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PHD in Political Science at University College, Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at University College, Thiruvananthapuram Thiruvananthapuram?
This PhD in Political Science program at University College, Thiruvananthapuram, focuses on advanced research and critical inquiry into diverse political phenomena, governance, and public policy. It prepares scholars to contribute original knowledge to the field, deeply rooted in India''''s complex socio-political landscape. The program emphasizes robust research methodologies, theoretical understanding, and analytical skills necessary to address contemporary challenges relevant to the Indian context and beyond.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with an MA in Political Science or allied disciplines who aspire to academic careers, policy analysis, or research roles. It also suits working professionals from government, non-governmental organizations, or think tanks seeking to deepen their expertise and contribute to evidence-based policy-making in India. Candidates must possess strong analytical abilities, a foundational understanding of political theory, and a keen interest in rigorous academic research.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue fulfilling careers as university professors, research fellows, policy advisors, and analysts in various government departments and non-governmental organizations across India. Potential salary ranges from INR 6-15 LPA for entry to experienced research positions, with growth trajectories leading to senior academic or policy leadership roles. The doctoral degree provides a strong foundation for contributing significantly to India''''s intellectual discourse and public sphere.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Ethics- (Coursework year (e.g., Semester 1-2))
Thoroughly engage with coursework on research methodology, focusing on both quantitative and qualitative techniques relevant to political science research. Develop a strong understanding of research ethics, data integrity, and responsible conduct of research, essential for credible scholarship in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
Key textbooks on social science research methods (e.g., Bryman, Kothari), University''''s research ethics guidelines, Online tutorials for basic statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS)
Career Connection
A strong grasp of methodology and ethics is crucial for designing impactful studies, securing research grants, and gaining credibility in academia and policy research roles.
Identify and Refine Your Research Thematic Area- (Coursework year (e.g., Semester 1-2))
Collaborate closely with your research supervisor to identify a distinct, significant, and feasible thematic area for your PhD. Engage in extensive preliminary literature review to pinpoint existing gaps, define clear research questions, and articulate the potential original contribution of your work, particularly within the Indian political landscape.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, University Library databases, Mentorship from faculty experts, Workshops on research proposal writing
Career Connection
Developing a clear and impactful research focus early helps in securing fellowships, grants, and establishing expertise in a niche area highly relevant to Indian studies and policy.
Cultivate Critical Reading and Academic Writing Skills- (Throughout PhD, intensified during coursework and initial research phases)
Engage deeply with academic texts, critically analyzing arguments, theoretical frameworks, and methodologies. Practice structured academic writing, summarizing complex ideas concisely, and constructing persuasive arguments. Actively seek and incorporate feedback on your writing from peers and supervisors to enhance clarity, scholarly rigor, and prepare for thesis submission.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides (e.g., ''''They Say/I Say''''), Grammarly or Turnitin (for plagiarism checks), Peer review groups/sessions
Career Connection
Exceptional reading and writing skills are fundamental for publishing research, drafting policy briefs, and excelling in all forms of academic and professional communication.
Intermediate Stage
Conduct Extensive Fieldwork and Data Collection- (Year 2-4 (after coursework completion and proposal approval))
Plan and execute robust fieldwork, collecting primary data through interviews, surveys, archival research, or ethnographic observation in India. Master ethical considerations, navigate bureaucratic hurdles, and adapt to ground realities in diverse Indian settings. Meticulously document all data for transparency and rigorous analysis.
Tools & Resources
Interview protocols, Survey software (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Google Forms), Transcription services/software, Ethical clearance procedures and local permissions
Career Connection
Hands-on data collection and fieldwork experience is highly valued in research organizations, think tanks, and for grants requiring empirical evidence, especially in areas of Indian public policy and governance.
Engage in Academic Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2-5)
Present your research in progress at national and international conferences, especially those focusing on South Asian studies or political science within India. Network with senior scholars, receive constructive feedback, and stay updated on the latest research trends and methodologies. Actively seek opportunities to publish conference papers.
