PhD in Social Science (Doctor of Philosophy in Social Science)

PhD in Social Sciences Course Details

A PhD in Social Sciences is a doctoral-level degree program that is designed to prepare students to conduct advanced research in a variety of fields related to human society and behavior. Social sciences encompass a broad range of subjects, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, economics, history, and communication studies.

The goal of a PhD in Social Sciences program is to train students to become experts in their chosen field of study and to contribute new knowledge and insights to their respective fields. Students in these programs typically spend several years conducting independent research under the guidance of a faculty advisor, and they may also take advanced coursework in their subject area.

Some of the key skills that students in a Social Sciences PhD program may develop include research design and methodology, data analysis, critical thinking, writing and presentation skills, and an understanding of ethical considerations in research.

Career opportunities for Social Sciences PhD graduates can vary widely depending on their area of specialization but may include academic positions as professors or researchers, as well as careers in government, non-profit organizations, or the private sector. Some graduates may also pursue careers in consulting, policy analysis, or other related fields.

PhD in Social Sciences Course Details

PhD in Social Sciences Highlights

Interdisciplinary approach: A PhD in Social Sciences allows students to approach complex social problems from an interdisciplinary perspective. They can draw on theories and methodologies from a variety of disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, political science, economics, history, and communication studies.

Research skills development: The program is designed to develop advanced research skills in students, including research design and methodology, data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and writing skills. Students learn how to conduct independent research, analyze data, and present their findings effectively.

Specialization opportunities: Social Sciences PhD programs often offer opportunities for students to specialize in a particular area of interest. This may include topics such as gender studies, race and ethnicity, social inequality, globalization, political behavior, or cultural studies.

Networking opportunities: Students in a Social Sciences PhD program have the opportunity to build relationships with other researchers, professors, and professionals in their field. They may attend conferences, workshops, and seminars, and collaborate with other researchers on projects.

Career prospects: A PhD in Social Sciences can lead to a variety of career opportunities in academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. Graduates may pursue careers as professors, researchers, policy analysts, consultants, or managers in a wide range of fields.

Why study PhD Social Sciences

PhD in social sciences cover a wide range of topics. Students can gain deep insight into the subject and various other topics related to that subject. This course is mainly based on research activities. Throughout the course of their studies, students carry out a variety of research activities. Candidates will be recruited in a variety of fields including education, public service, social welfare, policy coordination, and philanthropy. You can qualify as a social activist, civil servant, NGO activist, child rights activist, social researcher, etc. Social science PhD students receive a salary of approximately 3 LPA to 3.5 LPA. Salaries increase gradually over time.

PhD in Social Sciences Entrance Exam:

Some PhD programs in Social Sciences may require an entrance exam, while others may evaluate applicants based on their academic record, research experience, and other qualifications. Students should check with individual programs to determine their specific entrance requirements.

Admission: To be admitted to a PhD program in Social Sciences, students typically need to have completed a bachelor's degree and/or a master's degree in a related field. They may also need to demonstrate research experience and academic achievement, including a high GPA and strong letters of recommendation.

CSIR UGC NET

UGC NET

IIT JAM

GPAT

VITMEE

PhD in Social Sciences Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility requirements vary by program, but generally include a minimum GPA requirement, demonstrated research experience, and a strong academic background in a related field.

Candidates must complete a master's degree with at least 55% marks from a recognized university. 

For schools that conduct entrance exams, students must also pass the common entrance exam with the desired percentage. 

For reserved students, grades may be slightly relaxed. However, you will have to show your caste certificate. Apart from this, some universities may have specific admission criteria that students must meet.

PhD in Social Sciences Course Duration:

The duration of a PhD program in Social Sciences can vary depending on the program and the student's individual progress. Typically, students can expect to spend between four and six years completing their degree.

PhD in Social Sciences Selection Criteria:

PhD programs in Social Sciences typically evaluate applicants based on a range of factors, including academic achievement, research experience, letters of recommendation, and fit with the program's research interests and goals.

PhD in Social Sciences How to Apply

To apply to a PhD program in Social Sciences, students typically need to submit an application through the program's website. Applications usually require transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a research proposal. Some programs may also require an entrance exam or an interview with faculty members. It's important to check with individual programs for specific application requirements and deadlines.

PhD in Social Sciences Application Form:

The application form for a PhD program in Social Sciences is typically available on the program's website. Students will need to provide their personal information, academic background, research experience, and other relevant information.

PhD in Social Sciences Application Process:

The application process for a PhD program in Social Sciences typically involves submitting an online application form, transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a research proposal. Some programs may require an entrance exam or an interview with faculty members.

Ph.D. in Social Sciences: Direct Admission

The admission process for the Social Sciences PhD program is as follows: 

Step 1: Fill out the application form Once the application form is published, you need to collect the application form from the official website of the university and fill in the required details. 

Step 2: Admission to University After all applications are submitted, the university will draw up a merit list and the shortlisted candidates will be admitted to the university.

Ph.D. in Social Sciences Admission Process: Entrance Test

The admission process for PhD Social Sciences through the Entrance Exam Is mentioned below:

Step 1: Fill out the application form The easiest way to fill out the application form is to fill it out online. You can also pick up forms at the university campus. 

Step 2: Take the entrance test The entrance exam will be held after the application documents have been submitted. The exam pattern is decided by the conducting university. 

Step 3: Admission to University Candidates who pass the entrance exam deadline can enroll in the university. Candidates may be required to visit the university campus to complete the admissions process.

PhD in Social Sciences Course Fee Structure

The application fee for a PhD program in Social Sciences varies by program and institution. Students should check with individual programs for specific fee information.

PhD in Social Sciences Syllabus:

The syllabus for a PhD program in Social Sciences can vary depending on the program and the student's area of specialization. However, coursework may cover topics such as research methods, statistical analysis, social theory, and specialized topics related to the student's research interests.

PhD in Social Sciences Salary and Jobs:

Graduates of a PhD program in Social Sciences can pursue a variety of careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. Salaries vary widely depending on the field and the specific job, but graduates with a PhD in Social Sciences can expect to earn a competitive salary. According to PayScale, the average salary for a professor with a PhD in Social Sciences is around $90,000 per year.

PhD in Social Sciences Career Opportunities:

Some of the top career opportunities for graduates of a PhD program in Social Sciences include:

• Academic positions as professors or researchers
  
• Government positions in research, policy analysis, or program management
• Non-profit positions in research, advocacy, or program management
• Private sector positions in consulting, market research, or data analysis

Top Colleges: Some of the top colleges for a PhD in Social Sciences include:

• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• University of California-Berkeley
• Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• University of Chicago
• Columbia University
• Princeton University
• University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
• University of Pennsylvania
• New York University (NYU)

PhD in Social Sciences Admission Procedure

• Application for the entrance exam 
• Result declaration
• Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
• Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
• Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
• Course work examination
• Result declaration of coursework
• Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
• Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
• A registration letter shall be issued
• Research work started by scholar
• 6 progress reports shall be submitted
• Soft copy thesis submit
• plagiarism report check by the university
• Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
• After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
• After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
• Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

Documents Required For PhD in Social Sciences

• Documents (10th onwards)
• Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
• Migration Certificate (Original)
• NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
• Affidavit (undertaking)
• Guide Willing
• Assignments
• Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
• Library No Dues
• Lab Letter
• Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
• No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
• Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
• C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
• Conference Certificate - 2
• Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
• summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
• Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About PhD in Social Sciences Program 

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.