIT, Maulana Azad National Urdu University Hyderabad, and soon.

Scope After PhD Course

The doctoral degree is itself considered a huge achievement, as not all—not even in India—go this far and earn the badge of this top-level degree program. 

But those who spend their quality time in the research degree program give themselves a sufficient chance for job opportunities in the employment arena based on academic, industrial, self-start-up, etc. We will learn about each of them in the upcoming pointers below.

• Academic Career: The degree holder of a Ph.D. in India may pursue academic career options such as professor, researcher, or lecturer. The doctoral degree holders are eligible for postdoctoral positions such as assistant professorships, guest professors, and so on.
• Industry Jobs: The doctoral degree program does not retreat the possibility of entering industry-based jobs. Candidates who have passed the Ph.D. degree program can apply for the subject specialist role at esteemed companies or organizations.
• Start-Ups: The research degree program holder can also start their own business in their subjective field. Their in-depth knowledge of the subject would help them thrive in the modern world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the qualification of PhD?

Answer: The minimum qualification to pursue a PhD course is, applicants must have a 2 years master’s degree or Mphiil from an approved university.

Question: Is NET exam compulsory for PhD?

Answer: No, Net is not compulsory for a PhD course in India. There are many universities that offer this programme solely depending on the applicant’s marks in the previous qualification and interviews.