Ph.D. - Liberal Studies

The Ph.D. in Liberal Studies program offered by the School of Liberal Studies at UPES is a unique and comprehensive opportunity for aspiring scholars to engage in rigorous doctoral studies across diverse disciplines such as Economics, English Literature, History, Politics, and Psychology. The program stands out for its emphasis on interdisciplinary research, encouraging students to explore and integrate insights from multiple fields to address complex contemporary challenges. Under the mentorship of distinguished faculty members, students receive guidance from some of the best minds in their respective disciplines.

School of Liberal Studies at UPES has strategically positioned itself around seven core problem areas, namely Citizenship, Education, Environment, Gender, Health, Technology, and Urbanisation. These areas represent the pressing global issues of our time, providing a thematic framework for research that goes beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries. The program aims to produce 'thought leaders of tomorrow' by fostering a spirit of inquiry and critical thinking. By focusing on a 'just and sustainable' future, the doctoral program at School of Liberal Studies equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to address the multifaceted challenges of the modern world.

An integral aspect of the Ph.D. program is the emphasis on international exposure and scholarly exchange. Students have ample opportunities to present their research findings in international seminars and conferences, facilitating the development of a global perspective. This not only enriches their academic experience but also contributes to the broader scholarly discourse. Overall, the Ph.D. in Liberal Studies program at School of Liberal Studies at UPES is designed to nurture scholars who can contribute meaningfully to their respective fields while actively engaging with the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary issues, ultimately striving for positive societal impact.

• The Ph.D. in Liberal Studies program ensures a strong disciplinary grounding through rigorous coursework, providing a solid foundation for Ph.D. candidates.
• Students benefit from mentorship by globally recognized scholars, enhancing the quality and depth of their research endeavors.
• The curriculum emphasizes empirical and data-driven research methodologies, fostering a scientific approach to problem-solving and analysis.
• With a deliberate focus on transdisciplinary training, the program encourages scholars to integrate diverse perspectives, enriching their research and contributing to holistic understanding.
• Students engage in praxis and action-based research, gaining practical insights and skills to address real-world challenges for a 'just and sustainable' future.
• The Ph.D. in Liberal Studies program facilitates research clusters within laboratories, enabling collaborative efforts to tackle complex problems, fostering innovation and impactful solutions.

The Ph.D. in Liberal Studies program offered by UPES School of Liberal Studies is designed to cultivate critical thinking skills, encouraging students to think analytically, write incisively, and apply theories learned in coursework and research to address complex issues within human societies. Graduates of this program are expected to emerge as thought leaders, policymakers, and changemakers, equipped with a praxis-oriented practical approach and the ability to engage in public-facing research. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in academic disciplines, fostering domain-specific expertise that enables graduates to tackle challenging problems. Students gain exposure to cutting-edge research in their chosen field, ensuring they stay abreast of the latest developments. The curriculum encourages multidisciplinary practices, allowing students to ideate using diverse disciplinary methods. Moreover, the program promotes learning beyond the classrooms through engagement with the neighborhood, utilizing the School of Liberal Studies' labs for thought experiments and field-based pedagogy. By combining theoretical knowledge with applied studies, students build on canonical theories in the humanities and social sciences, enhancing their capacity for impactful research and problem-solving.

A Ph.D. in Liberal Studies from UPES School of Liberal Studies opens doors for diverse career paths, allowing graduates to become esteemed academics or influential industry leaders. Equipped with comprehensive training, they are well-prepared to pursue teaching positions and post-doctoral opportunities both globally and within India. The program not only fosters academic excellence but also provides a solid foundation for those inclined towards industry roles, offering a versatile skill set that aligns with various professional domains. Graduates emerge poised for success, ready to contribute meaningfully to academia or excel in dynamic industry positions, showcasing the program's broad and impactful future scope.

A Ph.D. in Liberal Studies opens diverse career avenues, such as securing teaching or postdoctoral positions in global universities, including India. Graduates can explore research-based consultancy roles, engage in data-driven positions within industries, and contribute to NGOs, think tanks, and international organizations. Additionally, there are opportunities for administrative services at central and state levels, contingent on experience and age. This comprehensive skill set equips individuals for impactful roles in academia, research, industry, and public service.

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