SRM University PhD in Religious Studies Admission 2024-25, Year Wise Comparison for Students Placed, News & Articles Details, Online Process

PhD in Religious Studies About

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Religious Studies is an advanced degree program that focuses on the academic study of religion. This degree is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of various religious traditions, including their historical, social, cultural, and theological aspects. Students pursuing a PhD in Religious Studies may explore a wide range of religious traditions, such as Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, and many others. They may also examine the intersections of religion with other fields of study, such as philosophy, ethics, sociology, anthropology, and political science.  The coursework in a PhD program in Religious Studies typically includes advanced seminars on topics such as theology, religious history, religious texts, comparative religion, and methodology in religious studies. Students are also required to conduct independent research and write a dissertation that contributes to the existing body of knowledge in the field of religious studies. Graduates of a PhD in Religious Studies program may pursue academic careers as professors, researchers, or scholars in universities, colleges, or research institutions. They may also find employment in other fields that require critical thinking, research, and writing skills, such as journalism, public policy, or non-profit organizations.

PhD in Religious Studies Course Highlights

PhD in Religious Studies Entrance Exam

The specific entrance exam required for a PhD in Religious Studies varies by institution. Some universities may require students to take the GRE or another standardized test, while others may require a specific exam related to religious studies. It is important to check the requirements of each institution to which you are applying.

PhD in Religious Studies Admission Process

PhD in Religious Studies Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility requirements for a PhD in Religious Studies may vary by institution. Generally, applicants must have a bachelor's and master's degree in a relevant field, such as Religious Studies, Philosophy, Anthropology, History, or Sociology. They may also need to meet minimum GPA requirements and have strong writing and research skills.

PhD in Religious Studies Duration

The duration of a PhD in Religious Studies can vary, but typically takes around 4-6 years to complete. This may include coursework, comprehensive exams, research, and the writing and defense of a dissertation.

PhD in Religious Studies Selection Criteria

The selection criteria for a PhD in Religious Studies typically include academic achievement, research experience, writing skills, and potential for success in the program. Other factors that may be considered include relevant work experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

PhD in Religious Studies How to Apply

• To apply for a PhD in Religious Studies, applicants typically need to submit an application through the university's admissions website.
• They may also need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a writing sample.
• Some programs may require additional exams or an interview.
• It is important to carefully review the requirements for each institution to which you are applying and to submit all materials by the application deadline.

PhD in Religious Studies Application Process

The application form for a PhD in Religious Studies can usually be found on the university's website. Applicants will typically need to fill out an online application form and submit required documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a writing sample. Some programs may also require additional exams or an interview.

PhD in Religious Studies Fee Structure

The application fee for a PhD in Religious Studies can vary by institution. Typically, application fees range from Updated Soon

PhD in Religious Studies Syllabus

job Scope After Completed for PhD in Religious Studies

PhD in Religious Studies Career Opportunities

Individuals with a PhD in Religious Studies have a range of career opportunities available to them. Some common career paths include:

• University professor
  
• Researcher in a non-profit organization or think tank
• Government agency or international organization
• Writer or journalist
• Religious leader or advisor

PhD in Religious Studies Top Colleges

Some top colleges for pursuing a PhD in Religious Studies include:

1. Harvard University
   
2. University of Chicago
3. Princeton University
4. University of California, Berkeley
5. Yale University
6. Stanford University
7. Columbia University
8. University of Cambridge
9. Oxford University
10. University of Toronto

PhD in Religious 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.

PhD in Religious Studies Documents Checklist 

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

FAQs About PhD in Religious 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.