.png&w=1920&q=75)
PHD-HISTORY in History at University of Calicut
Malappuram, Kerala
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is History at University of Calicut Malappuram?
This History PhD program at the University of Calicut focuses on advanced, original historical research spanning diverse periods, themes, and methodologies, with a particular emphasis on contributions to Indian and regional history. The program aims to train scholars to critically analyze historical phenomena, engage with complex historiographical debates, and produce impactful research. It is crucial for understanding India''''s rich past and its relevance in contemporary contexts, fulfilling a critical academic and cultural need.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students holding an MA in History or an allied discipline who possess a strong academic record and a demonstrable passion for in-depth historical inquiry. It also attracts aspiring university professors, research fellows, and cultural heritage professionals seeking to deepen their expertise. Candidates with robust analytical skills, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to rigorous scholarly work are particularly well-suited for this demanding research degree.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to embark on fulfilling careers primarily as university professors, research scholars in national and international historical institutes, and archivists or curators in museums and heritage organizations across India. Starting salaries for Assistant Professors typically range from INR 6-12 LPA, with significant growth potential through publications and experience. The PhD enhances credibility for senior academic positions, historical consultancy, and policy advisory roles in governmental bodies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methods and Historiography- (Semester 1)
Engage thoroughly with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on theoretical frameworks, data collection techniques, and major historiographical schools. Actively participate in discussions, seek clarifications from faculty, and rigorously complete assignments to build a strong conceptual base for your research.
Tools & Resources
Core textbooks on historical methods, Online academic databases (JSTOR, Project Muse), Departmental workshops on research ethics
Career Connection
A solid grasp of methodology is foundational for designing credible research, essential for thesis defense and for future independent scholarly projects, which are vital for academic careers.
Develop a Focused Research Proposal and Plan- (Semester 1 - End of Year 1)
Collaborate closely with your research supervisor and Research Advisory Committee (RAC) to refine your research topic, formulate precise research questions, and outline a detailed plan. This includes identifying key primary/secondary sources and a realistic timeline for thesis completion.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor consultations, RAC meetings, University research proposal guidelines, Project planning software
Career Connection
A well-structured proposal showcases your capacity for independent, original thought and meticulous planning, crucial for securing research grants and academic positions.
Build Comprehensive Literature Review Skills- (Semester 1 - Year 1)
Systematically identify, access, and critically evaluate existing scholarship relevant to your research area. Focus on identifying historiographical gaps and debates. Maintain an organized bibliography using reference management tools from the outset.
Tools & Resources
University Library portal, Shodhganga (Indian Thesis Repository), Zotero/Mendeley for citations
Career Connection
A robust literature review is indispensable for demonstrating scholarly engagement, forming the basis for your thesis''''s theoretical framework, and is a key component in any academic publication.
Intermediate Stage
Intensive Archival and Fieldwork Research- (Year 2 - Year 3)
Undertake rigorous data collection from primary sources, including archives (national, state, regional), libraries, oral history interviews, and fieldwork. Meticulously document your findings, ensuring proper cataloging and transcription, which is vital for the integrity of historical research.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, Kerala State Archives, Digital archives and repositories, Interview recording devices
Career Connection
Original primary research forms the backbone of a strong History PhD, enhancing your expertise and making your thesis a significant contribution to the field, crucial for academic recognition.
Consistent Writing and Regular Supervisor Interaction- (Ongoing from Year 2)
Establish a disciplined writing routine, producing drafts of thesis chapters regularly. Schedule frequent meetings with your supervisor to receive constructive feedback on your writing, arguments, and progress. Actively incorporate feedback to refine your thesis iteratively.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Grammarly/similar editing tools, Dedicated writing blocks
Career Connection
Strong academic writing and the ability to respond to critique are paramount for publishing in peer-reviewed journals and completing a high-quality thesis, both essential for an academic career.
