Aspiring PhD candidates at Gujarat Technological University (GTU) no longer need a master’s degree, thanks to a new policy aligned with the University Grants Commission (UGC) 2022 notification. Starting this academic year, students with a Bachelor of Engineering (BE) degree and a 75% aggregate or equivalent CGPA can directly apply for the PhD programme.
Previously, a master’s degree was a prerequisite for PhD aspirants. However, with the implementation of the National Education Policy and the UGC’s 2022 circular, GTU has revised its admission criteria.
Tapping research potential
GTU Vice Chancellor Rajul Gajjar said this change aims to “tap research potential more”. A senior GTU official added that the goal is to enable students to pursue their research interests earlier in their academic careers.
“As per the rules, students completing a 4-year course or 8-semester course with an aggregate of 75% or equivalent CGPA are eligible for PhD admission,” the official explained. “However, they must appear for the GTU-conducted entrance test and present as part of the admission process.”
Benefits for industry professionals
GTU officials highlighted that this decision will benefit not only graduate students but also industry professionals who may not have pursued master’s degrees.
“During our meetings, senior officials from top companies expressed interest in pursuing PhDs as they meet the eligibility criteria. Increased participation from industry professionals will provide us with more research subjects, potentially addressing industry-specific problems through their theses,” an official explained.
PhD entrance test and capacity
This year, around 500 candidates appeared for GTU’s PhD entrance test. The university has 650 PhD supervisors and an estimated 300 PhD seats. Currently, there are 1,700 PhD students at GTU, with 600 having already completed their doctorates.
Collaboration with research centres
In a further effort to promote research, GTU has invited research scholars to engage with neighbouring research centres like IPR, PRL, and SAC-ISRO. This initiative also aims to attract scientists from these esteemed organisations to join GTU as professors of practice or part-time faculty members.