PhD Syllabus 2025: Subjects, Semester-wise Syllabus PDF, Top Colleges, Books
Vidhi JainContent Writer
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a doctoral research degree and the highest academic qualification one can attain. The degree normally requires three to five years of full-time research work to complete a thesis that represents an original contribution to your field.
Various streams of PhD research are there, which include Science, Humanities, Management, Engineering, Art, Pharmacy, Law, Mass Communication, and Commerce. PhD holders are permitted to use the title Doctor with their name.
A master's degree is usually required for admission to a PhD programme. However, after a bachelor's degree, direct admission to PhD programmes is also available at the IITs, NITs, IIITs, and the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research.
Syllabus: Important Facts for PhD
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PhD in Science - A student can pursue a PhD in Science with any of the specializations such as Physics, Chemistry, Biology, etc. In this course, students learn to create a new, modified piece of information and contribute to scientific knowledge. A minimum of 55% marks at the postgraduate level in Science background is required for admission to PhD Science courses.
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PhD in Humanities - PhD in Humanities focuses on human culture and thoughts. It is an advanced course that explores human relationships and nature. This degree programme covers human behaviour, the evolution of culture, societal functions, and historical events. A minimum of 55% marks at the postgraduate level in any stream is required for admission to PhD in the Humanities field.
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Scope of PhD in India - In India and other countries, the employment landscape is changing radically, which gives room for PhD graduates to find employment in the fields of writing, investment banking, law, and many more. The Government of India has also made PhD mandatory for direct recruitment of assistant professors in all universities.
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Syllabus of PhD in Science - Depending on the field of specialisation, the syllabus for PhD in Science will vary. Some of the popular PhD courses in Science are as follows:
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PhD in Chemistry
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PhD in BioScience
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PhD in Applied Sciences
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PhD in Zoology
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PhD in Biotechnology
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PhD in Clinical Research
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PhD in Mathematics
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PhD in Physics
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Syllabus of PhD in Humanities - The curriculum for PhD in Humanities differs depending on the type of course. Some of the popular PhD courses in Humanities are as follows:
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PhD in Economics
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PhD in Geography
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PhD in Social Work
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PhD in Arts
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PhD in Literature
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PhD in Psychology
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PhD in Social Sciences
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General Examination Pattern - The examination pattern for PhD programmes differs from the rest of the graduate or postgraduate exams as their focus lies on research work, presentations, seminars and submission of thesis. However, colleges/universities also conduct mid- and end-semester examinations.
List of Subjects in PhD in Computer Science
Typical Core Subjects for PhD in Computer Science
Subject Title |
Subject details |
Research Methodology |
This subject involves the study of sampling, scaling and qualitative measures, descriptive statistics, and correlation. It also focuses on reviewing literature and writing research papers, thesis, reports, and project proposals.
The topics covered here include:
|
Software Engineering |
This subject offers a comprehensive view of the fundamentals of software systems by applying appropriate principles, theories, tools, and processes. It also aims to develop computer software in at least one domain, such as Safety, Society, Healthcare, Legal, Communication and Environment.
The topics covered here include:
|
Typical Elective Subjects for PhD in Computer Science
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
Real-Time Systems |
The course introduces the basic concepts of Real-Time Systems, resource allocation techniques and introduces the features specific to Real-Time Systems. It also discusses the various issues involved with the design and implementation of Real-Time Systems.
The topics covered here include:
|
Software Metrics |
The subject provides an overview of Software Metrics, Metric Types, Measurements, Scales, and examples of how they are used. It also introduces some of the issues with Software Metrics. This subject also discusses the importance of Software Metrics within Object-Oriented Programming. The topics covered here include:
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Natural Language Processing |
The subject aims to deepen your understanding of natural language processing, as well as learn basic algorithms to apply in this field. You will also learn the algorithmic description of the main language levels and the resources for natural language data. The topics covered here include:
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Software Quality Engineering |
This subject describes quality assurance approaches, understanding quality models, and evaluating the system according to the chosen quality model. Additionally, it identifies measures applicable to the process of verification and validation. The topics covered here include:
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Detailed syllabus for PhD in Computer Science
Various topics are offered by universities offering PhD in Computer Science, but some subjects are nearly identical across all universities.
