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PHD in Chinese Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Chinese Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This Chinese Studies PhD program at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on advanced interdisciplinary research into the multifaceted dimensions of China. It delves into the country''''s complex history, political economy, society, culture, foreign policy, and strategic significance. The program aims to cultivate in-depth expertise and critical analytical skills for scholars specializing in China, offering an unparalleled academic environment within an Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for research enthusiasts with a strong academic background in social sciences, humanities, or international relations, particularly those holding an M.A. or M.Phil. in Chinese Studies, East Asian Studies, Political Science, Economics, History, or allied fields. It caters to fresh graduates aspiring for a career in academia, policy analysis, strategic think tanks, or international organizations, as well as working professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in China-related affairs for career advancement.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths as academics and researchers in universities and think tanks, policy advisors for government bodies, analysts in strategic affairs, or experts in multinational corporations with business interests in China. Entry-level salaries for PhD holders in academia typically range from INR 6-10 lakhs per annum, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals in research and policy roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Research Foundations & Methodology- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with coursework on research methodology, focusing on theoretical frameworks, quantitative/qualitative techniques, and ethical considerations specific to area studies. Formulate preliminary research questions and conduct extensive literature reviews.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library databases, JSTOR, ResearchGate, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Methodology textbooks
Career Connection
Essential for robust thesis development, securing research grants, and demonstrating academic rigor for future academic or policy research positions.
Cultivating Deep Area Expertise- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, delve into specialized readings, seminars, and workshops focused on Chinese history, politics, economy, and culture. Develop a strong theoretical grounding and identify potential areas of research interest for the thesis.
Tools & Resources
Centre-specific seminars, JNU faculty lectures, International academic journals (e.g., China Quarterly, Journal of Contemporary China), Relevant online courses
Career Connection
Builds the foundation for becoming a recognized expert, enhancing credibility for academic roles, policy analysis, and consulting.
Enhancing Academic Writing & Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on refining academic writing for research papers and thesis proposals. Participate in student presentations and workshops to improve oral communication and defense skills. Seek feedback from peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
JNU academic writing workshops, English language resources, Grammarly, Peer review groups, Departmental presentation sessions
Career Connection
Crucial for publishing research, presenting at conferences, and effectively communicating complex ideas in any professional setting.
Intermediate Stage
Developing and Refining the Research Proposal- (Semester 3-4)
Work closely with the supervisor to transform preliminary ideas into a well-structured, feasible, and impactful PhD research proposal. Conduct a thorough review of existing literature and identify research gaps.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor consultations, JNU Research Advisory Committee meetings, Academic proposal writing guides, Institutional ethics committee guidelines
Career Connection
A strong proposal is fundamental for thesis approval, securing fellowships, and defining a clear research trajectory, vital for academic and think tank roles.
Engaging in Fieldwork & Data Collection- (Semester 4-5)
If applicable, plan and execute fieldwork, archival research, or interviews in China or other relevant locations (with necessary permissions). Systematically collect and organize primary and secondary data.
Tools & Resources
Research travel grants (UGC, ICSSR, JNU internal), Language skills, Digital archiving tools, Qualitative/quantitative data software (NVivo, SPSS)
Career Connection
Provides unique empirical insights, strengthens the thesis, and develops practical research skills highly valued by research institutions and policy bodies.
Networking and Conference Participation- (Semester 3-5)
Actively attend and present preliminary research findings at national and international conferences/seminars related to Chinese Studies. Network with scholars, faculty from other institutions, and policy practitioners.
Tools & Resources
Conference calendars (e.g., AAS, EACS), JNU departmental announcements, Faculty recommendations, Travel grant applications
Career Connection
Builds academic visibility, facilitates collaboration, receives critical feedback, and creates opportunities for future employment or postdoctoral positions.
Advanced Stage
Sustained Thesis Writing & Chapter Development- (Semester 6 onwards)
Maintain a consistent writing schedule, focusing on developing thesis chapters based on collected data and analysis. Regularly submit drafts to the supervisor for feedback and integrate revisions.
Tools & Resources
Writing groups, Academic writing coaches (if available), Focused writing retreats, Reference management software, Word processors
Career Connection
Timely thesis completion is paramount for obtaining the degree, enabling application for academic positions, and establishing research credentials.
Preparing for Pre-Submission & Final Viva-Voce- (Final year of PhD)
Thoroughly prepare for the pre-submission seminar and the final viva-voce examination. Practice presenting the core arguments, defending methodologies, and responding to critical questions from examiners.
Tools & Resources
Mock vivas with peers/mentors, Supervisor guidance, Review of key literature, Understanding examination regulations
Career Connection
Successfully defending the thesis is the final step to earning the PhD, crucial for all subsequent career opportunities requiring the degree.
Publishing and Disseminating Research- (Post-submission and ongoing)
Beyond the thesis, aim to publish chapters or articles from the research in peer-reviewed journals. Consider contributing to policy briefs or edited volumes to disseminate findings to a wider audience.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms, Academic editing services, Networking with journal editors, University press opportunities
Career Connection
Publications are critical for academic career progression, demonstrating research impact, and establishing oneself as a leading scholar in the field.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Chinese, East Asian Studies, International Relations, Political Science, Economics, History, or an allied discipline with a minimum of 55% marks, OR an M.Phil. degree in a relevant discipline with a minimum of 55% marks. Candidates must qualify the JNU Entrance Examination (presently NTA-UGC NET/JRF score).
Duration: Minimum 3 years after M.Phil. or 4 years after Master''''s, typically extending to 5-6 years for thesis completion as per UGC norms.
Credits: 16 (for coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCHS-RM | Research Methodology in Chinese Studies | Core | 4 | Research paradigms and approaches, Qualitative and quantitative research methods, Data collection and analysis techniques, Literature review and academic writing, Ethical considerations in social science research |
| CCHS-MCP | Modern and Contemporary China: Society and Politics | Core | 4 | Historical context of modern China, Rise and evolution of the Communist Party of China (CPC), Political system and governance structures, Social transformations and cultural dynamics, Key challenges in contemporary Chinese society |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCHS-FPI | Chinese Foreign Policy and International Relations | Core | 4 | Theoretical perspectives on Chinese foreign policy, China''''s relations with major global powers (USA, India, Russia), Regional diplomacy in East Asia and ASEAN, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its implications, Security issues and China''''s role in global governance |
| CCHS-CED | Chinese Economy and Development | Core | 4 | China''''s economic reforms and open-door policy, Role of state-owned enterprises and private sector growth, Trade, investment, and global economic integration, Technological innovation and industrial policies, Regional disparities and sustainable development challenges |
