Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur PhD in Humanities and Social Sciences Admission 2024-25, Eligibility, Preparation, Check Marking Scheme

PhD in Humanities About

The PhD in humanity is a 3-year postdoctoral course focused on human thinking. This is an advanced course that focuses on human relationships and humanity. A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Humanities is an advanced degree program that focuses on the study of human culture, society, and history. The field of humanities encompasses a broad range of subjects, including literature, philosophy, history, art, music, religion, linguistics, and cultural studies.

In a PhD program in Humanities, students conduct original research, typically to make a significant contribution to the field. This often involves the development of a dissertation, which is a lengthy, original piece of research that explores a specific topic or question related to the humanities.

Throughout the program, students engage in critical analysis and reflection on various texts, artifacts, and other cultural products. They also learn to use a variety of research methods, including archival research, textual analysis, and ethnography.

PhD programs in Humanities typically take several years to complete and require a high level of commitment and intellectual rigor. Graduates of these programs are prepared for a variety of careers in academia, research, publishing, and other fields that value critical thinking and research skills.

PhD in Humanities Highlights

Here are some highlights of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Humanities program:

Advanced Research: A PhD program in Humanities involves advanced research in a specific field of study. This research is usually focused on producing new knowledge and contributing to the development of the field.

Interdisciplinary Approach: Humanities is an interdisciplinary field that spans various subject areas, and a PhD program in Humanities reflects this by allowing students to explore and combine different disciplines in their research.

Independent Learning: A PhD program in Humanities encourages independent learning and self-directed research, allowing students to take ownership of their research projects and pursue their interests.

Rigorous Curriculum: PhD programs in Humanities are typically very rigorous and demanding, requiring students to engage in critical thinking, analysis, and reflection on a wide range of cultural products and theories.

Faculty Mentorship: PhD students in Humanities usually work closely with faculty members who serve as mentors, advisors, and collaborators. This close working relationship allows students to receive guidance and support throughout their research.

Career Opportunities: A PhD in Humanities prepares graduates for a wide range of careers, including academia, research, publishing, and other fields that value critical thinking and research skills. Graduates of these programs often have a competitive edge in the job market due to their advanced research skills and interdisciplinary training.

Why Study PhD Humanities

• Candidates who earn a degree from this course of study will take a step towards their mission of working for the welfare of people.
• You will also gain respect in society as it involves understanding the relationship between people and society. students will be able to pursue further studies by pursuing another PhD or taking a certificate course.
• This degree also offers careers in a variety of fields.
• Students will learn a variety of skills in this course, including: For example: ability to analyze data, ability to gather information, etc.
• It also helps you stay ahead of your competitors by being able to assess human behavior.
• You can become a consultant depending on the key skills you need. After this course you will be refined and become a valuable resource.
• You can contribute in areas such as policy development and analysis, sponsorship, and communications.

Course Details of PhD Humanities

PhD in Humanities Entrance Exam

Most Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs in Humanities require applicants to take a standardized test such as the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) or the Miller Analogies Test (MAT). Some programs may also require applicants to take subject-specific tests such as the GRE Subject Test in Literature in English. However, specific requirements may vary by program, so it's important to check with the individual program for their specific entrance exam requirements.

PhD in Humanities Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for a PhD in Humanities typically include a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, such as literature, history, philosophy, or cultural studies. Most programs also require a minimum GPA, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and writing samples that demonstrate the applicant's research potential and interest in the field.

PhD in Humanities Duration

A PhD program in Humanities typically takes between four and six years to complete, depending on the program and the student's progress. Students must complete coursework, pass qualifying exams, conduct original research, and defend their dissertation in order to graduate.

PhD in Humanities Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for a PhD program in Humanities typically include academic record, research potential, writing ability, and fit with the program's research interests. Faculty members in the program will review applications and make admissions decisions based on these factors.

PhD in Humanities How to Apply

Applicants to PhD programs in Humanities should start by researching programs that align with their research interests and qualifications. They should then review the specific application requirements for each program, which may include submitting transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, writing samples, and a statement of purpose. Applicants typically apply through an online application system and pay an application fee. Some programs may also require an interview as part of the admissions process.

PhD in Humanities Admission Process

The application form and process for a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Humanities may vary by program, but typically involve an online application form that includes personal information, academic history, test scores, and writing samples. Applicants may also be required to submit letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose. The application fee may also vary by program.

Universities follow an admission system based on entrance exams, but few also have merit-based admissions. The exam assesses a candidate's general aptitude and critical thinking skills.

Important dates are usually published on the university's website well in advance.

Most colleges have an online application system. Once the link opens, you can apply from the required link.

Applications will be processed on the basis of entrance examination. The

universities conducting the entrance exam for this course will issue the admit card once the application has been processed.

The steps to apply for the PhD in Humanities are as follows:

• Narrow down the schools you want to apply to.
• Visit the website of the university you are interested in and create an ID card if required.
• Enter your details and pay the applicable fees. Please submit the required documents as necessary.
• Your admission letter will be given to you as soon as your application is processed. Please note the exam dates (if applicable).
• Finally, please continue to check the university website for the latest updates and notifications on this topic.

PhD in Humanities Fee Structure

The application fee for a PhD in Humanities varies by program and institution. Typically, fees range from around $50 to $150.

Syllabus of PhD in Humanities

The syllabus for a PhD in Humanities varies by program and specialization, but typically includes coursework in research methods, critical theory, and the student's area of specialization. Coursework may also include seminars, directed research, and independent study. The syllabus for a PhD program in Humanities is usually designed to prepare students for their dissertation research.

Job Area After Completed PhD in Humanities

The salary and job prospects for graduates of a PhD in Humanities vary depending on the student's area of specialization and career goals. Graduates may pursue careers in academia, research, publishing, public service, or other fields. Salaries for these careers can vary widely, with the median salary for postsecondary teachers (including those in humanities disciplines) being around $80,790 per year in the United States, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

PhD in Humanities Career Opportunities

Graduates of a PhD in Humanities may pursue a variety of careers, including:

• University Professor or Researcher
• Museum Curator or Archivist
• Non-profit or Government Researcher
• Cultural Analyst or Critic
• Writer or Editor
• Consultant or Analyst in Business or Policy
• Translator or Interpreter

PhD in Humanities Top Colleges

Some of the top colleges for a PhD in Humanities include:

• Harvard University
• Stanford University
• Yale University
• University of California, Berkeley
• University of Chicago
• Columbia University
• Princeton University
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
• Duke University
• University of Virginia.

PhD in Humanities 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 Humanities

• 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 Humanities 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.