Pune: Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) has announced an exemption for candidates pursuing a second Ph.D., allowing them to bypass certain mandatory coursework requirements. The decision is aimed at facilitating students with prior doctoral experience.

Coursework Exemption Details

According to a circular issued by the Academic Admissions Department, Ph.D. candidates are typically required to complete coursework in Research Methodology and Research Publication Ethics as per University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines. These courses are designed to ensure the candidates' research is conducted efficiently and ethically.

However, students who have already completed a Ph.D. in one subject will now be exempted from the Research Methodology coursework when pursuing a second Ph.D. in another subject. Additionally, candidates who had completed the Research Publication Ethics coursework during their first Ph.D. will also be exempted from repeating it.

Clarification on Previous Circular

The university has also revoked a 2022 notification that previously allowed M.Phil. and first Ph.D. degree holders from recognized universities to claim exemptions from the Ph.D. Entrance Test (PET) and coursework requirements.

This decision is expected to streamline the process for experienced researchers while maintaining adherence to UGC norms.

SPPU had recently extended the deadline for PhD applicants who were either exempt from the PhD Entrance Test (PET) or who had successfully cleared it.

PhD candidates exempt from the PET exam can log into the university’s website, where they can view and select research centers based on the detailed list of available vacancies categorized by faculty, subject, and reservation.