A part-time PhD is a program of study that allows students to pursue their PhD along with other commitments such as work or family. While it may sound simpler, it is hard for many students to juggle everything. Some are able to complete their degree within a year, but others take longer due to their other obligations. There was a huge debate in India in 2022 regarding whether online PhDs should be permitted. Since a PhD requires hands-on training and work, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has refused to accept fully online PhDs in India.
This was brought up when certain EdTech firms began selling online PhD courses with international universities. Students were interested, so the UGC cautioned students via their official Twitter (now X) not to believe these firms. If you see an EdTech firm or an Indian university stating that they provide an online PhD, know that it is not legitimate.
If you need some flexibility while pursuing a PhD, you can opt for a part-time study and also work simultaneously.
Part-Time PhD: Admission Process
To apply for a part-time PhD Course, do the following:
1. Register on the university website.
2. Enter your information in the application form.
3. Upload documents, such as certificates, if required.
4. Once you submit, you will receive a confirmation mail from the university.
5. Once confirmed, prepare for entrance tests and research methods.
Part-Time PhD Eligibility
You should be an Indian citizen or belong to a Commonwealth nation to enroll for a PhD for working professionals. Ensure that the program is recognized by the Central Panel for Examination and Certification (CPC). If the university is not recognized, you won’t get a certificate or a diploma.
Fees for part-time PhD programs vary but usually range from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75000 per year, based on your location. Scholarships may be available to help cover costs.
Part-Time PhD Programs
Many universities in India offer part-time PhD programs for professionals who can’t study full-time. Some of these universities include:
- The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT): Different IITs provide a PhD for working professionals in different subjects.
- The Indian Institute of Management (IIM): These companies provide a Part-time PhD in school management and related fields.
- Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU): Provides a doctorate in social science, art and others.
- Delhi University: It provides part-time in different subjects.
- The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI): provides a part-time PhD in statistics, mathematics and computer science.
- TATA Institute of Social Sciences (Tiss): Offers participants a part-time PhD in social science and related subjects.
- Birla Institute of Technology and Science (Bits Pilani): It offers a work -friendly doctoral program.
Popular Part-Time PhD Courses Fees
Following are some of the fees for PhD for working professionals courses in India:
- IIT Delhi: Rs. 5,00,000 annually (for the initial two years)
- Rajasthan University: Rs. 5,75,000 annually (for the initial two years)
Fees in Europe are as follows:
- University of Oxford: £816 monthly + accommodation
- Imperial College London: £976 per month + accommodation
What are the Status of a Part-Time PhD Holder in India?
Part-time PhD holders are considered to have a doctoral degree. They can pursue different jobs in teaching, industry, government, and private sectors. The duration required for a part-time PhD typically depends on the research project, which takes around six months.
Part-Time PhD: Job Opportunities
A PhD for working professionals can reveal career possibilities whilst you are a student. You are not banned from working full-time whilst earning your PhD. Most careers exist for degree-holders.
Alternatively, if you wish to pursue work with great organizations such as Google or NASA but still put your studies first, you might think about taking up a role as an administrator. Administrators assist in organizations by making everything go smoothly there, handling supplies and budgets.
If you wish to study a Part-Time PhD and wish to apply for admission in 2025 in India, verify your eligibility, study universities, and select a program according to your aims.
Following are the kinds of PhD programs that you can undertake based on your requirements:
1. Full-Time PhD: This is a traditional PhD program where you concentrate on research on a full-time basis. It typically takes three years, but it may vary based on the student and the university.
2. Part-Time PhD: Here, you are able to work while pursuing a PhD. It takes around 4 to 7 years, and the classes are typically on weekends to accommodate working professionals.
3. Integrated PhD: This is a combined master’s and PhD program. You will complete coursework and research for both programs simultaneously.
4. Industry-Sponsored PhD: It is a specialized program meant for working professionals and sponsored by an industry partner or a company. They earn valuable experience and salary while contributing research to the company.
Conclusion
Yes, UGC recognizes part-time PhDs in India, but there could be some constraints on how employers look upon them. You also have to pass the UGC NET exam to be qualified for a PhD.