Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University to Launch PhD Programme from Academic Session 2026–27: Dr Gill
Kanwar Inder Singh/ royalpatiala.in News/ February 28,2026
In a significant move towards strengthening academic and research excellence, Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University (MBSPSU), Patiala, has initiated the process to commence Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes from the Academic Session 2026–27.
Disclosing this here today, the Vice Chancellor, Pushpinder Singh Gill, stated that the University is set to introduce innovative academic initiatives aimed at elevating the institution to new heights of excellence. He said that after successfully stabilizing its undergraduate and postgraduate academic framework, the University is now poised to transition into a research-driven institution.
Dr Gill highlighted that with the availability of qualified faculty, foundational laboratory infrastructure and structured academic systems, the University is well-prepared to launch doctoral programmes. Initially, the PhD programme will be introduced in four priority research areas — Sports Biomechanics, Exercise Physiology, Sports Psychology, and Sports Management & Governance.
He further said that the initiative aligns with the growing national emphasis on Olympic performance, scientific athlete monitoring and evidence-based sports policy. The University aims to make meaningful contributions in indigenous sports science research, high-performance athlete development, injury prevention studies and governance reforms in the sports sector to prepare youth for international-level competitions.
The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the programme will strictly adhere to the latest regulations and guidelines of the University Grants Commission (UGC), along with statutory provisions under the University Act and norms of the Punjab Government.
To ensure transparency and quality, the University will establish dedicated research governance structures, including a Research Degree Committee (RDC), Departmental Research Committees (DRC), Research Advisory Committees (RAC), a University Research Ethics Committee and a Plagiarism Monitoring Mechanism.
Dr Gill informed that the admission intake during the inaugural year will be limited and strictly based on supervisor eligibility, laboratory readiness and availability of research infrastructure.
As part of the implementation roadmap, draft PhD Ordinance and Regulations will be placed before the Academic Council and Executive Council for statutory approval. Infrastructure readiness certification will be issued prior to notification of admissions.
Outlining the five-year vision, Dr Gill said the University aims to produce high-quality doctoral research, publish in recognized indexed journals, establish a flagship research laboratory and develop collaborations with national sports bodies and research institutions.
Dr Gill added that the commencement of the PhD programme marks a decisive institutional milestone for MBSPSU, reinforcing its commitment to emerge as a credible centre of excellence in sports research in Punjab and across the country.
