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PHD in South East Asian Southwest Pacific Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is South East Asian & Southwest Pacific Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University Delhi?
This PhD program in South East Asian & Southwest Pacific Studies at Jawaharlal Nehru University focuses on providing an advanced, interdisciplinary understanding of these crucial geopolitical regions. It delves into their complex histories, political economies, societies, and international relations. In the Indian context, this specialization is increasingly relevant given India''''s Act East Policy and growing strategic and economic engagements with both Southeast Asia and the Southwest Pacific, driving a demand for expert regional analysts.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring academics, policy analysts, and researchers with a strong foundation in social sciences or humanities who seek to specialize in the Indo-Pacific region. It caters to fresh graduates aiming for a research-oriented career in think tanks, government bodies, or international organizations, as well as working professionals looking to transition into area studies or enhance their expertise for foreign policy roles.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers as university professors, foreign policy advisors, diplomatic service officers, or specialists in international organizations and NGOs focused on the Indo-Pacific. Typical salary ranges in India for entry-level researchers can be INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience to 15-25 lakhs or more for senior roles in policy research or academia. It also prepares individuals for roles aligning with India''''s strategic imperatives in the region.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Area Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly engage with the compulsory Research Methodology course (RC-600) to build a robust theoretical and practical foundation in qualitative and quantitative research. Simultaneously, select core elective courses that solidify foundational knowledge of the chosen sub-region (Southeast Asia or Southwest Pacific), actively participating in seminars and discussions to grasp key concepts and debates.
Tools & Resources
JNU Library (e-resources, archives), Syllabus reading lists, Research method handbooks (e.g., Sage Research Methods), Online academic databases (JSTOR, Scopus)
Career Connection
Strong methodological grounding and regional expertise are critical for all future research, policy analysis, and academic roles, ensuring rigorous and credible contributions.
Identify and Refine Research Interests- (Semester 1-2)
During the coursework phase, proactively engage with faculty mentors and senior scholars to explore and refine potential PhD thesis topics within South East Asian & Southwest Pacific Studies. Attend Centre seminars and workshops to identify emerging research gaps and interdisciplinary connections relevant to contemporary issues in the region.
Tools & Resources
Faculty office hours, Research seminars and colloquia, Academic journals in area studies, Grant application guidelines
Career Connection
A well-defined and original research proposal is the bedrock of a successful PhD and can attract funding, shaping future academic and policy-oriented career trajectories.
Develop Academic Writing & Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on developing advanced academic writing, critical analysis, and public speaking skills through coursework assignments, presentations, and active participation in scholarly debates. Seek peer feedback and utilize university writing centers to hone clarity, coherence, and argumentation essential for PhD level work.
Tools & Resources
JNU Writing Centre, Academic style guides (e.g., Chicago, APA), Presentation software (PowerPoint, Keynote), Peer review groups
Career Connection
Exceptional communication skills are indispensable for publishing research, presenting at conferences, and effectively conveying policy recommendations, crucial for both academic and policy careers.
Intermediate Stage
Prepare for Comprehensive Examination and Proposal Defense- (Semester 3-5)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for the comprehensive examination, which typically covers broad knowledge of the specialization and theoretical frameworks. Concurrently, meticulously develop and defend your PhD research proposal, incorporating feedback from your supervisor and the doctoral committee to ensure a robust and viable research plan.
Tools & Resources
Reading groups with peers, Previous years'''' comprehensive exam papers (if available), Supervisor guidance, Literature review tools (Zotero, Mendeley)
Career Connection
Passing the comprehensive exam and defending a strong proposal demonstrates readiness for independent research, a key milestone recognized by academic institutions and research organizations.
Engage in Fieldwork or Archival Research- (Semester 3-5)
Once the proposal is approved, plan and execute fieldwork or extensive archival research in the South East Asian or Southwest Pacific region, or in relevant Indian archives. This involves securing necessary permits, building local contacts, and collecting primary data, which is crucial for original contributions to the field.
Tools & Resources
JNU International Collaboration Office, Travel grants and fellowships (ICSSR, institutional), Local university contacts, Data management tools
Career Connection
Original research, especially involving fieldwork, significantly enhances the quality and impact of your dissertation, making you a more competitive candidate for academic positions and specialized research roles.
Present Research at National/International Forums- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to present preliminary research findings at national and international academic conferences, workshops, and seminars. This helps in networking with scholars, receiving critical feedback, and gaining exposure within the academic community, while also refining your arguments and presentation style.
Tools & Resources
Conference databases (All Academic, Call for Papers), JNU conference grants, Professional associations (ISA, AAS), Academic mentors
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds your academic profile, demonstrates scholarly engagement, and opens doors for collaborations, potential job opportunities, and future publications.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation Writing and Publication- (Semester 6 onwards)
Prioritize the systematic writing of your dissertation, maintaining regular communication with your supervisor for feedback and guidance. Aim to publish chapters or articles from your ongoing research in peer-reviewed journals before your defense, establishing a publication record early in your career.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing software (Scrivener, LaTeX), Journal databases (JSTOR, Project MUSE), JNU research integrity office, Thesis formatting guidelines
Career Connection
A strong publication record is paramount for securing academic faculty positions and research grants, demonstrating your ability to contribute significantly to your field.
Prepare for Dissertation Defense and Post-PhD Career- (Semester 6 onwards)
Rigorously prepare for your final PhD dissertation defense, practicing your presentation and anticipating questions from the committee. Simultaneously, start building your academic CV, preparing job application materials, and networking strategically for post-doctoral fellowships, teaching positions, or policy research roles.
