PhD in African Cultural Studies Admission 2024-25, Preparation, Total Students Placed, NIRF Ranking

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures,Highlights, Entrance Exam, admission, Eligibility, Duration, Selection Criteria, How to Apply, Application Form, Application Process, fee, Syllabus,Salary and Jobs,career opportunities,Top College in India

A PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures would involve an in-depth exploration of the various forms of cultural expression within African diasporic communities. This interdisciplinary field encompasses literature, music, dance, theater, film, and visual arts, among other forms of creative expression.

Students pursuing this degree would engage with critical theories and methodologies from disciplines such as cultural studies, literary criticism, performance studies, and anthropology to analyze and interpret the ways in which Africana cultures have been shaped and represented over time. They would also explore the ways in which expressive and performance cultures intersect with social, political, and historical contexts.

Some possible research topics for students in this program could include the examination of the role of oral tradition in African diasporic literary production, the relationship between hip-hop music and political resistance, the significance of African dance in contemporary African American cultural practices, or the representation of blackness in film and visual arts.

Graduates with a PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures may pursue academic careers in universities or research institutions, work as cultural critics or curators, or engage in community-based projects that promote cultural preservation and artistic expression within African diasporic communities.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Highlights

A PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures provides students with a unique opportunity to engage in interdisciplinary research that examines the diverse forms of cultural expression within African diasporic communities. Some of the highlights of this program include:

Interdisciplinary approach: This program draws on theories and methodologies from multiple disciplines, including cultural studies, literary criticism, performance studies, and anthropology, allowing students to develop a broad and nuanced understanding of the complex relationship between expressive and performance cultures and social, political, and historical contexts.

Focus on cultural expression: This program places a particular emphasis on the analysis and interpretation of literary, expressive, and performance cultures within African diasporic communities, providing students with a deep understanding of the ways in which these cultures have been shaped and represented over time.

Opportunities for research and collaboration: Students in this program have the opportunity to work closely with faculty members and engage in independent research projects, as well as collaborate with other students in the program and across disciplines.

Career prospects: Graduates with a PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures may pursue academic careers in universities or research institutions, work as cultural critics or curators, or engage in community-based projects that promote cultural preservation and artistic expression within African diasporic communities.

Social impact: By examining the ways in which expressive and performance cultures have been used to resist oppression and assert cultural identity, this program prepares students to contribute to social justice movements and engage with the broader public on issues of race, ethnicity, and culture.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Entrance Exam:

The specific entrance exam requirements for a PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures may vary depending on the university or program. Typically, however, applicants are required to submit a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, transcripts from previous academic institutions, and a writing sample. Some programs may also require GRE scores.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Admission Requirements:

Admission requirements for a PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures typically include a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field, such as Africana Studies, African American Studies, or Cultural Studies. Applicants may also be required to have a minimum GPA and demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Duration:

The duration of a PhD program in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures typically ranges from 4 to 6 years, depending on the university and program.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Selection Criteria:

The selection criteria for admission to a PhD program in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures may include academic achievement, research experience, relevant work experience, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and writing sample. Some programs may also consider factors such as diversity, community involvement, and social justice advocacy.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures How to Apply:

To apply for a PhD program in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures, applicants typically need to complete an online application through the university's website or a central application service, such as the Common Application. Application deadlines and requirements may vary by program, so it's important to research the specific requirements for each program of interest. It is also recommended to contact the program's admissions office with any questions or concerns.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Application Form and Process:

The application process for a PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures typically involves the following steps:

Research: Applicants should research the specific requirements and deadlines for each program they are interested in.

Application Form: Applicants will need to complete an online application form through the university's website or a central application service, such as the Common Application.

Required Documents: Applicants will typically need to submit a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, transcripts from previous academic institutions, and a writing sample. Some programs may also require GRE scores.

Application Fee: Applicants may be required to pay an application fee, which varies by program and university.

Review: The admissions committee will review applications and select candidates for interviews and further consideration.

Interviews: Some programs may require interviews as part of the selection process.

