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The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Policy Studies at the Centre of Excellence in Public Policy , Sustainability and ESG Research is an advanced interdisciplinary doctoral programme research-intensive doctoral programme designed to develop high-impact researchers, academicians, and successful policy experts. The programme emphasizes advanced theoretical foundations, experimental research, and real-world problem solving in cutting-edge areas of policy studies with the primary focus on generating original scholarship that advances understanding of governance, and how policy shape and are shaped by public policy decisions.

The Public Policy program is designed to give scholar a strong understanding of public policy theories, concepts to widen perspectives to take a successful career in public policy making. The course will enable students to apply science based subject with apply social science methods to strengthen their skills in socio-scientific modelling and policy analysis through a structured integration. Through this approach, students will be able to policy friction points in the interplay of stakeholders to particularly include politics, community business and government while at the same time demonstrate strong ethical principles and values in the understanding of human subjects to ensure inclusive, equitable and sustainable policy making to solve complex real-world problems with particular reference to Sustainable Development and climate change.

Why Choose
Ph. D. - Public Policy
at Alliance University?
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Systematic Policy Design
Rigorous integration of governance, ESG frameworks, and social science.
Sustainability & ESG Focus
Specialized research tracks in Climate Justice, Business Governance, and Sustainable Policy.
Elite Global Mentorship
Direct guidance from Ivy League-affiliated faculty and top-ranked global scientists.
Comprehensive Data Access
High-end instrumentation and database support for evidence-based modeling.
Strategic Professional Mobility
Preparing scholars for leadership roles in academia, international organizations, and government policy-making.
PEO (Program Educational Objectives)

Sample content for PEO

PSO (Program Specific Outcomes)

Sample content for PSO

PO (Program Outcomes)

Sample content for PO

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• Applicants holding a master’s degree with a minimum 55% marks or equivalent Grade in a point scale as may be prescribed by the UGC from time to time, wherever the grading system is followed.

• Applicants whose results of the final examination of a program leading to a master’s degree are awaited can be given provisional admission if he/she fulfils other requirements for admission. After the provisional admission, the candidate will be required to furnish proof of completing a master’s degree with a minimum of 55% marks within three months from admission, failing which his / her admission will be cancelled.

• Applicants holding foreign Degree’s equivalent to that of a Master’s degree study with minimum 55% marks or equivalent Grade in a point scale as may be prescribed by the UGC from time to time, wherever grading system is followed; Provided that applicants with a foreign Degrees shall be admitted to the Ph.D. programme, subject to clearance by the Equivalence Committee of Alliance University.

• Applicants having completed M.Phil. Coursework with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent Grade, in the UGC point scale, and those candidates who have their M.Phil. Dissertation evaluated, but viva-voce is pending, maybe may also be admitted to the Ph.D. programme.

• Applicants possessing a degree approved as equivalent to the M.Phil. Degree in India, obtained from a foreign Educational Institution accredited by the UGC, if candidates with a degree from a foreign Institution shall be admitted to the Ph.D. programme, subject to the clearance by the Equivalence Committee of Alliance University.

• Admission of candidates belonging to the SC/ST/OBC, or other reserved categories shall be governed by the Karnataka State Rules in this regard, from time to time.

• Students from a four-year undergraduate programme (with Honors) can enroll directly if they have scored 75% or above, with a 5% relaxation for specified categories as per UGC regulations. Those who have scored between 55% and 75% may qualify after completing either a one-year mastes programme or a bridging course of 36-40 credits. (Refer to National Credit Framework NCrF 2024).

• For students from a three-year undergraduate programme, Ph.D. eligibility requires the completion of a bridging programme of 36-40 credits along with the necessary coursework. (Refer to National Credit Framework NCrF 2024).

