Hamdard Institute of International Studies

 Introduction

In 2021, Jamia Hamdard embarked on a visionary academic journey dedicated to study and research within knowledge domain of international studies, global politics, and world affairs with the establishment of Hamdard Institute of International Studies (HIIS). Aspiring to evolve into a beacon of intellectual discovery and global insight, HIIS is meant to be more than an educational institution; it is a catalyst for a revolutionary approach to learning.

The foundation of HIIS is rooted in Jamia Hamdard's historical connection with international studies, which can be attributed to the visionary efforts of its Founder-Chancellor, Late Janab Hakeem Abdul Hameed (14th Sept. 1908 – 22 July 1999). Janab Hakeem Abdul Hameed established a plethora of institutions with his own resources, including the Hamdard National Foundation, Hamdard Education Society, Hamdard Study Circle, Hamdard Public School, Hamdard Institute of Historical Research, Ghalib Academy, and Business & Employment Bureau. One lesser-known but significant institution founded by him is ‘Centre for South Asian Studies’, which links Jamia Hamdard's legacy to international relations and regional studies and the establishment of HIIS can be traced back to the legacy of this visionary initiative by Janab Hakeem Abdul Hameed.

The reappearance of this study institute of international relations in Jamia Hamdard, personified as Hamdard Institute of International Studies (HIIS) is actually an initiative and brainchild of our Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, Prof. (Dr.) M. Afshar Alam who wants to connect Jamia Hamdard’s past educational legacy of international studies with the current academic need of our generation. The Hon'ble Vice Chancellor, in addition to having his extensive knowledge and expertise in his own field of engineering and computer science, has also exceptionally deep command as well as untiring perseverance and commitment to encourage studies pertaining to international relations and global politics in Jamia Hamdard. His invaluable guidance and wisdom serve as a cornerstone for HIIS, and the institute is deeply grateful for his exemplary leadership.

The vision behind the establishment of HIIS transcends conventional education. Taking this modest step, Jamia Hamdard has immersed itself in a realm where the pulse of global challenges resonates within the core of HIIS curriculum. At HIIS, the focus extends beyond merely studying international relations; its ambition is to redefine how learners comprehend and navigate the intricate web of global political dynamics. HIIS aims to serve as a crucible of ideas, fostering a dynamic space for multidisciplinary studies that delve into the nuanced challenges shaping today's global order. The institute’s commitment lies in providing leading-edge knowledge in international studies and comparative politics, enabling students to adeptly navigate the complexities of global governance. Moreover, HIIS is dedicated to promoting regional/area studies strategically aligned with India's global interests. Delving deep into the intricacies of West Asia, Central Asia, South Asia, and North America, the HIIS syllabus unravels the threads that intricately weave today’s interconnected world. Central to the institute is a steadfast dedication to enlightening students in the theories and practices of international politics, aspiring to equip them with the knowledge and skills essential for carving impactful careers in academia, research institutions, journalism, international organizations, and governmental bodies. As torchbearers of a brighter future, the institute also aims to encourage students to actively contribute to the promotion of peace and democratic values on the global stage. At HIIS, the curriculum does not constrain the faculty’s subject coverage but instead seeks to guide it, in order cultivate a passion within students for making a meaningful impact in the ever-evolving landscape of international relations.

At the inception of this institution in 2021, the journey began with unveiling a singular academic offering—the M.A. in International Studies. The first batch of students successfully completed their academic programme and graduated in the academic sessions of 2021-2023. The another group of students from the second batch of the academic sessions 2022-2024 are poised to earn their Master's degrees in 2024. The third batch of 28 enrolees are currently pursuing their Master's degrees in the academic sessions 2023-2025.

However, HIIS has always had an intense desire to expand its course offerings to meet the substantial demand for interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary programmes as environed in NEP2020. Recognizing the considerable students’ interest, the institute found it opportune to introduce a Bachelor's programme in international studies and global politics for the academic year of 2024-2025. The significant demand for the study of international relations, international studies, and global politics underscores the importance of individuals possessing a profound comprehension of global dynamics in addressing the complexities of our interconnected world. There is no doubt that the pursuit of a Bachelor's degree in global politics, and international studies will provide students with a comprehensive perspective, interdisciplinary expertise, and proficiency in cultural awareness, problem-solving, and effective communication. This educational path will also cultivate global citizenship, present a myriad of career possibilities, and lay the groundwork for advanced studies. Bachelor's programme in international studies and global politics will not only facilitate personal development but also ready individuals for public service, augment comprehension of the global economy, and fortify research acumen, preparing them for the complexities of an ever-evolving world.