Detailed information about some of these topics is provided below:
Semester |
Core/Elective |
Subject Title |
Subject Details |
1 |
Advanced Computer Architecture |
Advanced Computer Architecture |
The subject focuses on learning the fundamentals of computer architecture design, analysis, and simulation. It also covers topics such as processor design, pipelining, caches, storage systems, virtual memory, and simulation techniques. Moreover, it enables a better understanding of different processor architectures and systems levels of design.
The topics covered here include:
|
2. |
Operating Systems |
Operating Systems |
This course highlights the importance of operating systems in Computer Architecture. It helps you acquire knowledge about the functions of an OS, alongside Process Management and Communication. |
3 |
Network Security |
Network Security |
This subject discusses various electronic payment systems such as NetBill, MicroMint, PayWords, fair exchange protocols, as well as several types of Group Management techniques, including Group Key Agreement and Group Key Distribution, and at least one secure MANET routing protocol. The topics covered here include:
|
4 |
Data Mining |
Data Mining |
Data mining as a subject offers an in-depth analysis of the process of mining large troves of data for meaningful information. Data is collected in clusters and subsequently classified based on certain criteria. Through this subject, you shall get hands-on knowledge of the process of data mining. |
5 |
Computational Algebra |
Computational Algebra |
This course studies the use of mathematical models for solving computational and scientific problems. It includes an in-depth analysis of concepts such as linear and non-linear systems, basic data filtering and the robustness of an algorithm. |
6 |
Database Management Systems |
Database Management Systems |
In this subject, students develop a comprehensive understanding of aspects of database technologies and the necessity for distributed databases to satisfy the deficiencies of centralized databases. |
SpecialisationsOffered in PhD
While PhD in Computer Science is a popular course, there are various other specialisations that you can opt for your doctorate degree. Some of them are as follows:
Specialisations |
Subjects |
Details |
PhD in Biochemistry |
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PhD in Biochemistry is a research-based degree that explores living creatures at the molecular level and includes a thorough examination of biomolecules.
This advanced degree combines several Biological Sciences topics, including Genetics, Forensics, Medicine, Plant Science, and Microbiology. |
PhD in Mathematics |
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Students pursuing a PhD in Mathematics learn about Mathematical Logic and Analysis, Statistics, Stochastic Processes and Topology.
The PhD programme provides students with advanced knowledge in the subject of mathematics as well as abilities that may be utilized to apply and solve complicated real-life problems. |
PhD in Physics |
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A PhD in physics provides a comprehensive overview of experimental and Theoretical Physics and seeks to give applicants a wide professional grounding in physics. This course will help students learn about Natural Laws in Optics, Classical and Quantum Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, Astronomy and Astrophysics, Biomedical Physics, and other fields. |
PhD in Environmental Science |
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A PhD in Earth Science is a degree programme that prepares students to address emerging environmental issues such as climate change, environmental sustainability, and natural resource management. The comprehensive research required for a PhD in Environmental Studies aids in the development of sophisticated problem-solving abilities that are valuable in both life and work. |
Books and Authors for PhD students
There are various books that might assist you in preparing for your PhD course. The following are some popular books that provide a thorough review of the subject:
Subject |
Book Title |
Author |
Description |
---|---|---|---|
Research Methodology |
Research Methodology: A step-by-step guide for beginners |
Ranjit Kumar |
This book is a suitable choice for students who have no previous experience or knowledge of research or research methodology. This step-by-step guide teaches about theoretical concepts and 8 crucial steps to any research process. It provides examples illustrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches for a thorough understanding of the methods of analysis. |
Advanced Computer Architecture |
Computer Architecture: A Quantitative Approach |
Hennessy and Patterson |
The book highlights how digital media, including smartphones, computers, tablets, and other mobile devices, can access the cloud and its software. It also covers the two most important aspects of modern architecture: parallelism and memory hierarchy. |
Advanced Network Security |
Network Security Essentials |
William Stallings |
The book explains why internet security is critical in our age of robust electronic connectivity. Many factors can compromise private information, such as viruses, hackers, and electronic fraud. In this book, the author outlines the necessity of securing data and resources, ensuring their authenticity and evaluating the effects of network-based attacks. |
Distributed Databases |
Database System Concepts |
Henry F. Korth, Abraham Silberschatz, S. Sudarshan |
This book is one of the cornerstones of database education. It presents the key concepts of database management in a straightforward manner so that students can begin using databases right away. The book is written for junior/senior courses on databases. |
Applied Cryptography |
Handbook of Applied Cryptography |
A. Menezes, P. Van Oorschot, S. Vanstone |
This book is a great reference for both the novice and the expert who need a broader scope of study in the field of cryptography. It is a vital and current handbook for professionals interested in cryptographic arts. It is intended to provide an overview of the more practical features of both conventional and public-key encryption. |
Entrance Exams for PhD
In order to apply to the PhD programmes, candidates must have a minimum of 55% marks in post-graduation. For SC/ST/OBC/specially-abled candidates, this must be at least 50%. Students with previous work experience in the same area are preferred to apply to the PhD program.
