Marwadi University Rajkot Ph.D Social Sciences: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. No, UGC-NET is not mandatory. Marwadi University conducts its own PhD Entrance Test (online MCQ-based, 1 hour) for candidates who do not hold a valid UGC-NET/CSIR-NET/GATE/SLET score. Candidates who qualify these national-level exams are directly exempted from the entrance test and are called for the Personal Interview. However, having a UGC-NET/JRF score is highly beneficial as it also makes you eligible for the UGC-JRF fellowship, which provides a monthly stipend of Rs. 37,000 during your PhD, significantly reducing the financial burden.

Ans. The Faculty of Arts/Law at Marwadi University supports research in Social Sciences across a wide range of areas including sociology, social theory, community development, gender studies, social policy, rural and urban sociology, migration studies, caste and class dynamics, environmental sociology, and interdisciplinary social research. The specific research topic is finalized in consultation with the allocated supervisor based on the scholar's interest, the supervisor's expertise, and the feasibility of the proposed research. Scholars are encouraged to work on contemporary social issues with practical relevance.

Ans. The tuition fee is Rs. 37,500 per semester, totalling Rs. 2,25,000 for the standard 3-year (6-semester) duration. Additionally, a one-time application fee of Rs. 600, a miscellaneous fee of Rs. 11,000 (charged in Year 1), and a refundable security deposit of Rs. 10,000 are charged. Examination fees, synopsis submission fees, and open defense fees are charged separately at the time of the respective events. Hostel accommodation (optional) costs between Rs. 96,000 to Rs. 2,05,000 per year depending on room type. The total academic cost (excluding hostel) for 3 years is approximately Rs. 2,46,600.

Ans. Yes. Marwadi University offers a Part-Time PhD option specifically for working professionals including NGO workers, social researchers, college lecturers, and others employed in relevant organizations. Candidates must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer. The maximum duration for part-time scholars is 7 years. This is particularly relevant for Social Sciences graduates working in development organizations, government social welfare departments, or educational institutions who wish to pursue doctoral research alongside their careers.

Ans. As per Marwadi University PhD regulations, every research scholar must publish a minimum of two research papers in SCOPUS or Web of Science Core Collection indexed journals before submitting the synopsis (which precedes thesis submission). The scholar must be the first author of these publications, and the papers must be based on the research work done for the PhD thesis. Alternatively, one granted Indian or international utility patent (with the scholar, supervisor, and Marwadi University as applicants) can substitute for the publication requirement.

Ans. Ph.D. Social Sciences at Marwadi University is a broader interdisciplinary program that encompasses multiple social science disciplines including sociology, social policy, community studies, and related fields. Ph.D. Sociology (listed separately under Faculty of Law) focuses more specifically on sociological theory, methods, and empirical social research. The Social Sciences program allows scholars from diverse social science backgrounds (including Political Science, Economics, Sociology, Social Work, etc.) to pursue doctoral research, while Sociology is more discipline-specific. Candidates should contact the university's research office to confirm the specific supervisor availability and research areas for their chosen specialization.