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PH-D in Guru Nanak Studies at Guru Nanak Dev University
Amritsar, Punjab
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About the Specialization
What is Guru Nanak Studies at Guru Nanak Dev University Amritsar?
This Ph.D. program in Guru Nanak Studies at Guru Nanak Dev University focuses on in-depth scholarly research into the life, philosophy, and teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. It delves into the historical, theological, and socio-cultural dimensions of his message. In the Indian context, this specialization is crucial for preserving and advancing knowledge about Sikh heritage, interfaith dialogue, and ethical leadership, with a growing demand for experts in religious studies, cultural preservation, and academic research.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong academic background in Sikh Studies, Religious Studies, Philosophy, or History who aspire to contribute original research to the field. It also suits academics, researchers, and professionals in cultural institutions, museums, and educational bodies seeking advanced scholarly qualifications and a deeper understanding of Guru Nanak''''s universal message for academic advancement or specialized roles in heritage and religious scholarship.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect fulfilling career paths as university professors, researchers, historians, and consultants in cultural and religious organizations across India and globally. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 4-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 10-20+ LPA for senior academic and research positions. The program fosters critical thinking, research acumen, and a nuanced understanding of religious texts, essential for leadership roles in educational and policy-making bodies that promote interfaith harmony and cultural understanding.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Academic Writing- (Semester 1)
Dedicate significant time to understanding core research methodologies, qualitative and quantitative data analysis, and ethical considerations. Simultaneously, refine academic writing skills, focusing on clarity, coherence, and scholarly conventions, which are paramount for thesis submission. Engage actively in workshops on citation management and bibliographic software.
Tools & Resources
GNDU Library''''s research methodology workshops, Zotero/Mendeley, Online academic writing guides
Career Connection
Strong methodological and writing skills are fundamental for publishing research, securing grants, and excelling in academic or research roles.
Deep Dive into Guru Nanak Studies Literature- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond the prescribed coursework, extensively review existing scholarship in Guru Nanak Studies, Sikh philosophy, and related theological fields. Identify gaps in current research, emerging debates, and potential areas for your original contribution. Regularly discuss findings with your supervisor and peers to refine your research direction.
Tools & Resources
GNDU Library''''s extensive collection of Sikh Studies texts, JSTOR, ProQuest, Google Scholar
Career Connection
A comprehensive literature review forms the bedrock of a robust thesis and establishes your expertise in the specialization, crucial for academic credibility.
Build a Strong Rapport with Your Supervisor- (Throughout the program, especially in early stages)
Maintain open and regular communication with your Ph.D. supervisor. Seek their guidance on research design, literature review, and ethical clearances. Be proactive in scheduling meetings and presenting progress, but also be receptive to constructive feedback. This mentor-mentee relationship is crucial for navigating the complexities of doctoral research.
Tools & Resources
Scheduled one-on-one meetings, Email communication
Career Connection
Effective supervision ensures your research stays on track, meets academic standards, and provides invaluable mentorship for your future academic career.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal and Plan- (After coursework, typically 1st-2nd year)
Formulate a detailed research proposal, outlining your research questions, objectives, methodology, timeline, and expected outcomes. This plan serves as a roadmap for your entire Ph.D. journey. Present it to your departmental research committee for feedback and approval, demonstrating your preparedness for independent research.
Tools & Resources
GNDU Ph.D. guidelines for proposal submission, Supervisor guidance, Departmental review committees
Career Connection
A well-structured proposal is essential for securing research grants and demonstrating your ability to lead complex academic projects, key for research positions.
Engage in Academic Discourse and Conferences- (2nd-4th year)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, national/international conferences, and workshops related to Guru Nanak Studies. Present your preliminary findings, engage in discussions, and network with scholars in your field. This exposure helps in refining your ideas, receiving peer feedback, and expanding your academic circle.
Tools & Resources
GNDU Department of Guru Nanak Studies events, Call for Papers announcements, Academic conference databases
Career Connection
Conference participation enhances visibility, builds your professional network, and is vital for academic publication and job prospects.
Explore Interdisciplinary Research Avenues- (2nd-4th year)
Consider how Guru Nanak Studies intersects with other disciplines like sociology, psychology, political science, or environmental studies. This interdisciplinary approach can open new perspectives for your research and broaden its impact. Collaborate with scholars from other departments if relevant to your thesis.
Tools & Resources
Interdisciplinary research centers at GNDU, Academic journals focusing on interdisciplinary religious studies
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary work makes your research more relevant and appealing to a wider audience, increasing opportunities for diverse academic and policy-oriented roles.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Thesis Writing and Chapter Completion- (3rd-5th year)
Establish a disciplined writing routine and work systematically through your thesis chapters. Focus on clear arguments, evidence-based analysis, and rigorous academic presentation. Regularly share drafts with your supervisor for feedback and integrate revisions promptly. Aim for continuous progress towards completion.
Tools & Resources
GNDU thesis submission guidelines, Writing productivity tools, Regular review meetings with supervisor
Career Connection
Timely completion and a high-quality thesis are prerequisites for degree conferment and crucial for securing post-doctoral positions or academic jobs.
Seek Publication Opportunities for Research Findings- (4th-6th year (concurrent with thesis writing))
Transform portions of your thesis into publishable journal articles. Target peer-reviewed journals in Guru Nanak Studies, Religious Studies, or Humanities. This process not only refines your work but also builds your publication record, a critical factor for academic career progression in India.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE listed journals, Reputable international journals in the field, GNDU Research and Publications Cell
Career Connection
A strong publication record significantly enhances your CV for faculty positions, post-doctoral fellowships, and research grants.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Post-Doctoral Planning- (Final year/After thesis submission)
Thoroughly prepare for your Ph.D. viva voce examination by reviewing your entire thesis, anticipating questions, and rehearsing your defense. Simultaneously, begin exploring post-doctoral research opportunities, academic job applications, and fellowship programs both in India and abroad, leveraging your supervisor''''s network for recommendations.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, GNDU Career Counseling Cell, Academic job portals like higheredjobs.com
Career Connection
A successful viva voce marks the culmination of your Ph.D. and opens doors to a range of advanced academic and research career paths.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree or M.Phil. in a relevant discipline (e.g., Guru Nanak Studies, Religious Studies, Philosophy, History with focus on Sikhism) from a recognized university with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/Differently-abled categories). Candidates with UGC-NET/JRF/GATE/GPAT/Teacher Fellowship holders may be exempted from the Ph.D. Entrance Test. All others must qualify the Ph.D. Entrance Test conducted by the University.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years
Credits: Minimum 8 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (for Research Methodology), External: 60% (for Research Methodology)
