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PHD in Anthropology at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Anthropology at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This PhD program in Anthropology at the University of Mysore focuses on advanced research, critical analysis of human societies, cultures, and biological evolution. It emphasizes original contributions to knowledge, often with a strong focus on South Asian and particularly Indian ethnographic contexts. The program prepares scholars for rigorous academic and research careers, addressing the nuanced complexities of human existence and societal structures within India and globally.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in Anthropology, Sociology, History, or related social sciences who possess a strong research aptitude. It suits individuals aspiring for academic positions, senior research roles in government or non-governmental organizations, or those seeking to contribute to policy-making through empirical insights. Applicants should have a passion for deep inquiry into human behavior, cultural diversity, and social issues, combined with a commitment to sustained scholarly work.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as professors, independent researchers, consultants for cultural heritage, or experts in social impact assessments. In India, opportunities exist in universities, ICSSR-funded research institutes, government departments, and international development agencies. While direct salary ranges vary widely, a fresh PhD in academia might start from INR 7-10 LPA, growing significantly with experience and publications. The degree fosters critical thinking, advanced analytical skills, and the ability to conduct independent, ethical research.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly engage with the coursework on research methodology. Understand different research paradigms, data collection techniques (both qualitative and quantitative relevant to anthropology), and critically, research ethics. Actively participate in seminars and workshops on advanced research methods.
Tools & Resources
University Library Resources (JSTOR, AnthroSource), SPSS/R for quantitative data (if applicable), NVivo/Atlas.ti for qualitative data, Swayam NPTEL courses on research ethics
Career Connection
A strong foundation in methodology is crucial for conducting credible research, which is paramount for academic publications, thesis defense, and securing research grants in India and globally.
Intensive Literature Review & Gap Identification- (Semester 1-2)
Devote significant time to reviewing existing anthropological literature, particularly focusing on Indian scholarship. Identify a clear research gap and formulate a well-defined research problem. Regularly discuss literature and potential research areas with your supervisor and peers.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, ResearchGate, University''''s digital repository (Shodhganga), EndNote/Zotero for referencing
Career Connection
This practice helps in developing a strong thesis proposal, which is a key milestone for PhDs. It also sharpens critical thinking and contributes to identifying unique research avenues, highly valued in academic and research roles.
Cultivate Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on refining academic writing for high-level research. Practice structuring arguments, citing sources correctly, and writing clear, concise prose. Seek feedback on drafts of review papers or early chapter outlines from your supervisor and peers.
Tools & Resources
University Writing Centre (if available), Grammarly Premium, Academic writing workshops, Reading high-impact anthropological journals
Career Connection
Effective academic writing is essential for successful thesis completion, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and applying for post-doctoral fellowships, directly impacting your academic and research career progression in India.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Fieldwork Planning & Execution- (Semester 3-5)
Plan your fieldwork meticulously, considering logistical challenges, ethical protocols, and research questions. Obtain necessary permissions (institutional, local, ethical). Execute fieldwork efficiently, adapting to unforeseen circumstances typical in Indian field settings, and maintain detailed field notes.
Tools & Resources
Fieldwork Handbooks, Consent forms templates, Digital voice recorders, GPS devices (if mapping required)
Career Connection
Hands-on fieldwork experience is the cornerstone of anthropological research and crucial for developing practical research skills, which are highly sought after by research organizations and government bodies in India.
Present Research at Conferences & Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Prepare and present your preliminary research findings or thesis proposal at departmental seminars, national conferences (e.g., Indian Anthropological Association meetings), and workshops. Actively engage in discussions and incorporate feedback from senior scholars.
Tools & Resources
University''''s research colloquiums, National and International Conference Announcements, PowerPoint/Keynote for presentations
Career Connection
Presenting builds your academic network, enhances communication skills, and helps in refining your research direction. Early presentations can lead to collaborations and visibility, critical for career advancement in Indian academia.
Collaborate and Seek Interdisciplinary Insights- (Semester 3-5)
Explore opportunities for interdisciplinary discussions or minor collaborations, especially if your research touches on areas like public health, sociology, or environmental studies. Attend guest lectures and connect with scholars from other departments or institutions.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, University research clusters, Online academic forums, Guest lectures by visiting faculty
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary engagement broadens your research perspective, making your work more relevant to complex societal problems in India. This is valuable for funding applications and diverse research positions.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Thesis Writing and Publication Strategy- (Semester 6 onwards)
Dedicatedly focus on writing your thesis, adhering to chapter deadlines set with your supervisor. Simultaneously, identify potential journals (national and international) for publishing parts of your thesis as research papers. Aim for at least one publication before thesis submission.
Tools & Resources
LaTeX/Microsoft Word for thesis formatting, Journal databases (Scopus, Web of Science), University''''s ethical review board guidance
Career Connection
A well-written thesis and publications are primary factors for academic recruitment and postdoctoral positions in India. They demonstrate research productivity and impact, crucial for a successful academic career.
Prepare for Thesis Defense (Pre-submission & Viva Voce)- (Final Year (Semester 5-6))
Engage in rigorous preparation for your pre-submission seminar and the final viva voce. Practice explaining your research, defending your methodologies, and addressing critiques. Seek mock viva sessions with peers and mentors to simulate the defense environment.
Tools & Resources
Previous PhD thesis examples, Departmental viva guidelines, Practice presentations
Career Connection
Successfully defending your thesis is the final academic hurdle. Strong defense skills are transferable to professional presentations, grant proposals, and interviews, essential for various research-oriented careers.
Network for Post-PhD Opportunities & Career Planning- (Final Year (Semester 5-6))
Actively network with academics and professionals at conferences, workshops, and alumni events. Explore post-doctoral fellowships, faculty positions, or research roles in India. Prepare your CV, research statements, and teaching philosophy for job applications.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic job portals (e.g., Current Science, University websites), University career services
Career Connection
Proactive networking and strategic career planning are vital for transitioning from PhD student to a professional researcher or academician. This helps secure desirable positions in universities, research institutes, or policy organizations across India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master’s Degree in Anthropology or a related subject with at least 55% aggregate marks (50% for SC/ST/Cat-I/Differently-abled candidates of Karnataka). Candidates must qualify the University of Mysore PhD Entrance Test or hold a valid NET/JRF/SLET/GATE/Teacher Fellowship. Subject to University''''s specific admission notifications.
Duration: Minimum 3 years (6 semesters), Maximum 6 years (12 semesters) for full-time scholars from the date of provisional registration.
Credits: 12 credits for coursework (typically 3 papers x 4 credits each) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDCM01 | Research Methodology | Core (Compulsory for all PhD candidates) | 4 | Fundamentals of Research and Research Ethics, Research Design and Problem Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Quantitative and Qualitative), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Thesis Structure |
| PHDAN01 | Advanced Anthropological Theories and Concepts | Core (Subject Specific) | 4 | Classical and Contemporary Anthropological Theories, Structuralism and Post-Structuralism, Symbolic and Interpretive Anthropology, Feminist and Post-Colonial Perspectives, Applied Anthropology and Development |
| PHDAN02 | Review of Literature and Current Trends in Anthropology | Core (Subject Specific) | 4 | Techniques for Literature Review and Annotation, Identification of Research Gaps and Problem Areas, Emerging Sub-fields and Interdisciplinary Approaches in Anthropology, Contemporary Issues in Indian and Global Anthropology, Conceptualizing Research Questions and Hypotheses |
