Seeking Guidance on Choosing a Ph.D. Topic in Management: How Did You Decide?

Hi Friends, I have completed my MBA and am now looking to pursue a Ph.D. in management. While I have certain research areas in mind, I still require more guidance from a mentor or a guide who can help me determine the best topic and how to choose one effectively. Many universities require a synopsis before their entrance exams.

If any of my friends are currently pursuing or have completed a Ph.D., please advise me on how you approached it. If any of my friends are working as guides or mentors, please do assist me.

Regards, Megha

Hi Megha,

Please visit the forum specifically for Ph.D. studies: PHD, Research & Assignments - CiteHR Human Resource Management Community Knowledgebase

Importance of a Synopsis

A synopsis or Ph.D. proposal is crucial as it showcases the aspirant's interest and core knowledge. A Ph.D. is not merely a course but a comprehensive study that demands special skills.

I recommend spending ample time on the forum and initiating your research promptly. Every Ph.D. aspirant should approach each step as a research endeavor, fostering a habit of in-depth study and motivation.

When I was in the same position as you are now, I took the initiative to explore my strengths and determine the subject matter that truly engaged me, ensuring my passion for learning stayed constant.

Self-motivation is paramount at every stage of this journey.

Lastly, please share your thoughts, initial plans, areas of specialization, and any relevant work experience you possess. Your interests, knowledge, experience, and skills are pivotal in this process.

I am currently pursuing a PhD at JNU in the field of contract labor. When entering a PhD program, you have the freedom to choose your research topic. However, there is a possibility that you may need to complete an MPhil and coursework before finalizing your topic. It might be advantageous to consider doing your PhD at a business school, but it's important to note that they typically award a Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) degree rather than a PhD. Additionally, there are specific admission requirements to fulfill. Although I completed my post-graduation studies at MDI, initially contemplating an FPM there, I eventually decided to pursue a PhD at JNU. I trust this addresses your query; otherwise, feel free to reach out to me directly.

Regards,
Pankaj Kumar
In-Service PhD Student
Centre for the Study of Law & Governance
Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
Mobile: [Phone Number Removed For Privacy Reasons], [Phone Number Removed For Privacy Reasons]
Email: [Email Removed For Privacy Reasons]

Thank you, Anil, for sharing your valuable feedback and advice. As rightly said by you, the synopsis or Ph.D. proposal is a very important and crucial part of the main thesis. However, from what I know about Indian Government Universities, they conduct entrance exams prior to which you have to prepare the outline of the synopsis. How would I know if the said topic will interest the panel, as at a time I can present only one topic, and if they reject it, I would have to wait for another year to appear for the exams again. This results in a very long wait. Additionally, I have heard from a few friends that guidance is only provided once you clear the exams. The question then arises, who will guide me on topics?

Regarding My Work Experience

I have spent 2 years in the Event Management Industry in Client Servicing. Branding, Promotion, Roadshows, Mall Activation, and School Activities were a few of the activities we executed for our clients. My specialization area is Marketing.

Thank you, Pankaj, for your insights. As you mentioned, the B-school will offer an FPM, which is a little different from a Ph.D. I am specifically interested in pursuing a Ph.D., preferably from a reputable government university. Regarding M.Phil, I am somewhat hesitant about it.

Primary Concern: Research Topic and Ph.D. Proposal

However, my primary concern revolves around the research topic and the Ph.D. proposal. It is crucial for me to receive valuable guidance in this area as it holds utmost importance in my academic pursuit.

Now that you are certain about pursuing a Ph.D. from a traditional university, you should start preparing for an entrance examination. If you pass, you will then need to focus on your Viva where you might be required to present a research topic. It won't be an issue if you already have a topic in mind. Perhaps, if you are considering my center, you could delve into "Governance issues related to event management" and formulate research questions and methodology accordingly. Nonetheless, there are numerous topics to explore.

Best regards,
Pankaj

Thanks once again for giving me insight into the PhD. I checked the JNU website, and they do not provide a PhD in Management (Marketing). Can I consider topics suggested by my MBA, which is in Marketing?

I guess there is no problem as far as our Centre is concerned with any topic if it is found appealing to the faculty for viable research.

Bye,

Pankaj