DORANDA COLLEGE PhD in Religious Studies Admission 2024-25, Steps to Apply, Steps to Check Result, Merit List

PhD in Religious Studies About 

A PhD in Religious Studies is a research-focused degree program that delves deeply into the academic study of religion. This field of study examines the beliefs, practices, and cultural expressions of religions from around the world and throughout history.

The primary goal of a PhD in Religious Studies is to produce original research that contributes to the understanding of religion and its place in society. This research may take a variety of forms, such as textual analysis, ethnographic fieldwork, or historical investigation.

Some possible areas of focus within a PhD in Religious Studies might include:

Theology and Philosophy of Religion: This area of study examines the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of religious beliefs and practices.

History of Religion: This area of study explores the development and evolution of religious traditions throughout history.

Comparative Religion: This area of study involves the analysis and comparison of different religious traditions, with a focus on identifying commonalities and differences.

Anthropology of Religion: This area of study focuses on the role of religion in human societies, including its social and cultural functions.

Religious Ethics: This area of study explores the moral and ethical principles that underlie religious beliefs and practices.

Religious Studies and Politics: This area of study examines the intersection of religion and politics, including the role of religion in shaping political beliefs and practices.

PhD in Religious Studies Course Highlights

PhD in Religious Studies Entrance Exam

Most PhD programs in Religious Studies require applicants to take an entrance exam, which may include a written exam, an interview, or both. The exam is designed to evaluate the applicant's knowledge of the field and their ability to conduct original research. The exact format and content of the entrance exam will vary depending on the program, so applicants should consult with the program directly for more information.

PhD in Religious Studies Admission Requirements

In order to be admitted to a PhD program in Religious Studies, applicants typically need to meet the following requirements:

• A Master's degree in Religious Studies or a related field (or equivalent coursework)
  
• A minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
  
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references
  
• A personal statement outlining the applicant's research interests and goals
  
• Writing samples or other evidence of academic achievement
  
• Test scores (such as GRE scores) may be required, depending on the program
  

PhD in Religious Studies Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for a PhD in Religious Studies may vary depending on the program and institution. However, most programs require applicants to have a Master's degree in Religious Studies or a related field, and a strong academic record. In addition, applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency in one or more foreign languages, depending on their area of research.

PhD in Religious Studies Course Duration

A PhD program in Religious Studies typically takes 4-6 years to complete, although the exact duration can vary depending on the program and the student's research progress.

PhD in Religious Studies Selection Criteria

PhD in Religious Studies How to Apply

Applicants can typically apply to PhD programs in Religious Studies online, through the institution's website or a centralized application portal. The application process typically involves submitting transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and writing samples. Applicants may also need to pay an application fee.

PhD in Religious Studies Application Form

PhD in Religious Studies Application Process

The application process for a PhD in Religious Studies typically involves the following steps:

PhD in Religious Studies Fee Structure

The application fee for a PhD program in Religious Studies may vary depending on the program and institution. Applicants should check with each program they are interested in to determine the application fee and any waivers or discounts that may be available.

PhD in Religious Studies Syllabus

The syllabus for a PhD in Religious Studies will vary depending on the program and the student's area of focus. However, common courses may include:

PhD in Religious Studies Salary and Jobs

Graduates of a PhD in Religious Studies can pursue a variety of career paths, including academic and research positions, as well as careers in the non-profit sector, government, and more. The salary for these positions can vary widely depending on the field and the specific job. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers in Philosophy and Religion was $79,540 as of May 2020.

PhD in Religious Studies Career Opportunities

Career opportunities for graduates of a PhD in Religious Studies can include:

PhD in Religious Studies Top Colleges in India

Some of the top colleges in India offering PhD programs in Religious Studies include:

1. University of Delhi, Delhi
   
2. Jawaharlal Nehru University, Delhi
3. University of Mumbai, Mumbai
4. Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi
5. University of Calcutta, Kolkata
6. University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad
7. University of Madras, Chennai
8. Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh
9. Osmania University, Hyderabad
10. Bharathiar University, Coimbatore.

PhD in Religious Studies Admission Procedure 

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.

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 PhD 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.