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PHD in Humanities And Social Sciences at Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur
Howrah, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Humanities and Social Sciences at Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Shibpur Howrah?
This Humanities and Social Sciences PhD program at IIEST Shibpur focuses on interdisciplinary research across various domains. It addresses contemporary societal challenges through critical inquiry and analytical rigor. The program encourages innovative research relevant to Indian and global contexts, meeting the growing demand for advanced scholarship and policy insights from a diverse pool of researchers.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for candidates holding Master''''s degrees in humanities, social sciences, management, or commerce, aiming for advanced academic careers or research roles. It attracts fresh graduates eager to delve into profound societal questions, and working professionals seeking to contribute high-impact research to their fields or transition into academia, requiring a rigorous research foundation.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in academia, research institutions, think tanks, policy advisory roles, and development organizations in India. PhD holders secure positions as Assistant Professors, Research Scientists, or Policy Analysts, with salary ranges varying from INR 6-15 LPA for entry-level to significantly higher for experienced professionals in leading institutions, contributing to knowledge creation.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Literature Review- (Semester 1)
Rigorously engage with the mandatory Research Methodology coursework, focusing on developing a strong foundation in research design, quantitative/qualitative methods, and ethical considerations. Simultaneously, conduct an exhaustive literature review using institutional library databases and citation management tools to identify critical research gaps and refine your research question.
Tools & Resources
IIEST Shibpur Digital Library, Scopus, Web of Science, Mendeley/Zotero, Research Methodology textbooks
Career Connection
This establishes foundational skills crucial for any research-oriented career, ensuring the PhD thesis is robust and publishable, which is key for academic and R&D roles in India and globally.
Engage Actively in Departmental Seminars and Discussions- (Semesters 1-2)
Regularly attend and actively participate in departmental research seminars, colloquia, and PhD student presentations. Present initial research ideas, solicit feedback from faculty and peers, and engage in critical discussions to broaden perspectives and refine your research proposal. This active engagement helps in formulating a well-rounded research plan.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Research groups within HSS, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Builds a strong academic network, enhances presentation and critical thinking skills, and helps in identifying potential collaborators or mentors for future academic and research endeavors in India.
Develop Advanced Academic Writing and Grant Proposal Skills- (Semester 2)
Beyond coursework, actively seek workshops or mentorship for advanced academic writing, focusing on clarity, coherence, and scholarly conventions expected in top-tier journals. Practice writing mock grant proposals to understand funding landscapes and proposal structures relevant to humanities and social sciences research in India, such as those by UGC or ICSSR.
Tools & Resources
IIEST Writing Center (if available), MOOCs on academic writing, Sample grant proposals from UGC/ICSSR
Career Connection
Essential for publishing research in reputable journals and securing research funding, which are critical for academic progression, independent research careers, and impacting policy in India.
Intermediate Stage
Regular Supervisor Meetings and Progress Tracking- (Year 2-3)
Establish a consistent schedule for meetings with your PhD supervisor(s) to discuss research progress, challenges, and next steps for your thesis. Maintain a detailed research log to track experiments, data collection, analysis, and writing milestones, ensuring adherence to your research timeline and objectives.
Tools & Resources
Project management tools (e.g., Trello for research tasks), Weekly/bi-weekly meeting slots with supervisor
Career Connection
Develops project management skills and discipline vital for managing complex research projects, leading to timely thesis completion and effective self-management in future research or academic roles.
Present Research at National and International Conferences- (Year 2-3)
Actively seek opportunities to present your ongoing research at reputable national and international conferences. Use these platforms to gain constructive feedback from domain experts, network with fellow researchers, and stay updated on current research trends and methodological advancements in your specialization.
Tools & Resources
Conference calls for papers, Travel grants from IIEST/UGC/ICSSR, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Social Science Congress)
Career Connection
Builds academic visibility, refines presentation skills, and establishes a professional network, which is crucial for post-doctoral positions, collaborations, and navigating the academic job market.
Target Quality Publications and Journal Submissions- (Year 2-3)
Begin drafting sections of your thesis for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Identify suitable journals within your discipline, ensuring they are indexed in reputable databases like Scopus, Web of Science, or UGC CARE List. Adhere strictly to submission guidelines and actively engage with the peer-review process to improve your research writing.
Tools & Resources
Journal indexing databases (Scopus, Web of Science, UGC CARE List), Academic writing software (e.g., LaTeX)
Career Connection
Publishing is a cornerstone of an academic career. Early publications strengthen your CV, increase citations, and are often a prerequisite for faculty positions and research grants in Indian universities and beyond.
Advanced Stage
Thesis Completion and Defense Preparation- (Year 4-5)
Dedicate focused effort to completing the thesis draft, meticulously reviewing for content, coherence, originality, and formatting according to IIEST guidelines. Practice the viva voce defense through mock presentations with peers and faculty to anticipate questions and build confidence for the final defense, ensuring a polished and well-articulated presentation.