Various national entrance examinations are available for admission to PhD Universities. However, some Universities have their own PhD entrance examinations followed by interviews.
Additionally, the structure of an entrance examination is decided by the authority that oversees the examination or by the University.
Here is a list of different national entrance examinations:
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CSIR-UGC-NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test)
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UGC-NET (University Grants Commission - National Eligibility Test)
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GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering)
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JEST (Joint Entrance Screening Test)
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TIFR GS Exam
Syllabus for Distance Learning Courses in PhD
Candidates who do not have the time to complete a full-time PhD programme can do the course online with a PhD distance learning programme. This allows students to take the course remotely from internal universities or colleges on an affordable range.
However, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a circular stating that distance learning PhD programmes will not be recognized anymore, and professors and other academic positions at universities require those with regular mode PhD courses.
Nonetheless, some popular colleges which offer distance learning courses in PhD are listed below:
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IGNOU (Indira Gandhi National Open University)
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YCMOU (Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open Universities)
Top Colleges/Universities for PhD
Listed below are some of the best colleges in India that offer courses in PhD:
S. No. |
College/University |
Link |
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1 |
Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore |
To be uploaded soon |
2 |
Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi |
To be uploaded soon |
3 |
University of Delhi, New Delhi |
To be uploaded soon |
4 |
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi |
To be uploaded soon |
5 |
Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai |
To be uploaded soon |
6 |
University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad |
To be uploaded soon |
7 |
Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh |
To be uploaded soon |
8 |
Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani |
To be uploaded soon |
9 |
Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram |
To be uploaded soon |
10 |
Tezpur University, Napaam |
To be uploaded soon |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is the scope of a PhD?
A. The purpose of a PhD is to expand knowledge, and abilities, and to exhibit perseverance in researching extensively in a given field. Graduates from PhD in Education programmes often continue to careers as professors in universities or administrative positions in education, such as school principals or superintendents.
Q. Is a Doctor of Science superior to a PhD?
A. Yes, a degree in Doctor of Science is above a PhD. The DSc awards are rare and are awarded only to individuals who have made significant contributions to academic research.
Q. Which PhD programme is the easiest?
Q. Is a PhD harder than a master's?
A. A PhD is harder than a master’s, as a master's degree is intended to broaden and strengthen career-related knowledge and abilities. A doctoral degree is a research-intensive degree that is intended to improve critical research, analytical, and writing abilities in order to meet industrial knowledge shortages.
Q. What is the duration of a PhD?
A. A full-time PhD typically takes three to five years, whereas a part-time PhD can run up to six or seven years.
Q. What are the different fields in which one can do a PhD?
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Science
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Humanities
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Law
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Business Management
Q. Which college is the best for a PhD in Science?
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Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore
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University of Delhi, New Delhi
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Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai
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Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
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University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
Q. Is it possible for me to do my PhD via distance mode?
Q. What are some of the best books to read for a PhD in Computer Science?
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Research Methodology: A step-by-step guide for beginners - Ranjit Kumar
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Database System Concepts - Henry F. Korth, Abraham Silberschatz, S. Sudarshan
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Network Security Essentials - William Stallings
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Handbook of Applied Cryptography - A. Menezes, P. Van Oorschot, S. Vanstone
