

PG-DIPLOMA in Vivekananda Studies at University of Mysore


Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Vivekananda Studies at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This PG Diploma in Vivekananda Studies program at University of Mysore focuses on the profound philosophy, life, and teachings of Swami Vivekananda, alongside fundamental Indian spiritual and philosophical traditions. It delves into Vedanta, Yoga, Bhagavadgita, and Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, offering a comprehensive understanding of India''''s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. The program is unique in its dedicated study of a towering national figure and his relevance to contemporary Indian society, addressing the demand for value-based education and cultural insight.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking to deepen their understanding of Indian philosophy, spirituality, and ethical leadership. It also caters to working professionals like educators, social workers, and government officials interested in incorporating value education and national ethos into their respective fields. Enthusiasts of cultural studies, philosophy, and those aspiring to roles in cultural organizations or spiritual guidance will find this program highly enriching, with no specific prerequisite beyond a Bachelor''''s degree.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to develop strong ethical foundations, critical thinking skills, and a holistic perspective on life, which are highly valued in various Indian contexts. Career paths include roles in academic institutions as researchers or teaching assistants, cultural heritage management, non-profit organizations focused on social service and education, and as counselors or motivators. While direct salary ranges vary greatly based on role, entry-level positions might range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals in related fields potentially earning 6 LPA and above, especially in government or well-established NGOs. It also aids in personal growth and leadership development.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Core Texts and Discourses- (undefined)
Dedicate time daily to read the primary texts like Bhagavadgita, Upanishads, and the Complete Works of Swami Vivekananda. Join study circles or discussion groups within the university or local Ramakrishna Mission centers to deepen comprehension and engage with diverse interpretations.
Tools & Resources
University Library, Ramakrishna Mission publications, Online open-access texts like Advaita Ashrama''''s digital library, Study circles
Career Connection
Building a strong theoretical foundation is crucial for academic pursuits, teaching, or counseling roles, and provides authenticity to any future work in spiritual or cultural fields.
Cultivate Analytical and Reflective Thinking- (undefined)
Practice critically analyzing the philosophical concepts learned, contrasting different schools of thought, and reflecting on their contemporary relevance. Maintain a journal to record personal insights, questions, and reflections on the teachings, fostering intellectual growth and clarity.
Tools & Resources
Philosophical journals (online/offline), Debate clubs, Personal reflection journal
Career Connection
Enhances critical thinking, essential for research, academic writing, and leadership roles requiring nuanced understanding and decision-making.
Engage in Value-Based Living- (undefined)
Strive to integrate the ethical principles of Karma Yoga, selfless service, and universal brotherhood from Vivekananda''''s teachings into daily life. Participate in campus or community service initiatives, translating theoretical knowledge into practical application and character development.
Tools & Resources
NSS (National Service Scheme) on campus, Local NGOs and charitable organizations, University''''s value education programs
Career Connection
Develops empathy, leadership, and a service-oriented mindset, invaluable for social work, public administration, and any role requiring ethical conduct and community engagement.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects on Specific Themes- (undefined)
Choose specific topics from Vivekananda''''s philosophy or Indian traditions (e.g., ''''Vivekananda''''s view on women empowerment in India'''', ''''Relevance of Yoga in modern lifestyle'''') and conduct small research studies. This involves literature review, conceptual analysis, and presenting findings.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Google Scholar, University research guides, Faculty mentorship, Reference management tools
Career Connection
Develops research skills, academic writing proficiency, and subject matter expertise, preparing for higher studies, academic roles, or specialized cultural research.
Attend and Present at Seminars/Workshops- (undefined)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, national/international conferences (even online ones) related to philosophy, spirituality, or Vivekananda studies. Presenting papers or even attending as a delegate enhances exposure, networking, and public speaking skills.
Tools & Resources
University event calendars, Call for papers from related departments/institutes, Online conference platforms
Career Connection
Boosts confidence, improves communication skills, builds academic network, and adds valuable experience to CV for academic or professional roles.
Connect with Ramakrishna Mission Network- (undefined)
Seek opportunities to visit local Ramakrishna Math and Mission centers, volunteer for their activities, or attend their spiritual retreats and lectures. This provides practical insights into their service activities and spiritual practices, deepening understanding beyond academics.
Tools & Resources
Local Ramakrishna Math/Mission centers, Official websites and publications of Ramakrishna Math and Mission
Career Connection
Offers practical exposure to institutionalized spiritual and social service, potentially opening doors for future employment or dedicated service within such organizations.
Advanced Stage
Develop Communication and Pedagogical Skills- (undefined)
Practice articulating complex philosophical ideas clearly and engagingly. Offer to lead discussions, deliver presentations, or even teach basic concepts to junior students. This sharpens teaching abilities and simplifies profound thoughts for wider audiences.
Tools & Resources
Public speaking workshops, Peer teaching groups, Presentation software and tools
Career Connection
Essential for roles in education, spiritual counseling, public speaking, and communication, making graduates effective communicators of universal values.
