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PHD in History at University College, Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is History at University College, Thiruvananthapuram Thiruvananthapuram?
This PhD History program at University College, Thiruvananthapuram, affiliated with the University of Kerala, focuses on advanced research in various historical periods, themes, and methodologies. It encourages in-depth exploration of historical narratives, critical analysis of sources, and contributions to historiography, with a strong emphasis on regional and national historical contexts relevant to India. The program aims to produce scholars capable of original research and academic leadership in the field.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students in History or allied disciplines who possess a strong academic record and a passion for original historical inquiry. It caters to individuals aspiring to become university professors, archivists, museum curators, policy researchers, or independent historians. Candidates with an M.Phil. or extensive research experience may also find this program suitable for advancing their scholarly careers within India''''s robust academic ecosystem.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue academic careers as assistant professors or researchers in Indian universities and research institutions, with entry-level salaries typically ranging from INR 6-10 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience. They will be equipped with advanced research skills, critical thinking, and the ability to articulate complex historical arguments, leading to roles in heritage management, historical consultancy, or specialized government departments, contributing significantly to India''''s cultural and intellectual landscape.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Interdisciplinary Thinking- (Coursework Semester)
Dedicate significant effort to thoroughly grasp the concepts taught in Research Methodology and Interdisciplinary Studies coursework. Actively participate in discussions, critique historical research papers, and practice applying various research designs to historical problems. Focus on understanding the nuances of quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods relevant to historical inquiry.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, JSTOR, Google Scholar, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Academic writing workshops, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Strong foundational methodological skills are crucial for conducting credible research, ensuring the academic rigor of your thesis, and are highly valued in academic and research roles.
Identify & Refine Research Area- (Coursework Semester)
Engage actively with your supervisor and doctoral committee during the coursework phase to explore potential research topics within History. Read widely in your areas of interest, identify research gaps, and begin formulating preliminary research questions. Seek feedback on your topic''''s feasibility, originality, and significance, especially in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research seminars, Faculty office hours, Academic conferences (as attendee), Online research platforms
Career Connection
A well-defined and original research topic is fundamental for a successful PhD, differentiating your scholarship and forming the basis for future publications and academic reputation.
Develop Strong Academic Writing Skills- (Coursework Semester)
Focus on enhancing your academic writing proficiency from the outset. Practice clear, concise, and critical writing, paying close attention to historiographical conventions, citation styles, and argumentative structure. Seek feedback on coursework assignments and early drafts of research proposals to improve articulation and scholarly voice.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, Academic journals in History, Style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), Grammar checkers like Grammarly
Career Connection
Effective academic writing is indispensable for publishing research, presenting at conferences, and successfully defending your thesis, leading to recognition and potential employment in academia.
Intermediate Stage
Exhaustive Primary Source Exploration- (Semesters 2-4)
Systematically identify, locate, and access primary sources relevant to your research. This involves extensive travel to archives, libraries, and historical sites within India (e.g., National Archives of India, state archives, university special collections) and potentially abroad. Meticulously document your findings and maintain a robust research log.
Tools & Resources
Archival catalogs (online and physical), Inter-library loan services, Digital humanities tools for source analysis, Travel grants/scholarships
Career Connection
Demonstrating thorough engagement with primary sources is a hallmark of rigorous historical scholarship and is essential for producing original, impactful research that stands up to academic scrutiny.
Active Participation in Research Seminars & Conferences- (Semesters 3-5)
Regularly attend departmental research seminars and national/international conferences. Present your ongoing research, even in early stages, to gain valuable feedback from peers and senior scholars. Network with academics in your field, particularly those specializing in Indian history, to build collaborations and intellectual connections.
Tools & Resources
Conference registration platforms, University funding for travel, Professional academic associations (e.g., Indian History Congress)
Career Connection
Presenting research builds confidence, hones communication skills, enhances your academic profile, and can lead to publication opportunities, crucial for academic job market success.
Cultivate a Strong Supervisory Relationship- (Semesters 2-5)
Maintain open and regular communication with your research supervisor. Schedule consistent meetings, provide timely updates on your progress, and be proactive in seeking guidance on methodological challenges, theoretical frameworks, and writing. View your supervisor as a mentor and collaborator in your scholarly journey.
Tools & Resources
Regular one-on-one meetings, Email communication, Shared document platforms for feedback
Career Connection
A strong supervisory relationship provides critical guidance, intellectual support, and mentorship, significantly increasing the likelihood of timely thesis completion and academic success.
Advanced Stage
Strategic Thesis Chapter Development- (Semesters 5-7)
Structure your thesis logically, developing each chapter as a coherent argument supported by evidence. Focus on clear articulation of your findings, engaging critically with existing historiography, and maintaining a consistent analytical framework. Aim for regular submission of chapters to your supervisor for feedback.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing workshops, Academic editors (for language polishing, if needed), Advanced research software for thematic analysis (if applicable)
Career Connection
A well-structured, persuasive thesis is the cornerstone of your PhD and is essential for a successful defense and subsequent publication as a book or articles.
Prepare for Viva Voce & Publication- (Semesters 7-8)
Practice your thesis defense presentation extensively with your supervisor and peers. Anticipate potential questions and formulate clear, well-supported responses. Simultaneously, identify reputable academic journals in History (Indian and international) and consider adapting thesis chapters into publishable articles to build your publication record.
Tools & Resources
Mock vivas, University career services for presentation skills, Journal databases, Guidance from published faculty
Career Connection
Excelling in the viva voce is the final step to earning your PhD. Publishing early career research is vital for securing post-doctoral positions and academic appointments in India and globally.
Build a Post-PhD Career Strategy- (Semesters 6-8)
Begin exploring post-doctoral fellowships, academic job openings, and research opportunities in India and abroad well before your thesis submission. Prepare your CV, teaching philosophy, and research statements. Network with faculty members who can provide mentorship and letters of recommendation for your career aspirations.
Tools & Resources
University career counseling, Academic job portals (e.g., Current Science, Times Higher Education, individual university websites), Alumni networks
Career Connection
A proactive career strategy ensures a smoother transition from doctoral candidate to an independent scholar or professional, maximizing opportunities in a competitive academic and research landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree with at least 55% marks or its equivalent Grade ‘B’ in the UGC 7-point scale (or an equivalent Grade in a point scale wherever grading system is followed) in the relevant subject. Relaxation of 5% marks (from 55% to 50%) for SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/Differently-Abled candidates as per UGC/Government norms.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (6 semesters) for full-time scholars; coursework is 1 semester followed by research.
Credits: 12 (for mandatory coursework only) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester semester
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHD-CMN-01 | Paper I: Research Methodology (Common for all disciplines) | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Research, Types of Research, Research Design and Steps, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Research Ethics and Report Writing |
| PHD-CMN-02 | Paper II: Interdisciplinary Studies (Common for all disciplines) | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Interdisciplinary Research, Approaches to Interdisciplinary Studies, Cross-disciplinary Perspectives, Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), Plagiarism and Academic Integrity, Research Communication and Dissemination |
| PHD-HIS-03 | Paper III: Core Area (Discipline Specific - History) | Core | 4 | Advanced Historiography and Theories of History, Critical Analysis of Historical Sources, Thematic Studies in Indian and World History, Current Trends in Historical Research, Methodological Debates in Historical Inquiry, Specific areas within History research as guided by Supervisor |
