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PHD in West Asian Studies at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is West Asian Studies at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This West Asian Studies PhD program at University of Mysore offers advanced research opportunities into the multifaceted region of West Asia. It encompasses historical, political, socio-cultural, and economic dimensions, critical for understanding global dynamics. In the Indian context, West Asia holds immense strategic importance due to energy security, trade routes, diaspora, and geopolitical interests, making in-depth study highly relevant for policy, diplomacy, and academic insights.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for master''''s graduates in History, Political Science, International Relations, Economics, or Area Studies seeking to undertake original research on West Asia. It caters to aspiring academics, policy analysts, diplomats, and strategic thinkers who wish to contribute to India''''s understanding and engagement with this crucial region. Professionals from government services, think tanks, and media with a keen interest in foreign policy and regional studies can also benefit, aiming to deepen their expertise.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to become experts in West Asian affairs, ready for careers in academia as professors or researchers, in government agencies like the Ministry of External Affairs, intelligence services, or in think tanks focusing on international relations. In India, there''''s a growing demand for such specialists in strategic foresight, energy sector analysis, and foreign policy consulting. Salary ranges for entry-level positions in think tanks or academia might start from INR 6-8 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience and expertise.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Research Methodology and Academic Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant effort to understanding advanced research methodologies, including qualitative and quantitative techniques, historical analysis, and archival research. Simultaneously, hone academic writing skills to articulate research questions, literature reviews, and arguments clearly and concisely, adhering to international publication standards.
Tools & Resources
University library''''s research guides, Academic databases (JSTOR, Web of Science), Reference management software (Mendeley, Zotero), Workshops on academic writing
Career Connection
Strong methodological and writing skills are fundamental for successful thesis completion, publication in peer-reviewed journals, and any future academic or policy-oriented role requiring rigorous analysis and communication.
Conduct Comprehensive Literature Review- (Semester 1-2)
Engage in an exhaustive review of existing scholarship on West Asian Studies, identifying key debates, theoretical frameworks, and research gaps relevant to your potential thesis topic. This involves reading widely across history, political science, sociology, and economics of the region.
Tools & Resources
University library and inter-library loan services, Online academic databases, Google Scholar, Specialized journals on Middle East/West Asian Studies
Career Connection
A robust literature review demonstrates intellectual depth and helps define a unique contribution, crucial for a strong thesis defense and establishing credibility as a regional expert.
Develop a Strong Research Proposal- (End of Semester 2)
Work closely with your assigned supervisor to develop a precise and feasible research proposal for your doctoral thesis. This includes defining the research problem, objectives, methodology, timeline, and expected outcomes, ensuring it aligns with the specialization''''s scope.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor''''s guidance, Departmental research proposal guidelines, Examples of successful PhD proposals, Academic writing software
Career Connection
A well-structured proposal is the blueprint for your entire PhD journey, essential for getting research approved, securing grants, and staying focused on the path to becoming a published scholar or policy expert.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Intensive Fieldwork/Archival Research- (Semester 3-5)
Based on your research proposal, plan and execute intensive data collection, which may involve archival research (historical documents, government records), field interviews with experts or stakeholders (if appropriate and ethically approved), or analysis of primary source materials. This often requires travel or access to specialized digital archives.
Tools & Resources
Research grants (e.g., UGC-JRF, institutional funds), Ethical clearance committees, Language skills (e.g., Arabic, Persian if relevant), Specialized databases
Career Connection
Direct engagement with primary data distinguishes original research, building a unique knowledge base that enhances expertise and opens doors to specialized research positions or diplomatic roles requiring on-the-ground understanding.
Participate in Academic Conferences and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to present preliminary findings or specific chapters of your thesis at national and international conferences focused on West Asian Studies, History, or International Relations. Engage in workshops to refine specific research skills or theoretical approaches.
Tools & Resources
University funding for conference travel, Academic call for papers, Professional associations (e.g., Middle East Studies Association)
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences builds a professional network, provides critical feedback on your work, and is crucial for visibility in the academic community, leading to potential collaborations or job opportunities.
Begin Drafting Thesis Chapters- (Semester 3-5)
Start drafting individual chapters of your doctoral thesis as research progresses, rather than waiting until all data is collected. This iterative process allows for continuous feedback from your supervisor and helps manage the monumental task of thesis writing.
Tools & Resources
Word processing software, Reference management tools, Regular supervisor meetings, Peer review groups
Career Connection
Early drafting ensures a consistent writing flow and allows for timely completion, critical for meeting submission deadlines and transitioning into academic or research positions promptly.
Advanced Stage
Refine and Complete Thesis Manuscript- (Semester 6-7)
Dedicate final efforts to revising, editing, and formatting the entire thesis manuscript. This involves ensuring logical flow, consistency in arguments, accuracy of citations, and adherence to university guidelines for submission. Engage in multiple rounds of self-editing and seek feedback.
Tools & Resources
Plagiarism detection software (e.g., Turnitin), Professional editing services (if budget allows), University thesis submission guidelines
Career Connection
A polished, well-written thesis is essential for a successful viva voce, securing the PhD degree, and forms the basis for future publications and academic reputation.
Prepare for Viva Voce and Publications- (Semester 7-8)
Systematically prepare for the final viva voce examination by anticipating potential questions, practicing presentations, and being ready to defend your research contributions. Simultaneously, identify suitable academic journals to convert thesis chapters into publishable articles.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with peers/mentors, Presentation software, Journal impact factor databases, Publication ethics guidelines
Career Connection
A strong viva voce performance solidifies your PhD, while early publications are vital for building an academic CV, enhancing employability for teaching and research positions.
Network Strategically and Plan Career Transition- (Semester 7-8)
Actively network with senior academics, policy makers, and professionals in think tanks and government bodies relevant to West Asian Studies. Attend job fairs, explore post-doctoral opportunities, and tailor your CV/resume for specific academic or policy roles.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic job portals (e.g., Chronicle of Higher Education), University career services, Alumni network
Career Connection
Strategic networking and proactive career planning are crucial for identifying and securing suitable academic, research, or policy positions in a competitive job market post-PhD.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s Degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/Cat-I/Differently-abled), and passing UOM-RET or exemption (e.g., UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, SLET, GATE, GPAT, JRF, project fellows).
Duration: Minimum 3 years, Maximum 6 years (full-time)
Credits: 12 credits (for coursework phase) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
