.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-A in Philosophy at Kalinga University
Raipur, Chhattisgarh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Philosophy at Kalinga University Raipur?
This M.A. Philosophy program at Kalinga University focuses on a comprehensive study of both Indian and Western philosophical traditions, exploring epistemology, ethics, metaphysics, logic, and socio-political thought. It aims to develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for understanding complex societal and existential questions. The curriculum integrates classical doctrines with contemporary issues, fostering a holistic intellectual development relevant to diverse fields in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for humanities graduates seeking a deeper understanding of fundamental questions and critical reasoning. It suits individuals interested in academic research, teaching, or roles requiring strong analytical and ethical frameworks. Working professionals from fields like journalism, law, or public administration can also benefit by enriching their perspectives and enhancing their problem-solving abilities.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including academia as professors or researchers, content development, civil services, ethical consulting, and journalism. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15 LPA. The program also prepares students for UGC NET/JRF examinations, opening avenues for higher education and research fellowships within India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Philosophical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational concepts in Indian and Western philosophy. Utilize university library resources, engage in discussion groups with peers, and clarify doubts promptly with professors. This builds a strong base for advanced topics.
Tools & Resources
University Library, Peer Study Groups, Academic Journals
Career Connection
A strong conceptual foundation is crucial for excelling in academic research, competitive exams like UGC NET, and for articulate communication in any professional field.
Develop Critical Reading and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly practice critically analyzing philosophical texts and articulating arguments in written assignments. Seek feedback on essays and participate in academic workshops on research paper writing. This enhances analytical rigor.
Tools & Resources
Writing Centers, Online academic writing guides, Feedback from professors
Career Connection
Strong analytical and argumentative writing skills are invaluable for research, policy analysis, content creation, and civil services, making graduates highly competent.
Engage in Debates and Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom debates, philosophical society meetings, and inter-collegiate discussions. Present your viewpoints and constructively challenge others, fostering intellectual agility and confidence.
Tools & Resources
Philosophy Club, Departmental Seminars, Online discussion forums
Career Connection
Effective communication and debate skills are essential for teaching, public speaking, legal professions, and leadership roles, providing a significant edge in the Indian job market.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3-4)
Identify how philosophical concepts intersect with other disciplines like sociology, political science, literature, or psychology. Attend guest lectures and workshops on interdisciplinary themes to broaden your intellectual horizons.
Tools & Resources
Interdisciplinary seminars, Research papers on cross-disciplinary topics, Departmental collaborations
Career Connection
An interdisciplinary approach enhances problem-solving capabilities, making graduates valuable in diverse fields requiring holistic thinking, such as policy formulation or think tanks.
Begin Research and Literature Review- (Semester 3-4)
Start identifying areas of personal interest for your dissertation early. Engage in thorough literature reviews, utilizing academic databases and journals to understand current research trends and identify gaps. Consult faculty for guidance.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, University Research Databases, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
Early research exposure is vital for a robust dissertation, which in turn strengthens academic profiles for PhD admissions and research positions in Indian universities or institutes.
Participate in Academic Conferences- (Semester 3-4)
Attend philosophy conferences and seminars at Kalinga University or other institutions. Consider presenting a paper based on your research interests to gain experience and network with scholars in the field.
Tools & Resources
Conference announcements, Funding opportunities for travel/registration, Networking events
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds academic credibility, provides networking opportunities for future research or employment, and refines presentation skills essential for academia and public sector roles.
Advanced Stage
Refine Dissertation and Viva Voce Preparation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate focused effort to writing and refining your dissertation. Practice your presentation and defense (viva voce) extensively with faculty and peers, anticipating potential questions and strengthening your arguments.
Tools & Resources
Dissertation guidelines, Mock viva sessions, Faculty feedback
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a cornerstone for academic careers and demonstrates high-level research capabilities, crucial for obtaining coveted positions in Indian educational institutions.
Prepare for UGC NET/JRF and Other Competitive Exams- (Semester 4)
Alongside dissertation work, systematically prepare for national-level examinations like UGC NET/JRF for lectureship and research. Enroll in coaching classes if needed and practice with previous year papers. This is critical for academic entry.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, UGC NET study material, Coaching institutes
Career Connection
Qualifying NET/JRF opens doors to teaching positions in colleges/universities and secures research fellowships, significantly boosting career prospects in Indian academia.
Build Professional Network and Explore Career Options- (Semester 4)
Network with alumni, attending career counseling sessions, and exploring diverse career avenues beyond academia, such as content writing, NGOs, or civil services. Tailor your resume and interview skills for specific roles.
