

DOCTOR-OF-PHILOSOPHY in Music at Mohanlal Sukhadia University


Udaipur, Rajasthan
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Music at Mohanlal Sukhadia University Udaipur?
This Doctor of Philosophy in Music program at Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur focuses on advanced research and scholarly inquiry into various facets of music. It delves into Indian musicological traditions, contemporary trends, and interdisciplinary approaches, reflecting India''''s rich musical heritage and its evolving global presence. The program emphasizes rigorous methodological training crucial for original contributions to the field of music.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for post-graduates in Music (M.A. or M.Phil.) seeking to pursue academic careers, conduct independent research, or become eminent musicologists. It targets individuals passionate about exploring the theoretical, historical, and practical dimensions of music, contributing new knowledge, and engaging with critical discourse in the Indian and international music landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become leading researchers, academics, or consultants in music-related fields in India. Career paths include university professors, music historians, ethnomusicologists, and cultural researchers. Potential earnings for entry-level researchers can range from INR 4-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in academia and research institutions.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Coursework Semester)
Dedicate focused effort to understand the core principles of research methodology, including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods, hypothesis formulation, and data analysis. Actively participate in workshops on research ethics and academic writing offered by the university or department.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for data analysis (if applicable), Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, University library resources, UGC-CARE listed journals
Career Connection
A strong grasp of methodology is foundational for a robust thesis, enabling successful completion and future academic publications, which are vital for an academic career.
Deep Dive into Literature Review- (Coursework Semester)
Systematically review existing scholarly literature in your chosen area of music. Identify research gaps and current trends by reading extensively from Indian and international musicological journals and foundational texts. Engage in critical analysis of published works to refine your research problem.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, Shodhganga (Indian research repository), University''''s digital library, Peer-reviewed music journals (e.g., Sangeet Natak, Journal of the Indian Musicological Society)
Career Connection
A comprehensive literature review showcases scholarly depth, crucial for thesis development, identifying unique research contributions, and establishing your expertise in the field.
Cultivate Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Coursework Semester)
Practice structuring academic arguments, clear and concise writing, and effective oral presentations of research proposals. Seek constructive feedback from supervisors and peers on drafts of term papers, seminar presentations, and your research proposal to hone these essential communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly or similar writing aids, University''''s writing center (if available), Departmental seminars and workshops, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are vital for publishing research, presenting at national and international conferences, and effective teaching in academia, enhancing your professional visibility.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Departmental Research Colloquia and Seminars- (Year 1-2 (after coursework))
Regularly attend and actively participate in departmental seminars, research colloquia, and workshops. Present your preliminary research findings to faculty and peers to receive constructive feedback, broaden your perspective, and network with fellow researchers.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Academic networking events and conferences
Career Connection
This practice builds confidence, refines research questions, and expands your professional network, leading to potential collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and future academic positions.
Develop Fieldwork and Archival Research Skills- (Year 1-2)
For qualitative or ethnomusicological research, learn techniques for primary data collection like structured interviews, focused observations, and audio/video recording. For historical research, familiarize yourself with accessing and analyzing archival materials, ancient manuscripts, and historical recordings.
Tools & Resources
Digital audio recorders and transcription software, University archives, National Archives of India, Sangeet Natak Akademi archives, local cultural institutions
Career Connection
Essential for conducting original research, leading to unique contributions to the field of musicology and enhancing employability in cultural institutions, museums, or research roles.
Prepare for UGC NET/JRF Examination- (Year 1-2 (or until cleared))
While pursuing your Ph.D., concurrently prepare for the UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) examination in Music. This qualification is crucial for eligibility for assistant professorships and provides a valuable research fellowship.
Tools & Resources
Previous year''''s question papers for UGC NET Music, Online coaching platforms and study materials specifically for UGC NET Music, UGC website for latest updates and syllabus
Career Connection
Securing JRF provides financial support for your ongoing research, and NET qualification is mandatory for teaching positions in most Indian universities and colleges, opening up academic career paths.
Advanced Stage
Maintain Regular Supervisor Meetings and Progress Reporting- (Year 2-3+)
Maintain consistent communication with your assigned research supervisor. Schedule regular, productive meetings to discuss research progress, address challenges, and receive detailed guidance on drafting thesis chapters. Submit periodic progress reports as required by the university''''s Ph.D. regulations.
Tools & Resources
Shared online documents for drafts and feedback, Calendar reminders for meetings, University''''s official research progress forms
Career Connection
Ensures timely thesis completion, maintains research rigor, and helps in developing effective mentorship relationships, which are crucial for long-term academic and professional growth.
Focus on Publication and Conference Presentations- (Year 2-3+)
Actively aim to publish at least one research paper in a reputable UGC-CARE listed journal or present your original work at national or international conferences before your thesis submission. This activity demonstrates scholarly output and strengthens your academic profile significantly.
Tools & Resources
UGC-CARE list of approved journals, Academic conference portals (e.g., India Conferences, EasyChair), University''''s research publication support cell
Career Connection
Publications and conference presentations are critical for academic recruitment, promotions, and building a credible reputation in your specific field of musicology, making you a more desirable candidate.
Prepare for Viva-Voce and Future Career Planning- (Final year/months before submission)
Thoroughly prepare for your Ph.D. viva-voce examination by reviewing your thesis content comprehensively, anticipating potential questions, and practicing oral defense. Concurrently, begin preparing job applications, tailoring your CV, and drafting teaching statements for academic positions or other research roles.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with peers or mentors, University''''s career services (if available), Online job portals (e.g., Naukri, university career pages, Academic Jobs Wiki)
Career Connection
Successful viva-voce is the final step to earning your doctorate, directly impacting your immediate career prospects. Proactive career planning ensures a smooth and effective transition into the professional world post-Ph.D.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (or equivalent) in the relevant subject with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-Abled candidates) or an M.Phil. degree from a recognized university.
Duration: 1 Semester (Coursework); Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (Overall Ph.D.)
Credits: 16 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: University Examination for Course Work; minimum 55% marks required to pass
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Research Methodology (Common to all faculties) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research, Types of Research and Approaches, Research Problem and Hypotheses, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection and Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Research Report Writing and Ethics |
| Paper II | Review of Literature and Current Trends (Music) | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Musicological Texts, Historical Development of Indian Music, Contemporary Music Trends and Styles, Ethnomusicology and Field Research, Music Education and Pedagogy Research, Psychoacoustics of Music, Digital Humanities in Music Research |
| Paper III | Advanced/Specialized Study in Music | Core | 4 | Advanced Raga System and Theory, Tala System and Complex Rhythmic Structures, Performance Practices and Stylistic Analysis, Aesthetics of Indian Music, Music Composition Techniques, Vocal and Instrumental Techniques and Traditions, Comparative Musicology |
| Elective Paper | Elective/Open Elective | Elective | 4 |




