PhD Mathematics

PhD Mathematics is a postgraduate research degree course that enables the student to explore more on higher level mathematical concepts and ideas. The duration of the degree is generally 3 - 6 years and includes a set curriculum, examinations and writing of a dissertation based on the candidate’s research work.

The candidates seeking admission to a PhD in Mathematics must have passed a master’s degree in Mathematics or a relevant subject and must have obtained at least 55% - 60% marks. A few of the best colleges that offer the PhD Mathematics course in India are the Indian Statistical Institute of Kolkata, Tata Institute of Fundamental Research of Mumbai, and the University of Delhi.

Graduates with a PhD in Mathematics can become university teachers, researchers in different governmental and private organisations, research scientists and can work in different fields such as data scientists, cryptologists, financial analysts. The salary for a PhD Mathematics graduate varies between INR 600,000 and INR 2,000,000 based on specialisation and experience.
 

A PhD in Mathematics is the most advanced degree you can earn, usually needing 3 - 6 years of extra study and research after getting a master's degree. It needs intense investigation into one particular area of mathematics like algebra, analysis, geometry or topology. The final step to complete this degree is completing an original dissertation that adds importantly to mathematical understanding.
 

Here are the important highlights of the PhD in Mathematics course that will help in your better understanding about the course:

An academic study into a PhD in Mathematics brings career progression, skills enhancement and an opportunity to contribute through research. It grows a love for exploring, giving abundant job chances in education, research or finance among others. The course encourages working together across different fields of study, improves general abilities like logical thinking and communication while offering chances to create important advancements in several industries. A PhD in Mathematics does not just progress subject understanding, it also improves possibilities for employment and unlocks a variety of professional trajectories.

The way of accepting students into PhD Mathematics in India differs among universities, but usually there are two main paths:

Merit-Based Admission

• There are a few universities that give direct admission on the basis of merit, not needing an entrance exam. The conditions for eligibility usually consist of:
• Master's degree in Mathematics or any equivalent subject with a minimum of 55% scores (50% for SC/ ST/ OBC/ PWD)
• Minimum 55% marks in 12th standard and Bachelor's degree

Entrance Exam Based Admission

PhD Mathematics in universities usually follow a process of entrance exams and interviews to admit students. Some of the commonly accepted entrance exams are:

• UGC NET (including JRF)
• GATE
• NBHM
• CSIR-UGC NET

Candidates who qualify these national level exams, such as NET, GATE, NBHM etc., can directly appear for the interview round. The entrance test is a qualifying exam with 50% cutoff marks.

The interview could require the candidate to give a brief 5 minute talk about their preferred research area. They will be chosen finally by how they perform in the interview. It is a method through which certain universities accept candidates who are pursuing or have completed M.Phil, hold JRF/ equivalent research positions or work as professionals in R&D institutes, provided they meet eligibility requirements.

The procedure for admission commences in January every year. People who are seeking to be accepted must submit their applications online through the university's admission portal. The availability of seats differs from one college to another.

How to get admission in top PhD Mathematics colleges?

To get admission in top PhD Mathematics colleges in India, you should:

• Take part in national level entrance exams such as CSIR-NET, UGC-NET, GATE or NBHM Screening Test. Numerous colleges use these scores to make a merit list of potential candidates.
• Get ready for the entrance exam by studying the major subjects such as Algebra, Analysis, Calculus, Differential Equations and Discrete Mathematics.
• You must apply early because admissions begin from January each year.
• Do well in the interview round, as it is a crucial part of the admission process together with the entrance exam.
• You must aim for joining reputed colleges such as IISc Bangalore, ISI Kolkata, CMI Chennai, IITs and IISERs that provide excellent PhD Mathematics courses.

The minimum requirements for applying for a PhD in Mathematics in India in general would call for one to have a Master of Philosophy degree in Mathematics or any related field with an average of 55% (50% for SC/ ST/ OBC). Moreover, aspirants have to clear the university level entrance tests like UGC NET for their admission into the university. Some universities may also accept prior work experience in teaching or in research. The admission requirements may slightly differ, therefore, the candidates should consider individual university’s criteria.

The most common entrance exams for PhD Mathematics in India are:

UGC NET (including JRF) - Conducted by National Testing Agency for admission to top PhD programs. Qualifiers are offered junior fellowships and assistant professorships.
GATE - Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering accepted by many universities.
NBHM - National Board for Higher Mathematics exam.
CSIR-UGC NET - Jointly conducted by CSIR and UGC.

Candidates who clear these national level exams can directly appear for the interview round. Some universities also accept M.Phil, JRF holders, and working professionals in R&D institutes directly through interview.
 

Here’s a brief summarisation of PhD Mathematics syllabus with all the crucial common subjects: 

Here are some top colleges in India that offer PhD Mathematics course: 

Here are some of the top jobs after PhD Mathematics along with projected salaries:

Here’s the comparison of PhD Mathematics course with PhD Economics for your reference: