Ph.D. (Home Science) is a terminal degree is the area of home sciences including food and nutrition, human development, resource management, textiles and clothing, communication and extension etc. Duration for the completion of Ph.D. (Home Science) programme is generally of three years full time with one year for coursework and two years for research and dissertation. There are common area subjects which are as follows: Nutrition science, textile chemistry, family relationship, consumer issues, extension education, etc.
The tests accepted for admission to Ph.D. (Home Science) course include UGC NET, CSIR UGC NET, GATE etc The tests are conducted every June. Some institutes also have their own admission tests and interview for admission to the institutes. The admission is done around march- April. Some key points are – the date of registration is in April, examination is in June, result declaration in July and counselling session is expected in August-September. If the prerequisite specialization is chosen many good institutes also provides direct admission on the basis of marks secured in the post graduate examination.
Feature
Description
Full Form
Doctor of Philosophy (Home Science)
Duration
3 - 5 years (full-time), longer for part-time
Course Level
Doctoral
Eligibility
Master's degree in Home Science, Food Science & Nutrition, Human Development & Family Studies, or a closely related field.
Top Colleges (India)
Lady Irwin College (Delhi), Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda, The Maharaja's College for Women (University of Mysore), SNDT Women's University (Mumbai), Banaras Hindu University (Varanasi)
Entrance Exam
University/Institute specific entrance exams (e.g., DUET (Delhi University Entrance Test) - Ph.D. Home Science, MSU Baroda Ph.D. Entrance Exam)
Criteria
Description
Master's Degree
Master's degree in Home Science, Food Science & Nutrition, Human Development & Family Studies, or a closely related field from a recognized university.
Strong Home Science Foundation
A strong foundation in core Home Science areas like food science, nutrition, textiles & clothing, human development, and family resource management is preferred.
Minimum CGPA/Percentage
Specific CGPA or percentage requirements vary by institution. Generally, a minimum of 55% - 60% in both Master's and Bachelor's degrees is expected (check official websites).
Entrance Exams
Most universities require you to pass an entrance exam specific to their Ph.D. program (e.g., DUET, MSU Baroda Ph.D. Entrance Exam).
Research Experience (Preferred):
Prior research experience in Home Science can strengthen your application. This might include publications, participation in research projects, or relevant work experience.
Stage
Description
Possible Coursework Topics (Examples)
Coursework (First Year)
Advanced Home Science topics, research methods, statistics
* Advanced Food Science & Nutrition, Textile Science & Clothing, Human Development Theories * Research Methodology in Home Science, Scientific Writing, Grant Proposal Writing * Statistics & Research Design
Coursework (Later Years)
Specialization courses, electives (depending on program focus)
* Food Processing & Preservation, Nutritional Biochemistry, Child Development, Family Resource Management (vary by program) * Electives in specific areas (e.g., Gerontology, Consumer Studies, Extension Education)
Qualifying Exams
Assess your understanding of core concepts and research skills
Written and/or oral exams covering advanced Home Science topics, research methodology, and your chosen area of specialization.
Ph.D. Dissertation
Conduct original research, write a dissertation, and defend it before a committee.
You'll select a research topic within Home Science (e.g., food safety, child development, textile design), conduct experiments/surveys/analysis, and contribute new knowledge to the field.