Present Research at Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2 onwards)
Actively seek opportunities to present your research findings at national and international conferences, seminars, and workshops. This helps in networking, getting feedback from a wider academic community, and enhancing your visibility as a scholar.
Tools & Resources
Conference calls for papers (e.g., ICHR, IHA), Departmental presentation series, Travel grants for researchers
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds your academic profile, hones presentation skills, and facilitates networking, all of which are critical for securing academic positions and collaborations.
Advanced Stage
Thesis Completion and Pre-Submission Review- (Final Year / Pre-submission Phase)
Dedicate the final phase to consolidating, refining, and polishing your entire thesis. Ensure logical flow, analytical depth, meticulous referencing, and adherence to university formatting guidelines. Prepare for the pre-submission viva by practicing articulating your research contribution.
Tools & Resources
University thesis formatting manual, Proofreading services, Mock viva sessions with mentors
Career Connection
A well-written, thoroughly reviewed, and successfully defended thesis is the direct gateway to receiving your PhD degree, opening doors to your chosen career path.
Aim for Peer-Reviewed Publications- (Year 3 onwards (concurrent with writing))
Transform key chapters or distinct findings from your thesis into publishable articles. Target reputable, UGC CARE listed, peer-reviewed journals in History, both within India and internationally. This establishes your scholarly reputation and disseminates your original research.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE List, Reputable history journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Historical Review), Journal submission platforms
Career Connection
Publications are a crucial metric for academic appointments, promotions, and research grants in India, demonstrating your productivity and contribution to scholarly knowledge.
Strategic Career Planning and Skill Development- (Final Year / Post-submission Phase)
Actively explore academic job market trends, postdoctoral fellowship opportunities, and potential roles in heritage management or policy research. Develop a strong academic CV, cover letter, and teaching philosophy statement. Seek out opportunities for guest lecturing or mentoring to gain teaching experience.
Tools & Resources
Academic job portals (e.g., university websites, government job portals), Career counseling services, Networking with alumni and faculty
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and skill diversification (like teaching) are essential for a smooth transition from PhD scholar to an employed professional, maximizing your chances in a competitive job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in History or an allied subject with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled candidates) or an equivalent grade. Candidates must qualify in an Entrance Test conducted by the university followed by an Interview, or be exempted from the Entrance Test if they possess UGC-NET/JRF/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship or an M.Phil. degree in the subject.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (excluding the one semester coursework period), Maximum 6 years
Credits: Minimum 16 credits for coursework Credits
Assessment: Internal: Coursework assessment based on internal examinations and assignments. Ongoing evaluation by the Research Advisory Committee (RAC) through annual progress seminars and periodic reviews., External: External examinations for coursework papers. Pre-submission Viva for thesis review. Final Viva-Voce examination for the doctoral thesis evaluation.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDHIS-C01 | Research Methodology in History | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Types of Historical Research and Sources, Historiography and Philosophical Foundations, Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection Techniques (Archival, Oral, Field), Ethical Considerations and Research Writing |
| PHDHIS-C02 | Area of Research / Specialized Studies in History | Core | 4 | Historiography of Ancient India, Perspectives on Medieval Indian History, Modern and Contemporary World History Debates, Socio-Cultural and Economic Historical Theories, Regional History of Kerala and South India, Gender and Subaltern Studies in History |
| PHDHIS-C03 | Review of Literature in the Area of Research | Core | 4 | Identifying and Accessing Scholarly Literature, Critical Appraisal of Historical Writings, Synthesizing Existing Research and Debates, Identifying Research Gaps and Original Contributions, Developing a Comprehensive Literature Review, Referencing and Citation Styles in Historical Research |
| PHDHIS-C04 | Advanced Historiography and Data Interpretation | Core | 4 | Theories and Interpretations of History, Qualitative and Quantitative Methods in Historical Analysis, Archival Research and Documentation Skills, Oral History: Theory and Practice, Historical Interpretation and Argumentation, Presentation of Research Findings |
