The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) offers part-time Ph.D. programs for working professionals and individuals who wish to pursue doctoral studies while continuing their professional commitments. Below are the key details regarding part-time Ph.D. admission, lateral entry, entrance-based selection, and course highlights at USTM:
Eligibility Criteria:
Candidates must hold a Master’s degree (M.Tech/M.E/M.Phil/M.Sc/MA/M.Com/MBA or equivalent) in a relevant field with a minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent CGPA).
Relaxation of 5% marks (or equivalent CGPA) is provided for SC/ST/OBC candidates.
Candidates must have relevant professional experience (if applicable).
Admission Process:
Entrance-Based Selection: Candidates are required to appear for a Research Entrance Test (RET) conducted by USTM.
Interview: Shortlisted candidates based on RET scores are called for an interview.
Exemption from RET: Candidates with a valid UGC-NET/JRF, CSIR-NET, SLET, or GATE score are exempted from the entrance test and can directly appear for the interview.
Lateral Entry:
USTM may offer lateral entry for candidates who have completed coursework or equivalent research work at another recognized institution. Such candidates may be exempted from certain coursework requirements, subject to approval by the university.
Duration:
The part-time Ph.D. program typically has a duration of 4–6 years, depending on the research progress and submission of the thesis.
Research Areas:
USTM offers part-time Ph.D. programs in various disciplines, including:
Engineering and Technology
Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, etc.)
Management Studies
Social Sciences
Humanities
Commerce
Coursework:
Candidates may be required to complete coursework in research methodology and subject-specific topics before proceeding to the research phase.
The coursework duration is typically 6 months to 1 year.
Research Supervision:
Candidates are assigned a research supervisor based on their research topic and area of expertise.
Regular progress reviews and presentations are conducted to ensure timely completion of the research.
Thesis Submission:
Candidates must submit a research thesis and defend it in a viva voce examination.
Flexibility for working professionals to balance work and research.
Access to experienced faculty and research facilities.
Opportunities for interdisciplinary research.
Recognition by UGC and other regulatory bodies.
Visit the official USTM website: https://www.ustm.ac.in.
Check the Ph.D. admission notification for details on application deadlines, fees, and required documents.
Submit the application form online along with the required documents (e.g., academic transcripts, research proposal, etc.).
Prepare for the Research Entrance Test (RET) and interview (if applicable).