Notification: Applicants will be notified of their admission status and any financial aid or scholarship offers.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Fees:

The fees for a PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures vary by university and program. It is recommended to research the specific fees for each program of interest.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Syllabus:

The syllabus for a PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures may vary by program, but typically includes courses in cultural studies, literary criticism, performance studies, and anthropology, as well as courses in Africana Studies that focus on expressive and performance cultures. Examples of courses may include:

Black Feminist Literary Theory

Hip Hop and Social Justice

African American Theater and Performance

Literature of the African Diaspora

African American Visual Culture

Performance and Ritual in Africa

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Salary and Jobs:

Graduates with a PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures may pursue academic careers in universities or research institutions, work as cultural critics or curators, or engage in community-based projects that promote cultural preservation and artistic expression within African diasporic communities. Salaries for these careers vary based on location, employer, and experience. According to payscale.com, the average salary for a professor of Africana Studies is $71,000 per year.

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Career Opportunities:

Some career opportunities for graduates with a PhD in Africana Studies with a focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures may include:

University professor

Researcher

Cultural critic

Curator

Community organizer

Writer or journalist

PhD in Africana Studies - Studies in Literary, Expressive, and Performance Cultures Top Colleges in India:

In India, Africana Studies programs are not as common as they are in the United States. However, some universities that offer Africana Studies or related programs include:

Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi

University of Hyderabad

Jamia Millia Islamia, Delhi

Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai

University of Calicut, Kerala

It's important to note that these programs may not specifically focus on literary, expressive, and performance cultures within Africana Studies, and it's important to research the specific programs and courses offered by each university.

PH.D. ADMISSION PROCEDURE

1. Application for the entrance exam 
2.  Result declaration
3. Entrance pass scholar calling for the interview and document verification
4. Provisional registration for pre Ph.D. course work classes
5. Coursework classes shall be attended as scheduled by University
6. Course work examination
7. Result declaration of coursework
8. Submission of synopsis ( 2 spiral bound copies with soft copy of synopsis)
9. Departmental research committee meeting scheduled by University
10. A registration letter shall be issued
11. Research work started by scholar
12. 6 progress reports shall be submitted
13. Soft copy thesis submit
14. plagiarism report check by the university
15. Final after the plagiarism report soft copy thesis shall be sent to experts for evaluation
16. After the consent of experts pre-submission, one set spiral binding shall be submitted
17. After the successful presentation of the pre-submission thesis 3 copies of hard bound thesis shall be  submitted
18. Viva shall be conducted as scheduled by University, Degree Awarded.

DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST

1.  Documents (10th onwards)
2. Aadhar Card/Pan Card, Caste Certificate
3. Migration Certificate (Original)
4. NOC (From Organization/ Institute/ University)
5. Affidavit (undertaking)
6. Guide Willing
7. Assignments
8. Synopsis (3 copies), Progress Report
9. Library No Dues
10. Lab Letter
11. Thesis Hard copy (Spiral binding)
12. No Dues, Thesis (6 hard copies)
13. Affidavit -Submission (on Rs 100 Stamp and Notary Attested)
14. C.D Soft copies (Thesis & Synopsis)
15. Conference Certificate - 2
16. Research Papers -2 (with ISSN No.)
17. summary (page limit 20-30) -3 Copies 
18. Plagiarism Report Below 10%

FAQs About Ph.D. Program 

Q.1 - What is the procedure for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - The Ph.D. and M.Phil. programs of prestigious Universities are conducted and guided strictly as per the provisions and regulations dictated by the UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D./M.Phil. Degrees) (1st Amendment) Regulations, 2018 and subsequent amendments. The entire procedure for admission to the research programs encompasses a Research Entrance Exam (RET) and then an Interview/Viva Voce. The performance of a candidate in the RET is given 70% weightage, and the remaining 30% weightage is given to his/her performance at the Interview.

Q.2 - What are the modes of pursuing M.Phil. & Ph.D. programs at the University?

ANSWER: -Both the full-time and part-time modes are available at University for pursuing its Ph.D. programs and only the full-time mode is available for M.Phil. program in the desired subjects/fields. These highly-qualitative and prolific research programs are available in a rather broad range of fields/subjects. At University, the minimum time duration of the M.Phil. and Ph.D. programs is 1.5 Years and 3 Years, respectively, in general.

Q.3 - Are the Ph.D. and M.Phil. Degrees granted by any University valid abroad?

