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M-PHIL-WOMEN-STUDIES in General at Alagappa University
Sivaganga, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at Alagappa University Sivaganga?
This M.Phil (Women Studies) program at Alagappa University focuses on a critical interdisciplinary exploration of gender issues, feminist theories, and women''''s experiences within Indian society. It delves into the historical evolution of women''''s studies, contemporary challenges, and the role of women in development, aligning with India''''s increasing focus on gender equality and empowerment across various sectors. The program aims to produce research scholars equipped to address complex gender dynamics effectively.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students holding a Master''''s Degree in Women''''s Studies or related social science disciplines who aspire to advanced research. It suits individuals keen on academic careers, policy analysis, or advocacy roles within government bodies, NGOs, and international organizations. Professionals seeking to deepen their theoretical and methodological understanding of gender issues for social change initiatives in India will also find this program highly beneficial and relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as researchers, academics, gender experts, or policy advisors in India. Opportunities exist within universities, research institutions, women''''s rights organizations, and government ministries (e.g., Ministry of Women and Child Development). Entry-level salaries might range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in policy formulation and advocacy roles focusing on gender-sensitive development across various Indian states and communities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Theories and Research Methods- (Semester 1)
Engage deeply with feminist theories and the historical trajectory of women''''s movements, particularly in India. Concurrently, build strong qualitative and quantitative research skills through dedicated coursework, workshops, and supplementary resources, focusing on designing robust research questions relevant to current gender issues.
Tools & Resources
Core readings from the syllabus, Alagappa University library''''s digital archives, NPTEL courses on social science research methodology, Workshops on basic data analysis software like SPSS or Excel
Career Connection
Establishes the analytical and methodological backbone crucial for careers in social research, policy analysis, and academia focused on gender studies in India.
Critical Engagement with Gender and Development Debates- (Semester 1)
Actively analyze how gender intersects with development in India across various sectors like economy, health, environment, and governance. Participate in seminars, discussions, and case studies focused on local and national gender-specific development initiatives, critically evaluating their impact and policy implications.
Tools & Resources
Reports from the Ministry of Women and Child Development, NITI Aayog publications, UN Women India reports, Academic journals on development studies, Local NGO publications and field visits
Career Connection
Prepares students for informed participation in policy formulation, advocacy, and program implementation roles within NGOs, government bodies, and international development organizations.
Cultivate Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1)
Focus on developing clear, concise, and academically rigorous writing skills for assignments and initial research proposals. Practice presenting research ideas effectively in class, incorporating feedback from peers and faculty to refine communication and argumentation, crucial for future dissertation defense.
Tools & Resources
University writing center services, Peer review groups for feedback, Academic style guides (e.g., APA), Mock presentations within the department
Career Connection
Essential for publishing research, delivering conference presentations, and communicating complex findings to diverse audiences in academic and policy spheres.
Intermediate Stage
In-depth Dissertation Topic Development and Literature Review- (Semester 2 (Early))
Work closely with your supervisor to refine your dissertation topic, ensuring its originality and relevance to contemporary Women''''s Studies. Conduct an exhaustive literature review using academic databases to identify specific research gaps and build a robust theoretical framework for your study within the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Shodhganga for Indian theses and dissertations, Scopus and Web of Science for international publications, Zotero or Mendeley for reference management, Regular supervisory meetings for guidance
Career Connection
This crucial step lays the groundwork for producing high-quality, impactful research, a prerequisite for advanced academic and research positions in gender studies.
Ethical Fieldwork and Data Collection Execution- (Semester 2 (Mid))
Plan and execute ethical fieldwork for your dissertation, which may involve surveys, interviews, or focus group discussions within diverse Indian communities. Prioritize informed consent, confidentiality, and sensitivity when engaging with participants, especially when researching sensitive topics like violence against women.
Tools & Resources
University Ethics Committee guidelines, Specific training on sensitive research methodologies, Secure data storage solutions, Local language translation support if required
Career Connection
Develops practical field research skills, ethical conduct, and cultural sensitivity, which are highly valued by research organizations, NGOs, and social science institutions.
Advanced Data Analysis and Interpretation- (Semester 2 (Mid to Late))
Apply advanced analytical techniques, both qualitative (e.g., thematic analysis, discourse analysis) and quantitative (e.g., statistical inference), to process the collected dissertation data. Focus on interpreting findings within theoretical frameworks and drawing nuanced conclusions relevant to policy or academic discourse.