Tools & Resources
Mock defense sessions, Career Services at JNU, Academic job portals (HigherEdJobs, AcademicKeys), Networking events
Career Connection
A successful defense is the culmination of your PhD, opening pathways to diverse career options in academia, think tanks, government, and international organizations. Proactive job search is key.
Cultivate Mentorship and Collaborative Networks- (Throughout PhD, intensified in advanced stages)
Beyond your primary supervisor, cultivate mentorship relationships with other senior scholars in your field at JNU and externally. Seek opportunities for collaborative research projects or joint publications, which can broaden your research horizons and strengthen your professional network, crucial for long-term career growth.
Tools & Resources
University research centres, Academic societies (e.g., Indian Association for Asian Studies), Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn, ResearchGate), Email for collaboration inquiries
Career Connection
A robust academic network provides opportunities for future collaborations, peer review, and job referrals, enhancing your visibility and impact in the scholarly community.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s degree with 55% marks/B grade or equivalent in International Relations, Political Science, History, Economics, Sociology, Geography, Law, or a related discipline. A 5% relaxation in marks is provided for SC/ST/OBC/PwD/EWS categories. M.Phil. Degree holders are also eligible.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (extendable as per JNU ordinances)
Credits: 12 credits (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RC-600 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Conceptual Issues in Research, Research Design and Ethics, Qualitative Research Methods, Quantitative Research Methods, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation |
| Elective 1 (Student''''s Choice) | Selected Topic in South East Asian & Southwest Pacific Studies | Elective | 4 | Specific themes chosen from a list of M.Phil/Ph.D. optional courses relevant to the student''''s research area, focusing on either Southeast Asia or Southwest Pacific. |
| Elective 2 (Student''''s Choice) | Selected Topic in South East Asian & Southwest Pacific Studies | Elective | 4 | Specific themes chosen from a list of M.Phil/Ph.D. optional courses relevant to the student''''s research area, focusing on either Southeast Asia or Southwest Pacific. |
Semester options
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS(SWPS)-501 | Political Economy of Oceania | Elective | 4 | Development Theories, Colonial Legacy and Resource Exploitation, Aid and Trade Relations, Regional Economic Organizations, Geopolitics of Oceania |
| CS(SEAS)-502 | Security in Southeast Asia | Elective | 4 | Traditional and Non-Traditional Security Threats, Regional Security Architecture (ASEAN), Major Power Rivalry, Internal Conflicts and Terrorism, Maritime Security Issues |
| CS(SEAS)-503 | Regional Institutions and Cooperation in Southeast Asia | Elective | 4 | ASEAN''''s Evolution and Mechanisms, Cooperation Challenges and Successes, External Relations of ASEAN, Sub-regional Groupings, ASEAN Community Pillars |
| CS(SWPS)-504 | Society and Politics in Oceania | Elective | 4 | Social Structures and Dynamics, Political Systems and Governance, Indigenous Rights and Movements, Environmental Issues in Island Nations, Post-Colonial Transitions and Challenges |
| CS(SEAS)-505 | Economy of Southeast Asia | Elective | 4 | Economic Development Models, Trade Blocs and Investment Patterns, Industrialization Strategies, Financial Crises and Recovery, Sector-Specific Economic Studies |
| CS(SEAS)-506 | Politics and Society in Southeast Asia | Elective | 4 | Political Systems and Regimes, Social Movements and Activism, Identity Politics and Ethnicity, Civil-Military Relations, Democracy and Governance Debates |
| CS(SEAS)-507 | Culture, Ideology and Change in Southeast Asia | Elective | 4 | Religious Movements and Practices, Cultural Identities and Nationalism, Impact of Globalization on Culture, Social Transformation Processes, Ideologies and Political Legitimization |
| CS(SEAS)-508 | Foreign Policies of Southeast Asian Countries | Elective | 4 | Factors Influencing Foreign Policy, Relations with Major Powers, Regional Alignment Strategies, Bilateral Relations and Diplomacy, Challenges to Foreign Policy Autonomy |
| CS(SWPS)-509 | Foreign Policies of South West Pacific Countries | Elective | 4 | Small State Diplomacy, Relations with Australia and New Zealand, Climate Change and Foreign Policy, Resource Politics and Sovereignty, Regional Security Concerns |
| CS(SEAS)-510 | Development and Social Change in Vietnam | Elective | 4 | Economic Reforms (Doi Moi), Political System and Transition, Social Inequalities and Poverty, Urbanization and Demographic Shifts, Environmental Impact of Development |
| CS(SEAS)-511 | Democracy and Authoritarianism in Southeast Asia | Elective | 4 | Democratic Transitions and Challenges, Hybrid Regimes and Authoritarian Persistence, Role of Military in Politics, Civil Society and Political Reform, Human Rights and Governance |
| CS(SEAS)-512 | Contemporary Issues in Southeast Asia | Elective | 4 | Transnational Terrorism, South China Sea Disputes, Ethnic Conflicts and Separatism, Environmental Challenges and Migration, Human Rights and Regional Governance |
| CS(SEAS)-513 | India and Southeast Asia | Elective | 4 | Historical Ties and Cultural Linkages, Look/Act East Policy Implementation, Economic Cooperation and Trade, Strategic Partnership and Security, Cultural Exchanges and Diplomacy |
| CS(SWPS)-514 | Decolonisation and Nation Building in Oceania | Elective | 4 | Colonial Legacies and Independence Movements, State Formation and Sovereignty, Identity Issues and Indigenous Rights, Regional Cooperation and Security, Challenges of Post-Colonial Governance |
| CS(SWPS)-515 | Environmental and Maritime Issues in Oceania | Elective | 4 | Climate Change Impacts and Adaptation, Sea Level Rise and Displacement, Resource Management (Fisheries and Ocean), Maritime Security and Piracy, Disaster Management and Resilience |
