Bharathiar University Coimbatore Ph.D Social Work: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. Candidates who have qualified UGC-NET with JRF, UGC-NET (LS), SET, GATE, or hold an M.Phil. degree are exempted from appearing in the BU-CET entrance examination as per UGC regulations. However, they still need to apply through the official CET portal, submit their qualifying certificate, and appear for the departmental interview and research proposal evaluation. Direct admission without any interview is not granted; the interview and research proposal assessment remain mandatory for all candidates regardless of exemption status.

Ans. The number of PhD seats in the Department of Social Work is not fixed centrally but depends on the number of available research supervisors and their permissible intake as per UGC norms (generally up to 8 scholars per supervisor at a time). As of the latest data, the department has 14 full-time and 10 part-time scholars currently pursuing PhD. The admission is moderately competitive, with selection based on CET score, interview performance, and the strength of the research proposal. Candidates with a clear research focus in areas like HR management, medical social work, or community development tend to fare better in the interview.

Ans. All PhD scholars at Bharathiar University are required to complete a mandatory coursework component (Part I) in the first year of registration. This includes papers on Research Methodology, Computer Applications, and a subject-specific paper in Social Work. A Part I examination is conducted by the university at the end of the coursework period, and scholars must pass this examination to proceed with their research. The examination fee for Part I is Rs. 1,000. Scholars who fail to clear the Part I exam are given a re-attempt opportunity.

Ans. Yes, Bharathiar University offers a Part-Time PhD option specifically for working professionals. For Part-Time PhD in Social Work, the minimum duration is 4 years and the maximum is 7 years. Candidates must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer and proof of relevant work experience at the time of application. The tuition fee for Part-Time PhD is Rs. 2,310 per annum (compared to Rs. 4,620 for Full-Time). However, candidates should note that the coursework, DRC meetings, and viva-voce require physical presence at the university campus on scheduled dates.

Ans. The Department of Social Work at Bharathiar University has thrust areas in Human Resource Management, Medical and Psychiatric Social Work, and Community Development. The department has faculty members who have guided research in areas such as tribal welfare, disability studies, geriatric care, Dalit community issues, child rights, and industrial social work. Scholars are advised to contact the department directly or visit the university's research portal (https://b-u.ac.in/research-portal) to check the current list of available supervisors and their research interests before applying, as supervisor availability changes each admission cycle.

Ans. Yes, the Department of Social Work has an active MOU with Munster University, Germany, which has facilitated international field work practice and global learning programmes for students. As of the department's records, 4 students have benefited from this international programme to date. Additionally, PhD scholars who receive UGC-JRF or ICSSR fellowships may also apply for the UGC Raman Fellowship for Post-Doctoral Researchers for study/research visits to the United States. Scholars are encouraged to explore these opportunities through the department and the university's international relations office.