Tools & Resources
Advanced features of SPSS or R for quantitative analysis, Qualitative analysis software like NVivo, Specialized workshops on advanced statistical methods, Consultations with methodologists for complex data sets
Career Connection
Enhances analytical rigor, preparing students for roles requiring deep data insight, such as research analysts, data scientists in social sectors, or specialized academic researchers.
Advanced Stage
Comprehensive Dissertation Writing and Viva Voce Preparation- (Semester 2 (Late))
Dedicate substantial effort to meticulously writing your dissertation, ensuring clarity, logical flow, and academic coherence of arguments and findings. Prepare rigorously for the viva-voce examination by practicing presentations, anticipating potential questions, and consolidating your arguments for a successful defense.
Tools & Resources
Institutional thesis writing guidelines and templates, Peer review groups for critical feedback on drafts, Mock viva sessions with departmental faculty, Alagappa University library resources for final formatting checks
Career Connection
Successful completion and defense of the M.Phil dissertation validate research expertise, opening doors to Ph.D. programs, specialized research roles, and senior policy advisory positions in India and globally.
Networking and Publication Pathway Exploration- (Semester 2 (Throughout, intensified towards end))
Actively network with senior academics, researchers, and professionals in Women''''s Studies through conferences, seminars, and online platforms like ResearchGate or LinkedIn. Explore avenues for publishing parts of your dissertation in academic journals or presenting at national/international conferences to establish your research profile.
Tools & Resources
Academic social networks and professional associations, University career services for networking events, Guidelines for journal article submissions, Calendars of national and international conferences
Career Connection
Essential for building a professional network, gaining visibility in the academic community, and kickstarting a career in research or higher education, both within India and abroad.
Career Planning and Higher Education Progression- (Semester 2 (Final))
Evaluate your career aspirations, whether pursuing a Ph.D. or entering the job market in research, development, or policy roles. Prepare tailored CVs, compelling cover letters, and strong research proposals. Seek guidance from faculty and university career services on job applications, interview preparation, and Ph.D. program admissions.
Tools & Resources
University career counseling services, Alumni network for mentorship, Online job portals for social sector and research roles, Guidance on Ph.D. application processes (Statement of Purpose, research proposal)
Career Connection
Strategically prepares graduates for the next step in their professional journey, ensuring a smooth and successful transition into advanced studies or relevant employment opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A candidate who has qualified for the Master’s Degree in the respective discipline of Alagappa University or any other University recognized by the Syndicate as equivalent thereto, shall be eligible to register for the M.Phil. Degree.
Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
Credits: 40 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14MWST1C1 | WOMEN’S MOVEMENT, THEORIES AND RESEARCH METHODOLOGY | Core | 10 | Women''''s Studies: Meaning, Scope, Significance, Feminist Theories: Liberal, Marxist, Radical, Socialist, Postmodern, Women’s Movement in India: Pre-Independence, Post-Independence, Contemporary Issues, Research Methodology: Types, Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis: Quantitative, Qualitative, Interpretation, Report Writing |
| 14MWST1C2 | WOMEN AND DEVELOPMENT | Core | 10 | Concept of Development: Theories, Approaches, Gender and Development, Women and Economy: Work, Livelihoods, Entrepreneurship, Globalization, Women and Health: Reproductive Health, Nutrition, Health Policies, Women and Environment: Ecofeminism, Sustainable Development, Climate Change, Gender and Governance: Political Participation, Decentralization, Empowerment |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14MWST2C1 | GENDER AND VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN | Core | 10 | Understanding Violence: Concepts, Types, Causes, Theories, Forms of Violence: Domestic, Sexual Harassment, Trafficking, Cyber, Legal Frameworks: National and International Laws, Human Rights, Intervention Strategies: Counseling, Shelter Homes, Awareness Campaigns, Rehabilitation and Prevention: Role of NGOs, Community Participation |
| 14MWST2C2 | DISSERTATION AND VIVA VOCE | Project/Dissertation | 10 | Selection of Research Topic in Women''''s Studies, Literature Review and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection and Analysis, Dissertation Writing and Presentation, Viva Voce Examination |
