ADBU Ph.D North East India Studies: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. ADBU conducts both a written entrance test and a personal interview for PhD admissions. The written test covers Research Methodology and subject-specific areas. However, candidates who have qualified UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, GATE, or similar national-level tests are exempted from the written test and need to appear only for the personal interview. At the interview, candidates must present a research proposal of up to 300 words outlining their proposed area of study, its relevance, and their interest in the topic.

Ans. The Department of North East India Studies at ADBU offers research in a wide range of areas including: Culture, Religious Beliefs and Post-Modern Society in NE India; Ethnicity, Ideology and Identity Formation in NE India; A Philosophy of Culture for NE India; Society and People of NE India; Development Process in NE India; Food and Health Security Issues; Issues Relating to Disability and Human Rights; and Women Studies and North East Governance. These areas reflect the unique socio-cultural and developmental challenges of the Northeast region, making ADBU one of the few universities with such a focused research mandate.

Ans. The minimum duration of the PhD programme at ADBU is 3 years from the date of formal registration (which happens after completing the mandatory one-semester coursework). The maximum duration is 5 years from the date of formal registration. If a candidate requires more time beyond 5 years, they must apply for an extension, which is granted on a case-by-case basis. During the extension period, semester fees at the rate prevalent at the time of extension (not the original joining rate) will apply.

Ans. ADBU's PhD programme is listed as a full-time programme, which means candidates are expected to be present on campus for coursework, seminars, and research activities. However, employed candidates can apply with a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer. The university evaluates such cases individually. Given that the coursework is only one semester (6 months), after which scholars work on their research, some flexibility may be possible for working professionals, particularly those in academic or research roles. Candidates are advised to contact the Director of Research at director.research@dbuniversity.ac.in for specific guidance.

Ans. Before submitting the PhD thesis, research scholars at ADBU must have at least two research publications co-authored with their supervisor in Scopus-indexed journals, Web of Science-indexed journals, or peer-reviewed journals, with affiliation to Assam Don Bosco University. A research paper jointly published by two research scholars may be given equal weightage to both, with justification about their contribution provided by the supervisor and countersigned by the Head of Department. This requirement ensures that scholars contribute meaningfully to the academic literature before completing their doctorate.

Ans. A PhD in North East India Studies from ADBU opens doors to academic and research careers in universities and colleges across Northeast India and beyond, particularly for teaching positions in Sociology, Anthropology, Political Science, and related disciplines. Graduates can also pursue careers in policy research organisations, think tanks, NGOs working in the Northeast, government bodies such as the North East Council (NEC), and international development organisations. The specialised knowledge of Northeast India's cultures, governance, and development issues is increasingly valued by government agencies, media organisations, and civil society groups working in the region.