TISS to Launch Executive PhD Programme in Social Sciences for Working Professionals

TISS to Launch Executive PhD Programme in Social Sciences for Working Professionals

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), one of India’s most prestigious higher education institutions, is set to introduce a pioneering Executive PhD Programme in Social Sciences. This initiative, beginning in the academic year 2026–27, is designed specifically for working professionals who aspire to advance their academic qualifications and career prospects while continuing their full-time employment.

A First in Conventional Universities

This programme represents a landmark move, as it will be the first-ever executive PhD in social sciences offered by a conventional Indian university. The initiative underscores TISS’s commitment to innovation in higher education, ensuring greater accessibility and inclusivity for professionals engaged in social sciences and allied sectors.

Flexible and Hybrid Learning

To accommodate the busy schedules of professionals, the Executive PhD will adopt a hybrid learning model. Key features include:

• Consolidated 15-day intensive workshop for coursework, enabling participants to take focused study leave.
• Regular online sessions for coursework and research guidance.
• Continuous mentorship and guide support tailored to individual research needs.

This structure ensures flexibility without compromising academic rigor or research quality.

Eligibility and Admission

Applicants holding a Master’s degree in relevant disciplines will be eligible to apply. The admission process—to be finalized by TISS—will involve an entrance test and personal interview. Intake capacity and fee structure will be announced after final approval by the TISS Executive Council.

Research Focus and Industry Integration

Recognizing the experience that working professionals bring, the programme will encourage research linked to real-world industry challenges. To bridge academia and practice, TISS plans to engage Professors of Practice—industry leaders and practitioners with significant expertise—who will contribute to teaching and mentoring.

According to Prof. Badri Narayan Tiwari, Vice Chancellor of TISS, “This executive PhD programme will be extremely useful for professionals in social science allied sectors, enabling both personal growth and career advancement.”

Prof. Anil Sutar, Dean of the School of Research Methodology, emphasized that the module will ensure quality while maintaining flexibility for professionals. He noted that the Academic Council has already approved the programme, and only Executive Council clearance is pending.

Broader Academic Reforms at TISS

Alongside this PhD programme, TISS is also revamping its undergraduate offerings. A wider basket of minor courses is being developed, integrating new-age skills such as applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Social Sciences. These reforms aim to provide students with both disciplinary depth and cross-disciplinary competencies.

Significance for PhD Aspirants and Academia

For aspirants, this executive PhD opens a new pathway to doctoral research without career breaks, bridging professional practice and scholarly inquiry. For the academic community, it sets a precedent for flexible, practice-oriented doctoral models, aligning India’s higher education ecosystem with global trends.