Q. What is the eligibility for a PhD in Computer Science?
Q. Do I need Maths to pursue my PhD in a field of my choice?
Q. Do I actually become a 'doctor' upon completing my PhD?
Q. Do I need to pass an entrance exam for my PhD?
Q. Can I finish off my PhD in 4 years?
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News & Updates
Student Forum
Answered Yesterday
IIITM Gwalior offers PhD courses majorly in three disciplines i.e, Engineering, Management, and Applied Science. Moreover, within these broad fields, the institute provides PhD opportunities across various subjects and specialised sub-disciplines, catering to diverse research interests. Check out th
K
Contributor-Level 8
Answered Yesterday
Yes, IIITM Gwalior does offer PhD courses for the duration of three years. However, students have the leisure to complete their doctorate in 2 to 5 years. The institute offers PhD courses in three disciplines- Engineering, Management and Applied Science. The eligibility criteria to get admission int
I
Contributor-Level 8
Answered Yesterday
Following is the list of key reason why to study Ph.D in Finance:
Allows Research: PhD in Finance allows candidates to conduct rigorous academic research that can increase financial understanding by pursuing a Ph.D. in Finance.
Academics: Many people who pursue a PhD in Finance do so to become a part
M
Beginner-Level 5
Answered Yesterday
PhD which is also known as Doctor of Philosophy is a research degree pursued in furtherance of academic or research pursuits. PhD in Finance Course can be pursued in full-time or part-time modes, but it is not offered in distance mode. PhD in Finance is a professional degree that requires investment
A
Beginner-Level 5
Answered 2 days ago
Typical duration of a home Science PHd is usually 3-5 years. Candidates who complete their master's degree in home Science from a recognised university are considered eligible to apply for a PhD in home science. After completing a PHd in Home science, candidates are offered a wide range of opportuni
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 days ago
In order to go for a PHd in home science, you need to have a master's degree in home Science first. The minimum eligibilty criteria is to obtain a master's degree in home Science from a recognised university with a minimum aggregate of 50-60% (varies depending on the university you wish to enrol). C
A
Contributor-Level 9
Answered 2 days ago
Yes, GNA University does provide several PhD courses admission to which is subject to clearance of the preset eligibility. Find below the eligibility criteria for GNA University PhD admission:
- PG degree from a recognised university with a minimum aggregate of 55% (50% aggregate for those belonging to
U
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 3 days ago
A PhD involves in-depth research on a specific topic, culminating in a unique contribution to knowledge. It's not just about learning facts, but creating new ones. This involves:
- Extensive research: Reading, experimenting, and analyzing data.
- Developing original ideas: Formulating hypotheses and
A
Contributor-Level 6
Answered 4 days ago
Hello I hope you are doing fine
If you want to pursue PhD in pharmacology then you have so many options in India. In India there are so many prestigious and famous institutes and colleges or universities for PhD in pharmacology. Here is the list :
- Jamia Hamdard
- Delhi pharmaceutical Science and resear
M
Contributor-Level 7
Answered 6 days ago
The ICFAI Business School, Hyderabad, offers the Ph.D. in one of the most competitive courses, as given below.
The eligibility criteria, along with the cutoff scores needed to join this course, are thus enumerated as follows:
Eligibility Criteria:
Educational Qualification:
Graduation: Any bachelor's d
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Yes, Dr DY Patil Dental College offers a PhD lasting three years. The dental college offers one specialisation under its PhD course, i.e. PhD in Dentistry. The course is offered in affiliation with Dr DY Patil Vidyapeeth. The affiliating university conducts an All India Entrance Test (AIET) and pers
H
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Candidates must complete a master's degree in the subject concerned with at least 70% marks in aggregate or CGPA 7.0/10.0. There is relaxation of 5% in the aggregate for SC/ ST category candidates. Such aspirants need to complete their master's degree with at least 65% marks in aggregate or OGPA 6.5
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Students pursuing a PhD programme from Bihar Animal Sciences University and have a domicile of Bihar are eligible to get scholarship or a fellowship. Such students get a monthly scholarship/ fellowship of INR 12,000 for the period of three years.
