PhD Software Engineering or Doctorate of Philosophy in Software Engineering is an academic research course for a minimum of three years. It is a branch of Engineering. Computer engineering is a computer-focused profession that includes designing user-friendly, creative computer programs and systems that meet consumer and customer expectations. Software Engineering is studied under Computer Science or Information Technology.
A candidate with B.Tech / BE with minimum of 60% marks and a Master’s degree is relevant to the field to be eligible provided they qualify the national level entrance test such as UGC NET / UGC CSIR / GATE / IMCR / SLET or university level test.
Admission will be merit-based on the performance of candidates in the entrance exam and personal interview for PhD Software Engineering. The average fee for PhD Software Engineering ranges from INR 40,000 to INR 2,40,000 in colleges/universities.
The duration of PhD Software Engineering can vary from three years to five years. Progression beyond the first year requires performance at a sufficient level which determines the duration of PhD Software Engineering.
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PhD Software Engineering provides the students with the quality education that serves the needs of the industry or the purpose of teaching and research. After completing a PhD Software Engineering, you can secure work in Adobe, Google, HP, Intel, IBM India, Microsoft, Oracle, etc.
The average placement offers for PhD Software Engineering stands in the range of INR 5 Lakh to INR 30 Lakh increasing with the candidate’s experience and skill sets. The course aims at enhancing the capacity of Research Scientist, Professor, Software Engineer, etc.
PhD Software Engineering: Course Highlights
| Course level | Doctorate |
| Duration | 3 years - 5 years |
| Examination Type | Semester |
| Eligibility Criteria | BE / B.Tech. and Master’s Degree |
| Admission Process | Entrance Test + PI |
| Course Fee | INR 40,000 - INR 2,40,000 |
| Average Salary | INR 5 Lakh - INR 30 Lakh |
| Top Recruiting Organizations | Adobe, Google, HP, Intel, IBM India, Microsoft, Oracle, etc. |
| Job Positions | Research Scientist, Professor, Software Engineer, Software Programmers, Software Developer, Software Designer, etc. |
What is PhD Software Engineering?
Software engineering is a computer-focused profession that includes designing user-friendly, creative computer programs and systems that meet consumer and customer expectations. To design and build computer applications, a software engineer applies mathematical analysis and the principles of computer science.
Software engineers are experts in computer science who use engineering skills and programming languages to construct electronic products, design computer games, and operate network control systems. Software for computer systems is composed of programs which include computer utilities and operating systems
Why Study PhD Software Engineering?
- Special training and formal degrees are necessary because software engineering is such a specific, research, and technically oriented field.
- The PhD in Software Engineering program leads to the highest degree offered and is structured to provide students with an opportunity to achieve the greatest possible experience through rigorous study in their chosen area.
- Students of software engineering learn about applying concepts of engineering to the creation of software and computer programs that are used and accessed on various devices.
- The key aspect of the doctoral programme is the development of theoretical and/or experimental skills through a combination of advanced courses and a research thesis under the supervision of an accomplished researcher.
- Beyond the core curriculum, the majority of PhD programs in Software Engineering are designed to be highly flexible such that students can do their own research.
- It prepares students for professorship positions in software engineering, research positions in industrial research and development, and leadership roles in growth in both the computer industry and technology shops.
- Large companies also start those with Ph.D. in higher-level positions immediately after hiring, and it is normal for employers to reserve their top-level positions only for doctoral graduates.
What is the Admission Process for PhD Software Engineering?
PhD Software Engineering admissions are done mainly through Entrance Test followed by personal interview conducted by the respective institute/university. Candidates who have qualified National Level Entrance Tests such as UGC NET / UGC CSIR / GATE / IMCR / SLET are exempted from the university level entrance exam but will have to qualify the personal interviews before securing a seat for PhD Software Engineering.
Step 1: Candidates need to register to the official website by providing their email id, mobile number, and password.
Step 2: Filling up the online form with personal and academic details and course details.
Step 3: Uploading all the scanned documents like candidate’s Photograph, Signature, Photo Identification, mark sheets, caste certificate, etc.
Step 4: Payment of the application fees using a Net banking, debit/credit card.
Step 5: Submission of the application fee and form, submit and download the form for future references.
The Selection Committee will call eligible candidates possessing the minimum educational qualifications and satisfying score in the entrance exam and satisfying additional and stiffer criteria set from time to time, for an interview and/or test. Based on the academic record and the performance of the candidates in selection criteria, candidates found suitable for admission will be accepted for PhD Software Engineering.
A student seeking admission to the Ph.D. program shall submit the application form along with:
- Proof of birth date
- Degree or passing certificate of the qualifying examination
- Migration Certificate from the last university attended / No objection certificate from Employer.
