PhD in History Admission 2024-25, Preparation, Year Wise Comparison for Students Placed Online Process

PhD in History Course Details

PhD in History is a 3-year full-time PhD program that studies human subjects and literary records. It provides an overview of social, cultural, religious, political and economic developments in the past. This allows students to learn about some of the world's most famous people, events and traditions. The  duration of this program is three years with a maximum duration of five years.

A doctoral degree in History is an advanced academic degree program that prepares students for careers as historians, educators, researchers, and scholars. It typically takes 3-5 years of full-time study to complete and requires students to complete a significant original research project, such as a dissertation, that contributes to the field of historical knowledge.

The program is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of historical events, processes, and trends, as well as a comprehensive understanding of the methodologies used to study and interpret historical data. Students will develop advanced research skills, critical thinking, and analytical abilities, which will enable them to produce original research that contributes to the body of knowledge in their field.

Doctoral students in History will typically have the opportunity to specialize in a particular era, region, or topic of historical study, such as medieval Europe, colonial America, or modern African history. They may also explore interdisciplinary approaches to history, such as cultural history, social history, and environmental history.

Course Highlights - PhD in History

Why Study PhD in History

This course is suitable for students who want to learn about research and analysis of historical facts and data. They also have qualities such as the ability to think clearly and deal with problems and new situations with an open mind. Candidates must also have the ability to formulate arguments and communicate research results clearly and persuasively, both orally and in writing. 

Some common reasons why you should pursue a PhD in history are as follows: 

The PhD program in History aims to establish themes and patterns in human history that demonstrate meaning and cause and effect. 

Professionals with history degrees can work as historians, educators, and historians.

They may find work in museums and historical sites, educating visitors about the historical significance of the exhibits. 

Candidates must also have the ability to formulate arguments and communicate research results clearly and persuasively, both orally and in writing. 

After completing the course, they also have access to permanent and private teaching positions. 

These universities that offer doctoral programs are unique in many aspects, such as the courses offered, applicant requirements, etc. 

The annual tuition fee for a PhD program in history ranges between INR 4,000 and INR 3 lakh, depending on the institution offering the course.

PhD in History Highlights

Specialization: Students have the opportunity to specialize in a particular era, region, or topic of historical study, allowing them to develop a deep understanding of their chosen area of interest.

Research: Doctoral students in History are expected to produce an original research project, such as a dissertation, that contributes to the field of historical knowledge. This requires advanced research skills and critical thinking abilities.

Mentorship: Doctoral programs in History often provide students with the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors who are experts in their field, providing valuable guidance and support throughout the program.

Interdisciplinary approaches: Many doctoral programs in History encourage interdisciplinary approaches to historical study, allowing students to explore how history intersects with other fields of study, such as literature, anthropology, or political science.

Career opportunities: Graduates of a doctoral program in History may pursue academic careers as professors or researchers, work as historians in museums or government agencies, or pursue careers in other fields that require critical thinking and research skills, such as journalism, law, or public policy.

Intellectual stimulation: Pursuing a doctoral degree in History can be intellectually stimulating, as students engage with complex historical issues and debates and contribute to the ongoing conversation in their field of study.

PhD in History Popular Entrance Exam:

The specific entrance exam required for a doctoral degree in History can vary depending on the institution. Some universities may require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), while others may require a specific history subject test. It is important to check with the individual program for their specific entrance exam requirements.

• CSIR-UGC NET
• UGC NET
• JMI

How to Prepare for a PhD History Entrance Exam

The History Webmasters Exam syllabus varies from one university to another. However, most tests focus on history rather than current knowledge and skills. 

The general entrance exam in most subjects has a maximum of 100 marks and the duration of the exam is two hours, sometimes three hours. 

There are two sections of the MSc Exam question papers, one section consists of objective type questions (MCQ) and the other section consists of objective type questions related to relevant topics. 

Candidates should download the previous years entrance exam papers and check the pattern paper

PhD in History Admission:

Admission to a doctoral program in History typically requires a bachelor's or master's degree in history or a related field, along with strong academic performance and relevant research experience. Some programs may also require a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and a writing sample.

PhD in History Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility requirements for a doctoral program in History vary depending on the institution, but typically require a bachelor's or master's degree in history or a related field. It is also important to have a strong academic record, research experience, and relevant language proficiency if required for the program.

PhD in History Duration:

The duration of a doctoral program in History varies, but typically takes 3-5 years of full-time study to complete. Some programs may have specific requirements for completion, such as coursework, comprehensive exams, and a dissertation.

PhD in History Selection Criteria:

Selection criteria for admission to a doctoral program in History typically includes academic performance, research experience, relevant language proficiency, and potential for success in the program. Other factors may include letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and writing samples.

PhD in History How to Apply:

To apply for a doctoral program in History, applicants should typically submit an online application through the institution's website. Along with the application, applicants may be required to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample. It is important to check with the individual program for their specific application requirements and deadlines.

PhD in History Application Form:

The application form for a doctoral degree in History can vary from institution to institution. Generally, you'll need to submit an online application along with supporting documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a writing sample.

PhD in History Application Process:

The application process can be quite competitive, as doctoral programs in History are typically limited in the number of students they can accept. It's important to start early, research potential programs, and prepare your application materials well in advance of the deadline.

The following are the two major pathways through which PhD History admissions takes place:

Merit Base Admission: Most private universities offering doctoral programs in history admit students based on the merits of their master's degree. In addition, these colleges may conduct personal interviews or  small written tests to find out more about the applicant's skills. 

Entrance Exam Based: Top PhD colleges like Benares Hindu University, Jamia Millia Islamia University, Madras University etc. offers admission to PhD programs in history through an entrance exam based on historical traditions and events. MCQ questions help colleges screen applicants who meet the admission requirements.

PhD in History Fee:

The application fee can vary from institution to institution. It's important to check with each individual school to determine the exact cost of the application fee.

Syllabus of PhD in History

The syllabus for a doctoral degree in History can vary depending on the institution and the specific program you choose. Generally, however, you can expect to take courses in research methods, historiography, and specialized topics in history.

1st Year

• Readings in trends in the historiography I
• Research Methodology I
• Themes in early Indian history I
• Aspects of social-economic historical of medieval India I
• Debates in Modern Indian History I
• Language 

2nd Year

• Readings in trends in the historiography II
• Research methodology II
• Themes in early Indian history II
• Aspects of the social-economic historical of medieval India II
• Debates in modern Indian History II
• Language 

3rd Year

• Readings in trends in the historiography III
• Research Methodology III
• Themes in early Indian history III
• Aspects of the social-economic historical of medieval India III
• Debates in Modern Indian History III
• Language 

Job Area For PhD in History

With a doctoral degree in History, you'll have a variety of career opportunities available to you. Some common jobs for history PhDs include university professors, research historians, archivists, and museum curators. Salaries can also vary depending on the specific job and location, but on average, a history PhD can expect to earn around $70,000-$80,000 per year.

PhD in History Career Opportunities

As mentioned, a doctoral degree in History can lead to a variety of career opportunities. Some other potential jobs for history PhDs include:

• Policy analysts
  
• Historians for government agencies or non-profits
• Historical consultants for film or television productions
• Public historians
• Historical preservationists

PhD in History Top Colleges:

Some top colleges for a doctoral degree in History include:

• Harvard University
  
• Princeton University
• Yale University
• Columbia University
• Stanford University

PhD in History Admission Procedure

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

Documents Checklist For PhD in History

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

FAQs About PhD in History 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.