

PHD in Philosophy at University of Mysore


Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Philosophy at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This PhD Philosophy program at the University of Mysore focuses on advanced research in core philosophical areas, encompassing both classical Indian and Western traditions, alongside contemporary and emerging trends. The program emphasizes critical thinking, rigorous analysis, and original contribution to philosophical discourse, reflecting India''''s rich intellectual heritage and its engagement with global philosophical thought.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with an M.A. in Philosophy, or a related discipline, who possess a strong academic record and a genuine passion for in-depth philosophical inquiry. It caters to individuals aspiring to careers in academia, research, think tanks, or ethical leadership roles, seeking to develop advanced analytical and interpretative skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as university professors, researchers, policy analysts, or ethical consultants in India. While direct salary figures vary widely, a PhD in Philosophy from a reputed Indian university provides a strong foundation for academic positions, often starting at INR 6-10 LPA for assistant professors, with growth trajectories leading to senior academic and research leadership roles.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology- (Semester 1)
Thoroughly understand the principles of philosophical inquiry, research design, and ethical considerations. Engage deeply with both quantitative and qualitative methods as applied to humanities research.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, J-STOR, PhilPapers, Dedicated workshops on research ethics and academic writing
Career Connection
Essential for conducting credible research, forming the bedrock for thesis writing and future academic contributions.
Immerse in Core Philosophical Traditions- (Semester 1)
Dedicate significant time to comprehensively studying classical Indian and Western philosophical systems. Attend departmental seminars and engage in discussions to deepen understanding beyond coursework.
Tools & Resources
Core texts (original and commentaries), Departmental reading groups, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Builds a robust foundation for specialized research, teaching positions, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
Cultivate Critical Reading and Writing- (Semester 1)
Actively engage with assigned readings by critically analyzing arguments, identifying underlying assumptions, and formulating reasoned responses. Practice writing concise and clear philosophical essays.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Peer review with fellow PhD scholars, Seeking feedback from supervisors
Career Connection
Develops communication skills vital for publishing research, grant applications, and effective teaching.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Regular Supervisory Meetings- (Post-coursework to synopsis submission)
Establish a consistent schedule for meetings with your research supervisor. Prepare discussion points, progress reports, and seek constructive feedback on research ideas and literature review.
Tools & Resources
Meeting notes, Structured agenda, Research log
Career Connection
Crucial for guiding research, refining arguments, and building professional academic relationships.
Participate in Academic Conferences and Workshops- (Year 2-3 (or earlier if ready))
Present preliminary research findings at departmental seminars, national or international conferences, and specialized workshops. Network with scholars and receive diverse perspectives on your work.
Tools & Resources
Conference calls for papers, Travel grants (if available), Presentation skills workshops
Career Connection
Builds academic profile, provides networking opportunities, and enhances presentation and critical feedback reception skills.
Initiate Publication Endeavors- (Year 2 onwards)
Transform coursework papers or early research into publishable articles. Target peer-reviewed journals in Philosophy, potentially starting with review articles or critiques.
Tools & Resources
Journal databases (UGC CARE List), Academic writing software, Faculty guidance on publication strategy
Career Connection
Essential for academic career progression, demonstrating research productivity and contributing to the field.
Advanced Stage
Maintain Consistent Writing and Revision Schedule- (Final 1-2 years of PhD)
Dedicate regular, protected time for thesis writing. Focus on clarity, coherence, and logical flow of arguments. Be open to multiple rounds of revision based on supervisor feedback.
Tools & Resources
Writing accountability groups, Academic writing workshops, Reference management software (Zotero, Mendeley)
Career Connection
Ensures timely completion of the thesis, a prerequisite for degree conferral and entry into academic roles.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Defense- (Months leading up to final defense)
Thoroughly review your entire thesis, anticipate potential questions, and practice articulating your research findings and methodology clearly and confidently. Engage in mock defense sessions.
Tools & Resources
Departmental viva voce guidelines, Mock defense panels with peers and faculty
Career Connection
Crucial for successfully defending your doctoral work and demonstrating mastery of your research area.
Develop Teaching and Mentoring Skills- (Throughout the PhD, intensifying in later stages)
Seek opportunities to assist professors, conduct tutorials, or co-teach undergraduate courses. Develop pedagogical skills relevant to higher education to enhance your profile.
Tools & Resources
University teaching assistant programs, Faculty development workshops, Mentorship from senior academics
Career Connection
Enhances marketability for academic positions, which often require both research and teaching capabilities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (M.A. in Philosophy or equivalent) with minimum 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/CAT-I/Physically Challenged candidates). Must qualify Entrance Examination conducted by the University or be exempted (e.g., UGC-NET/JRF/SLET qualified).
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (Coursework completed in 1 semester)
Credits: 12 (for coursework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHP 101 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Research, Kinds of Research (Descriptive, Explanatory, Experimental), Methods of Research (Analytic, Dialectic, Phenomenological), Logic of Research (Hypothesis, Verification, Fallacies), Research Design and Report Writing |
| PHP 102 | History of Western and Indian Philosophy | Core | 4 | Classical Indian Philosophy (Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita), Heterodox Schools (Carvaka, Jainism, Buddhism), Orthodox Schools (Nyaya-Vaisesika, Samkhya-Yoga, Mimamsa, Vedanta), Ancient and Medieval Western Philosophy (Plato, Aristotle, Augustine, Aquinas), Modern Western Philosophy (Rationalism, Empiricism, Kant, Hegel) |
| PHP 103 | Recent Trends in Philosophy | Core | 4 | Continental Philosophy (Phenomenology, Existentialism), Post-Structuralism and Post-Modernism, Critical Theory and Feminist Philosophy, Philosophy of Mind and Language, Applied Ethics and Environmental Philosophy |




