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PHD in Comparative Literature Translation Studies at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Comparative Literature & Translation Studies at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This Comparative Literature & Translation Studies program at University of Mysore focuses on interdisciplinary literary inquiry and the theories and practices of translation. It explores literary works across cultures and languages, analyzing their connections and influences within an Indian context. The program offers a deep dive into cultural transfers and textual transformations, meeting a growing demand for nuanced cross-cultural communication expertise.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for M.A. graduates in Literature, Linguistics, or allied humanities fields seeking advanced research. It suits scholars passionate about cross-cultural literary analysis, language mediation, and theoretical explorations in an academic setting. Aspiring university professors, researchers, and cultural critics with a strong academic background and interest in India''''s diverse linguistic landscape would greatly benefit.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, literary critics, cultural analysts, and professional translators or editors, particularly in India''''s thriving publishing and media sectors. Research roles in think tanks or cultural institutions are also common. While direct salary figures vary, PhD holders typically command higher academic salaries, with growth trajectories leading to senior faculty or leadership positions in cultural organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology & Literary Theories- (Year 1 Coursework Phase)
Diligently engage with the coursework, focusing on foundational research methodologies, critical thinking, and advanced literary theories applicable to comparative and translation studies. Participate actively in departmental seminars and workshops.
Tools & Resources
UoM Library e-resources, JSTOR, Project MUSE, NPTEL courses on research methods, Department faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Essential for developing rigorous academic research skills, which are fundamental for thesis writing, academic publications, and teaching positions in India.
Build Foundational Interdisciplinary Knowledge- (Year 1 Coursework Phase)
Leverage the optional papers, particularly Translation Studies, to build a strong theoretical and practical understanding of linguistic and cultural transfer. Actively seek out complementary courses or audit lectures in related departments like Linguistics or regional languages.
Tools & Resources
Online MOOCs on translation theory, Academic journals like ''''Indian Literature'''' or ''''Translation Today'''', Discussions with peers and supervisors
Career Connection
Establishes the interdisciplinary base required for specializing in comparative literature and translation, opening avenues for diverse research topics and academic roles.
Cultivate Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Year 1 Coursework Phase)
Focus on refining academic writing for research papers and proposals. Actively seek opportunities to present preliminary findings or literature reviews in departmental colloquia or junior research forums. Seek feedback from supervisors and peers.
Tools & Resources
UoM Writing Centre (if available), Grammarly Premium, Academic writing workshops, Peer review groups
Career Connection
Crucial for successful thesis submission, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and effectively communicating research findings at conferences in India and abroad.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Focused Thesis Research- (Years 2-3)
Develop a clear research proposal aligned with the specialization, conduct exhaustive literature reviews, and begin primary/secondary data collection. Regularly meet with your supervisor for guidance and feedback on progress.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for reference management, Google Scholar, UoM Research Portal, Specific archival resources relevant to comparative literature and translation studies in India
Career Connection
Directly contributes to the PhD degree, which is a prerequisite for most university teaching and research positions. A strong thesis leads to academic recognition and potential publications.
Participate in National & International Conferences- (Years 2-4)
Identify relevant academic conferences and seminars in India (e.g., Comparative Literature Association of India, Indian Association of Translation Studies) and abroad. Submit abstracts, present research findings, and network with scholars in the field.
Tools & Resources
Academic conference databases, Departmental funding for travel, Professional academic associations
Career Connection
Builds professional network, provides visibility for research, and strengthens CV for academic job applications and post-doctoral opportunities in India and globally.
Seek Publication Opportunities- (Years 2-5)
Transform parts of your thesis or independent research into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals in comparative literature, translation studies, or humanities. Aim for reputable journals.
Tools & Resources
Scopus, Web of Science, UGC-CARE list of journals, Guidance from supervisor on suitable journals
Career Connection
Publications are critical for securing academic positions (Assistant Professor onwards) in Indian universities, enhancing research profiles, and attracting grants.
Advanced Stage
Finalize and Defend Thesis- (Years 4-5)
Dedicate intensive time to writing, revising, and perfecting the thesis. Prepare rigorously for the viva voce examination, anticipating questions and practicing defense arguments with peers and mentors.
Tools & Resources
Thesis template guidelines from UoM, Proofreading services, Mock viva sessions with senior researchers
Career Connection
Successful thesis defense is the culmination of the PhD program, leading to the award of the degree and enabling entry into the academic job market.
Develop Teaching Portfolio & Pedagogy Skills- (Years 3-6)
Seek opportunities to assist professors, co-teach undergraduate/postgraduate courses, or deliver guest lectures. Develop teaching materials and articulate a teaching philosophy. Consider acquiring a teaching certificate if available.
Tools & Resources
University teaching workshops, Peer observation, Mentorship from experienced faculty, Online resources on pedagogy
Career Connection
Essential for academic job applications, especially for Assistant Professor roles where teaching experience is highly valued in Indian universities.
Strategic Career Planning & Networking- (Years 5-6)
Actively search for academic job openings, post-doctoral fellowships, or research grants. Prepare compelling CVs, cover letters, and research statements. Network strategically with senior academics and potential employers.
Tools & Resources
UoM Career Services (if applicable for research careers), Academic job portals (e.g., Current Science, specific university websites), LinkedIn, Professional academic networks
Career Connection
Facilitates successful transition from PhD student to independent researcher or faculty member, maximizing opportunities for a sustained academic career in India or abroad.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (M.A.) in a relevant subject (e.g., English, Comparative Literature, Linguistics) with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/Cat-I/PwD candidates). Candidates must qualify the University of Mysore PhD Entrance Test or be exempted (e.g., NET/SLET/GATE/JRF qualified).
Duration: 3-6 years (Minimum 3 years, maximum 6 years. For women/PwD, additional 2 years, total 8 years.)
Credits: 16 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PhD RM P1 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning, Objectives, Characteristics and Types of Research, Hypothesis and Research Design, Methods of Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Research Report Writing and Ethics |
| PhD ES P2 | Approaches to English Studies / Literary Theory & Criticism | Core | 4 | Introduction to Literary Criticism, Classical and Romantic Criticism, New Criticism and Structuralism, Post-structuralism and Postmodernism, Cultural Studies and Postcolonialism |
| PhD TS P3 | Translation Studies | Elective | 4 | History and Evolution of Translation Theories, Types and Processes of Translation, Cultural and Linguistic Issues in Translation, Ethics and Ideology in Translation, Translation of Literary and Non-Literary Texts |
| PhD CL P4 | Comparative Literature: Theories and Practices | Elective | 4 | Concepts and Methodologies of Comparative Literature, Interdisciplinary Approaches to Literature, Influence and Reception Studies, World Literature and Translation, Themes and Genres across Cultures |
