![Bharath University - Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research - [BIHER]](https://image-static.collegedunia.com/public/college_data/images/logos/1620710398bharathlogo.png?h=71.7&w=71.7&mode=stretch)
Bharath University's Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research (BIHER) in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, offers a prestigious Ph.D. (Nursing) program on a part-time basis. This doctoral program is designed for working professionals and nursing practitioners who aspire to advance their academic credentials while maintaining their professional commitments. The program emphasizes research excellence, clinical expertise, and contribution to nursing science and healthcare innovation.
Current Status: Open for Admissions
Academic Year: 2026-2027
Intake Capacity: 30 students per batch
Application Deadline: Rolling basis (subject to seat availability)
Key Points
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Admission Fee | 5,000 | One-time |
| Tuition Fee (per semester) | 45,000 | 2 semesters/year |
| Research Lab Fee | 15,000 | Annual |
| Library & Digital Resources | 8,000 | Annual |
| Thesis Supervision Fee | 20,000 | One-time |
| Examination Fee | 5,000 | Per semester |
| Total Annual Cost | 1,76,000 | Approximate |
| Total Program Cost (3 years) | 5,28,000 | Approximate |
| Stage | Timeline | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Submission | Year-round | Online application portal |
| Document Verification | Within 7 days | Verification of credentials |
| Entrance Examination | Monthly | BIHER Ph.D. Entrance Test |
| Interview | Within 15 days of exam | Research proposal discussion |
| Merit List Publication | Within 7 days of interview | Based on exam + interview |
| Admission Confirmation | Within 5 days | Fee payment and registration |
| Classes Commence | Next semester | Orientation and course work |
The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.
| Criterion | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Master's degree in Nursing (M.Sc. Nursing) with minimum 55% marks |
| Work Experience | Minimum 2 years in nursing/healthcare field (preferred) |
| Entrance Exam Score | Minimum 50th percentile in BIHER Ph.D. Entrance Test |
| Interview Performance | Satisfactory performance in research proposal presentation |
| English Proficiency | IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80 (for international candidates) |
| Research Interest | Clear research proposal aligned with program focus areas |
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount | Number of Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Merit Scholarship | Top 10% in entrance exam | 50% tuition fee waiver | 3 |
| Research Excellence Award | Outstanding research proposal | INR 1,00,000 annual | 2 |
| Women Empowerment Scholarship | Female candidates from economically weaker sections | 75% fee waiver | 5 |
| Nursing Professional Scholarship | Working nurses with 5+ years experience | 40% tuition fee waiver | 4 |
| SC/ST/OBC Scholarship | Reserved category candidates | 100% tuition fee waiver | 6 |
| International Student Scholarship | International candidates | 30% tuition fee waiver | 2 |
| BIHER Alumni Scholarship | BIHER alumni pursuing Ph.D. | 25% tuition fee waiver | 3 |
| Disability Scholarship | Candidates with disabilities | 100% tuition fee waiver | 2 |
Ques. Can I pursue Ph.D. (Nursing) part-time while working full-time as a nurse?
Ans. Yes, absolutely! The part-time format is specifically designed for working professionals. The program requires attendance on weekends and select weekdays, with online classes available. However, during the final year (thesis writing and research), you may need to reduce work hours. Many of our current students successfully balance both responsibilities. We recommend discussing your work schedule with the program coordinator during admission.
Ques. What is the minimum work experience required for admission?
Ans. While 2 years of professional nursing experience is preferred, it is not mandatory for admission. However, candidates with relevant work experience in clinical nursing, nursing education, or healthcare management are given preference during merit list preparation. Fresh Master's graduates can also apply, but they should have a clear research interest and strong academic background.
Ques. Is the entrance examination very difficult? What is the pass percentage?
Ans. The entrance examination is designed to assess your research aptitude, nursing knowledge, and general academic skills. It's not extremely difficult if you have a strong Master's foundation. The average pass percentage is around 60-65%. We recommend reviewing the syllabus available on our website and taking practice tests. The admissions office also conducts free orientation sessions to help candidates prepare.
Ques. Can international nurses apply for this program? What are the visa requirements?
Ans. Yes, international nurses are welcome to apply. You need to meet English proficiency requirements (IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 80) and provide a valid passport. BIHER will provide an admission letter which you can use to apply for a student visa. India offers student visas for doctoral programs with validity up to the course duration. We have a dedicated international student support team to assist with visa documentation and campus orientation.
Ques. What happens if I cannot complete the program within 4 years?
Ans. The standard duration is 3-4 years. If you need additional time due to personal or professional reasons, you can request an extension up to 1 additional year (total 5 years maximum). Extension requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and may involve additional fees. However, we encourage students to maintain regular progress and complete within the stipulated timeframe to ensure timely degree completion.
Ques. Are there opportunities for research collaboration with international universities?
Ans. Yes! BIHER has collaborations with several international nursing research institutions and universities. Depending on your research topic and guide's connections, you may have opportunities for collaborative research, international conferences, and joint publications. We also encourage students to present their research at national and international nursing conferences. Some students have also pursued short-term research exchanges with partner institutions abroad.
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Last Updated: March 2026
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