

PH-D in Theatre Arts And Film Aesthetics For Education at University of Kerala


Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Theatre Arts and Film Aesthetics for Education at University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram?
This Ph.D. in Theatre Arts and Film Aesthetics for Education program at University of Kerala focuses on advanced research into the theoretical and practical intersections of performance, cinema, and pedagogy. It explores how these artistic disciplines can be harnessed as powerful tools for educational outcomes, critically examining their role in shaping understanding and cultural literacy within the Indian context. The program seeks to develop scholars who can contribute innovative approaches to arts education.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for candidates holding Master''''s degrees in Theatre Arts, Film Studies, Education, or related humanities disciplines. It targets fresh graduates keen on academic research, working professionals in performing arts or educational sectors seeking to deepen their theoretical knowledge, and educators aiming to integrate advanced aesthetic principles into teaching methodologies. A strong research aptitude and a passion for interdisciplinary studies are essential prerequisites.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in academia as professors or researchers in Indian universities, cultural institutions, and educational policy bodies. Opportunities also extend to curatorial roles in film archives, educational content development, and consultancy for arts education programs. While specific salary ranges vary, entry-level Ph.D. holders in academia can expect INR 6-10 LPA, growing significantly with experience and publications in Indian institutions. The program fosters critical thinking and advanced analytical skills.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly engage with the Research Methodology coursework, focusing on qualitative and interpretive research techniques relevant to arts and humanities. Attend workshops on academic writing and research ethics offered by the university. Form a peer study group to discuss readings and research designs.
Tools & Resources
University Library (JSTOR, MLA International Bibliography), Syllabus readings, University workshops on research software (e.g., NVivo for qualitative data), Research Methodology textbooks
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is critical for doctoral research and future academic publications, directly impacting the quality and credibility of your thesis and subsequent career opportunities in research or teaching roles.
Deep Dive into Specialization Literature- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, systematically explore foundational and contemporary literature in Theatre Arts, Film Aesthetics, and Education. Identify key scholars, theoretical frameworks, and debates specific to your research area. Begin compiling an annotated bibliography.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, SSRN, University''''s digital repositories, Departmental reading lists, Indian academic journals (e.g., Marg, Studies in Indian Cinema)
Career Connection
Building a comprehensive understanding of your field establishes your expertise, helps in identifying research gaps for your thesis, and prepares you for scholarly discourse and eventual teaching in the specialization.
Engage with Departmental Seminars- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in all departmental seminars, colloquia, and guest lectures related to performing arts, film, and education. Present your initial research ideas or literature reviews to gain constructive feedback from faculty and peers, enhancing presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, University event calendars, Department of Performing Arts faculty
Career Connection
Networking with senior researchers and faculty provides mentorship opportunities and exposes you to diverse research perspectives, crucial for building an academic profile and gaining insights into the Indian academic community.
Intermediate Stage
Develop and Refine Research Proposal- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate closely with your supervisor to develop a robust and original research proposal. Focus on articulating clear research questions, theoretical frameworks, and a feasible methodology. Regularly submit drafts for feedback and be open to iterative refinement.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor meetings, Research proposal guidelines from the university, Feedback from departmental review committees
Career Connection
A well-defined proposal is the bedrock of successful doctoral research, significantly expediting the thesis completion process and demonstrating your capacity for independent, rigorous academic work to future employers.
Seek Fieldwork and Archival Experience- (Semester 3-5)
Identify opportunities for fieldwork, data collection, or archival research relevant to your thesis, potentially involving local theatre groups, film societies, educational institutions, or cultural archives across India. Obtain necessary ethical clearances.
Tools & Resources
National Film Archive of India (NFAI), Sangeet Natak Akademi Archives, Local university research grants, Professional contacts from department
Career Connection
Practical research experience enhances the empirical value of your thesis, builds professional networks within the arts and education sectors in India, and adds practical skills valuable for academic and non-academic roles.
Attend and Present at Conferences- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek out and attend national and international conferences relevant to Theatre Arts, Film Studies, or Education. Present your ongoing research, even in early stages, to receive external validation and feedback, and to build your scholarly presence.
Tools & Resources
CfP (Call for Papers) databases (e.g., H-Net, University websites), Travel grants from the university/UGC, Academic associations (e.g., IFSEC, FIAF)
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences is crucial for disseminating your research, receiving peer feedback, and establishing your reputation as an emerging scholar, leading to publication opportunities and academic visibility in India and globally.
Advanced Stage
Prioritize Thesis Writing and Publication- (Semester 6-8)
Dedicate focused time to thesis writing, adhering to a strict schedule and regularly submitting chapters to your supervisor. Simultaneously, identify segments of your research suitable for publication in peer-reviewed journals, crucial for academic career progression.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (Zotero, Mendeley), Academic writing centers (if available), Journal databases (Scopus, Web of Science), Supervisor guidance
Career Connection
Completing your thesis efficiently and publishing impactful research are the primary determinants for securing academic positions, post-doctoral fellowships, and gaining recognition in your field within India''''s higher education system.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Defense- (Semester 7-8)
Engage in mock viva sessions with your supervisor and departmental faculty to prepare for the final thesis defense. Anticipate challenging questions and refine your ability to articulate your research contributions and findings concisely and effectively.
Tools & Resources
Previous Ph.D. defense videos/transcripts (if available), Mock viva sessions with faculty, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides)
Career Connection
A strong viva voce performance is the final step to officially earning your Ph.D. and reflects your mastery of the subject, positively influencing academic appointments and your credibility as a scholar.
Explore Post-Doctoral and Career Opportunities- (Semester 7-8)
Actively network with academics and explore post-doctoral positions, faculty openings, or research roles in Indian and international institutions. Prepare a comprehensive CV, teaching philosophy, and research statement tailored to target opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Academic job portals (e.g., faculty recruitment sections of university websites, Current Science), Professional networking platforms (LinkedIn, Academia.edu), Career guidance cells at the university, Mentor recommendations
Career Connection
Proactive career planning and networking during the final stages ensure a smooth transition into your desired professional path, leveraging your Ph.D. to secure impactful roles in academia or research-intensive organizations in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (PG) in a relevant discipline with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD) or an equivalent grade. Candidates with UGC-NET/JRF/GATE/SET qualifications may be exempted from the entrance test.
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (including coursework)
Credits: Typically 8-12 coursework credits; subsequent credits are for research and thesis. Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDRM101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Foundations of Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Basic Statistical Analysis, Academic Writing and Ethics |
| PHDTFAE102 | Advanced Studies in Theatre Arts and Film Aesthetics for Education | Core | 4 | Theories of Theatre and Performance, Film Semiotics and Criticism, Aesthetics in Educational Contexts, Media Pedagogy and Curriculum Design, Critical Approaches to Arts Education |




