A PhD in Commerce and Management in India is a highly competitive but challenging academic course for applicants seeking to go deeper into the research in the fields of commerce, business and management theories. It is a degree that spans 3 to 6 years and is crafted in such a manner that enables individuals to mould the dynamics of the world of commerce and management.
The program consists of theoretical ideologies as well as practical applications, equipping researchers with sophisticated research skills and analytical tools to address all business complexities.
The applicants seeking a PhD in the subject must possess a master's degree in Commerce or an MBA or M.Phil with 55% aggregate marks from any recognised university. The candidates must appear for aptitude tests such as UGC NET and DET, along with interviews, to assess the research proposal of the candidate. A few universities, such as Pondicherry University, administer their own entrance test.
After earning a PhD in Commerce and Management, the career opportunities are wide-ranging and diverse, ranging from academics, corporate management, consultancy, and policy-making. The minimum salary of a PhD scholar in Commerce and Management is 8 LPA.
- PhD in Commerce and Management Highlights
- PhD in Commerce and Management Eligibility Criteria
- PhD in Commerce and Management Admission Process
- PhD in Commerce and Management Entrance Exams
- PhD in Commerce and Management Syllabus
- Colleges in India for PhD Commerce and Management
- PhD in Commerce and Management Job Opportunities and Career Scope
- PhD in Commerce and Management FAQs
PhD in Commerce and Management Highlights
Provided below are some of the basic course highlights for the PhD in Commerce and Management:
Particulars | Details |
Course Name | PhD in Commerce and Management |
Duration | 3- 6 years |
Eligibility | Post-graduate with 55% aggregate in MBA, M.Com, or M.Phil. 5% relaxation for ST/ SC/ OBC. |
Entrance Examinations | UGC NE, DET, University Specific Entrance |
Average Course Fees | INR 50,000 to INR 3,00,000 |
What is PhD in Commerce and Management?
Doctor of Philosophy in Commerce and Management is a research doctorate programme with a focus on research at a deeper level in areas such as finance, marketing, human resources, international business, and organisational behaviour. The programme is suited for such candidates who would prefer to be associated with academics, research, policy formulation, or high-level consulting.
The programme involves intensive coursework followed by independent work culminating in a thesis. It prompts the acquisition of theoretical, analytical, and practical knowledge required in addressing complex business problems as well as contributing to the scholarly and professional area of commerce and management.
Why Study a PhD in Commerce and Management?
There are many reasons that you should aim PhD in Commerce and Management:
- Excellent career prospects: Candidates, upon successful completion of their PhD, can seek teaching positions as University professors or researchers, corporate leadership roles in consulting firms and government agencies.
- Outstanding research competencies: Focusing on strong research practices, the candidates will provide themselves with the skillset of conducting thorough analysis and creating worthwhile insights. This PhD will address real-world issues and maximise business processes.
- Critical thinking and problem-solving: The program ensures that the candidate becomes a treasure when it comes to solving vital problems surrounding business and management.
- Networking opportunities: Pursuing a PhD opens the door to a group of professionals, scholars, and business leaders. Teamwork with fellow students and mentors produces rich contacts.
PhD in Commerce and Management Eligibility Criteria
The candidates who are interested in pursuing PhD in Commerce and Management are required to have a postgraduate degree (e.g., MBA, MCom, or M.Phil) in Commerce or a related field with a minimum aggregate of 55% marks from a recognized university and a 5-10% relaxation for SC/ ST and OBCs.
PhD in Commerce and Management Admission Process
The admission process in KRM University, Sohna, for PhD in Commerce and Management is as follows:-
- Eligibility Check: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, which include having a postgraduate degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum of 55% marks from a recognised university. UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, GATE, and M.Phil. qualified persons are preferred.
- Application Form: Download the PhD admission form from the K.R. Mangalam University website. Fill it out completely and be prepared to submit it with the required documents.
- Entrance Test: Take the written entrance test, which tests research skill and reading comprehension. Valid NET/GATE/M. Phil qualifications can exempt a candidate from taking this test.
- Personal Interview: The shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview to evaluate their research potential and subject knowledge.
- Last Selection: Admission on the merit of performance in the entrance test, interview, and past academic record.
