How to Get a UGC-Approved PhD Degree Without Quitting Your Job 

One can now pursue a PhD degree while working professional, even in India. In recent times, sufficient changes have been seen coming to play with a PhD degree in full time or part-time according to different universities. With the need of degrees for every career opportunity, a PhD serves as one of the highest degrees, even for a working professional. 

PhD is one of the highest academic achievements. PhD is a doctorate level program wherein intensive research work is the required norm. A researcher presents a research proposal to the university on which later on thesis is also presented. PhD degree consumes a lot of time and energy while requiring motivation at each step.  

A PhD degree helps an individual gain a lot of respect amongst their own peers but also amongst their colleagues. It is also functional as one can get promoted with a doctoral title before their name. 

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What is a PhD degree? 

The full form of PhD is Doctor of Philosophy. A PhD degree is one of the highest achievements which also lands you with a doctoral title. Depending on the university, a PhD degree is usually 3-5 years long. It is extensive research for an original thesis work which sums up your PhD.  

PhD eligibility criteria is master’s in any field from a recognized university with an aggregate of 55% or above. In India, an entrance exam is an important requirement for the same. An individual should have participated in entrance exams like UGC-NET, CSIR UGC NET, GATE, JEST, ICMR JRF, and much more.  

What is UGC? 

The full form of UGC is University Grants Commission. UGC is a statutory body in India that overseas and promotes education. UGC plays an important role in the Indian Education System ensuring higher quality of education, fostering research and promoting equitable resources.  

UGC serves as a vital link between the Union and State Government and Institutions of Higher Learning. It also advises the central and the state government for the necessary measures of improvement in education, especially in relation to universities.  

UGC Approved PhD Degree 

UGC-Approved PhD degree for working professionals can now be availed in India. With the growing technology and the usage of the internet, working professionals have an easier way out with the help of part-time degrees. 

Approval of UGC plays an essential role as it is the governing and even the maintenance body of universities. The approval of UGC makes a university viable to introduce and even enhance their programs.  

Under the UGC Regulations 2022, full-time working professionals can now pursue part-time PhD programs, providing they meet the eligibility criteria and obtain employer clearance.  

Eligibility Criteria for PhD Degree of Working Professionals 

Doctor of Philosophy or PhD for working professionals follow a different eligibility criterion than a regular PhD. The eligibility criterion is mentioned below: 

• An aggregate of 55% or above in master’s from a recognized university. 

• No Objection Certificate (NOC) should be provided by an individual to seek confirmation and allowance for part-time PhD studies. 

• Some of the universities even grant the privilege of admissions without entrances like UGC-NET, CSIR NET, GATE, etc.  

• The coursework for working professionals is also important and can be completed in the evenings, or weekends. The time duration for this degree is 2-6 years depending on the university.  

• Under the UGC Guidelines 2022, a decision to waive publication was granted and deemed as not mandatory. 

Process of PhD Degree Admissions in India 2025 

Below is a step-by-step guide for Part-time PhD Admissions in India 2025: 

1.Research: The first step is to be aware of the universities that are available to offer part-time PhD degrees to working professionals. Make a list and gather all the information including the eligibility criteria, faculty, and the course duration.
2. Application Form: The next step is to fill in an application form for that university using all the correct and updated documents.
3. Entrance Exams and Interviews: For a part-time PhD degree, most of the universities exempt working professionals to appear for an entrance exam. But some universities follow and maintain the pattern of holding an entrance exam and interview. This helps them in determining an induvial academic plans and career prospects.
4. Shortlisted Candidates: The selected set of candidates are then sent an email about their selection. They are then called for document verification and fee payment.
5. Appointment of Research Supervisor: when the research proposal of an individual is accepted, their coursework and thesis writing begin. A research supervisor is assigned to each candidate to help with their thesis writing process. 

Universities providing PhD degree for Working Professionals 

With the UGC regulations 2022, one can now pursue PhD degree in a part time mode. Online degrees are still not approved by the UGC currently. But below is a list of universities which provide a PhD degree recognized by UGC: 

1.IITs including Delhi, Bombai, Madras
2. Banaras Hindu University
3. Symbiosis International University
4. NMIMS University
5. BITS Pilani and some other universities 

Why should one pursue Part-time PhD courses? 

There are numerous benefits which compel an individual to pursue Part-time PhD courses, especially for working professionals. Below are some of them mentioned: 

1.Flexibility: Part-time PhD courses provide a flexible lifestyle for individuals, especially for working professionals. While pursuing a full-time PhD course can be quite draining for individuals as they must visit the university, even for the coursework. This could help an individual pursue their passion without compromising their work life.
2. Career Growth: A PhD in a specific subject helps an individual to grow even career wise. PhD is considered to be one of the highest academic achievements. It helps an individual gain dignity and credibility. It opens the door to a higher level of opportunities that couldn’t be achieved without a higher degree.
3.Gaining Expertise: Pursuing a PhD Degree in one of the specializations can help you in gaining an expertise over it. You could be a research analyst or assistant professor based on your specialization.
4. Lower Opportunity Cost: An UGC approved PhD degree can help an individual to gain higher qualification while pursuing their careers. It is really beneficial in the times where having work experience is considered essential to reach the higher opportunity.

Job Opportunities after completing PhD   

A PhD degree can help one land a career in various sectors like hospitality, research industry, oil and gas industry promising a job in bigger firms. Mentioned below are some of the career opportunities for PhD degree holders with any specialization: 

 Conclusion 

It is possible to now have access to a UGC approved PhD degree without quitting your job. With the new regulations posed by UGC in 2022, it has helped the working professionals specifically in helping them gain a higher-level degree even while working.  

PhD is a prestigious degree which holds a much greater value with its provided research work and the doctoral title that you earn with it. The work sector is full of individuals who have completed their basic degrees, but a doctoral degree will help you give you the upper hand, wherever you go.  

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