Candidates aspiring for honored teaching positions in top Indian universities are well aware of the need to receive PhD/doctorate in the respective subject. As PhD is one of the top legs for candidates who desire any kind of educational status in Indian institutions, most candidates go for it without knowing about any other possible options. Candidates who want to carry forward their long educational journey in any subject, whether it is a research partner, needs an admission in institutions or even PhD admission, can opt for the National Eligibility Test (NET). But the candidates sometimes get confused about which is better, net or PhD. Let’s find the answer to this question.
What are nets and PhDs?
Both National Eligibility Testing (NET) and PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) are essential qualifications for those wishing to make career in academics. NET is a national level examination that determines eligibility for Assistant Professor Rolls, Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and PhD admission. On the other hand, a PhD is a doctoral degree that includes advanced research and is required for high academic positions. While the net serves as an entry point in an academic career, a PhD is an education program that specializes in a particular field through intensive study and research.
Difference between net and PhD
The primary difference between net and PhD is in their objective. Net is a eligibility test for academia, while a PhD is a research-based degree required for high academic roles. Candidates who qualify for NET can apply for faculty posts, while PhD holders can take research-oriented positions and need to get senior teaching positions like Associate Professor or Professor after the NET comes into the position of Assistant Professor. Here, we will see the differences side-by-side:
| Criterion | Net | PhD |
| Objective | Assistant Professor makes candidates eligible for roles and JRF | Advanced research degree for academic and research career |
| Need time | 1-2 years (Preparation and Exam) | 3 to 6+ years (Research and Thesis) |
| Eligibility for Assistant Professor | Yes | Yes (pure relaxation in some cases) |
| Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Funding | Yes | No direct funding (until through external scholarship) |
| Research participation | Not mandatory | Extensive research and thesis require |
| Career development | Helpful for admission to open doors and PhDs for a rich educational career from JRF | Associate Professor, Professor and Research posts required for senior positions |
| Global recognition | Limited to Indian institutions | Extensive scope in international education and research |
Which is better net or PhD?
The choice between net and PhD depends on the goals of the individual career. If you want to start teaching quickly, the net is a better option. However, if you desire high academic positions, research and international opportunities, a PhD is more beneficial. Ideally, a combination of both nets and a PhD ensures eligibility for faculty positions by increasing research credentials, providing the best career possibilities.
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