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PHD in English at St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur
Thrissur, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is English at St. Thomas College (Autonomous), Thrissur Thrissur?
This PhD in English program at St. Thomas College, Thrissur, affiliated with the University of Calicut, focuses on advanced research in various domains of English language and literature. It prepares scholars for critical inquiry, original contributions, and academic excellence within the Indian and global contexts. The program emphasizes both foundational research skills and contemporary trends in the discipline, meeting the evolving demands of academia and related industries in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with a strong academic record in English, aspiring university professors, literary critics, and researchers. It caters to individuals passionate about in-depth study, critical analysis, and generating new knowledge in language, literature, and cultural studies. Candidates with a M.Phil. degree or those aiming for academic careers in Indian universities will find this program highly suitable.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as Assistant Professors, researchers, and academic consultants in Indian universities and colleges. Potential career paths also include roles in publishing, content creation, and policy analysis within cultural institutions. Entry-level salaries for Assistant Professors in India typically range from INR 50,000 to 80,000 per month, with significant growth potential based on experience, publications, and institutional recognition.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Fundamentals- (Coursework Semester (Semester 1))
Dedicate initial months to thoroughly understanding research methodologies, academic ethics, and different approaches to literary and linguistic inquiry. Attend all coursework sessions diligently and engage actively in discussions to build a strong theoretical base for your research proposal.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online research databases (JSTOR, MLA International Bibliography), Academic writing workshops offered by the department
Career Connection
A solid foundation in research methodology is crucial for formulating a strong PhD proposal, which directly impacts the quality of your thesis and future academic publications, enhancing your profile for faculty positions.
Develop Advanced Academic Writing Skills- (Coursework Semester (Semester 1))
Focus intensely on refining your academic writing. Practice structuring arguments, citing sources accurately, and writing coherent literature reviews. Seek feedback from your coursework instructors and peers to improve clarity and precision in your scholarly prose.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly Premium, Mendeley/Zotero for citation management, University''''s Writing Centre (if available)
Career Connection
Exceptional academic writing is indispensable for publishing in reputable journals and successfully completing your thesis. It is a highly valued skill for any academic or research role in India and globally.
Engage with Contemporary Debates- (Coursework Semester (Semester 1))
Actively participate in seminars and discussions related to recent trends in English language and literature. Read widely beyond the prescribed syllabus to identify gaps in existing scholarship and potential areas for your original contribution.
Tools & Resources
Online academic journals (e.g., EPW, Economic & Political Weekly for cultural studies), Departmental research colloquia, Open access repositories
Career Connection
Staying updated with current debates helps you identify a unique and relevant research topic, making your thesis more impactful and increasing its chances of publication, which is vital for academic career advancement in India.
Intermediate Stage
Conduct Comprehensive Literature Review- (Year 1-2 of PhD (Post-coursework))
Systematically review existing scholarship in your chosen field. Identify key theoretical frameworks, critical methodologies, and significant research gaps. Maintain a meticulously organized bibliography of all relevant sources.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, EndNote/Zotero
Career Connection
A thorough literature review demonstrates your command over the subject and ability to position your research within existing scholarship, a key skill for a successful thesis defense and future research proposals.
Present at National Conferences- (Year 2-3 of PhD)
Prepare papers based on initial findings or conceptual frameworks from your research and present them at national-level academic conferences. This builds confidence, refines presentation skills, and allows for valuable feedback from senior scholars.
Tools & Resources
Calls for Papers from UGC-approved universities, Professional academic associations (e.g., English Language Teachers'''' Association of India - ELTAI), Departmental travel grants
Career Connection
Conference presentations enhance your academic visibility and networking, both crucial for securing academic positions and collaborations in the Indian higher education landscape.
Network with Scholars and Mentors- (Throughout PhD Program)
Actively seek opportunities to interact with established scholars in your field, both within your institution and at other universities. Build mentor relationships to gain insights, guidance, and potential future collaborations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Academic groups, Academic social media (Academia.edu, ResearchGate), Departmental networking events
Career Connection
A strong academic network can open doors to post-doctoral opportunities, visiting fellowships, and collaborations, significantly boosting your career trajectory in Indian academia.
Advanced Stage
Aim for Peer-Reviewed Publications- (Year 3-5 of PhD)
Transform portions of your thesis into articles suitable for publication in peer-reviewed, UGC-CARE listed journals. This is a critical step for demonstrating original contribution and enhancing your academic resume.
Tools & Resources
UGC-CARE List of Journals, Journal databases (e.g., SAGE, Routledge, Springer)
Career Connection
Publications in quality journals are often a mandatory requirement for thesis submission and significantly increase your chances of securing permanent faculty positions in top Indian universities and research institutions.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Thesis Defense- (Final Year of PhD)
Rigorously prepare for your final viva voce examination. Practice articulating your research, defending your arguments, and responding to critical questions from examiners. Participate in mock vivas if available.
Tools & Resources
Previous PhD thesis defense presentations (if accessible), Guidance from your research supervisor and departmental faculty
Career Connection
A confident and well-prepared viva voce is the final hurdle to earning your PhD. Excelling in it reinforces your expertise and professionalism, aiding in post-PhD career transitions.
Develop Teaching Portfoliio and Academic CV- (Final Year of PhD and Post-PhD)
Document any teaching experience (guest lectures, tutorials), workshops conducted, and research output. Craft a compelling academic CV highlighting your research, publications, and presentations, tailored for faculty job applications.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Online CV builders, Mentors for CV review
Career Connection
A strong teaching portfolio and a well-structured academic CV are essential for applying to Assistant Professor positions and other academic roles immediately after degree completion in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree in English or an allied subject with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC non-creamy layer) or an M.Phil. Degree in the concerned subject. Candidates must qualify the University Entrance Examination or possess a valid NET/JRF/SET qualification.
Duration: 1 semester (for coursework, overall PhD typically 3-6 years)
Credits: 12 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40% (for coursework, typically through assignments, seminars, viva), External: 60% (for coursework, through end-semester examination)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENGRM1C01 | Research Methodology (English) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research in English Studies, Types and Approaches to Research (Qualitative/Quantitative), Formulating Research Questions and Hypotheses, Data Collection Methods and Tools, Research Ethics and Plagiarism |
| ENGAC1C02 | Academic Writing | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Academic Writing in Humanities, Structuring Research Papers and Theses, Referencing and Citation Styles (MLA, APA), Literature Review and Annotated Bibliography, Critical Thinking and Argumentation |
| ENGTD1C03 | Recent Trends in English Language and Literature | Core | 4 | Contemporary Literary Theories and Movements, Emerging Areas in Linguistics and English Language Teaching, Interdisciplinary Approaches in English Studies, Postcolonial, Diaspora and Gender Studies, Digital Humanities and New Media Literacies |