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (undefined)
Engage in a final, in-depth research project or dissertation on a chosen aspect of Vivekananda''''s thought or its contemporary application. This culminates learning, showcases independent research capability, and contributes to the field.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Faculty supervisors, Academic databases, Thesis writing software
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is a significant asset for higher education admissions (M.Phil./Ph.D.), research positions, or demonstrating expert knowledge in a specific area.
Network with Alumni and Field Experts- (undefined)
Actively connect with alumni of the program and established scholars, educators, or social workers in related fields. Attend university alumni meets, use professional networking platforms, and seek mentorship to understand career paths and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University alumni association, LinkedIn, Professional conferences and workshops
Career Connection
Leveraging professional networks can open doors to internships, job opportunities, collaborations, and valuable career guidance in the niche area of Vivekananda Studies and related fields.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per University of Mysore regulations for PG Diploma courses (typically any Bachelor''''s degree from a recognized university)
Duration: 1 Year (2 Semesters)
Credits: 40 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGDVS-101 | VISHNU SAHASRANAMA | Core | 4 | Introduction to Vishnu Sahasranama, Sanskrit Grammar and Pronunciation, Meaning of the 1000 Names of Vishnu, Contextual Study of the Names in Hindu Tradition, Philosophical Interpretations and Spiritual Significance |
| PGDVS-102 | INDIAN PHILOSOPHY | Core | 4 | Nature and Characteristics of Indian Philosophy, Vedic and Upanishadic Philosophical Thought, Philosophy of the Bhagavadgita, Nyaya and Vaisheshika Systems, Samkhya and Yoga Systems, Vedanta (Advaita, Vishishtadvaita) and Mimamsa |
| PGDVS-103 | BHAGAVADGITA | Core | 4 | Introduction and Historical Background of the Gita, Concept of Dharma and Nishkama Karma, Karma Yoga: The Path of Action, Jnana Yoga: The Path of Knowledge, Bhakti Yoga: The Path of Devotion, Social, Ethical, and Spiritual Significance |
| PGDVS-104 | SWAMI VIVEKANANDA’S LIFE AND MISSION | Core | 4 | Early Life, Education, and Influences, Meeting Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Wanderings Across India (Parivrajaka), Parliament of Religions, Chicago (1893), Mission to the West and Formation of Vedanta Societies, Establishment of the Ramakrishna Mission |
| PGDVS-105 | SWAMI VIVEKANANDA’S THOUGHTS AND PHILOSOPHY | Core | 4 | Sources and Development of Vivekananda’s Thought, Concept of Universal Religion and Harmony of Faiths, Practical Vedanta and Its Application to Daily Life, Man-making Education and Character Building, His Views on Social Service, Indian Culture, and Youth, Ideas on Nationalism and National Integration |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGDVS-201 | UPANISHADS | Core | 4 | Meaning, Origin, and Significance of Upanishads, Classification of Major Upanishads, Central Teachings: Brahman, Atman, Maya, Detailed Study of Key Upanishads (e.g., Isa, Kena, Katha), Concept of Karma, Rebirth, and Moksha, Relationship with Brahmasutras and Vedanta |
| PGDVS-202 | YOGA | Core | 4 | Meaning, History, and Schools of Yoga, Different Types of Yoga (Raja, Karma, Bhakti, Jnana), Patanjali''''s Yoga Sutras and Ashtanga Yoga (Eight Limbs), Yogic Practices: Asanas, Pranayama, Dhyana, Samadhi, Modern Relevance, Health Benefits, and Stress Management, Yoga as a Holistic System for Personal Development |
| PGDVS-203 | SCRIPTURES OF WORLD RELIGIONS | Core | 4 | Introduction to Major World Religions and Their Founders, Hinduism: Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavadgita, Puranas, Christianity: The Holy Bible (Old and New Testament), Islam: The Quran and Hadith, Buddhism: Tripitaka and Buddhist Sutras, Jainism: Agamas and Siddhanta, Sikhism: Guru Granth Sahib |
| PGDVS-204 | SRI RAMAKRISHNA PARAMAHAMSA’S LIFE AND TEACHINGS | Core | 4 | Early Life, Spiritual Sadhana, and Divine Visions, Practice of Various Spiritual Paths (Hindu, Christian, Islamic), Divine Mother Kali and His Relationship, His Parables and Simple Teachings, Message of Universalism and Harmony of Religions, Influence on Disciples and the Spiritual Revival |
| PGDVS-205 | RAMAKRISHNA MISSION AND ITS SOCIAL RELEVANCE | Core | 4 | Genesis and Ideals of the Ramakrishna Math and Mission, Service Activities: Education, Healthcare, and Rural Development, Disaster Relief Operations and Philanthropic Efforts, Vedanta Societies Abroad and Global Reach, Vivekananda''''s Concept of ''''Shiv Jnani Jeev Seva'''', Contemporary Relevance and Future Outlook of the Mission |




