Ph.D. in Psycho-Oncology

The Department of Psycho-Oncology commenced its Ph.D. programme, offering both full-time and part-time doctoral studies, in 2009 under the leadership of Dr. Vidhubala E., former Head of the Department.

To date, 8 research scholars have successfully completed their Ph.D., including 3 scholars under the guidance of Dr. Vidhubala E., former Head of the Department, and 5 scholars under the guidance of Dr. V. Surendran, the present Head of the Department. Currently, 4 research scholars are registered for Ph.D. under the guidance of Dr. V. Surendran.

The Department has established a strong tradition of doctoral research in psycho-oncology and psychological research in oncology. To date, several research scholars have successfully completed their doctoral studies, with scholars undertaking research under the guidance of Dr. Vidhubala E. and subsequently under the present Head of the Department, Dr. V. Surendran. The Department continues to support and mentor doctoral scholars engaged in diverse areas of psycho-oncology research.

Research scholars undertake independent, clinically relevant, and evidence-based research addressing the psychological and psychosocial dimensions of cancer. Their research encompasses areas such as psychological distress, anxiety and depression, coping and resilience, quality of life, psychosocial adjustment, cancer-related concerns, caregiver well-being, survivorship, palliative and supportive care, and the development and evaluation of psycho-oncological interventions. The Department places emphasis on research that can contribute to improving the psychological well-being and overall quality of life of individuals affected by cancer and their families.

Research scholars actively contribute to the academic activities of the Department and collaborate with faculty in research, teaching, workshops, conferences, and other academic programmes. They also engage with undergraduate and postgraduate students by sharing their research experiences and ongoing work, thereby encouraging students to pursue higher education and research careers in psycho-oncology.

The scholars regularly participate in national and international conferences, present their research findings, and publish their work in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Their academic achievements, including recognition through Best Paper and other awards, have contributed to the academic standing and research profile of the Department.

The Department also conducts workshops, training programmes, and academic activities on contemporary research methodology and psycho-oncology research, with emphasis on research design, psychometric assessment, qualitative and quantitative methods, intervention research, and evidence-based psychological practice in oncology.

Through its doctoral programme and research activities, the Department remains committed to advancing psycho-oncology research, developing evidence-based psychological interventions, and strengthening the integration of psychological care within comprehensive cancer care.

The Ph.D. programme is affiliated with the University of Madras, and admissions to the doctoral programme are carried out in accordance with the admission procedures and regulations of the University of Madras. Prospective candidates are advised to refer to the University of Madras for information regarding Ph.D. admissions, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and other requirements.