This route is suitable for candidates who have not had any previous extensive scholarly research and thesis writing background. This route is also the only route possible for those who haven’t published any scholarly work in the past.

The DTR route ensures the mastery of key skills and mindset required in the planning and execution a full fledged doctorate level research, along with empirical data collection, data analysis, and presentation of evidence-based recommendations for real-life improvements at workplace. Candidates start off with a module in research methodology, involving both quantitate and qualitative approaches, work on producing a written research proposal, and then proceed to carrying out a full action research and concluding it with a written doctorate thesis of no less than 30,000 words, under the guidance and coaching of an expert supervisor, duly appointed by the university’s academic administration team.

During the duration of the study, candidates are also expected to attend and/or present scholarly papers, related to their field of research, in national or international conference or seminar of their choice. A viva voce is conducted at the end of the thesis writing and submission, where candidates face the scrutiny and evaluation of at least 3 external senior examiners. Candidates are required to present their research work during the viva voce, and defend their thesis by answering questions posed by the 3 external senior examiners.