JMI Ph.D. (Persian) FAQs
Ques. What are the main research areas in the Department of Persian at JMI, and what kind of topics can I pursue for my PhD?
Ans. The Department of Persian at JMI has a strong focus on Indo-Persian literary heritage. Based on recent PhD theses, the main research areas include: Persian poetry of Kashmir (various periods and poets), Sufi Persian literature and its contributions, critical editing and annotation of Persian manuscripts, Indo-Persian literature of the Mughal period, Persian prose works of historical significance, comparative studies of Persian and Urdu literature, Indo-Iranian literary and cultural relations, and the contributions of regional scholars to Persian literature (from Bihar, Awadh, Badaun, Amroha, etc.). Scholars with a background in Persian from Kashmir, UP, or Bihar will find the department particularly well-suited to their research interests.
Ques. Can I pursue a PhD in Persian at JMI if my Master's degree is in Urdu or Arabic rather than Persian?
Ans. Candidates with a Master's degree in Urdu or Arabic may be considered for admission to the PhD (Persian) programme if their research proposal falls within the scope of the department's research areas, particularly in areas of comparative literature or Sufi studies. However, the final decision rests with the Departmental Research Committee (DRC). Candidates are advised to contact the department directly before applying to confirm their eligibility.
Ques. Is knowledge of Persian script and language mandatory for the PhD programme?
Ans. Yes, a working knowledge of Persian language and script is essential for pursuing a PhD in Persian at JMI, as the research involves reading, analysing, and writing about Persian texts. The entrance test Paper II is subject-specific and tests knowledge of Persian language and literature. Scholars who have studied Persian at the undergraduate or postgraduate level, or who have a Madrasa background with Persian training, are well-positioned for this programme.
Ques. How active is the research output of the Department of Persian at JMI?
Ans. The Department of Persian at JMI has a very active research tradition, with over 54 PhDs awarded since its establishment. In 2025 alone, 4 PhDs were awarded, covering topics ranging from Kashmiri Persian poetry to Afghan social conditions in Persian novels. The department regularly publishes research and participates in national and international conferences on Persian language and literature.
Ques. What is the P.G. Diploma in Iranology offered by the Department of Persian, and is it related to the PhD programme?
Ans. The P.G. Diploma in Iranology is a 1-year part-time programme offered by the Department of Persian with 20 seats, focusing on the study of Iran's history, culture, language, and literature. While it is a separate programme from the PhD, it can serve as a useful supplementary qualification for PhD scholars working on Iranian Persian literature or Indo-Iranian relations. PhD scholars may also audit relevant courses from this programme with the permission of their supervisor.
Ques. What career opportunities are available after completing a PhD in Persian from JMI?
Ans. A PhD in Persian from JMI opens doors to academic positions in universities and colleges (as Assistant Professor/Associate Professor in Persian), research positions in institutions like the Indian Council of Cultural Relations (ICCR), Sahitya Akademi, and National Archives of India, roles in translation and interpretation (Persian-English/Urdu), positions in the Ministry of External Affairs dealing with Iran and Afghanistan, and opportunities in cultural diplomacy. JMI's strong alumni network and its location in New Delhi provide excellent access to these career pathways.
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