 

Program duration
Entry Level Program Duration
Entry Level 3–6 years full-time

ACCEPTED TEST SCORES
ARAT
ARAT
ARAT
ARAT

Particulars Indian Nationals Foreign Nationals
Registration Fee ₹50,000 $600
program Fee (Per Annum) ₹1,00,000 $1,400
Comprehensive Exam Fee ₹20,000
Thesis Submission Fee ₹30,000
Doctoral Scroll Free ₹5,000
Convocation Fee ₹3,000
Alumni Association Fee ₹3,000

 

Category Eligibility / Scope Grant Amount / Benefits
Research Fellowship Full-time scholars ₹35,000 per month
Contingency Grant Full-time scholars ₹25,000 per year
International Conference Funding Case-by-case basis; once during the program Up to ₹1,00,000
National Workshop Funding Scholars not receiving other funding support ₹30,000 per year
Inclusion & Special Provisions Women scholars and differently-abled scholars Special provisions and relaxations; access to Centres of Excellence and entrepreneurial fund of ₹10 Crores
Policy Conditions Awards and funding are subject to review by the Scholarship / Research Committee; limited availability on a first-come-first-served basis
Learn more
Steps Description
Step 1 Submit online application
Step 2 Pay Application Fee — ₹3,000
Step 3 Alliance Research Aptitude Test (ARAT)
Step 4 Personal Interview
Step 5 Evaluation of research synopsis on proposed dissertation
Step 6 Consideration of scholastic record, work experience, and extracurricular achievements; final selection based on overall performance
Start your application now

Living Spaces That Inspire Belonging

EXPLORE OUR HOSTELS

Comfort, safety, and community form the foundation of campus living. Our residential halls are thoughtfully designed to create a sense of belonging—offering a welcoming environment where students can study, unwind, and build lifelong friendships.

Separate hostels
for boys and girls

Student-friendly
common areas

Spacious rooms
(single, double, or triple occupancy)

Dedicated wardens
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Real Stories, Real Impact

STUDENT

Everything You Need to Know

Can I join Ph. D. without an entrance exam?
No. Admission to Ph. D. in Public Policy at Alliance University is contingent upon clearance of the Alliance Research Aptitude Test (ARAT) or a National-level qualified examination scorecard.
What subjects are included in Public Policy?
Ph. D. in Public Policy includes subjects like Political Science, Economic Policy, Statistics, Policy Analysis, Research Methodology, and Public Administration.
What are the major research areas or specializations offered under this program?
Major research areas include Economic Policy, Energy and Environmental Policy, Foreign and National Security Policy, Climate Change, Sustainable Development Goals, and Tech & AI Policy.
Does the program include coursework before beginning independent research?
Yes, the program includes an initial period of intensive coursework before beginning independent research.
Are there opportunities for interdisciplinary research collaboration?
Yes, the curriculum emphasises interdisciplinary research drawing on political science, economics, public administration, and sociology.
What kind of funding, scholarships, or assistantships are available for Ph. D. candidates?
A research fellowship of INR 35,000 per month and a contingency grant of INR 25,000 per year are available for full-time scholars.
Can Ph. D. scholars publish their research in peer-reviewed journals during the program?
Yes, the University supports publication in peer-reviewed journals and provides financial support for research dissemination.
Are candidates encouraged to participate in national and international conferences?
Yes. Candidates can avail funding support for attending international conferences and national workshops, subject to approval.
What advanced skills will I gain from Ph. D. in Public Policy?
Students gain training in causal statistical methods, econometric analysis, policy evaluation, and impact assessment across sectors such as governance, health, education, and sustainability.
What cutting-edge resources are used in this program?
The University provides access to databases like Scopus, SciVal, EBSCO, Derwent, government data repositories, and advanced analytics tools for empirical research.
What facilities support Ph. D. in Public Policy students?
Students have access to AU-STIC and other interdisciplinary research centres for data-driven policy analysis and applied research.
What is the scope of Ph. D. in Public Policy?
Graduates can pursue careers in academia, think tanks, NGOs, multinational organisations, and the private sector as researchers, analysts, and policy leaders.
What is the qualification for Ph. D. in Public Policy?
Applicants must hold a postgraduate degree with at least 55% marks. Graduates of four-year honours programs with 75% or above may also apply.
What is the fee structure of Ph. D. in Public Policy at Alliance University?
The total fee for the full-time program is approximately INR 3.5 Lakhs. Detailed fee information is available on the admissions page.
What is the duration of a Ph. D. in Public Policy?
The program duration ranges from 3 to 6 years depending on research progress and thesis completion.
What is the Ph.D. in Public Policy program? +

A multidisciplinary doctoral research program integrating social sciences, governance, ESG, sustainability, and policy design to drive evidence-based interventions and social change.

