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PHD in History at Sahu Ram Swaroop Mahila Mahavidyalaya
Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at Sahu Ram Swaroop Mahila Mahavidyalaya Bareilly?
This History PhD program at Sahu Ram Swaroop Mahila Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with M.J.P. Rohilkhand University, focuses on advanced, in-depth research into historical events, processes, and interpretations. It aims to cultivate critical analytical skills, original scholarly contribution, and an acute understanding of historiography, crucial for enriching academic discourse and historical knowledge, particularly within the diverse Indian context. The program prioritizes rigorous methodology and independent inquiry.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for highly motivated postgraduates in History or allied fields with a strong research aptitude and a passion for historical inquiry. It suits individuals aspiring to academic careers as university professors or researchers, professionals seeking to enhance their scholarly credentials, or those aiming to contribute to cultural preservation and policy-making in India. A background in historical research and a qualifying entrance score are typically prerequisite.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue esteemed career paths as university faculty members, research fellows in national institutions, archivists, museum curators, or historical consultants in India. Entry-level academic salaries typically range from INR 6-12 LPA, with significant growth potential based on publications and experience. The PhD provides a foundation for intellectual leadership and the ability to shape historical narratives and public understanding.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Excel in Research Methodology Coursework- (Semester 1 (Coursework Phase))
Actively engage with the mandatory Research Methodology coursework, focusing on understanding diverse historical methods, quantitative/qualitative analysis, and academic ethics. Participate in all discussions, submit assignments diligently, and seek clarification from faculty. Utilize university workshops on research software and citation management.
Tools & Resources
MJP Rohilkhand University Library resources, JSTOR, Project MUSE, Zotero/Mendeley for referencing, University workshops on research software like SPSS/NVivo (if applicable)
Career Connection
A strong foundation in research methodology is paramount for designing and executing a sound PhD thesis, which directly impacts the quality of your scholarly output and future employability in research-intensive roles.
Collaborate with Your Research Supervisor Early- (Ongoing from Semester 1)
Establish a strong working relationship with your assigned research supervisor from the outset. Regularly schedule meetings to discuss your research interests, refine your topic, and get feedback on your literature review. Proactive communication is key to navigating the initial stages of PhD research successfully.
Tools & Resources
Scheduled one-on-one meetings, Email communication, Departmental faculty office hours
Career Connection
Effective mentorship is crucial for thesis completion and career guidance. A strong supervisory relationship aids in topic refinement, networking, and navigating academic challenges, directly influencing your timely graduation and future opportunities.
Begin Comprehensive Literature Review- (Semester 1 and early research phase)
Initiate a comprehensive and critical review of existing scholarship related to your potential research areas. This helps in identifying research gaps, understanding different historiographical approaches, and defining the scope of your study. Document your findings systematically, noting key arguments and debates.
Tools & Resources
University online databases, Shodhganga (for Indian theses), Bibliographic management tools, Academic search engines like Google Scholar
Career Connection
A well-executed literature review demonstrates scholarly rigor and helps to position your research within the broader field of History, which is essential for presenting a compelling research proposal and securing future research grants.
Intermediate Stage
Conduct Intensive Archival and Field Research- (Years 1.5 - 3 (Post-coursework))
Undertake extensive primary source collection, which may involve visiting national, state, or regional archives in India, historical societies, libraries, and conducting oral history interviews. Systematically transcribe, organize, and critically evaluate the gathered data, always cross-referencing sources and considering contextual biases.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, New Delhi, Uttar Pradesh State Archives, Lucknow, Local archival centers, Transcription software (if audio/video sources), Research travel grants
Career Connection
Proficiency in primary source research is the bedrock of historical scholarship and highly valued by academic institutions and heritage organizations, enhancing your credibility as a historian and opening doors to specialized research roles.
Present Research at National/International Seminars- (Years 2 - 4)
Actively seek opportunities to present your ongoing research findings at national and select international academic conferences or seminars. This provides invaluable feedback from peers and established scholars, hones your presentation skills, and helps in building an academic network crucial for collaborations and job prospects.
Tools & Resources
Calls for papers from academic associations (e.g., Indian History Congress), University travel grants, Departmental seminar series
Career Connection
Conference participation boosts your academic visibility, refines your ability to articulate complex arguments, and builds a professional network, all critical for securing academic positions and research funding in India and globally.
Develop Academic Teaching and Mentoring Skills- (Years 2.5 - 5)
Volunteer or seek opportunities to assist faculty members in teaching undergraduate or postgraduate courses within the History department. This might involve preparing lecture materials, leading discussion groups, or grading assignments. Gaining classroom experience is invaluable for aspiring academics.
Tools & Resources
Departmental teaching assistantships, Faculty mentorship, Workshops on pedagogy offered by the university
Career Connection
Demonstrated teaching ability is often a critical requirement for academic faculty positions. Developing these skills during your PhD enhances your CV and prepares you for the diverse responsibilities of an academician.
Advanced Stage
Prepare and Defend Pre-PhD Synopsis/Thesis Proposal- (Year 3 - 4)
Rigorously prepare for your pre-PhD presentation or synopsis defense, which is a formal review of your significant research progress, findings, and the proposed structure of your thesis before final submission. Incorporate all feedback from your supervisor and Departmental Research Committee to refine your arguments and methodology.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, Departmental Research Committee (DRC), University Ordinances for Synopsis defense and evaluation criteria
Career Connection
Successful synopsis defense is a crucial milestone towards thesis submission, validating your research''''s originality and rigor. It demonstrates your capability for independent scholarly work, essential for any research-intensive career.
Publish Research Articles in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Years 4 - 6 (leading up to and post-thesis submission))
Work towards transforming well-developed chapters or significant findings from your thesis into publishable research papers. Target reputable, UGC CARE listed national and international peer-reviewed journals. This process enhances your scholarly profile and demonstrates your contribution to the field.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE List journals portal, Journal databases like JSTOR, Project MUSE, University''''s research support cell for manuscript preparation
Career Connection
Publications are a cornerstone of an academic CV and significantly increase your chances of securing post-doctoral fellowships, assistant professorships, and research grants in competitive academic environments.
Engage in Strategic Career Planning and Networking- (Years 5 - 6 (leading up to thesis submission and defense))
Actively network with established scholars, attend academic job fairs, and explore diverse career opportunities in academia, research institutions, archives, and government organizations. Tailor your CV and cover letters for specific roles and diligently prepare for interviews and presentations, leveraging your research expertise.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Professional Network, Academic job portals specific to India and international institutions, University career services and alumni network, Professional associations
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and strong networking are essential for a smooth transition from a PhD candidate to a successful professional, opening doors to diverse career paths and collaborations within the historical and academic community.
