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PHD in Christianity at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Christianity at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This Christianity PhD program at University of Mysore focuses on advanced academic inquiry into Christian traditions, theology, history, and its socio-cultural impact in India. It encourages interdisciplinary research into Christianity''''s diverse manifestations, fostering critical understanding of its global and local contexts. The program addresses contemporary challenges and promotes nuanced scholarship within an Indian academic framework.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for scholars, theologians, and researchers holding an MA in Christianity, Religious Studies, or allied fields, who aspire to conduct original research. It attracts individuals passionate about exploring Christian thought, history, and its dialogue with other religions in the Indian subcontinent. It also suits clergy seeking advanced theological understanding and academic credentials for teaching and leadership roles.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers in academia as professors or researchers in universities and theological seminaries across India. They can also contribute to interfaith dialogue initiatives, cultural heritage preservation, or religious policy analysis. Salaries for university professors typically range from INR 6-15 LPA initially, with significant growth potential depending on experience and academic standing.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in the Pre-PhD coursework, thoroughly grasping quantitative and qualitative research methods, statistical basics, and academic ethics. Develop a strong foundation in designing rigorous studies and adhering to ethical guidelines.
Tools & Resources
SPSS (for basic statistics), Zotero/Mendeley (for citation management), University library research workshops
Career Connection
Essential for establishing scholarly credibility, ensuring integrity in research, and building a robust foundation for thesis development.
Extensive Literature Review and Proposal Development- (Semester 1-2)
Immerse yourself in comprehensive theological texts, historical analyses, and contemporary scholarship relevant to Christian studies. Refine your research question, identify gaps in existing literature, and craft a compelling, original research proposal.
Tools & Resources
University library databases (JSTOR, ATLA Religion Database), Online academic journals, Departmental thesis proposal guidelines
Career Connection
Forms the bedrock of your original contribution to scholarship, crucial for securing research grants and successful thesis completion.
Engage in Departmental Seminars and Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Actively attend and present at departmental seminars, workshops, and colloquia. This provides invaluable opportunities to receive feedback on your emerging ideas, engage with faculty expertise, and clarify your research direction in a supportive environment.
Tools & Resources
Presentation software (PowerPoint/Google Slides), Academic writing and presentation skill workshops, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Builds critical communication and presentation skills, vital for academic roles, conference participation, and networking within the scholarly community.
Intermediate Stage
Conduct Focused Fieldwork or Archival Research- (Years 2-3)
Systematically collect primary data through well-designed interviews, surveys, or delve into historical archives, manuscripts, and rare theological texts. Ensure meticulous record-keeping and data organization relevant to your research objectives.
Tools & Resources
Interview recording devices, Archival access protocols (e.g., National Archives of India, seminary libraries), NVivo/ATLAS.ti (for qualitative data analysis)
Career Connection
Develops specialized methodological expertise, generates unique insights, and strengthens the originality of your doctoral thesis, making you a highly skilled researcher.
Present at National and International Conferences- (Years 2-3)
Actively seek opportunities to present preliminary research findings at academic conferences within India and abroad. This helps in receiving diverse feedback, refining arguments, and establishing your presence in the broader academic discourse.
Tools & Resources
Conference directories (e.g., Religioscope, AASR), University travel grants and funding applications, Professional academic associations (e.g., SBL, AAR)
Career Connection
Enhances your professional network, sharpens public speaking and presentation skills, and provides exposure to current research trends, crucial for academic career progression.
Initiate Academic Publication Process- (Years 2-3)
Begin drafting research papers derived from your thesis chapters and aim for submission to peer-reviewed academic journals in Religious Studies, Theology, or Humanities. Collaborate with your supervisor on manuscript preparation and submission strategies.
Tools & Resources
Reputable academic journals (e.g., Journal of Dharma, Bangalore Theological Forum), Manuscript submission platforms, University publication guidelines
Career Connection
Demonstrates scholarly productivity and the ability to disseminate research effectively, a key criterion for post-doctoral positions and academic appointments.
Advanced Stage
Systematic Thesis Writing and Refinement- (Years 3-4+)
Dedicate focused time to writing and structuring your doctoral thesis, ensuring logical flow, coherence, and scholarly rigor. Work in close collaboration with your supervisor for regular feedback, incorporating revisions systematically.
Tools & Resources
Thesis formatting guidelines of University of Mysore, Grammar and plagiarism checkers (e.g., Turnitin, Grammarly), Reference management software
Career Connection
Culminates in the doctoral degree, the primary prerequisite for advanced academic and research roles, and represents your significant scholarly contribution.
Network with Senior Scholars and Mentors- (Years 3-4+)
Actively cultivate lasting professional relationships with senior academics, mentors, and peers within your field. Attend guest lectures, workshops, and utilize networking opportunities provided by professional associations and conferences.
Tools & Resources
Professional academic associations (e.g., Indian Theological Association), LinkedIn profiles of scholars, Academic symposia and colloquia
Career Connection
Opens doors for post-doctoral fellowships, collaborative research projects, and long-term mentorship, significantly boosting your career trajectory and visibility.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Research Dissemination- (Years 3-4+)
Prepare thoroughly for your final Viva Voce examination, being ready to comprehensively defend your research and engage with examiners'''' questions. Consider open-access platforms to broaden the impact and reach of your published thesis.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with department faculty, Presentation practice sessions, University''''s Shodhganga repository for thesis submission
Career Connection
Successful defense is the final and crucial step to earning the doctorate, marking your entry as an independent scholar, and contributing to the global body of knowledge.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree (MA in Christianity, Religious Studies, or relevant allied discipline) from a recognized university with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/Category-I candidates), successful qualification in the PhD Entrance Test conducted by the University of Mysore, and subsequent interview as per UGC norms.
Duration: 1 semester (coursework) followed by a minimum of 3 years (research)
Credits: Typically 16-20 for coursework (research credits are separate and depend on thesis submission) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHDCRM01 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Research, Research Design and Ethics, Methods of Data Collection (Qualitative & Quantitative), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Academic Writing and Referencing |
| PHDCCL02 | Review of Literature in Christianity | Core (Specialization-Specific) | 4 | Major Theological Traditions and Thinkers, Historical Development of Christian Thought, Methods of Biblical Interpretation, Indian Christian Theology and its Context, Contemporary Issues in Christian Studies |
| PHDCCS03 | Advanced Studies in Christian Theology/Religious Studies (Elective) | Elective (Specialization-Specific, topic varies based on research area) | 4 | Systematic Theology and its Disciplines, Philosophy of Religion and Christian Thought, Ethics and Social Justice in Christianity, Inter-Religious Dialogue and Pluralism, Christianity and Culture in India |
| PHDCICR04 | ICT for Research and Publication Ethics | Core (Interdisciplinary) | 4 | Information and Communication Technology in Research, Academic Integrity and Plagiarism, Responsible Conduct of Research, Intellectual Property Rights and Patents, Research Publication Process |