What research areas are available? +

Economics and Public Policy; Climate Justice and Sustainability; ESG and Business Sustainability; Social Policy; Business Governance and Society; International Governance; Sustainability; Disaster Management; Psephology and Elections; Policy and Politics

What is the eligibility requirement? +

Master’s degree with ?55% marks; additional pathways available under UGC and NCrF 2024 norms.

What is the program duration? +

Typically 3–6 years, depending on research progress.

What financial assistance is available? +

Fellowships, contingency grants, and funding for national and international workshops, conferences, and research projects.

How are candidates selected? +

Through application review, assessment, interview, and research proposal evaluation.

What facilities are available? +

AU-STIC central facility, research libraries, policy labs, and global research databases.

Can international degree holders apply? +

Yes, subject to equivalence clearance.

Are category-based relaxations available? +

Yes, in accordance with statutory guidelines.

Can scholars transfer from other institutions? +

Yes, upon approval.

What coursework is included? +

Research Methodology, Research & Publication Ethics, Policy Analysis, ESG & Sustainability Studies, Academic Writing, and Research Practicum.

Course Framework

Course Type Course Name Credits
University Core Research and Publication Ethics 2
University Core Academic Writing and Communication 1
University Core Learning and Development 1
Department Core Research Methodology 3
Department Core Core (Public Policy) 3
Department Core Directed Course – Research Oriented Area of Research 3
Total Credits 13

Program Outcomes

  • Research Competence & Knowledge Creation – Demonstrate proficiency in applying advanced research methodologies, analytical techniques, and experimental designs to produce high-quality research.
  • Research Ethics & Integrity – Uphold ethical research practices, ensuring compliance with academic integrity, plagiarism standards, and responsible data management.
  • Effective Communication & Knowledge Dissemination – Demonstrate proficiency in academic writing, presentations, and scholarly communication.
  • Societal Impact – Align research with societal needs and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), contributing to policy development, industry advancement, and community-driven solutions.
  • Lifelong Learning & Continuous Professional Development – Commit to continuous learning and professional growth by staying updated with emerging trends, theories, and best practices in the field.

Research Highlights

  • UGC-compliant Ph.D. programme with structured coursework.
  • Strong focus on theoretical depth, legal challenges, and social transformation through a multidisciplinary approach.
  • Research mentorship by experienced faculty with Scopus/SCI-indexed publications.
  • Interdisciplinary research opportunities across Law, Social Sciences, and Public Policy Studies.
  • Access to advanced research tools and resources.
  • Opportunities for industry collaboration, consultancy, and funded research projects.
  • Emphasis on high-quality journal publications, patents, and technology transfer.
  • Full-time and part-time Ph.D. options as per university norms.

Highlights of the Doctoral Programme

  • Research fellowship of Rs. 35,000 per month and a contingency grant of Rs. 25,000 per year for full-time scholars.
  • Rs. 1 lakh funding support on a case-by-case basis, once during the programme, for attending international conferences and seminars.
  • Rs. 30,000 per year funding support for attending national workshops, subject to non-availment of funding from other agencies.
  • Extensive interaction and guidance from distinguished academicians, including 40+ Ivy League supervisors and faculty ranked among the top 2% scientists globally.
  • Facility for transfer of research scholars between Alliance University and other universities or research institutions.
  • Special provisions and relaxations for women research scholars and specially-abled persons.
  • Rs. 10 Crores revolving fund for entrepreneurial initiatives.
  • Centres of Excellence fostering innovation and cutting-edge research.
  • Research projects worth Rs. 75+ Crores funded by government and non-government agencies.
  • Access to subscribed databases including IEEE, Scopus, SciVal, EBSCO, Derwent, Case Centre, and Harvard Case Studies.
  • Access to the AU-STIC Central Instrumentation Facility, offering state-of-the-art research equipment and infrastructure.
  • Strong research performance with 1,772 SCOPUS-indexed publications, 7,832 citations, an H-index of 41, 65% of publications in Quartile 1 and 2 journals, 60% cited by top 10% journals, a field-weighted citation impact of 1.93, and 34% international collaborative publications.

Areas of Research

Scholars may pursue research in, but are not limited to, the following areas:

  • Economics and Public Policy
  • Climate Justice and Sustainability
  • ESG and Business Sustainability
  • Social Policy
  • Business Governance and Society
  • International Governance
  • Sustainability
  • Disaster Management
  • Psephology and Elections
  • Policy and Politics
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