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PH-D in History at University of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is History at University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram?
This Ph.D. History program at University of Kerala focuses on advanced research, critical historiography, and original contributions to historical knowledge. The program delves into diverse periods and themes of Indian and global history, emphasizing rigorous methodology and interdisciplinary approaches. It addresses the growing demand for expert historians, archivists, and researchers in India''''s academic and heritage sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for M.A. History postgraduates aspiring to academic careers, archival research, or public history roles. It also suits professionals in heritage management, museology, or journalism seeking to deepen their historical expertise and contribute scholarly work. Candidates with a strong research aptitude and a passion for uncovering historical narratives are particularly well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, research fellows in national institutions, historians, archivists, or policy analysts. Entry-level salaries for Ph.D. holders in academia typically range from INR 6-10 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program equips scholars to contribute to public discourse, inform policy, and preserve cultural heritage, aligning with national research priorities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology Early- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework, mastering qualitative and quantitative techniques, archival research methods, and historiographical analysis. This foundational knowledge is crucial for designing robust research and critically evaluating sources.
Tools & Resources
University Library historical archives, JSTOR, Project MUSE databases, Workshops on research software (e.g., NVivo for qualitative analysis)
Career Connection
Strong methodological skills are indispensable for any research-oriented career, enhancing the quality and credibility of doctoral work and future publications, thereby improving academic placement prospects.
Cultivate Strong Faculty Mentorship- (Semester 1-2)
Establish a close working relationship with your supervisor and departmental faculty. Actively seek their guidance on research topics, literature review, and conceptual frameworks. Regularly present your work to them for constructive feedback.
Tools & Resources
Scheduled one-on-one meetings, Departmental research colloquia, Peer review groups
Career Connection
Effective mentorship is vital for navigating the complexities of doctoral research, leading to timely thesis completion and valuable professional networking that can open doors to post-doctoral positions and academic roles.
Engage with Historiographical Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Deeply explore and critically analyze major historiographical trends and debates pertinent to your research area. Understand different schools of thought, their methodologies, and interpretations to position your own research effectively.
Tools & Resources
Specialized history journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Historical Review), Academic conferences and seminars
Career Connection
A strong grasp of historiography enhances the intellectual depth of your thesis, making you a more articulate and respected scholar, crucial for academic employment and intellectual leadership.
Intermediate Stage
Present Research at Conferences- (Year 2-3)
Actively seek opportunities to present preliminary findings or literature reviews at national and regional academic conferences. This helps in refining your ideas, receiving feedback, and networking with scholars in your field.
Tools & Resources
ICHR sponsored seminars, Indian History Congress, Kerala History Association conferences
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds your academic profile, demonstrates scholarly engagement, and can lead to early publications, significantly boosting your CV for academic positions and research grants.
Publish in Reputable Journals- (Year 2-4)
Aim to convert parts of your literature review, methodology chapter, or initial research findings into publishable articles in peer-reviewed journals. This is a critical step towards establishing your scholarly presence.
Tools & Resources
UGC CARE listed journals in History, Departmental research publications, Writing workshops
Career Connection
Publications are the bedrock of an academic career in India, directly influencing faculty appointments, promotions, and eligibility for research funding and post-doctoral fellowships.
Undertake Extensive Archival/Field Work- (Year 2-4)
Spend dedicated time in relevant archives, libraries, and potentially field sites (depending on your topic) for primary data collection. Diligence and systematic approach here are paramount for original research.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, State Archives (e.g., Kerala State Archives), Digital archives like British Library, Gallica
Career Connection
Original primary research forms the core of a strong Ph.D. thesis, demonstrating scholarly rigor and contributing unique insights that are highly valued in academic and research institutions.
Advanced Stage
Refine Thesis for Timely Submission- (Year 3-5)
Focus intently on drafting, revising, and perfecting your thesis. Pay close attention to structure, argument coherence, citation consistency, and academic integrity. Work closely with your supervisor to meet deadlines.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (Zotero, Mendeley), Plagiarism detection tools (Turnitin), University writing center services
Career Connection
Timely completion and a high-quality thesis are crucial for successful defense and obtaining the degree, directly impacting your ability to apply for faculty positions and post-doctoral roles.
Prepare for Viva Voce Examination- (Year 4-6)
Rigorously prepare for your oral defense (viva voce). Anticipate questions, practice explaining your research clearly and concisely, and be ready to defend your arguments and methodology before external examiners.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with faculty and peers, Reviewing key theoretical and methodological literature
Career Connection
A successful viva voce is the final gateway to earning your Ph.D. and showcasing your expertise, enhancing your confidence and readiness for academic interviews and public presentations.
Proactively Network for Post-Ph.D. Opportunities- (Year 4-6 (leading up to and post-submission))
Beyond thesis submission, actively network with professors, researchers, and institutions for post-doctoral fellowships, teaching positions, or research grants. Attend job fairs and academic recruitment events.
Tools & Resources
Academic job portals (e.g., current.ac.in, official university career pages), LinkedIn for academic networking, Direct email inquiries to potential mentors
Career Connection
Strategic networking is paramount for securing immediate post-Ph.D. employment, facilitating transitions into academic or research roles, and building a sustainable career path in history.
