![Central University of South Bihar - [CUSB]](https://image-static.collegedunia.com/public/college_data/images/logos/1493289864Logo.jpg?h=71.7&w=71.7&mode=stretch)
CUSB PhD (History) FAQs
Ques. Does the PhD History programme at CUSB also cover Archaeology, given the department is called Historical Studies and Archaeology?
Ans. Yes. The department is named Department of Historical Studies and Archaeology, which means research can span both historical and archaeological domains. CUSB's location in Gaya, Bihar - in close proximity to Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, Rajgir, and Vikramshila - provides exceptional opportunities for field-based archaeological and historical research. Candidates interested in archaeology, ancient Indian history, Buddhist studies, or regional history of Bihar and eastern India will find this department particularly well-suited for their research.
Ques. What research areas are available in the PhD History programme at CUSB?
Ans. The Department of Historical Studies and Archaeology at CUSB offers research opportunities in ancient Indian history, medieval Indian history, modern Indian history, colonial and post-colonial history, social and cultural history, economic history, history of Bihar and eastern India, Buddhist history and archaeology, numismatics, epigraphy, and historiography. Candidates are advised to review faculty profiles on the CUSB website and align their research proposal with the available supervisors' areas of expertise before applying.
Ques. How competitive is PhD History admission at CUSB?
Ans. With only 4 seats available in AY 2026-27 (UR: 2, OBC: 1, SC: 1, ST: 0, EWS: 0), PhD History at CUSB is highly competitive. For non-JRF candidates, selection is based on 70% NET score and 30% interview performance. For JRF candidates, selection is entirely based on the interview. Candidates should have a well-researched proposal and a clear research agenda to stand out in the interview process.
Ques. Can candidates with M.A. in Ancient Indian History or Medieval History apply for PhD History at CUSB?
Ans. Yes. The eligibility criterion specifies a Master Degree in History with at least 55% marks (General/OBC/EWS) or 50% marks (SC/ST/PwD). This includes M.A. in History with any specialisation - Ancient, Medieval, or Modern Indian History - as well as M.A. in Historical Studies or related disciplines. Candidates with specialisations in Archaeology or related fields may also be considered, subject to the department's discretion and supervisor availability.
Ques. What documents are required at the time of the PhD History interview at CUSB?
Ans. At the time of the interview, candidates must bring: 5 copies of a 1,000-word research proposal on a topic of their choice; original mark sheets and degree certificates for Class 10, 12, graduation, and post-graduation; original UGC-NET certificate; Aadhaar card (original and photocopy); category certificate (OBC/SC/ST/EWS/PwD, if applicable) in the Government of India prescribed format; character certificate from the last institution attended; 4 recent passport-size photographs; and a leave sanction/relieving order from the employer (if currently employed). No TA/DA is provided for appearing in the interview.
Ques. Is there any advantage for candidates from Bihar or eastern India in PhD History admission at CUSB?
Ans. No. CUSB follows a merit-based, all-India admission process with no regional preference. Candidates from all states are eligible to apply on equal footing. However, candidates researching topics related to Bihar's history, Buddhist heritage, or eastern Indian history may find CUSB's location and faculty expertise particularly advantageous for their research work, given the proximity to major historical and archaeological sites in the region.
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