
PHD in International Organisation at Jawaharlal Nehru University


Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is International Organisation at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This International Organisation PhD program at Jawaharlal Nehru University offers advanced research into the theoretical foundations, functional dynamics, and evolving roles of international institutions in global governance. Leveraging JNU''''s strong tradition in international studies, the program delves into complex issues, addressing India''''s strategic engagement with multilateral organizations and its impact on regional and global policy. It prepares scholars to critically analyze the efficacy and challenges confronting international bodies in a multipolar world.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, seasoned policy analysts, and researchers seeking to contribute original scholarship to the field of international relations and global governance. It caters to individuals with a strong academic background in political science, international studies, economics, or history, who possess analytical rigor and a keen interest in theoretical and empirical aspects of international organizations and their implications for India''''s foreign policy.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers in academia, leading think tanks, government agencies (e.g., Ministry of External Affairs), and international organizations. They emerge as experts in global governance, equipped to influence policy debates and contribute to strategic decision-making. Potential roles include university professors, foreign policy advisors, research fellows, and diplomats, commanding competitive salaries ranging from INR 8-25 LPA depending on experience and sector in India.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with the Research Methodology coursework (IS 601), focusing on both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Attend departmental workshops on research design, data analysis, and academic writing to build a robust methodological foundation for your doctoral thesis. Actively participate in class discussions and seek mentorship from faculty to refine your research questions.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library (e-resources, research databases), Statistical software (R, SPSS, NVivo), Academic writing guides, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
A strong grasp of research methods is fundamental for rigorous academic publication and policy analysis, crucial for careers in academia, think tanks, and research organizations, enhancing your credibility as a scholar.
Conduct Comprehensive Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically review existing scholarship in International Organisation, identifying gaps and potential areas for original contribution. Utilize JNU''''s extensive library resources and online databases to compile an annotated bibliography. Engage in critical reading to understand theoretical debates and empirical findings, which will inform your research proposal development.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library Catalog, JSTOR, Project MUSE, Scopus, Web of Science, Zotero/Mendeley (reference managers)
Career Connection
This practice builds foundational expertise and demonstrates scholarly rigor, essential for thesis writing and positioning your research within the broader academic discourse, crucial for academic and research roles.
Network with Peers and Faculty- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, colloquia, and reading groups within SIS, particularly those related to CIPOD. Engage with fellow PhD scholars to discuss research ideas, challenges, and receive feedback. Cultivate relationships with faculty members, seeking their guidance on your research trajectory and potential funding opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, JNU academic events calendar, SIS and CIPOD faculty directory
Career Connection
Building a strong academic network is invaluable for future collaborations, receiving letters of recommendation, and accessing job opportunities in academia and research, both in India and internationally.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Research Proposal- (Semester 3-4)
Formulate a clear, concise, and original PhD research proposal that outlines your research question, theoretical framework, methodology, and expected contributions. Present your proposal in departmental forums and incorporate feedback to strengthen its intellectual merit and feasibility. This stage is crucial before your comprehensive viva.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor mentorship, Proposal writing workshops, Sample PhD proposals from JNU alumni
Career Connection
A well-defined proposal is the blueprint for your PhD and a critical document for securing grants and demonstrating your potential as an independent researcher, vital for academic and think tank positions.
Engage in Academic Conferences and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Attend and present preliminary research findings at national and international academic conferences relevant to International Organisation. This provides exposure to broader academic debates, opportunities for networking, and valuable feedback from experts in the field. Participate in specialized workshops to hone specific skills like advanced statistical analysis or qualitative interviewing techniques.
Tools & Resources
Conference alert platforms (e.g., H-Net, ISA), JNU travel grants/funding opportunities, Professional associations (ISA, IPSA)
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences enhances your academic profile, leads to potential collaborations, and is a prerequisite for academic job applications, making you competitive for faculty and research roles.
Seek Publication Opportunities- (Semester 4-5)
Transform select chapters of your M.Phil. work or initial PhD research into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals. Publishing early establishes your scholarly presence and is a strong indicator of research productivity, crucial for securing academic positions. Target journals relevant to International Organisation and JNU''''s areas of strength.
Tools & Resources
Journal citation databases (Scopus, Web of Science), JNU faculty contacts for co-authorship, Academic writing support services
Career Connection
Publications are the currency of academia; they significantly boost your CV for academic jobs, post-doctoral fellowships, and research grants, demonstrating your capacity for independent, high-quality research.
Advanced Stage
Refine Thesis for Timely Submission and Defence- (Semester 6 onwards)
Work closely with your supervisor to ensure your thesis is a coherent, well-argued, and original contribution to the field. Adhere to JNU''''s guidelines for thesis formatting and submission. Prepare meticulously for your pre-submission seminar and the final viva voce, anticipating questions and defending your arguments with confidence.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor feedback, JNU PhD thesis guidelines, Mock viva sessions with peers/mentors
Career Connection
Successfully defending your thesis is the culmination of your PhD journey, marking you as an independent scholar. A well-written thesis opens doors to academic, research, and policy-making careers.
Build a Professional Digital Footprint- (Throughout PhD, intensified in advanced stage)
Create and maintain a professional academic website or an updated LinkedIn profile showcasing your research interests, publications, and presentations. Actively participate in online academic discussions and use platforms like ResearchGate or Academia.edu to share your work and connect with global scholars in International Organisation.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, ResearchGate, Academia.edu, Personal academic website platforms
Career Connection
A strong online presence enhances your visibility to potential employers, collaborators, and funding agencies, critical for career advancement in a globally connected academic and policy environment.
Explore Post-Doctoral and Career Opportunities- (Semester 5 onwards)
Proactively research post-doctoral fellowships, faculty positions, and research roles in think tanks or international organizations that align with your specialization. Tailor your CV and cover letters, and practice interview skills. Leverage your JNU network for referrals and insights into the job market, both in India and abroad.
Tools & Resources
Academic job boards (e.g., Chronicle of Higher Education, jobs.ac.uk), Think tank career pages, JNU Career Counselling Cell
Career Connection
Strategic career planning in the advanced stages ensures a smooth transition from PhD candidate to a professional in your chosen field, securing rewarding and impactful positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates must hold an M.Phil. degree or a 2-year Master''''s degree (MA/M.Sc./M.Tech. or equivalent) in a relevant discipline from a recognized university, with a minimum of 55% aggregate marks (or equivalent grade).
Duration: Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years
Credits: Minimum 8, Maximum 12 (for compulsory coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified




