PhD in Middle Eastern Studies Admission 2024-25, IIRF Ranking, Course & Fees Details, Learn More About Courses

PhD in Middle Eastern Studies Course Details

PhD in Middle Eastern Studies is a 3 to 5 years program. A PhD in Middle Eastern Studies is an advanced academic degree that focuses on the study of the Middle East region, its culture, history, society, and politics. The Middle East is a complex and diverse region that includes countries such as Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and many others. The PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of this region, its people, and its history.

During the program, students will be exposed to a variety of subjects, including Middle Eastern languages, literature, religion, politics, and social issues. They will also be expected to conduct original research and produce a dissertation that contributes to the field of Middle Eastern Studies.

Some potential research areas for a PhD in Middle Eastern Studies could include:

• The history and politics of a particular Middle Eastern country or region
• The role of religion in Middle Eastern society and politics
• The cultural production and representation of the Middle East in literature, film, and other media
• The impact of globalization and neoliberalism on the Middle East
• The relationship between the Middle East and other regions of the world, such as Europe, Asia, and Africa

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Highlights

Some of the highlights of a PhD in Middle Eastern Studies include:

Interdisciplinary Approach: The PhD in Middle Eastern Studies is an interdisciplinary program that draws from fields such as history, political science, anthropology, sociology, religious studies, and literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of the region.

Language Proficiency: To study the Middle East in-depth, students are required to attain proficiency in one or more of the region's languages, such as Arabic, Persian, Hebrew, or Turkish.

Research Skills: The PhD program emphasizes research skills, including the ability to conduct original research, analyze primary and secondary sources, and present findings in a coherent and compelling manner.

Cultural Competence: Students develop a deep understanding of Middle Eastern cultures, customs, and traditions, which enables them to engage effectively with people from the region and work collaboratively on cross-cultural projects.

Career Opportunities: Graduates of a PhD in Middle Eastern Studies are well-positioned for careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, international development, journalism, or business, among other fields.

Global Relevance: Given the Middle East's importance in global politics and economics, the program's research and findings have a significant impact on global debates and decision-making processes.

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Entrance Exam

The entrance exam requirements vary by institution, but in general, a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies will require applicants to submit a completed application, transcripts from previous academic programs, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample. Some programs may also require applicants to take the GRE or a language proficiency exam.

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Admission:

Admission to a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies is highly competitive, and applicants are evaluated based on their academic record, research experience, language skills, and potential for scholarly achievement.

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for admission to a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies, applicants must typically have a master's degree in a related field, such as Middle Eastern Studies, history, anthropology, or political science. They must also demonstrate language proficiency in at least one Middle Eastern language, usually Arabic, Persian, or Turkish.

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Course Duration:

The duration of a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies can vary depending on the institution and the individual student's progress, but it typically takes 4-6 years to complete.

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Selection Criteria:

Selection criteria for a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies may include academic achievement, research experience, language proficiency, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and writing sample. In addition, some programs may require an interview or other evaluation of the candidate's potential for success in the program.

PhD Middle Eastern Studies How to Apply:

To apply for a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies, interested applicants should research the specific requirements and deadlines for the programs they are interested in and prepare their application materials accordingly. They should submit their application online through the institution's website or through a central application service. They should also follow up with their recommenders to ensure that their letters are submitted on time. Finally, they should prepare for any required entrance exams or language proficiency tests.

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Application Form

The application form for a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies can usually be found on the institution's website or through a central application service. Applicants will typically be asked to provide personal information, educational background, language proficiency, and other relevant information.

PhD in Middle Eastern Studies Admission Process

The application process typically involves submitting an online application, transcripts from previous academic programs, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a writing sample. Some programs may also require the GRE or a language proficiency exam. After the application is reviewed, qualified applicants may be invited for an interview or asked to provide additional information.

Research Programs: Start by researching universities that offer PhD programs in Middle Eastern Studies. Look into their faculty, research areas, and program structure to find a good fit.

Meet Eligibility Requirements: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, which typically include a relevant master's degree or equivalent, strong academic background, language proficiency (often in Arabic, Persian, or Turkish), GRE scores (if required), letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose outlining your research interests and goals.

Application Submission: Complete the university's online application form and submit the required documents, such as transcripts, CV or resume, letters of recommendation, GRE scores (if required), writing samples, and a statement of purpose.

Language Proficiency: Depending on the program, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in one or more languages relevant to Middle Eastern Studies, such as Arabic, Persian, or Turkish. This can often be done through language exams or previous coursework.

Interview (if applicable): Some programs may require an interview as part of the selection process. Prepare for this by reviewing your research interests, academic background, and goals for pursuing a PhD in Middle Eastern Studies.

Notification of Admission: After submitting your application and completing any required interviews or language proficiency exams, you'll receive notification of your admission status. If accepted, you may receive funding offers or details about financial support options.

Acceptance and Enrollment: If you're accepted, follow the university's instructions to accept the offer and enroll in the PhD program. This may involve submitting additional paperwork, arranging for housing, and preparing for the start of your studies.

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Fee:

The application fee for a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies varies by institution, but it typically ranges from $50 to $100.

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Syllabus:

The syllabus for a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies varies depending on the institution, but some common courses include:

• History and Politics of the Middle East
• Cultural Production and Representation in the Middle East
• Religion and Society in the Middle East
• Middle Eastern Languages
• Research Methods and Techniques
• Topics in Middle Eastern Studies
• Dissertation Research and Writing

Job Profiles After Completed PhD Middle Eastern Studies

Graduates of a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies are well-positioned for careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, international development, journalism, or business, among other fields. Salaries for these positions vary depending on the organization and the specific job, but some examples of potential salaries include:

• Academic Researcher/Professor
• Policy Analyst
• Diplomat/Foreign Service Officer
• Journalist/Reporter
• Intelligence Analyst
• Archivist/Curator
• Translator/Interpreter

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Career Opportunities:

Graduates of a PhD program in Middle Eastern Studies have a wide range of career opportunities available to them, including:

• Professor
• Researcher
• Consultant
• Policy Analyst
• Journalist
• Government Official
• Diplomat
• NGO Worker
• Business Consultant
• Cultural Ambassador

PhD Middle Eastern Studies Top Colleges in India:

Some of the top colleges in India for a PhD in Middle Eastern Studies include:

• Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
• University of Delhi, Delhi
• Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi
• University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
• Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh
• Centre for West Asian Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi
• Centre for Iranian Studies, School of Language, Literature and Culture Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi

PhD Middle Eastern Studies 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 Middle Eastern Studies

• 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 Middle Eastern Studies 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.