Tools & Resources
IIEST Thesis Guidelines, Mock defense sessions with supervisor/peers, Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides)
Career Connection
Successful thesis defense is the culmination of the PhD program, directly leading to the doctoral degree and validating your expertise for all subsequent career endeavors in academia, research, or policy making.
Develop Teaching and Mentoring Skills- (Year 4-5)
Seek opportunities to assist faculty in teaching undergraduate or postgraduate courses, or mentor junior PhD scholars. This could involve leading tutorials, grading assignments, guest lecturing on specific topics, or helping students with their research projects. These experiences build essential pedagogical skills.
Tools & Resources
Departmental teaching assistantships, Workshops on pedagogy, Peer mentoring programs
Career Connection
Crucial for aspiring academics, demonstrating teaching competency is often a primary requirement for university faculty positions. It also develops valuable leadership, communication, and knowledge transfer skills.
Strategic Career Planning and Networking- (Year 5-6 (leading up to graduation))
Actively network with potential employers (academic and non-academic) through conferences, professional associations, and online platforms like LinkedIn. Prepare tailored CVs, cover letters, and research statements for specific job applications, and meticulously practice interview skills, including mock interviews for academic and research roles.
Tools & Resources
IIEST Career Services, LinkedIn, Professional association job boards (e.g., ASA, APA, MLA), Mock interview platforms
Career Connection
Proactive planning and networking are essential for securing desired positions post-PhD, whether in academia, industry research, government policy roles, or think tanks in India or abroad, ensuring a smooth career transition.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- M.A. or M.Sc. or M.Phil. degree in Humanities/Social Sciences/Management/Commerce or an equivalent degree with 6.5 CGPA or 60% marks in aggregate (for institutes where CGPA is not awarded), at the Master’s level or an equivalent degree from a recognized University/Institute.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (6 semesters), Maximum 6 years (12 semesters)
Credits: Minimum 12 credits, Maximum 16 credits (from coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HSS 1001 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Philosophy and Ethics, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Academic Writing and Reporting, Literature Review Techniques, Hypothesis Testing |
| HSS 1002 | Introduction to Linguistics | Elective | 4 | Phonetics and Phonology, Morphology and Syntax, Semantics and Pragmatics, Sociolinguistics and Psycholinguistics, Language Acquisition, Discourse Analysis |
| HSS 1003 | Postcolonial Studies | Elective | 4 | Colonialism and Decolonization, Subalternity and Representation, Hybridity and Diaspora, Postcolonial Theory and Criticism, Nationalism and Identity, Globalisation and Postcolonialism |
| HSS 1004 | Ecocriticism and Environmental Humanities | Elective | 4 | Environmental Ethics and Philosophy, Nature Writing and Literature, Climate Change Narratives, Anthropocene and its Implications, Green Theory and Eco-Justice, Ecocritical Approaches |
| HSS 1005 | English Language Teaching (ELT) and Applied Linguistics | Elective | 4 | Second Language Acquisition Theories, ELT Methodologies and Approaches, Curriculum Design and Material Development, Language Assessment and Testing, Language Policy and Planning, Corpus Linguistics |
| HSS 1006 | Indian English Literature | Elective | 4 | History of Indian English Writing, Post-Independence Indian Novel, Regional and Diasporic Voices, Themes and Genres in IEL, Major Indian English Authors, Contemporary Trends |
| HSS 1007 | History and Theory of Photography | Elective | 4 | Origins and Evolution of Photography, Documentary and Photojournalism, Photography as Art Form, Postmodern Photography, Digital Image and Culture, Critical Theories of Photography |
| HSS 1008 | Sociology of India | Elective | 4 | Indian Social Structure and Institutions, Caste System and Social Stratification, Religion and Society in India, Rural and Urban Dynamics, Social Change and Development, Identity Politics |
| HSS 1009 | Introduction to Human Resource Management | Elective | 4 | HR Functions and Strategic HR, Workforce Planning and Recruitment, Talent Acquisition and Development, Performance Management Systems, Compensation and Benefits, Employee Relations and Grievances |
| HSS 1010 | Development Economics | Elective | 4 | Theories of Economic Development, Poverty, Inequality, and Growth, Human Capital and Health, Role of Institutions and Governance, Globalization and Development, Sustainable Development Goals |
| HSS 1011 | Political Economy of Development | Elective | 4 | State, Market, and Development, Theories of Underdevelopment, Global Capital and Neoliberalism, Development Models and Power Relations, Resource Distribution and Conflict, Colonialism and Post-Colonial States |
