

PH-D in Drama Fine Arts at University of Calicut


Malappuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Drama & Fine Arts at University of Calicut Malappuram?
This Drama & Fine Arts Ph.D program at University of Calicut focuses on advanced research in performance studies, visual arts, and cultural theory within an Indian and global context. The program emphasizes critical inquiry into traditional and contemporary artistic practices, providing a deep understanding of the field''''s academic and practical dimensions. It addresses the growing demand for expert researchers and educators in India''''s vibrant arts and culture sector.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in Drama, Theatre Arts, Fine Arts, Art History, or related humanities disciplines with a strong interest in academic research. It is designed for aspiring academics, cultural theorists, art critics, and museum professionals who wish to contribute to scholarly discourse and practice in the arts. Professionals already working in cultural institutions seeking advanced academic credentials will also find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, independent researchers, art historians, cultural policy advisors, and curators in India. Entry-level academics can expect salaries ranging from INR 6-10 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program prepares scholars for leadership roles in arts education and research, contributing to the academic growth of Indian arts and humanities.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly engage with the ''''Research Methodology'''' coursework. Focus on understanding diverse research paradigms, data collection techniques relevant to arts, and ethical considerations. Participate actively in discussions and workshops to solidify foundational knowledge.
Tools & Resources
UGC-NET/JRF study materials for Research Aptitude, Academic journals like ''''Performance Research'''' or ''''Art Journal'''', University library resources
Career Connection
A strong grasp of methodology is crucial for successful dissertation completion and future academic publications, directly impacting one''''s credibility as a researcher and prospects in academia.
Deep Dive into Specialization Literature- (Semester 1)
Alongside coursework, extensively read and analyze seminal texts and contemporary scholarship in Drama and Fine Arts. Identify emerging debates and gaps in the existing literature within your specific area of interest to inform your research proposal.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Project MUSE, Google Scholar, Sahapedia, Departmental reading lists and faculty recommendations
Career Connection
Developing a comprehensive understanding of your field''''s discourse enables you to formulate original research questions, a key skill for a research-intensive career.
Engage with Departmental Seminars and Colloquia- (Semester 1)
Actively attend all departmental seminars, guest lectures, and research colloquia. These platforms offer insights into ongoing research, diverse methodologies, and networking opportunities with peers and senior scholars. Present your preliminary ideas if opportunities arise.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, university event calendars, research group meetings
Career Connection
Building an academic network and familiarizing yourself with ongoing research trends is vital for collaboration and staying relevant in the academic community, enhancing future career prospects.
Intermediate Stage
Develop and Refine Research Proposal- (Year 1-2 (after coursework))
Work closely with your supervisor to develop a robust and original research proposal. Focus on articulating clear objectives, a detailed methodology, and a realistic timeline. Seek feedback from multiple faculty members and peers to strengthen your proposal.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor consultations, university research guidelines, proposal writing workshops
Career Connection
A well-defined research proposal is the bedrock of a successful Ph.D and demonstrates independent research capabilities, which are highly valued in academic and research roles.
Present Research at National Conferences- (Year 2-3)
Submit abstracts and present your ongoing research findings at national conferences focusing on Drama, Fine Arts, or Cultural Studies. This provides valuable feedback, enhances your presentation skills, and establishes your presence in the academic community.
Tools & Resources
Conference calls for papers (e.g., ICHR, various university-hosted events), travel grants from the university
Career Connection
Conference presentations are crucial for academic visibility and networking, often leading to publication opportunities and better academic job prospects.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals- (Year 2-4)
Transform sections of your research or preliminary findings into publishable articles for peer-reviewed academic journals. Aim for UGC-CARE listed journals to ensure academic rigor and impact. This is a critical step for academic career progression.
Tools & Resources
Journal submission platforms, academic writing centers, supervisor''''s guidance
Career Connection
Publications are the primary currency in academia for faculty positions, promotions, and research grants, directly impacting your long-term career trajectory.
Advanced Stage
Engage in Teaching and Mentorship- (Year 3-5)
Seek opportunities to assist professors in undergraduate or master''''s level courses, delivering lectures or mentoring junior students. This builds teaching experience and pedagogical skills, which are essential for academic positions.
Tools & Resources
Departmental teaching assistantships, faculty mentorship programs
Career Connection
Developing teaching experience is often a prerequisite for university faculty roles and enhances your overall profile as an academic professional.
Participate in Grant Writing Workshops- (Year 4-5)
Attend workshops on grant proposal writing to understand how to secure research funding. This skill is invaluable for independent researchers and academics seeking to fund future projects.
Tools & Resources
University research office, national funding bodies like ICSSR, ICHR
Career Connection
The ability to secure research grants significantly boosts your profile for advanced research positions and leadership roles, demonstrating your capacity to drive impactful projects.
Prepare for Thesis Defense and Viva Voce- (Final Year (Year 5-6))
Focus intensely on completing and refining your dissertation. Practice your thesis defense presentation, anticipating challenging questions from examiners. Seek mock viva sessions with your supervisor and other faculty members to build confidence.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor guidance, departmental mock viva sessions, university thesis formatting guidelines
Career Connection
A successful thesis defense is the culmination of your Ph.D journey, signifying your readiness for advanced academic roles and validating your research contributions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s degree or a professional degree equivalent to Master’s degree with at least 55% marks in aggregate or its equivalent grade ''''B'''' in the UGC 7-point scale. A relaxation of 5% marks (from 55% to 50%) is allowed for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/Differently-Abled candidates as per UGC norms.
Duration: 1 semester (for coursework); 3 to 6 years (overall Ph.D program)
Credits: 6 (for coursework component, within the 4-8 credit range mandated by regulations) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Research Methodology (Common for all Ph.D programs) | Core | 2 | Introduction to Research, Approaches to Research in Arts, Data Collection and Analysis Methods, Academic Writing and Report Preparation, Ethics in Research |
| Paper II | Theoretical Perspectives in Drama and Fine Arts | Core | 2 | Foundations of Drama and Theatre, Aesthetics and Performance Theories, Fine Arts: Historical and Critical Frameworks, Cultural and Post-Structuralist Approaches, Contemporary Art Discourses |
| Paper III | Contemporary Issues in Drama and Fine Arts | Core | 2 | Emerging Trends in Theatre and Performance, New Media and Digital Arts Practices, Art, Society, and Politics in Indian Context, Interdisciplinary Studies in Arts, Curatorial Practices and Art Management |




