Mahatma Gandhi University Dphil in Oriental Studies Admission 2024-25, Year Wise Comparison for Students Placed, Answer Key, IIRF Ranking

DPhil in Oriental Studies About

A DPhil (Doctor of Philosophy) in Oriental Studies is a doctoral degree program that focuses on the study of the cultures, languages, literatures, religions, histories, and societies of the East and South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. The degree program may also be referred to as a PhD in Asian Studies or a PhD in Near and Middle Eastern Studies.

Students pursuing a DPhil in Oriental Studies typically engage in advanced research on a particular aspect of the cultures or languages of the region they are studying. The degree program often involves intensive language study, as well as coursework in research methodologies, theory, and the history and culture of the region.

Research topics in Oriental Studies may include:

Historical and literary analysis of ancient texts and manuscripts from the region

Political and social movements in modern Asian societies

Comparative studies of religious practices and beliefs in the region

Analysis of contemporary art and literature from the region

Cultural and linguistic studies of specific regions or communities within the larger Asian context

Graduates with a DPhil in Oriental Studies can go on to careers in academia, international relations, cultural heritage preservation, journalism, and government agencies.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Highlights

Here are some potential highlights of a DPhil in Oriental Studies program:

• In-depth language study: Oriental Studies programs typically require students to learn one or more languages relevant to their area of research. This may include languages such as Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Arabic, Persian, or Hebrew. Language study is usually a major component of the program and may involve intensive immersion courses, advanced grammar and syntax study, and translation practice.
• Focus on original research: A DPhil in Oriental Studies is a research-based degree program that typically requires students to produce an original piece of research in the form of a dissertation. This means that students have the opportunity to engage in advanced research and analysis in a specific area of interest, and to contribute to the wider academic conversation about the region they are studying.
• Interdisciplinary approach: Oriental Studies is an interdisciplinary field that incorporates elements of history, literature, anthropology, linguistics, religion, politics, and more. As a result, DPhil programs in Oriental Studies often encourage students to explore a variety of disciplinary perspectives in order to gain a holistic understanding of the region they are studying.
• Cultural immersion: Many DPhil programs in Oriental Studies offer opportunities for students to engage in cultural immersion experiences such as study abroad programs, field research, or internships. These experiences can help students deepen their understanding of the region they are studying, as well as build valuable connections with scholars and practitioners in the field.
• Career opportunities: Graduates with a DPhil in Oriental Studies can pursue a wide range of career paths, including academia, international relations, government, NGOs, cultural heritage preservation, and more. Many programs offer career services and networking opportunities to help students prepare for these diverse career paths.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Entrance Exam

The entrance exam for a DPhil in Oriental Studies may vary depending on the university or program, but generally, it will include language proficiency tests and an academic writing sample.

Some programs may also require a GRE or similar standardized test score.

Applicants should check the specific requirements of the program they are applying to.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Eligibility Criteria

1. Admission to a DPhil in Oriental Studies program usually requires a Master's degree in a related field, such as Asian Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, or a specific area of study within Oriental Studies.
2. However, some programs may accept applicants with a Bachelor's degree, provided they have relevant work experience or exceptional academic achievement.
3. Applicants should also have a strong academic background, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent.
4. Additionally, proficiency in one or more languages relevant to the area of study is usually required.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Duration

The duration of a DPhil in Oriental Studies program varies, but it typically takes 3-4 years to complete.

Some programs may offer part-time or flexible study options, which can extend the length of the program.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Selection Criteria

Selection criteria for a DPhil in Oriental Studies program may include academic achievement, language proficiency, research experience, and the strength of the applicant's research proposal.

Other factors, such as relevant work experience and extracurricular activities, may also be considered.

DPhil in Oriental Studies How to Apply

To apply for a DPhil in Oriental Studies program, applicants typically need to submit an online application through the university's admissions portal.

The application will usually require transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a writing sample, and language proficiency test scores.

Some programs may also require GRE or similar test scores.

Applicants should carefully review the application requirements for the program they are applying to and ensure that they meet all eligibility criteria before submitting their application.

It is also recommended that applicants begin preparing their application materials well in advance of the application deadline.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Application Process

To apply for a DPhil in Oriental Studies program, applicants typically need to fill out an online application form through the university's website.

The application form will ask for personal and academic information, as well as details about the applicant's research interests, academic background, and language proficiency.

Applicants will also need to submit supporting documents, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a writing sample, and language proficiency test scores.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Application Fee

The application fee for a DPhil in Oriental Studies program varies depending on the university and program.

Applicants should check the specific requirements of the program they are applying to for information on the application fee.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Syllabus

The syllabus for a DPhil in Oriental Studies program will vary depending on the university and program, but generally, it will include coursework in research methodologies, theory, and the history and culture of the region.

Students will also engage in advanced research on a particular aspect of the cultures or languages of the region they are studying.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Job Scope

Graduates with a DPhil in Oriental Studies can pursue a variety of career paths, including academia, international relations, government, NGOs, cultural heritage preservation, and more.

According to payscale.com, the average salary for someone with a PhD in Asian Studies is around $70,000 per year, although this can vary depending on the specific career path and location.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Career Opportunities

Some career opportunities for graduates with a DPhil in Oriental Studies include:

Professor or lecturer in Oriental Studies or a related field

Researcher or analyst in government, NGOs, or international organizations

Cultural heritage preservation specialist or curator

Translator or interpreter

Journalist or writer specializing in Asian affairs

DPhil in Oriental Studies Top Colleges in India

Some of the top colleges in India for a DPhil in Oriental Studies include:

DPhil in Oriental Studies Admission Process

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.

DPhil in Oriental Studies Document Required

• 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 DPhil in Oriental Studies

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.