

M-PHIL-ENGLISH in General at Thiagarajar College, Madurai


Madurai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at Thiagarajar College, Madurai Madurai?
This M.Phil. English program at Thiagarajar College, Madurai focuses on advanced research in English Language and Literature. It prepares scholars for doctoral studies and academic careers, emphasizing rigorous research methodologies and critical literary theories. The program is crucial for fostering advanced humanistic scholarship in India, where English studies continue to evolve, addressing contemporary global and local literary landscapes and pedagogical challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students in English Literature who aspire to pursue Ph.D. studies or careers in academia, research, or higher education. It suits individuals with a strong aptitude for critical thinking, in-depth analysis, and independent research. It also benefits college lecturers seeking to upgrade their qualifications and enhance their research skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to secure positions as Assistant Professors in colleges and universities, research associates, or content developers in educational publishing. In India, an M.Phil. is often a prerequisite or a significant advantage for university-level teaching roles. Salary ranges vary, but entry-level academics can expect INR 3-6 LPA, with significant growth potential in university settings.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Academic Writing- (Semester 1)
Dedicate significant time to understanding core research paradigms, data collection methods, and academic writing conventions like MLA. Engage actively in workshops on citation and referencing.
Tools & Resources
MLA Handbook, ResearchGate, Zotero (citation manager), Institution''''s library resources
Career Connection
Essential for thesis writing, academic publications, and securing research-oriented roles or Ph.D. admissions.
Cultivate Critical Theoretical Perspectives- (Semester 1)
Beyond course material, read widely across various literary theories – post-structuralism, post-colonialism, feminism, eco-criticism – and apply them to diverse texts. Participate in departmental seminars.
Tools & Resources
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, JSTOR, Project MUSE, Critical theory readers
Career Connection
Develops analytical skills crucial for literary scholarship, teaching, and informed critical discourse in any field.
Form a Research Study Group- (Semester 1)
Collaborate with peers to discuss complex theories, critique research proposals, and brainstorm dissertation topics. Regularly present ideas and receive feedback from the group.
Tools & Resources
College common rooms, Online discussion forums, Google Meet for virtual collaboration, Departmental notice boards for seminar schedules
Career Connection
Enhances communication, collaboration, and critical evaluation skills, vital for academic life and collaborative research projects.
Intermediate Stage
Advanced Stage
Systematically Develop Your Dissertation- (Semester 2)
Begin with a clear research question, conduct thorough literature review, collect and analyze data, and engage in consistent writing. Maintain regular consultation with your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
Library databases, Academic writing software (e.g., Microsoft Word, LaTeX), Research journal platforms, Supervisor guidance
Career Connection
Directly leads to successful M.Phil. completion, the primary credential for Ph.D. admission and academic roles. Demonstrates independent research capability.
Present Research & Explore Publication- (Semester 2)
Prepare a paper based on a chapter of your dissertation or a significant research finding and aim to present it at a national/international conference. Consider submitting to peer-reviewed journals.
Tools & Resources
Calls for papers from universities/conferences, Academic journal submission portals, Guidance from faculty mentors on suitable journals
Career Connection
Builds academic profile, provides networking opportunities, and enhances chances for Ph.D. admissions or research grants.
Refine Presentation Skills & Plan Next Steps- (Semester 2)
Practice defending your dissertation effectively through mock viva sessions with peers and mentors. Research Ph.D. programs or academic job openings, and tailor your CV and cover letters.
Tools & Resources
Career services office, Faculty mentors for mock interviews, Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn, Academia.edu), University prospectus for Ph.D. programs
Career Connection
Ensures successful dissertation defense and lays groundwork for immediate post-M.Phil. academic career or further research studies.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in M.A., English with a minimum of 55% marks or 50% for SC/ST candidates. Relaxation of 5% marks from 55% for those who have cleared M.Phil. prior to 19.09.1991.
Duration: 1 year
Credits: 45 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18MPHE11 | Research Methodology | Core | 5 | Nature and Scope of Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Documentation and Presentation (MLA Style) |
| 18MPHE12 | Theories of Literature | Core | 5 | Literary Criticism vs. Literary Theory, Formalism, Structuralism, Post-structuralism, Feminism, Marxism, Post-colonialism, Psychoanalysis, New Historicism, Reader-response Theory, Deconstruction |
| 18MPHE13 | New Literatures in English | Core | 5 | African Literature, Australian Literature, Canadian Literature, Indian English Literature, Caribbean Literature |
| 18MPHE14 | Teaching of English | Core | 5 | Language Acquisition and Learning Theories, Methods of Teaching English, Teaching Language Skills (LSRW), Teaching Aids and Technology, Evaluation and Testing in ELT |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18MPHE21 | Trends in English Language and Literature | Core | 5 | Contemporary Literary Trends, Linguistics and ELT Trends, Digital Humanities, Eco-criticism and Animal Studies, Queer Studies |
| 18MPHE22 | Dissertation and Viva Voce | Project | 20 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review and Gap Identification, Data Collection and Analysis for Research, Thesis Writing and Formatting, Oral Defense (Viva Voce) |




