Exploring possibility to allow part-time PhD programmes for working professionals: UGC

The University Grants Commission (UGC) is exploring the possibility of allowing part-time PhD programmes for working professionals in tune with the system followed by the IITs.

UGC vice-chairman M Jagadesh Kumar said Monday that part-time PhD programmes are also offered by prestigious universities across the world.

“In part-time PhD programmes, a University faculty member supervises a PhD student, who works on his or her



subject in consultation with the supervisor, but largely independently. Such part-time PhD programmes are available in some of the best universities across the globe. Why not in our Indian universities?” Prof Kumar said.

The UGC had in March notified the draft UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulations, 2022. The provision on part-time PhD programmes are likely to find a place in the regulations which are being finalised.