Tools & Resources
Conference databases (e.g., AllAcademia, specific university calls), Funding for travel grants (university/ICSSR), Presentation software and practice sessions
Career Connection
Conference participation builds your academic profile, expands your professional network, and can lead to collaborative research opportunities and journal publications, vital for career progression in academia.
Seek Publication Opportunities- (Year 3-5)
Transform your research findings into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals, both in India and internationally. Target reputable journals aligned with your specialization in political science or interdisciplinary studies. Early publications bolster your curriculum vitae for post-doctoral positions and academic faculty roles in India.
Tools & Resources
Journal Finder tools (e.g., Elsevier JournalFinder), Open access repositories for pre-prints, Mentorship from supervisors on the publication process and journal selection
Career Connection
A strong publication record is paramount for securing academic positions, promotions, and research grants at Indian universities and research institutions, demonstrating your scholarly contribution.
Advanced Stage
Complete Thesis Writing and Defense Preparation- (Final year (Year 5-6))
Dedicate focused and sustained effort to writing and refining your doctoral thesis, ensuring coherence, analytical rigor, and originality. Prepare thoroughly for your viva voce, anticipating potential questions and articulating your research contributions clearly. Seek mock defense opportunities to build confidence and refine your arguments effectively.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing software (e.g., LaTeX, Zotero/Mendeley for referencing), Mock viva sessions with departmental faculty and external experts, University guidelines for thesis submission and formatting
Career Connection
A well-written and successfully defended thesis is the culmination of your PhD, a key credential for advanced research roles and academic faculty positions across India and globally.
Develop Teaching and Mentoring Skills- (Year 4-6)
If aspiring for an academic career, gain practical teaching experience by assisting professors, co-teaching courses, or delivering guest lectures at the university. Take initiative to mentor junior research scholars or master''''s students. These experiences are invaluable for demonstrating pedagogical competence and securing teaching-oriented academic positions in India.
Tools & Resources
University''''s teaching assistantship programs or guest lecture opportunities, Workshops on pedagogy and curriculum design, Feedback mechanisms from students and supervisors
Career Connection
Demonstrated teaching experience is often a prerequisite and a significant advantage for securing faculty positions at Indian universities and colleges, enhancing overall employability.
Network and Explore Post-Doctoral and Career Avenues- (Final year and post-PhD)
Actively network with academics, policy-makers, and industry professionals at conferences, seminars, and workshops. Explore post-doctoral fellowships, research grants, and career opportunities at universities, think tanks, and government organizations both nationally and internationally. Tailor your applications and curriculum vitae to specific roles, highlighting your unique research contributions and skills.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, Professional academic associations (e.g., Indian Political Science Association), Career counseling services (if available at university) and faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Strategic networking and proactive job searching are crucial for transitioning from a PhD scholar to a successful career in research, academia, or policy in the competitive Indian and global landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (MA in Political Science or allied subjects) from a recognized university with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Persons with Disabilities (PH)) or an equivalent grade. Candidates must qualify in the entrance examination conducted by the University of Kerala or be exempted from it (e.g., UGC-NET/JRF/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship holders, M.Phil degree holders from recognized universities).
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (full-time) from the date of provisional registration; Coursework is typically completed in the first year.
Credits: 12 credits (for the mandatory coursework component) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester year
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS-CW-P1 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core | 4 | Nature of Social Science Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Research Ethics and Report Writing |
| PS-CW-P2 | Thematic Area of Research (Student Specific) | Core (Selected based on the student''''s research topic) | 4 | Conceptual Framework of Chosen Area, Theoretical Perspectives and Debates, Contemporary Relevance of the Topic, Review of Key Literature in the Area, Identifying Knowledge Gaps |
Semester year
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PS-CW-P3 | Review of Literature | Core | 2 | Purpose and Scope of Literature Review, Identifying and Mapping Key Scholars, Critical Analysis of Existing Research, Synthesizing Findings and Gaps in Research, Structuring and Presenting Literature Review |
| PS-CW-P4 | Presentation of Synopsis | Core | 2 | Formulating Research Questions and Objectives, Developing Methodological Framework, Anticipated Outcomes and Significance, Planning Chapter Scheme and Research Timeline, Effective Oral Presentation of Research Plan |
