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PHD in International Legal Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is International Legal Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This International Legal Studies PhD program at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on advanced research and scholarly inquiry into various facets of international law. Situated within India''''s premier institution for international studies, the program delves into critical areas like human rights, international economic law, and environmental law, reflecting contemporary global challenges. Its interdisciplinary approach offers a unique perspective on legal issues, crucial for understanding India''''s growing role in the multilateral system.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, legal scholars, and policy advisors with an LL.M. or equivalent degree, seeking to specialize in international law. It attracts individuals dedicated to rigorous research, critical analysis, and contributing to the global discourse on legal frameworks. Professionals from government agencies, think tanks, and international organizations looking to deepen their expertise for enhanced policy formulation and advocacy also find this program suitable.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to embark on esteemed careers in academia as professors or researchers at universities and legal institutions across India. Opportunities also extend to legal advising roles in the Ministry of External Affairs, international organizations like the UN, or non-governmental organizations. With India''''s growing influence on the global stage, expertise in international law commands respect, often leading to competitive salaries in government, think tanks, and multilateral agencies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Academic Writing- (Year 1 (Semesters 1-2))
Engage deeply with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on understanding diverse research paradigms, quantitative and qualitative methods, and academic integrity. Develop a strong foundation in thesis writing by attending workshops on citation styles, literature review, and structuring arguments. This stage is critical for laying the intellectual groundwork for your doctoral research.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library Research Resources, Purdue OWL (online writing lab), Academic Databases (JSTOR, HeinOnline)
Career Connection
Strong research and writing skills are fundamental for academic careers, policy analysis, and legal research roles, enhancing credibility and analytical prowess in any professional setting.
Identify Research Niche & Supervisor Alignment- (Year 1 (Semesters 1-2))
Actively explore various sub-fields within International Legal Studies, aligning your interests with the research specializations of CILS faculty. Proactively engage with potential supervisors, discussing your preliminary research ideas and seeking guidance on refining your topic. This early alignment ensures focused research direction and strong mentorship.
Tools & Resources
CILS Faculty Profiles (JNU website), Recent publications from CILS faculty, Research proposal writing guides
Career Connection
A well-defined research niche and strong supervisory relationship are crucial for timely thesis completion and establishing a scholarly identity, which attracts future academic or research positions.
Engage in Early Scholarly Discussions & Seminars- (Year 1 (Semesters 1-2))
Participate actively in centre seminars, faculty colloquiums, and reading groups within CILS and SIS. Present preliminary ideas, engage in critical discussions, and seek feedback from peers and senior scholars. This practice fosters intellectual growth, hones presentation skills, and builds a foundational academic network within JNU.
Tools & Resources
CILS Seminar Schedule, Departmental reading lists, Academic presentation software
Career Connection
Early engagement builds confidence in presenting complex ideas and networking within the academic community, opening doors for collaborations and future opportunities in India and abroad.
Intermediate Stage
Conduct Comprehensive Literature Review & Gap Analysis- (Year 2-3)
Beyond coursework, dive deep into the existing scholarship relevant to your chosen research topic. Systematically review articles, books, and reports from diverse perspectives, identifying gaps in current knowledge. This critical analysis will refine your research questions and contribute original insights to your doctoral thesis.
Tools & Resources
JNU e-resources portal, Google Scholar, LexisNexis India, SCC Online, Mendeley/Zotero for referencing
Career Connection
Mastering literature review is vital for developing a robust theoretical framework, essential for high-quality publications and becoming a recognized expert in your specialized field of international law.
Participate in National/International Conferences & Workshops- (Year 2-3)
Submit research abstracts to relevant national and international conferences (e.g., ISIL annual conference, academic law conferences). Attend workshops focusing on advanced research methods or specific areas of international law. This provides exposure, feedback on your work, and networking opportunities beyond JNU.
Tools & Resources
Conference alert platforms (H-Net), ISIL website, Travel grants (JNU/UGC/ICHR), Presentation skill workshops
Career Connection
Presenting research at conferences enhances visibility, provides critical feedback, and builds professional networks crucial for academic placements and collaborations in India and globally.
Begin Journal Article Writing & Publication- (Year 2-3)
Transform portions of your refined research into publishable journal articles. Focus on targeting reputable peer-reviewed journals in international law, working closely with your supervisor for feedback and revisions. Early publications significantly strengthen your academic CV, which is paramount for Indian academic recruitment.
Tools & Resources
List of UGC CARE listed journals in Law, SSRN, Academia.edu, Journal submission platforms
Career Connection
Publications are the bedrock of an academic career, demonstrating research output and establishing expertise, directly impacting faculty recruitment and promotion prospects in India''''s higher education system.
Advanced Stage
Intensify Thesis Writing & Defence Preparation- (Year 4-6)
Dedicate focused effort to completing your doctoral thesis, adhering to JNU''''s rigorous guidelines for structure and formatting. Work closely with your supervisor on chapter revisions, ensuring logical flow, analytical rigor, and originality. Prepare thoroughly for your pre-submission seminar and the final viva-voce defence.
Tools & Resources
JNU PhD Ordinance and Guidelines, Thesis formatting guides, Mock viva sessions with peers/faculty
Career Connection
Successful thesis completion and a strong defence are the ultimate milestones, directly leading to PhD degree conferral and unlocking all subsequent career opportunities in academia, government, or international organizations.
Network with Industry & Policy Stakeholders- (Year 4-6)
Actively build connections with legal professionals in international organizations, government ministries (e.g., MEA, Ministry of Law & Justice), and policy think tanks within India. Attend relevant seminars, webinars, and policy discussions where key stakeholders are present to explore non-academic career pathways.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional legal associations (e.g., ISIL, Bar Council of India), JNU Alumni Network, Public policy events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to diverse career options beyond academia, including roles in policy advocacy, legal consultancy, and diplomatic services, leveraging your specialized knowledge in the Indian context.
Develop Teaching & Mentoring Skills- (Year 4-6)
Seek opportunities to assist faculty in teaching undergraduate or master''''s courses at JNU or affiliated institutions, lead tutorials, or mentor junior research scholars. Develop pedagogical skills, curriculum design ideas, and effective communication strategies. This experience is invaluable for aspiring academics in India.
Tools & Resources
JNU Teaching Learning Centre (if available), Instructional design resources, Peer feedback on teaching demonstrations
Career Connection
Teaching experience is often a prerequisite for academic positions at Indian universities and colleges, demonstrating your ability to disseminate knowledge effectively and contribute to institutional education.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (M.A./M.Sc./M.Phil./M.Tech./MCA/LL.M. or equivalent) in the relevant discipline with at least 55% marks (or equivalent Grade ''''B'''' in UGC 7-point scale or equivalent). A relaxation of 5% of marks (from 55% to 50%) or an equivalent relaxation of grade shall be allowed for those belonging to SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)/Differently-Abled/Economically Weaker Section (EWS) categories. NET/JRF qualified candidates may be exempted from the entrance examination but must still apply and appear for an interview.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years (including 1-2 semesters of coursework)
Credits: 8 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
