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PH-D in East Asian Studies at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is East Asian Studies at University of Delhi Delhi?
This Ph.D. in East Asian Studies program at the University of Delhi focuses on advanced research into the diverse societies, cultures, politics, and economies of East Asia. The program is vital for understanding India''''s ''''Act East'''' policy and the region''''s increasing global significance. It provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a field with growing demand for expertise in diplomacy, trade, and cultural exchange within the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for M.Phil. or Master''''s degree holders in Social Sciences, Humanities, or related fields with a keen interest in East Asia. It attracts scholars aiming for academic careers, policymakers seeking deep regional insights, or professionals in international relations and trade. Aspirants should possess strong analytical skills and a commitment to rigorous, independent research.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue esteemed academic positions in Indian universities or think tanks. Career paths include research analysts, policy advisors, and experts in government ministries dealing with foreign affairs or trade. Salaries can range from INR 6-15 LPA for researchers to higher for experienced policy experts, with significant growth in a rapidly globalizing India. It aligns with specialized roles requiring cultural and political acumen.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Area Fundamentals- (Semester 1)
Engage deeply with the coursework on Research Methodology and Area Studies: East Asia. Actively participate in seminars, utilize the departmental library for core readings, and seek regular feedback from faculty on assignments. This stage is crucial for building a strong theoretical and methodological base.
Tools & Resources
DU Central Library, Departmental East Asian Studies Library, JSTOR, Project MUSE databases, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge is essential for successful thesis conceptualization, academic publications, and demonstrating expertise in initial career roles as a researcher or analyst.
Identify Research Niche and Formulate Proposal- (Semester 1-2)
Begin exploring potential research areas within East Asian Studies that align with faculty expertise and current geopolitical relevance. Attend departmental colloquia and research presentations to refine your interests. Start drafting a compelling research proposal, seeking guidance from potential supervisors early.
Tools & Resources
Faculty office hours, Departmental research seminars, Previous Ph.D. theses (available in library), Online research topic generators
Career Connection
A well-defined research proposal not only secures your Ph.D. registration but also lays the groundwork for future grant applications and specialized career paths.
Develop Language Proficiency (East Asian)- (Throughout Ph.D., especially Semester 1-2)
Enroll in advanced language courses (e.g., Chinese, Japanese, Korean) offered by the Department or other DU centers. Practical proficiency is critical for primary source research and engagement with the region. Dedicate consistent time daily to language learning beyond coursework requirements.
Tools & Resources
DU Department of East Asian Studies language courses, DU Department of Modern Indian Languages & Literary Studies (M.I.L. & L.S.), Online language learning apps (Duolingo, Memrise, HelloTalk)
Career Connection
Language skills are a significant differentiator, opening doors to fieldwork, international collaborations, and highly specialized roles in diplomacy, intelligence, and academic translation.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Academic Writing and Publishing- (Semester 3-5)
Transform coursework papers or initial research findings into publishable articles. Target national and international peer-reviewed journals relevant to East Asian Studies. Participate in writing workshops and get feedback from peers and supervisors. Present at student conferences.
Tools & Resources
Journal databases (e.g., SAGE, Routledge, Springer), Reference management software (Zotero, Mendeley), University''''s research and publication support cells
Career Connection
Publications are vital for academic career progression and enhance your profile for research grants and positions, demonstrating your scholarly contribution and expertise.
Attend & Present at National/International Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to present your research at relevant academic conferences within India and abroad. This builds your academic network, provides critical feedback, and enhances your public speaking skills. Apply for university grants to support travel.
Tools & Resources
Academic conference databases (e.g., H-Net, CfP List), DU research travel grants, Departmental notice boards for upcoming events
Career Connection
Conference participation establishes your presence in the academic community, crucial for collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, and securing academic positions.
Build a Robust Professional Network- (Throughout Ph.D., especially Semester 3-5)
Connect with faculty, fellow Ph.D. scholars, and visiting experts not just within your department but across the University of Delhi and other institutions. Attend guest lectures and workshops. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with scholars and professionals in East Asian affairs.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University seminars and public lectures, Research collaboration portals
Career Connection
Networking is instrumental for identifying potential collaborators, securing academic and non-academic positions, and staying informed about field advancements and opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Completion and Defense Preparation- (Semester 6 onwards)
Maintain a strict writing schedule, regularly sharing drafts with your supervisor and incorporating feedback. Prepare meticulously for your pre-submission colloquium and final viva-voce examination. Practice presenting your research concisely and effectively, anticipating potential questions.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor''''s guidance, Mock viva sessions with peers/faculty, University guidelines for thesis submission, Grammarly, Turnitin
Career Connection
Successful thesis completion and defense are the ultimate academic milestones, leading directly to the awarding of your Ph.D. and validating your expertise for all future roles.
Explore Post-Doctoral & Career Opportunities- (Last 1-2 semesters of Ph.D.)
Actively search for post-doctoral fellowships, research grants, and academic positions in universities, think tanks, or government bodies focusing on East Asia. Tailor your CV and cover letter to each opportunity, highlighting your specific research skills and regional expertise.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Academic job boards (e.g., Chronicle of Higher Education, jobs.ac.uk), Indian government job portals (UPSC, ministry websites)
Career Connection
Proactive job searching and application preparation are crucial for a smooth transition from Ph.D. to a professional role, leveraging your specialized knowledge.
Develop Outreach and Policy Engagement Skills- (Throughout Ph.D., intensifying in final year)
Translate complex research findings into accessible formats for a broader audience, including policy briefs or opinion pieces for newspapers/magazines. Engage with policymakers or think tank experts through seminars or workshops. This bridges academic research with real-world impact.
Tools & Resources
Think tank publications (e.g., ORF, Observer Research Foundation), Policy brief writing guides, Media training workshops (if available)
Career Connection
The ability to communicate research impactfully is highly valued in policy advocacy, think tank roles, and media, enhancing your influence and career prospects beyond traditional academia.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree or M.Phil. in a relevant discipline with at least 55% marks or equivalent grade (50% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD). Admission through Ph.D. Entrance Test or exemption for UGC-NET (including JRF)/UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF) or equivalent national level examination/fellowship holders, followed by an interview.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (as per University Ph.D. Ordinance, coursework typically in 1st year)
Credits: Minimum 8 credits (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 100% (for coursework papers as per departmental syllabus), External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Foundations of Research, Research Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Writing and Presentation, Research Ethics and Plagiarism |
| Paper II | Area Studies: East Asia | Core | 4 | East Asia in International Relations, Political Economy of East Asia, Society and Culture of East Asia, Historical Perspectives of East Asia, Contemporary Issues and Developments in East Asia |