- Gap certificate if applicable.
- Scorecard of the entrance exam
- Research Proposal
Related Topics
What is PhD Software Engineering Eligibility?
The candidates wanting to pursue a PhD Software Engineering should fulfil the minimum eligibility criteria mentioned below:
- Candidates should hold a B.E. / B.Tech. and a Master’s Degree in a relevant discipline from a recognized institute.
- Minimum aggregate of 60% marks or equivalent grade B in the UGC 7-point scale or equivalent in the Bachelor’s Degree.
- Candidates in their final year of Master’s degree are also eligible to apply for PhD Software Engineering.
- In the case of candidates belonging to SC / ST / OBC / PH category relaxation of 5% marks or equivalent grade is given as per UGC guidelines.
- Candidates with NET JRF / NET LS / M.Phil. are excluded from appearing for a university admission written exam but will participate in the personal interview round.
- There is no requirement bar of age to apply for PhD Software Engineering.
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PhD Software Engineering Entrance Exams
Candidates need to qualify the entrance exam conducted by UGC, IMCR, State, or university to secure a seat in the Ph.D. program. Below is a list of some entrance exams applicable to apply for PhD Software Engineering:
| Entrance Exam | Registration Dates | Exam Dates |
|---|---|---|
| CSIR UGC NET (June Session) | 2nd week of March – 2nd week of April 2023 | 3rd week of June 2023 |
| UGC NET (July Session) | December 29, 2022 – January 23, 2023 | February 21, 2023 – March 10, 2023 |
| ICAR AICE JRF/SRF | To be Announced | To be Announced |
How to Prepare for a PhD Software Engineering Entrance Exam?
- Candidates should know the basics of the topics covered in Software Engineering.
- Being a through with subjects taught in your undergraduate and postgraduate degree.
- Based on the previous year’s paper, lay out a study plan which will allow you to cover the syllabus as well as revise it efficiently.
- The PhD Software Engineering entrance test question paper is divided into objective type (Multiple Choice Questions) and subjective type questions, and the examination period is two hours, or in some cases three hours.
- Practicing sample question papers and model tests certainly offers students an advantage because they can learn the exam's style and layout well beforehand.
- Consulting a student who is pursuing a PhD Software Engineering can give a clear picture and a lot of guidance for the test.
How to get admission in a top PhD Software Engineering College?
- To secure an admission in a good college for a PhD Software Engineering candidates must hold an exceptional academic record.
- An individual scholar must complete a larger number of credits based on their background and preparation level for the course.
- Look out for advertisements for PhD in Software Engineering admissions to be aware of the vacancy in the research area of your choice.
- Candidates must appear for National Entrance Tests for PhD Software Engineering and score high ranking marks to secure a seat in a good college.
- Candidates should put their time and effort entrance test as well as be prepared for a personal interview round.
- Preparing for the entrance exam well in advance and solving mock tests before the test day.
- Be thorough with Software Engineering subjects.
What is the Syllabus for PhD Software Engineering
PhD Software Engineering has a variable time duration of 3 years to 5 years and the syllabus is divided into various papers of areas related to the discipline of Software Engineering. Beyond the core curriculum, the majority of PhD programs in Software Engineering are designed to be highly flexible such that students can do their own research. The PhD Software Engineering course work shall involve the following papers:
| Subjects of Study | Subjects of Study |
|---|---|
| Machine Learning | Human aspects of Software Development |
| Computational Semantics | Applied Research methods- Qualitative and Quantitative |
| Programming Language Semantics | Usable Privacy and Security |
| Advanced Operating Systems and Distributive Systems | Organization theory for Engineers |
| Architectures of Software Systems | Methods: Deciding what to design |
| Introduction to computer security | Privacy, Policy, Law, and Technology |
| Principles of Human- Robot Interaction | Strategy and management of information systems |
| Optimizing compilers for modern architecture | Field Study |
| Social Web | Dissertation |
| Information Security and Privacy | Project Work |
| Foundations of Privacy | Thesis Generation |
PhD Software Engineering: Top Colleges
Here are the top colleges offering a PhD Software Engineering for your reference. These colleges show the admission process, location, and average fee charged for PhD Software Engineering:
| Name of Institute | City | Average Course Fee | Average Placement Offer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology | Bhubaneswar | INR 2,25,000 | INR 4,20,000 |
| Jadavpur University | Kolkata | INR 24,000 | INR 5,70,000 |
| IIEST | Shibpur, Howrah | INR 28,000 | INR 5,50,000 |
| Anna University | Chennai | INR 25,000 | INR 5,00,000 |
| Chandigarh University | Chandigarh | INR 70,000 | INR 4,00,000 |
| Amity University | Jaipur | INR 84,000 | INR 3,00,000 |
| Shyam University | Dausa | INR 90,000 | INR 3,70,000 |
| Pacific Institute of Technology | Udaipur | INR 40,000 | INR 3,00,000 |
| University VOC College of Engineering | Thoothukudi | INR 35,250 | INR 3,00,000 |
A candidate with B.Tech / BE with minimum of 60% marks and a Master’s degree is relevant to the field to be eligible provided they qualify the national level entrance test such as UGC NET / UGC CSIR / GATE / IMCR / SLET or university level test. Admission will be merit-based on the performance of candidates in the entrance exam and personal interview for PhD Software Engineering. The average fee for PhD Software Engineering ranges from INR 40,000 to INR 2,40,000 in colleges/universities.
