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PHD in Canadian Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Canadian Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This Canadian Studies program at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on providing an advanced interdisciplinary understanding of Canada, its society, politics, economy, and foreign relations. With India emerging as a key global player, comprehending nations like Canada becomes crucial for strategic alliances, trade, and cultural exchange, driving significant demand for such specialized knowledge.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for M.Phil. degree holders or those with a two-year Master''''s degree in Social Sciences, Humanities, or International Relations, eager to pursue in-depth, original research on Canada. It caters to academics, policy analysts, diplomats, and professionals seeking expertise for roles in government, think tanks, international organizations, or academia focusing on North American studies.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as researchers, policy advisors in government bodies (e.g., MEA, NITI Aayog), analysts in think tanks, or faculty in universities specializing in International Relations or Area Studies. While specific salary ranges for PhDs vary widely, entry-level academic/research roles in India might start from INR 6-10 LPA, with significant growth potential in policy and senior academic positions, leveraging deep Canada-India insights.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodologies- (Semester 1)
Engage deeply with the research methodology coursework, focusing on both theoretical underpinnings and practical application of qualitative and quantitative methods relevant to Area Studies. Actively participate in seminars, critiques, and discussions to refine research questions and design.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library databases, research design textbooks, statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS for basic understanding), academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Essential for conducting rigorous research, forming the backbone for thesis work, and future roles in academia or policy analysis requiring strong analytical skills.
Deep Dive into Canadian Studies Literature- (Semester 1)
Beyond the advanced coursework, proactively identify and consume core literature, seminal works, and contemporary scholarship specific to Canadian Studies and your chosen research sub-area. Start building a comprehensive annotated bibliography.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library''''s physical and digital resources, JSTOR, Project MUSE, Google Scholar, Canadian academic journals
Career Connection
Establishes a strong theoretical foundation, critical for thesis development, and demonstrates specialized knowledge for expert roles.
Cultivate Peer and Faculty Interactions- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, colloquia, and informal discussions with fellow PhD scholars and faculty. Seek feedback on initial research ideas, coursework assignments, and engage in constructive academic debate.
Tools & Resources
Centre for Canadian, US & Latin American Studies (CCUS&LAS) events, departmental common spaces, JNU academic circles
Career Connection
Develops communication and presentation skills, builds a crucial academic network, and provides diverse perspectives on research, aiding future collaborations and career opportunities.
Intermediate Stage
Develop and Refine Thesis Proposal- (End of Year 1 / Start of Year 2)
Work closely with your supervisor to transform initial research ideas into a well-structured, feasible, and original thesis proposal. Present it internally and incorporate feedback to strengthen its theoretical and methodological framework.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, JNU PhD guidelines, proposal writing workshops, feedback from pre-submission seminars
Career Connection
A strong proposal is the blueprint for successful thesis completion and demonstrates advanced research planning capabilities, crucial for academic grants and research positions.
Engage in Fieldwork or Archival Research- (Year 2-3)
If relevant to your topic, plan and execute fieldwork, interviews, or archival research in Canada or India. This involves rigorous preparation, ethical clearances, and meticulous data collection.
Tools & Resources
JNU research grants, external funding opportunities (e.g., Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute), travel logistics support, ethical review board
Career Connection
Provides primary data, enriches the thesis with original insights, and develops practical research skills highly valued in academic and policy analysis roles.
Present at Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2-3)
Seek opportunities to present your ongoing research at national and international conferences, workshops, and departmental seminars. This helps in gaining critical feedback and networking with experts in Canadian Studies.
Tools & Resources
Calls for papers (CFP) from academic associations (e.g., Canadian Studies organizations), JNU travel grants, faculty recommendations
Career Connection
Enhances academic visibility, refines presentation skills, allows for peer review of work, and builds a professional reputation, critical for academic job market.
Advanced Stage
Publish Research Papers- (Year 3-4)
Convert sections of your thesis or independent research findings into publishable articles in peer-reviewed journals. Aim for at least one or two publications before thesis submission.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals in International Relations/Area Studies, supervisor mentorship, JNU academic writing support
Career Connection
Demonstrates research productivity, significantly strengthens your academic CV, and is often a prerequisite for faculty positions.
Network with Policy & Industry Experts- (Year 4-5)
Attend policy dialogues, seminars, and events organized by think tanks, foreign policy bodies, or the Canadian High Commission in India. Engage with practitioners to understand the real-world implications of your research.
Tools & Resources
Think tank events (ORF, ICWA), diplomatic receptions, professional associations
Career Connection
Opens doors to career paths in policy advocacy, diplomacy, government advisory roles, and provides practical insights beyond academia.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Career Transition- (Year 4-5)
Rigorously prepare for your pre-submission seminar and final viva-voce. Concurrently, start building a strong academic portfolio (CV, teaching statement, research statement) or professional resume tailored to your desired career path.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, career counseling services, professional networking platforms (LinkedIn), academic job boards
Career Connection
Ensures successful completion of the PhD, and proactive preparation for the job market, whether in academia, policy, or other specialized research roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- M.Phil. Degree or 2 year Master’s Degree in Political Science, History, Economics, Geography, Sociology, International Relations/Area Studies or allied subjects with at least 55% marks or equivalent Grade ''''B'''' in UGC 7-point scale. Relaxation of 5% marks for SC/ST/OBC (Non creamy Layer)/Persons with Disability/EWS categories. An equivalent degree from a foreign educational institution accredited by a recognized authority is also accepted.
Duration: Minimum 2 years, maximum 5 years from provisional registration (typically 3-5 years for completion)
Credits: 56 credits (8 for coursework, 48 for research work) Credits
Assessment: Internal: Coursework: Evaluated internally by the Centre/Supervisor. Minimum 6.00 GPA (B grade) required to continue in the program. Research Work: Ongoing evaluation by Supervisor., External: Research Work: Comprehensive viva-voce after coursework, thesis evaluation by internal and external examiners, final viva voce for thesis defense.
