A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Near Eastern Studies is a degree program that is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the history, culture, and languages of the Near East. This includes the study of ancient and modern civilizations in the region, as well as the politics, religion, literature, and art of the various Near Eastern countries.
Some of the key topics that students in a PhD program in Near Eastern Studies may explore include:
Ancient Near Eastern Civilizations | Students may study the history, culture, and achievements of civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Persia, and the Levant. |
Modern Middle Eastern politics | Students may explore the current political landscape of the Middle East, including issues such as nationalism, authoritarianism, and conflict. |
Islamic studies | Students may study the religion, history, and literature of Islam, including its various schools of thought and interpretations. |
Arabic language and literature | Students may develop a deep understanding of the Arabic language, including its grammar, syntax, and vocabulary, as well as the literature and poetry that have been produced in Arabic over the centuries. |
Hebrew language and literature | Students may also study the Hebrew language, including its grammar and syntax, as well as the literature and poetry that have been produced in Hebrew throughout history. |
A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Near Eastern Studies is a degree program that offers students a comprehensive understanding of the history, culture, and languages of the Near East. Here are some highlights of the program:
Interdisciplinary approach: A PhD in Near Eastern Studies is an interdisciplinary program that draws on various fields such as history, anthropology, linguistics, literature, and religion. Students are encouraged to explore the intersections between these fields to gain a broader understanding of the region.
Language training: Language training is a critical component of the program, with students expected to attain proficiency in at least one Near Eastern language, such as Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, or Turkish. This language proficiency enables students to engage with primary source materials and conduct research in their field.
Research and writing: Students are expected to conduct original research in their area of specialization, culminating in a dissertation. They are also required to present their research findings at academic conferences and publish scholarly articles.
Specializations: Students can specialize in a range of topics, including ancient Near Eastern civilizations, Islamic studies, modern Middle Eastern politics, and Near Eastern languages and literature.
Study abroad opportunities: Many universities offering a PhD in Near Eastern Studies provide students with opportunities to study abroad in the Near East, immersing them in the language and culture of the region and providing them with firsthand research experience.
Career prospects: Graduates of a PhD in Near Eastern Studies can pursue careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector, working as researchers, professors, analysts, consultants, and translators. They may also go on to work in fields such as international relations, diplomacy, and journalism.
Course Level | Doctorate |
Course Name | PhD in Near Eastern Studies |
Course Duration | 3 year |
Eligibility Criteria | Master in relevant Subject with 55 % marks |
Fee Structure | Updated Soon |
Admission Process | Entrance Exam |
Job Role | international business, journalism, translation, etc |
The specific entrance exam requirements vary by institution, but in general, applicants to a PhD program in Near Eastern Studies are required to take the GRE (Graduate Record Exam). Some programs may also require the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) for non-native English speakers.
Applicants to a PhD program in Near Eastern Studies typically need a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field, such as history, anthropology, linguistics, or religious studies. Some programs may require a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher, as well as language proficiency in one or more Near Eastern languages.
The duration of a PhD program in Near Eastern Studies varies by institution and may range from 4 to 6 years. However, most programs take 5 years to complete.
The selection criteria for admission to a PhD program in Near Eastern Studies vary by institution, but generally, the following factors are considered:
Academic Achievement | The applicant's academic record and GPA are typically considered in the admission decision. |
Language proficiency | Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in one or more Near Eastern languages. |
Research interests | Applicants should have a clear research interest and demonstrate how their research aligns with the program's faculty expertise. |
Letters of recommendation | Strong letters of recommendation from academic and professional references are typically required. |
Applicants should review the admission requirements and deadlines for their preferred institution and program. Applications are typically submitted online, and applicants must provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, TOEFL scores (if applicable), a statement of purpose, and a writing sample.
The application form for a PhD program in Near Eastern Studies is typically available on the program's website. Applicants should carefully review the instructions and submit all required materials by the application deadline.
The application process for a PhD in Near Eastern Studies typically involves the following steps:
Research programs | Prospective students should research different programs and institutions offering a PhD in Near Eastern Studies to determine which program best aligns with their research interests. |
Gather application materials | Applicants should gather all required application materials, such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, TOEFL scores (if applicable), a statement of purpose, and a writing sample. |
Complete online application | Applicants should complete the online application form, provide all necessary information and upload all required documents. |
Submit application fee | Applicants must pay the application fee, which varies by institution |
Admission Decision | Applicants will typically receive an admission decision within several weeks to a few months of submitting their application. |
The application fee for a PhD in Near Eastern Studies varies by institution but can range from $50 to $100. Some institutions may offer fee waivers for students who demonstrate financial need.
The specific syllabus for a PhD program in Near Eastern Studies varies by institution, but some common course topics include:
Ancient Near Eastern history and civilization |
Modern Middle Eastern politics and society |
Islamic studies |
Near Eastern languages and literature |
Religion in the Near East |
Anthropology and Archaeology of the Near East |
Research methods and methodologies |
Graduates of a PhD in Near Eastern Studies can pursue a variety of career opportunities, including:
Academic positions | Many graduates go on to become professors or researchers in universities, teaching and conducting research in areas such as history, religion, anthropology, or linguistics. |
Government and non-profit organizations | Graduates may work for government agencies or non-profit organizations, providing analysis, research, or consulting on issues related to the Near East. |
Private sector | Graduates may work in the private sector, in fields such as international business, journalism, or translation. |
Graduates of a PhD in Near Eastern Studies can pursue a variety of career opportunities, including academic positions, government and non-profit organizations, and the private sector. They may work as researchers, professors, analysts, consultants, translators, or journalists.
Some of the top colleges in India offering a PhD in Near Eastern Studies include:
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi |
University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad |
Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Aligarh |
Jamia Millia Islamia University, New Delhi |
University of Calcutta, Kolkata |
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 the University, Degree Awarded.
DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
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 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 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.