College Comparison for PhD Software Engineering:
Below given is the college comparison of the top PhD Software Engineering offering colleges in terms of several parameters like average fee, college overview, admission process, top recruiter, and many others.
| Parameters | Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology | Anna University | Chandigarh University |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overview | It was established in 1992 and deemed to be University. | It was established in 1978 and is a state university. | It was established in 2012 and is a private university. |
| Location | Bhubaneswar | Chennai | Chandigarh |
| Eligibility Criteria | BE / B.Tech / Master’s Degree | BE / B.Tech / Master’s Degree | BE / B.Tech / Master’s Degree |
| Admission Process | Entrance Test | Entrance Test | CU-PET |
| Average Annual Fees | INR 2,25,000 | INR 25,000 | INR 70,000 |
| Average Annual Salary | INR 4,20,000 | INR 5,00,000 | INR 4,00,000 |
| Top Companies Visited | Accenture, Dassault Systemes, IBM, Microsoft, Oracle, Siemens, SAP, Tata Steel, etc. | CTS, Infosys, Nissan, TCS, Tata, Wipro, etc. | Hewlett Packard, IBM, Microsoft, SAP Labs, etc |
PhD Software Engineering Course Comparison
PhD Software Engineering vs PhD Computer Engineering
PhD Software Engineering and Ph.D. in Computer Engineering are almost similar courses except for few differences. The below-given comparison is given keeping in mind all the important parameters of differences of SE and CE:
| Parameters | PhD Software Engineering | PhD Computer Engineering |
|---|---|---|
| Degree Type | Doctorate | Doctorate |
| Domain | Engineering | Engineering |
| Overview | The program brings to the computers the knowledge of practical problems of designing quality software. | Through this course, candidates combine their computer software and hardware understanding to create new computer devices, or upgrade an existing system. |
| Examination Type | Semester | Semester |
| Average Annual Fees | INR 40,000 – INR 2,40,000 | INR 30,000 – INR 4,00,000 |
| Duration | 3 years – 5 years | 3 years – 5 years |
| Eligibility Criteria | BE / B.Tech. and Master’s Degree | Master’s Degree |
| Admission Process | Entrance Based | Entrance Based / Merit Based |
| Top Colleges | Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Amity University, Shyam University, Anna University, Chandigarh University | Lovely Professional University, Jamia Millia University, NMIMS, MS Ramaiah Institute of Technology, IIIT Hyderabad |
| Top Recruiting Companies | Adobe, Google, HP, Intel, IBM India, Microsoft, Oracle, etc. | CTS, Hindustan Lever, HP, LG, L&T Private Limited, Lenovo, Microsoft, Samsung, TCS, etc. |
| Job Positions | Research Scientist, Professor, Software Engineer, Software Programmers, Software Developer, Software Designer, etc. | Engineering Technician, Water Resource Engineer, Application Engineer, Chemical Engineer, Research Assistant, etc. |
| Average Annual Salary | INR 5 Lakh – INR 30 Lakh | INR 2 Lakh – INR 15 Lakh |
| Further Studies | Research | Research |
PhD Software Engineering Jobs
Candidates who have completed their PhD Software Engineering program successfully have a multitude of opportunities to explore various aspects of life. There seems to be no end to the need for professional and trained software engineers. A changing economic climate strengthens this market and is fuelled by the need for technology solutions. Here are some job positions available after completing a PhD Software Engineering:
| Job Profile | Job Description | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Software Engineer | The role of software engineers is to analyse current operations within the organization, identify and define issues or areas for improvement, suggest and create solutions to these problems in the form of new or enhanced software systems, and test, enforce and manage these improvements in software. | INR 5 Lakh |
| Professor | Teaching and supervising students from undergraduate and graduate levels. Providing presentations and overseeing investigations and tests. Answer questions in the classroom, or by email or phone. Providing input to Professors and Heads of Departments on student development. | INR 10 Lakh |
| Research Scientist | Depending on your role, the daily grind will vary and each particular project you 're working on, but at some stage you'll probably notice your day will include the following: constructing research proposals. Development and executing of experiments. The results of the tests are analysed. | INR 5.43 Lakh |
| Software Programmers | Write and check code that allows machine and software applications to work. They will turn concepts into workable code from the software developers and engineers. They can also upgrade or extend existing software code or test programs to identify and correct defective lines of code for errors. | INR 3 Lakh |
| Software Developer | Develop and test software which meets the needs of consumers and customers. Design enhancements for applications already in use. Track software quality and efficiency by testing and servicing. Document all possible work for reference. | INR 4.61 Lakh |
| Software Designer | A software designer is responsible for the problem solving and technical solution preparation. Software developers can design or hire designers to create a proposal for a solution until the intent and requirements of the program are defined. | INR 8.2 Lakh |
What is the Future Scope after PhD Software Engineering?
