English Studies is a broad academic field that encompasses the study of the English language, literature, and culture. Research in English Studies covers a wide range of topics, including literary criticism, linguistics, rhetoric and composition, cultural studies, media studies, and digital humanities.
Literary analysis of classic and contemporary works of English literature, including novels, plays, and poetry. This research may focus on themes, literary devices, historical context, and the author's intentions.
Linguistic research on the English language, including phonology, syntax, morphology, and semantics. This research may explore the structure and evolution of the English language, as well as issues related to language acquisition and usage.
Rhetorical and composition research examines how language is used to persuade and inform, particularly in written communication. This research may focus on topics such as genre analysis, discourse analysis, and writing pedagogy.
Cultural studies research explores the intersections of language, literature, and culture. This research may examine issues related to identity, race, gender, sexuality, and power, as well as how these issues are represented in literature and other forms of media.
Media studies research investigates how language and literature are represented in various media, such as film, television, and social media. This research may focus on issues such as adaptation, intertextuality, and audience reception.
Digital humanities research applies digital tools and methods to the study of language, literature, and culture. This research may involve the use of computational analysis, data visualization, and text mining to uncover new insights and connections in literary and cultural texts.
Overall, research in English Studies is characterized by its interdisciplinary nature and its focus on understanding the complexities of language, literature, and culture.
English Studies research covers a broad range of topics and areas of inquiry. Some of the key highlights of recent research in English Studies include:
Digital Humanities | With the increasing prevalence of digital technology in all areas of life, scholars in English Studies are exploring new ways to use digital tools and methods to analyze and interpret literature and language. This includes the use of data visualization, text mining, and other computational approaches to explore patterns and trends in texts and other cultural artifacts. |
Global English | English has become a global language, spoken and written by millions of people around the world. English Studies scholars are exploring how this global spread of English is shaping language use, cultural identity, and communication practices in diverse contexts and communities. |
Postcolonialism | The legacy of colonialism continues to shape language, literature, and culture in many parts of the world. English Studies scholars are examining how colonialism and its aftermath have influenced literary production, language use, and cultural identity, particularly in postcolonial and diasporic contexts. |
Environmental Humanities | As concerns about climate change and environmental degradation grow, English Studies scholars are exploring how literature and language can help us understand and respond to these pressing issues. This includes the study of environmental literature and the use of language and rhetoric to shape environmental policy and discourse. |
Social Justice | English Studies scholars are exploring how language, literature, and culture intersect with issues of social justice, including race, gender, sexuality, and class. This includes the study of representation and identity in literature and media, as well as the role of language and rhetoric in shaping public discourse and social movements. |
|
To be eligible for admission to an English Studies research program, applicants must meet the academic requirements set by the institution and program, as well as any other specific eligibility criteria. |
The duration of English Studies research programs can vary depending on the level of the program and the institution.
Generally, a doctoral program can take anywhere from 3-6 years to complete.
1 | English Studies research programs typically have a rigorous selection process. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic background, research potential, writing ability, and overall fit with the program. |
2 | Factors such as letters of recommendation, writing samples, and interviews may also be considered. |
|
Step 1 | you have submitted your application and supporting documents via the Applicant Portal. |
Step 2 | You have paid the application fee if applicable. For further information on application fees, and which courses require an application fee, see here. |
Step 3 | your referees have provided their references. |
Step 4 | If you miss the deadlines specified in this section, you will not be able to submit your application. |
The application fee for English Studies research programs can vary depending on the institution. |
On average, the fee can range from $50 to USD 100. |
English Studies research programs prepare students for a range of academic and non-academic careers. Graduates with a Ph.D. in English Studies can pursue careers as university professors, researchers, writers, editors, and consultants. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for postsecondary English language and literature teachers was USD 68,910 in May 2020. |
1 | English Studies research programs offer a wide range of career opportunities. |
2 | Graduates can pursue academic careers as university professors, researchers, and writers. |
3 | They can also work in the publishing industry as editors, copywriters, and literary agents. |
4 | Other potential career paths include journalism, public relations, advertising, and marketing. |
Jawaharlal Nehru University |
University of Delhi |
University of Hyderabad |
University of Calcutta |
Jadavpur University |
DOCUMENTS CHECKLIST
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 the 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.