.png&w=1920&q=75)
PHD in History at The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences
Kolkata, West Bengal
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is History at The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences Kolkata?
This PhD program with a specialization in History at The West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences, Kolkata, focuses on advanced research into the historical dimensions of law, society, and governance. Leveraging the interdisciplinary nature of legal studies, it allows scholars to explore critical historical events, movements, and legal frameworks within an Indian context, contributing significantly to socio-legal history and jurisprudence.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for candidates holding a Master''''s degree in Law or History, Political Science, Sociology, and other social sciences, who possess a keen interest in historical inquiry related to legal systems and societal evolution. It caters to aspiring academics, researchers, and policy analysts seeking to conduct in-depth, original research in areas such as constitutional history, colonial legal history, or the social history of law in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to emerge as highly specialized legal historians and interdisciplinary scholars, well-equipped for academic positions in universities and research institutions across India. Potential career paths include professorships, research fellowships, and roles in policy think tanks. The rigorous training in research methodology and historical analysis prepares them for significant contributions to scholarship and policy discourse.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Coursework Semester 1)
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on understanding diverse research paradigms, legal and historical methods, and ethical considerations. Attend workshops on academic writing and citation management tools like Zotero or Mendeley to build a strong foundation for future research.
Tools & Resources
WBNUJS Library Resources, Online courses on Legal Research Methods, Zotero/Mendeley
Career Connection
A strong methodological base is crucial for producing high-quality, publishable research, which is fundamental for an academic career and gaining credibility as a scholar.
Identify and Refine Research Question- (Coursework Semester 1 - Year 1, Semester 2)
Utilize the ''''Review of Literature'''' component to extensively read existing scholarship in your chosen area of legal history, identify significant gaps, and formulate a clear, focused, and original research question. Discuss potential topics with your supervisor and other faculty members to gain diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, HeinOnline, Indian Kanoon, Shodhganga
Career Connection
Developing a novel and well-defined research question is key to a impactful PhD thesis, enhancing your profile for grants and post-doctoral opportunities.
Actively Engage with Academic Community- (Throughout Year 1)
Attend university seminars, guest lectures, and conferences. Present preliminary research ideas or literature reviews to gather feedback and build a network with peers and senior scholars. Participate in reading groups focused on legal history or interdisciplinary studies.
Tools & Resources
WBNUJS Seminar Series, National/International Legal History Conferences
Career Connection
Networking and active participation enhance visibility, foster collaborations, and open doors to mentorship and future academic opportunities.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Advanced Archival & Source Analysis Skills- (Year 2 - Year 3)
For historical research, hone skills in identifying, accessing, and critically analyzing primary sources (e.g., archival documents, legislative debates, court records, historical narratives). This may involve fieldwork at national archives (e.g., National Archives of India) or specific state archives.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, State Archives (e.g., West Bengal State Archives), Digital archives and databases
Career Connection
Mastery of source analysis is a hallmark of historical scholarship, essential for original contributions and establishing expertise in your field.
Publish Work-in-Progress Articles- (Year 2 - Year 4)
Begin converting sections of your literature review or early research findings into publishable articles for reputable peer-reviewed journals in law or history. This iterative process refines your arguments and writing style while building your publication record.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE List journals, Academic writing workshops, Peer feedback groups
Career Connection
A strong publication record during PhD is critical for securing academic positions, fellowships, and demonstrating research productivity.
Prepare for Comprehensive Viva Voce- (End of Year 1 / Early Year 2)
Systematically review your coursework knowledge and deeply engage with the conceptual and empirical aspects of your research area. Practice presenting your research framework and defending your methodological choices effectively to prepare for the rigorous comprehensive examination.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, Mock vivas with peers/faculty, Reading core texts in your domain
Career Connection
Successful completion of the comprehensive viva demonstrates scholarly maturity and readiness to proceed with thesis writing, a key milestone for PhD progression.
Advanced Stage
Strategize Thesis Writing and Chapter Development- (Year 3 - Year 5)
Work closely with your supervisor to structure your thesis effectively, setting realistic chapter completion targets. Maintain a consistent writing schedule, focusing on developing clear arguments, evidence-based analysis, and robust scholarly dialogue.
Tools & Resources
Thesis outline templates, Regular supervisor meetings, Academic writing software
Career Connection
Efficient and high-quality thesis completion is the primary goal, leading directly to degree conferral and opening doors to academic employment.
Engage in Pre-Submission Review and Presentation- (Mid-Year 5)
Before final submission, present your complete thesis work to the departmental research committee or in an internal seminar. Incorporate feedback from this Pre-Ph.D. presentation to refine your arguments and strengthen your thesis for examination.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research committee, Internal peer review, Presentation skills workshops
Career Connection
This critical review stage ensures thesis quality, addresses potential weaknesses, and prepares you for the ultimate external examination and viva voce, crucial for timely completion.
Network for Post-Doctoral & Career Opportunities- (Year 4 - Year 6)
Actively network with scholars in your field at national and international conferences. Explore post-doctoral fellowships, visiting scholar positions, and academic job market requirements. Prepare your CV, research statement, and teaching philosophy for future applications.
Tools & Resources
Academic job portals (e.g., jobs.ac.uk, Chronicle of Higher Education), Professional academic associations in India
Career Connection
Proactive networking and career preparation are vital for securing academic or research positions post-PhD and establishing your long-term career trajectory.