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Yes, SPA Delhi offers scholarships for students who are pursuing a full-time PhD programme at the institute. These scholarships are offered to provide financial assistance to meritorious and deserving students. Moreover, as per the official brochure, various fellowships and contingency grants are al
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
The application forms for SPA Delhi PhD courses are available throughout the year. Interested students must apply for the programme. Moreover, the applications received by the institute are processed twice a year at the start of either semester (January/July) of an academic session. Candidates seeki
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
The total fee to pursue the SPA Delhi PhD programme is a composition of multiple elements. Some of the key fee components are the tuition fee, admission fee, caution fee, etc. Apart from these, students living in the institute's hostels must also pay the hostel fees. Tabulated below is the complete
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
A PhD degree from SPA Delhi provides graduates with a broad career scope. PhD scholars can pursue different career paths, each with the potential for attractive earnings. Scholars can look out for jobs in the field of academia. Students can apply to work as a professor or researcher. Scholars can ex
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
To know which college to choose, students can compare the options based on significant factors such as fees. To help, presented below is a comparison between the PhD courses at SPA Delhi and Integral University, based on fees:
Institute/University | Course Fee |
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SPA Delhi | INR 80,000 |
Integral University | INR 1.5 lakh |
Note: The above information is taken from various official sources. Hence,
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Both SPA Delhi and Amity University Noida are good options to pursue a PhD. However, in order to determine which is more affordable, students must compare the fees charged by both institutions.
Upon comparing, it is found that SPA Delhi is more affordable since the tuition fee to pursue PhD at SPA De
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
SPA Delhi, Amity University, and Integral University are all good options for pursuing a PhD in architecture or related fields. In order to choose one, students must weigh all the options based on various important factors, such as fees. As per official sources, the fees to pursue a PhD at SPA Delhi
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Once the students have submitted the application forms, the admission committee begins the screening process. All the registered candidates are evaluated based on their academic record, work experience, area of study, and more. After that, the institute releases a merit with the names of the student
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
SPA Delhi offers two PhD programme in two modes, full time and part time. For admission to both the programmes, students are required to fill out an application form and pay the following application fees:
Course | Application Fees |
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PhD | INR 2,500 |
Note: The below-mentioned fee is as per official sources. However, it is subject to change.
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
After the release of the merit list, selected candidates must present original and self-attested photocopies of documents for verification purposes at the institute. Such candidates are required to bring along the following documents:
- Class 10 marksheet
- Class 12 marksheet
- Migration certificate
- School le
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
To be considered for SPA Delhi PhD admissions, students must fill out the application form. The applications for the PhD programme are made available by the institute throughout the year. Candidates aspiring to take admission can apply by visiting the official website of the institute and paying an
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Yes, SPA Delhi PhD admissions are merit-based. Students aspiring to take admission to the programme are not required to take any entrance exam. In order to get admission, they must submit a duly filled application form. The fee to apply is INR 2,500. The admissions are granted to eligible students b
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
SPA Delhi PhD eligibility criteria state the conditions to be fulfilled by candidates seeking admission. Students who fulfill any one of the following conditions are eligible to apply for PhD courses:
- Obtained a master's degree in relevant field or its equivalent conducted by any other recognised uni
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
The total tuition fee to pursue a PhD at SPA Delhi amounts to INR 80,000. Other than this, the fee structure includes a one-time fee of INR 3,500 to be submitted at the time of admission. Candidates who wish to know the complete fee structure can visit the official website of the institute.
Note: The
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Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Yes, PhD is available at SPA Delhi. This programme is offered in full-time and part-time modes. Candidates seeking admission can check the below table to know more about the programme:
Particulars | Statistics |
---|---|
Duration | Five to seven years |
Mode | Full-time/Part-time |
Selection Criteria | Merit-Based |
Fee | INR 80,000 |
Note: The above information is taken from official sources. However, it is subject to change.
S
Contributor-Level 10
Answered a week ago
Official notification for PhD admission 2025-2026 academic year has not been released but mainly university start the admission process in June .and applications opens from June 1 and close in last of June So the exact date has not been confirmed yet. You should stay active on the official website t
a
Beginner-Level 3
Answered a week ago
Jindal Global Business School grant admission on entrance score basis. The candidates can apply with a valid score of UGC NET/JGU Research Aptitude Test (RAT)/CSIR NET/ JRF/ SLET (Haryana State). Besides, it is also crucial that the aspirants meet the course-specific eligibility requirements. It mus
M
Contributor-Level 9
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In which discipline I can pursue PhD from IIITM Gwalior?