- PhD Software Engineering is the highest degree a person can obtain in the field.
- The career is diverse in terms of the specializations from which one might choose in Software Engineering.
- With such exponential growth in a multitude of industries, software engineers will pursue careers in all kinds of fields.
- The Software Engineer works in the field of technology, healthcare, automotive manufacturing, renewable energy, remote sensing, aeronautics, business, non-profit, and finance.
- In terms of distinction, there are also fellowships of professional societies granted to senior scholars of software engineering, though all of these are prestigious, those from national academies are more prestigious than those from national academies
- Upon completion of this course, there are various positions for students, such as being a Research Scientist, Professor, Software Engineer, Software Programmers, Software Developer, Software Designer, etc.
- Developers living in high-demand areas also get lots of inquiries from recruiters and headhunters a month.
PhD Software Engineering: FAQs
Quest. What is the eligibility to apply for a Ph.D. in Software Engineering?
Ans. A candidate with B.Tech / BE with minimum of 60% marks and a Master’s degree is relevant to the field to be eligible provided they qualify the national level entrance test such as UGC NET / UGC CSIR / GATE / IMCR / SLET or university level test.
Quest. What are the alternatives for a personal interview for a Ph.D. in Software Engineering?
Ans. Due to Covid-19, in the current situation colleges and institutes are opting for video-conference mode for shortlisted candidates for Personal Interview for the Ph.D. in Software Engineering.
Quest. What are the top recruiting companies of the Software Engineering degree holder?
Ans. Ph.D. in Software Engineering provides the students with the quality education that serves the needs of the industry or the purpose of teaching and research. After completing a Ph.D. in Software Engineering, you can secure work in Adobe, Google, HP, Intel, IBM India, Microsoft, Oracle, etc.
Quest. Is financial aid provided to pursue a Ph.D. in Software Engineering?
Ans. Research Scholars who have cleared National level exams with JRF or equivalent for Ph.D. in Software Engineering get financial assistance from the concerned funding agency. Non NET UGC fellowships are provided for research scholars who do not have any financial assistance for Ph.D. programs.
Quest. When can you apply for Ph.D. in Software Engineering?
Ans. The University / Institute admits candidates twice a year in the months of January and July for Ph.D. in Software Engineering. However, applications are invited throughout the year and seats are available based on the vacancy in the research area in Software Engineering. Candidates need to check the website of the college timely.
Quest. What is Ph.D. in Software Engineering?
Ans. The PhD in Software Engineering program leads to the highest degree offered and is structured to provide students with an opportunity to achieve the greatest possible experience through rigorous study in their chosen area.
Quest. What is the difference between Software Engineering and Computer Engineering?
Ans. Computer Engineering is concerned with the design, development, and operation of computer systems. Software Engineering deals with the software system development and maintenance. This is more business-oriented and has greater focus than computer engineering on broad software applications.Quest. Who usually opts for a Ph.D. in Software Engineering?
Ph.D. in Software Engineering is a great career choice especially for those interested in coping with the pervasive existence of software today. The system introduces to the computers the knowledge of practical problems of designing quality software.
Quest. Is there any extension for the application procedure for Ph.D. in Software Engineering?
Ans. Yes, most of the institutes have extended the application procedure for Ph.D. in Software Engineering. You can check the official website to be updated with the new dates for the application process. The admission committee monitors the announcements from the authorities of UGC, IITs, IMCR, and so on.
Quest. What are the top Colleges to pursue a Ph.D. in Software Engineering?
Ans. The top colleges offering Ph.D. in Software Engineering are Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Amity University, Shyam University, Anna University, Chandigarh University, so on.
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