Along with that, driven by a commitment to scholarly excellence, HIIS has also introduced a PhD programme in international studies from the academic session of 2024-2025. The programme addresses rising demand for doctoral expertise in global affairs, aims to influence policy and discourse, enhances academic reputation, cultivates future leaders, tackles interdisciplinary challenges, fosters research collaboration, and contributes practical solutions for positive global impact.

      Mission

 

HIIS aims to transform education in international relations by offering advanced knowledge and skills pertaining to domain of international studies, global political and world affairs. It prioritizes promoting regional studies focusing on West Asia, Central Asia, South Asia, and North America. and fostering student engagement in global affairs for peace and democracy.

     Vision

 

HIIS aspires to be a leading hub for intellectual and critical study of international relations, to revolutionize understanding of global political forces, to cultivate interdisciplinary research on pressing global issues, and to prepare students for influential careers in academia, research, journalism and international organizations.

    Objectives

 

• To redefine learning in international relations beyond conventional methods, mould future leaders with a deep understanding of global dynamics, and foster multidisciplinary studies addressing global challenges.

• To provide a platform to gain knowledge of international studies and comparative politics, promotes regional studies aligned with India's interests, and equips students for impactful careers.

• To cultivate a passion for global impact, encourage contributions to peace and democracy, and expand interdisciplinary course offerings.

• To influence policy, enhance academic reputation, and provide practical solutions for global challenges through scholarly excellence and an under-graduate, post-graduate and doctoral programme in international studies

    Area of Study & Research 

 

The subjects that will be taught at under-graduate and post-graduate levels in international Studies will progressively increase in complexity, starting from fundamental concepts and advancing to intermediate and advanced levels. The following are the primary fields of study and research that will be covered: 

• Great Power Politics

• Comparative Politics

• India’s Foreign Policy

• United Nations

• Global Maritime Security

• Media and Global Affairs

• Peace and Conflict Studies

• Religion and World Politics

• Geopolitics of the Himalayas

• International Political Economy

• Theories of International Studies

• Food Security and World Politics

• Non-State actors in World Politics

• Elementary of International Studies

• Regional and Security Organizations

• Diplomacy in International Relations

• International Law and Human Rights

• Globalization and Global Governance

• International Law and International Security

• International Business, Trade, and Commerce

• Cyberspace in the Realm of International Security

• South Asian Studies

• Global Health

• Migration, Refugees, Diaspora, and Global Politics

• Foreign Policy of Major Powers: USA, Russia, China, EU

• Regional Politics including West Asia, Russia & Central Asia, Africa, South Asia, East Asia, and Latin America.

 

   List of Regular Programmes/Courses

     1. B.A. (International Studies and Global Politics)

 

Embark on a transformative academic journey with innovative and dynamic four-year under-graduate research-based programme, meticulously crafted by Hamdard Institute of International Studies (HIIS) to study international studies & global politics. This specialised programme delves into the multifaceted realms of political, economic, religious, cultural, and legal issues on a global scale, offering a profound analysis of the intricate interplay between nations. Within rich assortment of its syllabus, the curriculum of this four-year BA programme addresses perspectives on humanity, development, poverty, cross-border activities, and more, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complexities shaping today’s interconnected world. Students engaging in this international studies programmme will find themselves equipped with the skills and enlightenment to navigate the intricate landscape of current international affairs, complemented by practical knowledge of international relations and diplomacy by eminent diplomats from India and abroad as Professor of Practice. Moreover, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in international Studies & Global Politics offers students more than just academic enrichment. It presents a holistic perspective, cultivating interdisciplinary expertise, and honing essential skills in cultural awareness, problem-solving, and effective communication, aligning with the guidelines stipulated in the National Education Policy of 2020.

       i.      Salient features

• B.A. (International Studies and Global Politics) is a full-time regular course offered by Hamdard Institute of International Studies (HIIS).

• Total intake is sixty (60) students.

• The programme spans over eight semesters, equivalent to four years, offering multiple exit-entry options for students as per the norms and guidelines of NEP2020. The students are required to complete it within maximum period of six (6) years.

• Medium of instruction, examination and dissertation will be English language only.

       ii.      Admission Procedure

• Eligibility: A candidate applying for admission to four-year under-graduate programme, is required to have successfully completed Senior Secondary (12th/Intermediate) examination within the relevant academic stream from CBSE or any other Board recognized by Jamia Hamdard (JH) as equivalent. The candidate should secure a minimum of 50% marks or an equivalent Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) in the aggregate.

