Transitioning from Corporate HR to Academia: How Do I Start My PhD Journey in OB or HRM?

Dear All, I have ten years of corporate experience in the HR department, and recently I have moved into academics. I am working as a life skills trainer and also teaching classes on OB and Industrial Psychology for MBA students.

I have completed a PG Diploma in Business Management from an institute whose PG Diploma is equivalent to an MBA as per the Association of Indian Universities (www.aiuweb.org).

I am looking forward to pursuing my PhD in OB or HRM. I need guidance from my seniors on how to proceed with this.

Regards, Jeevan Deep Sehgal New Delhi

You can register for your Ph.D. in any of the universities recognized by the UGC. The basic eligibility criteria remain the same for all universities providing genuine Ph.D. programs affiliated/accredited to the UGC.

Eligibility: A candidate should have obtained a master's degree with not less than 55% marks or an equivalent grade. For SC/ST candidates and all other candidates who completed the PG degree before 1991, the minimum requirement will be only 50% for admission to the Ph.D. program.

Every university has a specific timeframe and window period for admissions, which is published on their websites, and notifications are featured in major newspapers and educational magazines. Keep yourself updated on the websites of the universities you are planning to apply to. Based on the notifications, apply with payment of relevant charges and seek admission.

Some universities insist on entrance tests for screening candidates or have specific criteria to refine the selection process. All the best, and do not hesitate to reach out if you have any queries.

For your reference, attaching a link regarding Madras University's notification on Ph.D. admissions http://www.successcds.net/Admission-...-Of-Madras.htm

PhD Entrance Requirements Under UGC

Under UGC, it has become mandatory to clear an entrance test called RAT (Research Aptitude Test) and go through mandatory coursework. Every university is free to conduct its own RAT; it is yet to become a centralized exam. The department in which you are interested in doing your PhD will assign a PhD guide to you under whom you will conduct your research. However, you have to clear the test on your coursework.

All the best,

Regards,
Parveen Ahmed Alam
Faculty - HR

You have enough work experience to enroll in a Ph.D. program. Here are some options to consider:

1. You can apply to IIM A, B, C, K, or I for their FPM program through exams such as GRE, GMAT, CAT, or RAT.
2. TISS Mumbai is known for offering excellent Ph.D. programs in OB & HRM.
3. To pursue a Ph.D., you may need to clear the NET or an entrance test as it is now compulsory by the UGC. You can then enroll in a local university.
4. If you are interested in studying abroad, consider clearing the GMAT or GRE exams and applying to a top-tier university.

Remember to carefully research and choose the best option that aligns with your career goals and aspirations. Good luck with your academic pursuits!