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PHD-PERFORMING-ARTS in Dance at Sardar Patel University
Anand, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is Dance at Sardar Patel University Anand?
This PhD in Performing Arts with a specialization in Dance at Sardar Patel University focuses on advanced scholarly inquiry into various facets of dance, ranging from its historical roots and theoretical frameworks to contemporary practices and socio-cultural impacts. It is designed to cultivate independent researchers and critical thinkers who can contribute original knowledge to the vibrant and diverse landscape of Indian performing arts. The program aims to explore the deep cultural significance and evolving dynamics of dance within the Indian context, addressing both traditional forms and modern interpretations.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for accomplished dancers, choreographers, academics with a strong background in performing arts, and cultural researchers holding a Master''''s degree in Dance or a related field. It caters to individuals passionate about deep scholarly investigation into dance, those aspiring to careers in academia, cultural heritage management, advanced choreography, or policy-making in the arts sector. Strong research aptitude and a commitment to rigorous academic work are essential prerequisites for prospective candidates.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to emerge as leading scholars, educators, and innovators in the field of dance and performing arts in India. Career paths include university professorships, research positions in cultural institutions, curatorial roles, advanced artistic direction, or consultancy for cultural organizations. While direct salary figures vary widely, a PhD generally opens doors to higher academic ranks and leadership positions, with potential earnings ranging from INR 6-15 LPA for entry-level academic roles to significantly higher for experienced professionals and administrators in the Indian cultural sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodologies- (Coursework Phase (Semesters 1-2))
Engage deeply with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on qualitative and quantitative research methods relevant to humanities and performing arts. Actively participate in seminars, understand philosophical underpinnings, and practice applying various research designs to hypothetical dance studies.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for basic statistical analysis (if applicable), NVivo/Atlas.ti for qualitative data analysis, University Library resources for research journals (JSTOR, Project MUSE), Workshops on research ethics and academic writing
Career Connection
A strong foundation in research methods is critical for thesis success and future academic/research roles, ensuring your contributions are methodologically sound and academically rigorous.
Identify and Refine Research Niche- (Coursework Phase (Semesters 1-2))
Work closely with your supervisor to identify a specific, compelling, and feasible research problem within Dance. Conduct extensive preliminary literature reviews, explore diverse theoretical frameworks, and refine your research questions to establish a clear direction for your doctoral thesis. Attend departmental colloquia and present initial ideas for feedback.
Tools & Resources
Research Gate, Google Scholar, Departmental seminar series, Supervisor guidance, Mind-mapping and conceptualization tools
Career Connection
Developing a well-defined research niche during the early stages enhances the originality and impact of your thesis, making you a recognized expert in a specific area, which is highly valued in academia and specialized research roles.
Cultivate Interdisciplinary Perspectives- (Coursework Phase (Semesters 1-2))
Beyond dance, explore related fields such as sociology, anthropology, history, philosophy, and performance studies. Attend lectures or workshops in other departments to broaden your theoretical lens and enrich your understanding of dance as a multi-faceted cultural phenomenon. This fosters innovative research approaches.
Tools & Resources
Inter-departmental seminar schedules, Online courses (NPTEL, Coursera) in allied humanities, Books and journals from diverse disciplines available in the university library
Career Connection
An interdisciplinary approach makes your research more robust and marketable, opening avenues for collaborative projects and diverse academic positions, crucial for modern research in India.
Intermediate Stage
Develop a Robust Data Collection Strategy- (Years 1-3)
For research involving primary data (interviews, observations, archival studies of performances), meticulously plan and execute your data collection. Obtain necessary ethical clearances, pilot your tools, and document your process thoroughly. For theoretical or historical research, systematically build and manage a comprehensive bibliography and resource database.
Tools & Resources
Ethical review board guidelines, Interview recording devices, Transcription software, Bibliographic management tools (Mendeley, Zotero), Archival access protocols (National Centre for the Performing Arts, Sangeet Natak Akademi archives)
Career Connection
Effective data collection ensures the validity and credibility of your research findings, a fundamental skill for any researcher and a key factor in securing grants and publications.
Regularly Engage in Academic Writing and Presentation- (Years 1-3)
Commit to a regular writing schedule, focusing on drafting thesis chapters and preparing research papers for peer-reviewed journals. Present your work at departmental seminars, national/international conferences, and workshops. Seek constructive feedback from peers and senior academics to refine your arguments and presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Grammarly/QuillBot for language refinement, Conference proceedings (e.g., AHRC, World Dance Alliance), University writing center resources
Career Connection
Consistent publication and presentation build your academic profile, which is crucial for securing post-doctoral fellowships, faculty positions, and grants in the competitive Indian academic landscape.
Network with Scholars and Practitioners- (Years 1-3)
Actively build connections with established scholars, artists, and cultural administrators in the field of Dance and Performing Arts, both within India and internationally. Attend workshops, symposia, and cultural events. These interactions can provide valuable insights, potential collaborations, and mentorship opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations (e.g., Indian Dance Alliance, World Dance Alliance), Social media platforms for academic networking (LinkedIn, Academia.edu), University alumni network, Cultural festivals and performance events
Career Connection
A strong professional network can open doors to research collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, and placement in leading cultural institutions, significantly enhancing your career trajectory in India and globally.
Advanced Stage
Intensify Thesis Completion and Defense Preparation- (Final Year)
Dedicate focused effort to completing your thesis chapters, ensuring logical flow, coherence, and originality. Prepare thoroughly for your pre-submission seminar and final viva-voce examination by anticipating questions, rehearsing your presentation, and refining your arguments under the guidance of your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor mentorship, Peer review groups, Previous successful thesis defenses (if accessible), Presentation software
Career Connection
A well-written and successfully defended thesis is the culmination of your PhD, directly impacting your academic reputation and eligibility for advanced research and teaching roles.
Strategize for Post-PhD Career Paths- (Final Year)
Actively explore academic job markets, post-doctoral fellowships, and research grants. Tailor your CV and cover letter to specific opportunities, highlighting your research expertise and teaching experience. Consider preparing a teaching portfolio if interested in academia, or a project proposal if aiming for cultural organization roles.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job portals (UGC CARE, official university websites), Professional body newsletters, Mentors and alumni for advice
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-PhD, helping you secure desirable positions in academia, research, or arts administration that align with your specialized knowledge and skills.
Develop Mentoring and Leadership Skills- (Final Year)
Seek opportunities to mentor junior research scholars or MA students. Participate in departmental administrative tasks or academic committees. This develops leadership, teaching, and collaborative skills that are highly valued in both academic and non-academic leadership roles. Consider organizing a small seminar or workshop based on your expertise.
Tools & Resources
Departmental opportunities for student mentorship, Workshop facilitation guides, Participation in academic committees (if allowed), Leadership training programs
Career Connection
Cultivating mentoring and leadership abilities enhances your profile for leadership positions, fostering a broader impact in the academic community and the Indian arts sector.