| HSS 1012 | Behavioural Economics | Elective | 4 | Cognitive Biases and Heuristics, Prospect Theory and Framing Effects, Nudge Theory and Interventions, Intertemporal Choice and Self-Control, Behavioral Finance Applications, Social Norms and Preferences |
| HSS 1013 | Financial Economics | Elective | 4 | Capital Markets and Instruments, Asset Pricing Models (CAPM), Risk Management and Derivatives, Corporate Finance Decisions, Portfolio Theory and Investment, Market Efficiency |
| HSS 1014 | Econometrics | Elective | 4 | Classical Linear Regression Model, Assumptions and Violations, Time Series Analysis, Panel Data Models, Hypothesis Testing and Estimation, Model Specification and Diagnostics |
| HSS 1015 | Environmental Economics | Elective | 4 | Environmental Valuation Methods, Market Failure and Externalities, Pollution Control and Regulation, Resource Scarcity and Sustainability, Climate Change Economics, Green Accounting |
| HSS 1016 | Regional Economics | Elective | 4 | Location Theory and Regional Growth, Urbanization and Agglomeration, Economic Disparities and Convergence, Regional Planning and Policy, Inter-regional Trade Flows, Special Economic Zones |
| HSS 1017 | Urban Economics | Elective | 4 | Urban Growth and Structure, Land Use Theory and Markets, Housing Markets and Policy, Urban Transportation Economics, Public Goods in Cities, Urban Poverty and Inequality |
| HSS 1018 | Indian Cultural Studies | Elective | 4 | Cultural Theories and Contexts, Popular Culture in India, Media Studies and Representation, Identity and Performance, Festivals, Rituals, and Folklore, Cultural Heritage and Modernity |
| HSS 1019 | Cultural Translation | Elective | 4 | Theories of Translation, Cross-Cultural Communication, Literary and Media Translation, Cultural Adaptations, Translation Ethics and Ideology, Language and Power |
| HSS 1020 | Literary Theory and Criticism | Elective | 4 | Structuralism and Post-structuralism, Deconstruction and Psychoanalysis, Feminist and Marxist Criticism, Reader-Response Theory, New Historicism and Cultural Materialism, Postmodernism |
| HSS 1021 | Science Fiction and Fantasy Literature | Elective | 4 | Genre Conventions and Tropes, Utopias and Dystopias, Cyberpunk and Steampunk, Magic Systems and World-building, Social Commentary in SF/Fantasy, Fantasy Subgenres |
| HSS 1022 | Theatre and Performance Studies | Elective | 4 | Performance Theory and Analysis, History of Theatre Traditions, Dramaturgy and Playwriting, Body, Space, and Spectacle, Ritual and Performance, Indian Theatre Forms |
| HSS 1023 | Indian Philosophy | Elective | 4 | Orthodox and Heterodox Schools, Epistemology (Pramanas), Metaphysics (Reality and Causality), Ethics and Morality, Yoga and Meditation, Vedanta and its Schools |
| HSS 1024 | Philosophy of Science and Technology | Elective | 4 | Scientific Method and Reasoning, Demarcation Problem (Science vs Non-Science), Epistemology of Science, Technology and Society, Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, Science Policy and Society |
| HSS 1025 | Indian Society and Culture | Elective | 4 | Social Institutions in India, Family, Kinship, and Marriage, Religion, Ritual, and Belief Systems, Art, Aesthetics, and Performance, Diversity and Pluralism, Social Movements |
| HSS 1026 | Sociology of Technology | Elective | 4 | Technology and Social Change, Social Construction of Technology, Digital Divide and Inequality, Surveillance and Privacy, AI Ethics and Societal Impact, Technosocial Systems |
| HSS 1027 | Urban Sociology | Elective | 4 | Urbanization Processes and Theories, Social Space and Community, Networks and Urban Lifestyles, Poverty, Inequality, and Exclusion, Urban Planning and Policy, Global Cities and Urban Futures |
| HSS 1028 | Social Statistics and Demography | Elective | 4 | Statistical Methods for Social Sciences, Data Presentation and Analysis, Probability and Sampling, Hypothesis Testing, Population Dynamics and Structure, Fertility, Mortality, and Migration |
| HSS 1029 | Gender Studies | Elective | 4 | Gender Theories and Concepts, Patriarchy and Feminism, Sexuality and Identity, Gender and Development, Intersectionality, Gender-Based Violence |
| HSS 1030 | Public Policy and Governance | Elective | 4 | Policy Cycle and Analysis, Governance Frameworks and Models, Public Administration and Bureaucracy, State, Society, and Market, Good Governance Principles, Policy Implementation |
| HSS 1031 | International Relations | Elective | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Global Actors and Institutions, International Law and Diplomacy, Conflict Resolution and Peacebuilding, Geopolitics and World Order, Regionalism |
| HSS 1032 | Human Rights | Elective | 4 | Philosophy of Human Rights, International Human Rights Instruments, Human Rights in India, State Accountability and HR, Human Rights Activism, Justice and Reconciliation |
| HSS 1033 | Disaster Studies | Elective | 4 | Disaster Risk Reduction Frameworks, Hazard Analysis and Vulnerability, Disaster Management Cycle, Climate Change Adaptation, Community-Based Disaster Management, Disaster Policy and Governance |
| HSS 1034 | Digital Humanities | Elective | 4 | Digital Textual Analysis, Data Visualization for Humanities, Digital Archiving and Curation, Computational Linguistics, AI in Humanities Research, Digital Pedagogy |