Required Documents
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets
- Master’s degree certificate
- Entrance exam scorecard
- Proof of date of birth
- Character certificate
- Medical certificate
- Six passport-sized photographs
- Photocopy of ID proof (e.g., Driving License)
- Original registration payment receipt
- Undertaking by parents and students
PhD in Commerce and Management Entrance Exams
There are specific entrance exams and qualifications that you require to pursue a PhD in Commerce and Management in India:-
Exam | Application Period | Exam Dates | Application Fee |
UGC-NET (June 2025) | April 16 – May 7, 2025 | June 21–30, 2025 | ₹1,150 (General), ₹600 (OBC/EWS), ₹325 (SC/ST/PwD) |
CSIR-NET (June 2025) | To be announced | To be announced | ₹1,150 (General), ₹600 (OBC-NCL), ₹325 (SC/ST/PwD) |
GATE 2025 | Aug 28 – Oct 3, 2024 | Feb 1, 2, 15, 16, 2025 | ₹1,800 (General), ₹900 (Female/SC/ST/PwD) |
Amity University PET | Until May 15, 2025 | May 19, 2025 | ₹1,500 |
K.R. Mangalam University PhD Entrance | June – July 25, 2025 | To be announced | ₹1,000 |
PhD in Commerce and Management Syllabus
The syllabus for PhD in Commerce is vast. Top universities for PhD in Commerce and Management cover the following key areas of study:-
Semester | Syllabus/ Key Areas of Study | |
Semester 1 | Core Courses:
Research Methodology
Business Environment
Organizational Behavior | Electives (choose one or more):
Emerging Areas in Marketing
Emerging Areas in Finance
Emerging Areas in Human Resource Management |
Semester 2 | Core Courses:
Advanced Research Methodology
Financial Management | Electives:
Strategic Management
Consumer Behavior
Business Ethics |
Semester 3 | Core Courses:
Data Analysis and Interpretation
Dissertation Proposal Preparation | Electives:
Digital Marketing
Corporate Governance
Entrepreneurship |
Semester 4-6 | Final Research:
Focus on dissertation writing and research under the guidance of a supervisor.
Regular progress reviews and presentations. |
Colleges in India for PhD Commerce and Management
Following are some of the top universities offering a PhD in Commerce and Management in India:-
University | NIRF Ranking | Course Fees |
Manav Rachna University | 92 | INR 1.80 Lacs |
Ramaiah University of Applied Sciences | 68 | INR 1.40 Lacs |
Srinath University | - | INR 3.0 Lacs |
Sigma University | - | INR 2.40 Lacs |
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham | 8 | INR 2.60 Lacs |
Integral University | 41 | INR 75,000 |
Vidhyadeep University | 255 | INR 1.40 Lacs |
University Of Technology, Jaipur | - | INR 1.50 Lacs |
PhD in Commerce and Management Job Opportunities and Career Scope
Completing a PhD in Commerce and Management opens many career opportunities. One can choose from starting an own business to leading a corporation after pursuing this course. Below are some exclusive and lucrative career opportunities for a PhD scholar in Commerce and Management:-
Job Role | Description | Average Salary Range (Approx) |
Business Analysts | The work includes gathering information, assessing it, documenting it, and creating reports for business development. | INR 6- 15 LPA |
Finance and Management Manager | As a finance manager, one must monitor accounts, prepare reports, investigate current market trends, and develop business development tactics. | INR 10- 22 LPA |
Business Development Executive | The role includes identifying sales leads, creating new hypotheses to pitch sales, evaluating data, and preparing reports. | INR 4- 7 LPA |
Chief Financial Officer | The position includes managing company activities, handling currencies, managing accounting and treasury concerns, and supervising employees. | INR 30- 40 LPA |
PhD in Commerce and Management FAQs
Which of the universities need UGC-NET for PhD?
Calcutta University, Allahabad University, Mahatma Gandhi University, and Jamia Millia Islamia are few among the best Indian universities needing UGC NET qualification in order to study PhD.
Which university is ideal for pursuing a PhD in Commerce in India?
Some of the top universities providing this complete program include Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Vidhyadeep University, and Manav Rachna University. The program ensures that the candidates attain their professional goals through superior faculty and infrastructure.
Can I pursue a PhD in Commerce and Management with a Masters in Management only?
Yes, you may avail the course if you possess a master's degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 55% for General and 45-50% for OBC/ ST/ SC and have cleared the applicable entrance examination.
Is there any scholarship for PhD in Commerce and Management in India?
Yes, There are several universities that offer scholarships to students pursuing PhD in Commerce and Management. Some of them are- Integral University, Pondicherry University, and Sigma University.