Tools & Resources
Alumni network events, Career services center, LinkedIn
Career Connection
Proactive networking and career exploration lead to informed decisions and better placement opportunities, ensuring a smooth transition from academics to a chosen professional field in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation in any discipline with a minimum of 50% marks for general category and 45% for SC/ST/OBC category.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 60 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA Phil 101 | Problem of Philosophy (Western) | Core | 4 | Nature, Scope and Method of Philosophy, Rationalism (Descartes, Spinoza, Leibniz), Empiricism (Locke, Berkeley, Hume), Kant''''s Critical Philosophy, Existentialism (Kierkegaard, Sartre), Logical Positivism (A.J. Ayer) |
| MA Phil 102 | Indian Epistemology | Core | 4 | Nature and Sources of Knowledge (Pramana), Charvaka epistemology, Buddhist epistemology, Jaina epistemology, Nyaya theory of knowledge, Mimamsa and Advaita Vedanta on knowledge |
| MA Phil 103 | Indian Ethics | Core | 4 | The concept of Dharma and its types, Vedic and Upanisadic ethical ideas, Ethics of Bhagavad Gita (Nishkama Karma, Sthitaprajna), Buddhist ethics (Four Noble Truths, Eightfold Path), Jaina ethics (Anuvratas, Mahavratas), Mimamsa Ethics (Apavarga, Adharma) |
| MA Phil 104 | Indian Logic | Core | 4 | Nature of Indian Logic, Pramanas, Nyaya theory of inference (Anumana), Buddhist theory of inference, Jaina theory of inference, Fallacies of inference (Hetvabhasa), Pramana system of Carvaka, Samkhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, Advaita Vedanta |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA Phil 201 | Ethics (Western) | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Ethics, Moral and Non-moral actions, Origin and Object of Moral Judgement, Theories of Punishment, Utilitarianism (Bentham, Mill), Deontology (Kant), Virtue Ethics (Aristotle) |
| MA Phil 202 | Metaphysics (Western) | Core | 4 | Nature and problems of Metaphysics, Appearance and Reality, Theories of Substance (Spinoza, Leibniz, Locke, Berkeley, Hume), The problem of Universals, Mind-Body problem (Dualism, Materialism, Idealism), Causality |
| MA Phil 203 | Socio Political Philosophy (Western) | Core | 4 | Nature and scope of Socio-Political Philosophy, State, Sovereignty, Law and Justice, Theories of Social Contract (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), Liberty, Equality, Rights, Democracy and Socialism, Feminism and Multiculturalism |
| MA Phil 204 | Contemporary Indian Philosophy | Core | 4 | Swami Vivekananda (Practical Vedanta, Universal Religion), Mahatma Gandhi (Satyagraha, Ahimsa, Sarvodaya), Sri Aurobindo (Evolution, Integral Yoga), Rabindranath Tagore (Religion of Man, Humanism), Dr. S. Radhakrishnan (Idealist View of Life, Intuition), Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (Neo-Buddhism, Social Justice) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA Phil 301 | Social and Political Philosophy (Indian) | Core | 4 | Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha, Varna and Ashrama System, Concept of State (Kautilya, Manu), Justice and Governance in ancient India, Equality and Human Rights in Indian context, Gandhian concept of State and Society |
| MA Phil 302 | Philosophy of Religion (Indian) | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Philosophy of Religion, Concept of God (Monotheism, Polytheism, Atheism), Proofs for the Existence of God, Karma and Rebirth, Liberation (Moksha), Problem of Evil |
| MA Phil 303 | Applied Ethics | Core | 4 | Environmental Ethics (Deep Ecology, Anthropocentrism), Bioethics (Euthanasia, Abortion, Surrogacy), Business Ethics (Corporate Social Responsibility, Whistleblowing), Media Ethics (Freedom of Speech, Privacy), Professional Ethics, Animal Rights |
| MA Phil 304 | Philosophy of Language (Western) | Core | 4 | Meaning and Reference, Theories of Meaning (Referential, Ideational, Behavioristic), Sense and Reference (Frege), Definite Descriptions (Russell), Speech Acts (Austin), Language-games (Wittgenstein) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA Phil 401 | Dissertation | Project | 8 | Research Methodology, Literature Review, Thesis Writing, Data Analysis, Presentation Skills, Independent Research |
| MA Phil 402A | Philosophy of Mind (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Mind-Body Problem, Consciousness, Intentionality, Functionalism, Eliminative Materialism, Artificial Intelligence |
| MA Phil 402B | Philosophy of Science (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Nature of Scientific Method, Falsification, Paradigm Shifts, Scientific Realism, Induction, Causation |
| MA Phil 402C | Aesthetics (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Nature of Art, Beauty, Artistic Experience, Mimesis, Catharsis, Art Criticism |
| MA Phil 402D | Existentialism (Elective) | Elective | 4 | Existence and Essence, Freedom and Responsibility, Anguish, Absurdity, Authenticity, Death |