ANSWER: -Yes, of course. If the University is properly recognized under section 2(f) of the UGC Act of 1956 and is a prestigious member of the AIU (the Association of Indian Universities). It is an M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees granted in various fields/subjects are duly valid across India and the world.

Q.4 - What are the main eligibility criteria for participating in the University Research Entrance Exam (RET)?

ANSWER: -The following are the main eligibility conditions for participating in the RET: - A rigorous Master’s Degree in the proposed subject/field obtained from any recognized university/institution located in India or abroad, with a minimum 55% marks in aggregate or an equivalent grade. Candidates belonging to SC/ST/OBC/Differently-abled categories are given a 5% relaxation in respect of this eligibility criterion. Candidates with an M.Phil. degree in the proposed field/subject, or have qualified for the UGC (JRF) Examinations/ NET/ SET/ SELT, etc., will be allowed to appear directly for the interview, without appearing in the RET. Impressive academic records, and any prior experience in research work, will be given additional advantages.

Q.5 - What relaxations are granted to the reserved categories for Ph.D.? Admission to the University?

ANSWER: - Candidates belonging to the categories of SC/ST/OBC (Non-Creamy layer)/Differently-Abled, and so on, are given all relaxations prescribed by the Govt. of India and the UGC. These relaxations are provided in form of 5% reduced marks for them at post-graduation, and also in the minimum qualifying marks at RET. Thus, candidates belonging to these categories only need to score a minimum of 45% marks at RET, to qualify for the final interview.

Q.6 - How will be the pattern of RET?

ANSWER: - The syllabus or pattern of RET consists of subject-specific matters, research methodology, and aptitude (covering logical reasoning, numerical ability, analytical reasoning, statistics, etc.).Thus, RET will contain a total of 70 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).

Q.7 - Are M.Phil. Holders/UGC- NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE exempted from appearing at RET?

ANSWER: - Yes. The holders of M.Phil. degrees in their respective fields/subjects are made exempt from appearing in RET. The same is the situation in cases of aspiring candidates who have qualified exams like UGC-NET (including JRF)/ UGC-CSIR NET (including JRF)/ SLET/ GATE, etc.

Q.8 - How is the application fee paid?

ANSWER: - The Application Fee (i.e. the fee for getting participated in RET) can be paid online or offline, like the Application Form. Payment Modes: DD (in Favor of the University) / NEFT/ Cash Deposit.

Q.9 - Do working candidates require to obtain NOC from employers for pursuing research at any University?

ANSWER: - Yes, necessarily. Working Professionals who are interested in research at any University are required to obtain the NOC (No Objection Certificate) from their respective employers, in order to avert any intrusion ever during the entire doctoral course.

Q.10 - Does an M.Phil. holder require to undergo Ph.D. coursework?

ANSWER: - Yes. M.Phil. holders are again required to undergo the coursework in Ph.D. at some Universities. However, their prior knowledge in the field/subject will be very supportive to them for learning and performing efficiently during the Ph.D. program.

Q.11 - Can I pay the yearly program/course fee in installments?

ANSWER: - Yes, you can pay the yearly course fee as many as in two installments, but well within the yearly session.

Q.12 - Does Any University provide any scholarship or stipend to pursuing scholars?

ANSWER: - Yes, of course. Many Universities offer scholarships as well as stipends to meritorious and talented candidates who undertake research studies at the University. Scholarships are granted to those candidates who come under the top 21 by scoring higher marks in RET and interviews. And, stipends are provided to those scholars who also give lectures to UG or PG students at the University, in addition to doing their Ph.D. coursework. The amount of the monthly stipend will be commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and capabilities and may go up to Rs. 20,000.

Q.13 - What other many facilities are provided to research scholars at the University Campus?

ANSWER: - All necessary and constructive resources, amenities, and facilities are offered by well-established and prestigious universities to research scholars in various streams/subjects. These facilities include the following - spacious and peaceful study rooms, erudite and well-experienced academicians and research experts, Wi-Fi and diverse IT devices, state-of-the-art laboratories, well-stocked libraries, lavish R&D amenities, separate amenities for lodging and foods for male and female candidates, peaceful and constructive environment within the university campus, and many other comforting and convenient facilities and services.