IIMB PhD Public Policy FAQs
Ques. Is the PhD in Public Policy at IIMB suitable for someone from a non-management background (e.g., economics, political science, social work)?
Ans. Yes, the PhD in Public Policy at IIMB actively welcomes candidates from diverse academic backgrounds. The programme accepts UGC-CSIR NET scores in subjects like Economics, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology, Public Administration, Social Work, and Environmental Sciences, among others. The area faculty have expertise in development economics, health systems, urban governance, and environmental sustainability, making it suitable for candidates from social science, economics, and policy backgrounds. An MBA is not a prerequisite.
Ques. What is the difference between the PhD in Public Policy and the PGPPM (Post Graduate Programme in Public Policy and Management) at IIMB?
Ans. The PhD in Public Policy is a five-year full-time research-oriented doctoral programme designed for those who want to pursue careers in academic research and teaching. The PGPPM is a 14-month hybrid master's programme (leading to a Masters of Management Studies in Public Policy) designed for experienced professionals who want to enhance their leadership and management skills in the public policy domain. The PhD is for those who want to contribute to knowledge creation through original research, while the PGPPM is for practitioners seeking advanced management education.
Ques. What kind of research is conducted in the Public Policy area at IIMB?
Ans. The Public Policy area at IIMB covers a wide range of research topics including development economics, education and labour markets, health systems and ageing, gender and household welfare, poverty and inequality, financial inclusion, urban governance, environmental sustainability, and the political and institutional foundations of public service delivery. Recent dissertation topics include research on rural banking and poverty alleviation, liquifying workforce in India, healthcare policy, agricultural marketing cooperatives, and urban flood vulnerability and climate justice.
Ques. Is the PhD programme fully funded? What is the monthly stipend?
Ans. Yes, the PhD programme at IIMB is fully funded. All admitted students receive a full tuition fee waiver (no tuition fees payable), a monthly stipend of Rs. 42,000 for five years, single-seater on-campus hostel accommodation, a start-up grant of Rs. 75,000 in Year 1, contingency grants of Rs. 25,000 per year in Years 2-5, and travel grants of up to Rs. 3,60,000 for presenting research at conferences. This makes it one of the most financially attractive doctoral programmes in India.
Ques. Can I apply to the PhD programme while working? Can I pursue it part-time?
Ans. No, the PhD programme at IIMB is a full-time programme. Students are NOT allowed to seek outside employment while pursuing the degree. The programme requires full-time commitment for five years, including coursework, comprehensive examinations, and dissertation research. Candidates who are currently employed must resign or take a leave of absence before joining the programme.
Ques. What are the career prospects after completing a PhD in Public Policy from IIMB?
Ans. The PhD programme is primarily oriented towards training students for academic careers in research and teaching. Graduates typically pursue faculty positions at leading management institutions, universities, and research organisations in India and abroad. However, leading Indian companies, MNCs, investment banks, consulting firms, and government think tanks also value the PhD for positions requiring specialised research skills. The IIMB brand and alumni network provide strong support for career placement in both academia and industry.
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