• Selection Procedure: The admission process will be contingent upon the merit attained in the Central University Entrance Test (CUET). In the event of an insufficient number of applicants from CUET, the admission will be given based on the merit of qualifying examination or through the merit determined by an internal test and/or interview conducted by Jamia Hamdard, or the selection process may follow the procedures outlined in the University prospectus issued periodically.

        iii.      Syllabus

• For semester-wise syllabus structure of four-year under-graduate programme in international studies and global politics, 

• click here Syllabus of B.A. (International Studies & Global Politics)

 

       2.    M.A. (International Studies)

 

Embark on a transformative academic journey with Jamia Hamdard's Master of Arts (MA) in International Studies, a programme designed and offered by Hamdard Institute of International Studies. This two-year post-graduate programme delves deep into international relations and global affairs. Its multi-disciplinary curriculum integrates the robust teachings of international politics, law, economics, and area studies with a focus on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, complemented by practical knowledge of international relations and diplomacy by eminent diplomats from India and abroad as Professor of Practice. Students shall enhance their ability through learning with dynamic modules in international studies, preparing themselves for impactful careers in government, NGOs, corporations, academia, and international media, cultivating a profound understanding of international societies and shaping their future in global leadership.

      i.      Salient features

• M.A. (International Studies) is a full time and regular programme offered by Hamdard Institute of International Studies (HIIS).

• Total intakes are fifteen (15) (or to be decided by the University)

• The programme spans over four semesters, equivalent to two years, which has to be completed in maximum four (4) years period as per UGC norms and guidelines.

• Medium of instruction and examination will be English language only.

       ii.      Admission Procedure

• Eligibility:  45% marks in aggregate in the any Bachelors examination from any university/college recognized by the Statutory Bodies of India..

• Selection Procedure: The admission process will be contingent upon the merit determined by marks in the respective qualifying examination of three-years under-graduate programme).

      iii.      Syllabus

• For semester-wise syllabus of two-year post-graduate programme in international studies, 

• click here click here Syllabus of M.A. (International Studies)

•  

       3.      Ph.D. (International Studies) (Regular/Part Time)

 

Immerse yourself in the forefront of global scholarship with Hamdard Institute of International Studies' newly launched PhD programme in international studies. Begin a profound educational experience guided by our steadfast dedication to academic brilliance. Designed to meet the escalating demand for doctoral expertise in global affairs, this PhD programme empowers you with skills and knowledge necessary to have a significant impact on policies, shape discussions, and develop future leaders. Dive into interdisciplinary challenges, foster meaningful research collaborations, and contribute innovative solutions for a positive global impact.

      i.      Salient features

• Ph.D. (International Studies) programme is offered in both mode ‘regular’ and ‘part time’ by Hamdard Institute of International Studies (HIIS).

• The minimum duration to complete/submit for Ph.D. regular mode is three (3) years, whereas, for part-time mode, the minimum duration is set to be four (4) years. Moreover, the overall duration for completion of Ph.D. in both mode regular and part time will be regulated as per UGC norms and guidelines for Ph.D.

• Medium of instruction, examination and thesis writing will be English language only.

       ii.      Admission Procedure

The detailed notification for admission in Ph.D. programme (Regular/Part Time) for the session 2024-2025 will be released in the month of July 2024.

• Eligibility:  Master's Degree in relevant, allied, applied and interdisciplinary fields of studies  or a Professional degree declared equivalent to Master's degree with at least 55% aggregate marks or its equivalent Grade 'B' in the UGC 7-point scale from any University/Institution recognized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU/UGC/AICTE)/corresponding statutory body.

• Selection Procedure: The admission Process for Ph.D. (International Studies) Programmes both Regular/Part Time shall be of a two-tier process

1)      First stage shall include qualifying Ph.D. entrance test, conducted by Jamia Hamdard.

*NET/JRF qualified candidates are exempted from the Ph.D. entrance test and will directly qualify for second stage.

2)      Second stage shall include an interview conducted by Hamdard Institute of International Studies, Jamia Hamdard, wherein the candidate is required to discuss and defend his/her research proposal through a presentation before a duly constituted Department Research Committee (DRC).

• The interview shall also consider the following aspects, viz. whether:

Þ    The candidate shall possess competence and grasp on the proposed research topic.

Þ    The research work can be suitably undertaken at the institute/department

Þ    The proposed area of research shall contribute to the domain of knowledge.

iii.      Areas of Research

Scholars are free to choose any topic that is connected to the broad areas and domains of international relations, global politics, and world affairs in their research proposal for a doctoral programme in international studies. However, the following subject areas will be the key focus during the academic session of 2024-2025:

• Studies of Central Asian countries

• Studies of Russian Federation

• Studies of West Asia/Middle East region

• Studies pertaining to South Asian nations.

• Migration, diaspora, and all aspects that pertain to international commerce and trade.

• India's foreign policy and international relations.

• Comparative politics