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PHD-FOLKLORE in Folklore at University of Calicut
Malappuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Folklore at University of Calicut Malappuram?
This PhD Folklore program at the University of Calicut focuses on advanced research into the diverse oral traditions, cultural expressions, and performance arts prevalent across India. It emphasizes critical inquiry into indigenous knowledge systems, ritual practices, and narrative structures, addressing their contemporary relevance. The program is vital for preserving and understanding India''''s rich intangible cultural heritage, aligning with national cultural preservation efforts.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for scholars with a strong Master''''s background in Folklore, Anthropology, Malayalam, Cultural Studies, or related fields, seeking to contribute original research. It attracts academicians aspiring for faculty positions, cultural practitioners aiming for deeper theoretical understanding, and heritage professionals looking to enhance their analytical and archival skills for roles in museums, cultural institutions, and governmental bodies.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, researchers in national cultural academies, cultural consultants, and heritage managers within India. They are equipped to work with organizations like IGNCA, Sahitya Akademi, and state cultural departments. Potential salary ranges from INR 6-15 LPA for entry to experienced academic and research roles, with significant growth trajectories in specialized cultural and academic sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Ethics- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly engage with the coursework on research methodology, focusing on both qualitative and quantitative approaches, and critically examine ethical considerations specific to folklore research involving human subjects and cultural communities. Attend departmental workshops on academic integrity and citation practices.
Tools & Resources
Official PhD Research Methodology syllabus, Library resources for academic databases (JSTOR, MLA International Bibliography), University''''s research ethics guidelines
Career Connection
A strong foundation ensures rigorous, ethical, and publishable research, essential for academic credibility and securing research grants.
Intensive Literature Review and Niche Identification- (Semester 1-2)
Conduct an exhaustive literature review in your area of interest to identify research gaps and refine your specific niche within Folklore Studies. Engage in critical readings of seminal texts and contemporary scholarship, both Indian and global, to contextualize your proposed research problem.
Tools & Resources
University Digital Library, Google Scholar, ResearchGate, Zotero/Mendeley for reference management
Career Connection
Defining a unique and impactful research question makes your work stand out, enhancing your prospects for fellowships and academic positions.
Active Participation in Departmental Seminars- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly attend and actively participate in departmental seminars, colloquia, and presentations by senior researchers and visiting scholars. Present your preliminary research ideas to receive constructive feedback from faculty and peers.
Tools & Resources
Department of Folklore Studies event calendar, Peer review groups within the department
Career Connection
Improves presentation skills, fosters critical thinking, and builds a valuable academic network, crucial for future collaborations and intellectual growth.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Robust Fieldwork Skills and Data Collection Strategies- (Year 2)
Actively prepare for and conduct fieldwork, mastering ethnographic methods, oral history techniques, and participant observation. Focus on building rapport with communities and ethically documenting cultural performances and narratives. Pilot test your data collection tools.
Tools & Resources
Audio recorders, cameras, Field notebooks, Consent forms (Ethical approval from university), Mentorship from supervisors
Career Connection
Exceptional fieldwork ensures rich, authentic data, which is the cornerstone of high-quality folklore research and enhances employability in field-based research roles.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Dialogue and Collaborations- (Year 2-3)
Seek opportunities to collaborate or engage with scholars from allied disciplines like Anthropology, History, Linguistics, or Media Studies. This broadens your analytical perspective and strengthens your research argument, fostering innovative approaches to folklore phenomena.
Tools & Resources
Inter-departmental seminars, University research clusters, Conferences focusing on cultural studies
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary expertise makes graduates versatile and attractive to diverse research institutions and think tanks, expanding career options beyond traditional academia.
Publish in Peer-Reviewed Journals and Present at Conferences- (Year 2-4)
Start converting chapters of your thesis or significant research findings into journal articles for peer-reviewed publications. Actively submit abstracts and present your research at national and international conferences. Seek guidance from your supervisor for suitable journals.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE listed journals in Humanities/Folklore, Conference call-for-papers alerts, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Early publications and conference presentations build your academic profile, which is critical for securing post-doctoral positions, research grants, and faculty appointments in India and abroad.
Advanced Stage
Refine Thesis Chapters and Prepare for Viva Voce- (Year 4-5)
Dedicate significant time to meticulously writing, editing, and refining your thesis chapters, ensuring coherence, robust argumentation, and adherence to academic standards. Prepare thoroughly for the comprehensive viva voce examination by practicing potential questions and articulating your research contributions clearly.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, Grammarly/Turnitin for proofreading, Mock viva sessions with peers/faculty
Career Connection
A well-written thesis and a confident viva performance are paramount for successful degree completion and lay the groundwork for a strong research portfolio.
Develop Teaching and Mentoring Skills- (Year 3-5)
Seek opportunities to assist professors in teaching undergraduate or master''''s courses, lead discussion groups, or mentor junior research scholars. This builds essential pedagogical skills and contributes to a well-rounded academic profile.
Tools & Resources
Teaching assistantships, Departmental training on pedagogy, Feedback from students and faculty
Career Connection
Teaching experience is highly valued in academic hiring and demonstrates leadership and communication abilities, crucial for faculty positions.
Strategic Networking and Career Planning- (Year 5-6)
Actively network with established scholars, university administrators, and cultural policy-makers at conferences and academic events. Explore post-doctoral opportunities, research grants, and permanent academic/research positions in India, aligning with your long-term career aspirations. Tailor your CV and cover letter for specific roles.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations (e.g., Indian Folklore Congress), University career services, LinkedIn for academic networking
Career Connection
Strategic networking opens doors to career opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship, while focused career planning ensures a smooth transition into the professional world post-PhD.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (or equivalent) in Folklore or an allied/related subject with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OEC candidates of Kerala)
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (Full-time)
Credits: Minimum 8 credits for coursework (overall program credits not specified for research duration) Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDFL01 | Research Methodology | Core (Compulsory) | 4 | Philosophy of Research, Research Design and Methods (Qualitative & Quantitative), Data Collection Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Academic Writing and Ethics |
| PHDFL02 | Advanced Course in Folklore | Elective (Area of Specialization) | 4 | Advanced Theories of Folklore, Ethical Issues in Folklore Research, Contemporary Debates in Folklore Studies, Folklore and Interdisciplinary Perspectives, Fieldwork Methodologies in Folklore |
