MANUU Ph.D Islamic Studies: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. While MANUU is an Urdu-medium university and the medium of instruction and research is primarily Urdu, candidates with a background in Islamic Studies from any recognized university are eligible to apply. However, since the course work, seminars, and thesis submission are expected to be in Urdu, a working knowledge of Urdu is practically essential. Candidates from non-Urdu backgrounds who have studied Islamic Studies in English or another language should be prepared to work in Urdu or seek guidance from the department before applying. The university does accept proof of Urdu at the 10th/12th/graduation level as part of the admission process.

Ans. With only 4 seats available per academic year, the Ph.D. (Islamic Studies) programme at MANUU is quite competitive. The selection is based on performance in the MANUU Entrance Test (written) followed by an online interview. Candidates who hold UGC-NET/JRF qualification in Islamic Studies or a related subject have a significant advantage, as JRF holders may be exempted from the written test component. It is advisable to prepare thoroughly on topics related to Islamic sciences, history, law, civilization, and contemporary issues in Islamic thought for the entrance test.

Ans. Yes, MANUU offers a Ph.D. programme in Sponsored/Self-Financing (Part-Time) mode for working professionals. This is a separate admission cycle from the regular full-time programme and is typically notified in the winter session (around January-February). The part-time mode requires candidates to be sponsored by their employer or self-finance the programme. The fees for the part-time mode are different from the regular full-time programme. Candidates interested in the part-time option should watch for the separate notification on the MANUU admissions page.

Ans. The Department of Islamic Studies at MANUU covers a wide range of research areas including Islamic jurisprudence (Fiqh), Islamic theology (Kalam), Quranic studies (Tafsir), Hadith sciences, Islamic history and civilization, Sufism and Islamic mysticism, Islamic political thought, contemporary issues in Islam, Islam in India, and interfaith dialogue. The specific research topic is finalized in consultation with the assigned supervisor based on the availability of faculty expertise. Prospective candidates are encouraged to contact the department (hod.islamicstudies@manuu.edu.in) to discuss potential research areas before applying.

Ans. Ph.D. scholars at MANUU can access multiple fellowship options. MANUU provides a UGC Non-NET Fellowship of Rs. 8,000 per month to enrolled scholars who do not hold JRF, subject to 75% attendance. Scholars who hold UGC-JRF are entitled to Rs. 37,000/month (JRF) and Rs. 42,000/month (SRF) from UGC. Additionally, Muslim students can apply for the Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) through the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in), which provides Rs. 37,000/month (JRF) plus HRA and contingency. The MANF application window typically opens in the first half of the academic year. Scholars should apply for these fellowships promptly after admission, as deadlines are strict.

Ans. A Ph.D. in Islamic Studies from MANUU opens doors to academic and research careers. Graduates have been appointed as Assistant Professors in Islamic Studies at universities such as Alia University (Kolkata) and MANUU itself. Other career avenues include research positions at think tanks and policy institutes, roles in interfaith dialogue organizations, positions in Islamic educational institutions (madrasas and universities), translation and publication work, and civil services (especially for those with a broader social science background). The department's strong track record of NET/JRF qualifiers also indicates that the academic training prepares students well for competitive examinations in the field.