B.A. in Planetary and Cultural Studies

The BA / B.Sc. in PLANETARY AND CULTURAL STUDIES program offered by UPES is designed to provide students with an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationship between culture, society, and the environment. The program acknowledges the emergence of Cultural Studies as a significant departure from traditional disciplines and recognizes its broad range of interests, including marginalized communities, power dynamics, and the influence of culture and media on politics.

By integrating Planetary Studies with Cultural Studies, the program emphasizes the impact of planetary conditions on the human condition. Students will delve into the effects of environmental degradation on various aspects of human life, such as migration, social relations, class politics, violence, and employment opportunities. Additionally, they will explore the implications of the digital era on space, time, and the practice of humanities and social sciences. This unique integration offers students a platform to critically analyze and comprehend contemporary issues while also anticipating future challenges.

The BA / B.Sc. in PLANETARY AND CULTURAL STUDIES program not only provides theoretical knowledge but also prepares students for diverse career opportunities. Graduates can pursue positions in climate-focused non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and governmental organizations, both of which are expected to see significant growth in the coming years. Moreover, students who aspire to pursue teaching and research can further their studies with MA and PhD programs in planetary and cultural studies. The job prospects in these areas are already on the rise and are expected to continue expanding.

• Annual workshop for scholars and faculty members, focusing on a specific theme each year, with renowned scholars presenting and engaging in Q&A sessions on prescribed readings.
• Afternoon sessions of the workshop provide participants with the opportunity to discuss their research topics with both renowned scholars and fellow participants.
• Monthly talks by global leaders in humanities and social sciences, addressing cultural and planetary issues, featuring renowned experts like Prof Ravindra Jain and Prof John Frow.
• The BA / B.Sc. in PLANETARY AND CULTURAL STUDIES program recognizes climate change as a manifestation of planetary conditions and examines the interlinkages between geological, biological diversity, and human existence, analyzing the impact of human activities, globalization, and the cyber age.
• Focus on the post-World War II era and the exponential increase in human activities, population growth, and the consequences for both human lives and life as a whole.
• The BA / B.Sc. in PLANETARY AND CULTURAL STUDIES program aims to develop students' ability to approach the mammoth problem of planetary challenges with a humane but realistic perspective, taking into account the increasing global population's basic needs.

The future scope of the BA / B.Sc. in PLANETARY AND CULTURAL STUDIES program appears promising as the growing crises faced by our planet and humanity lead to increased attention from industries and governments towards addressing planetary issues. As the threat to human existence intensifies, along with the rise of pandemics and other diseases, there is a greater emphasis placed on understanding and resolving these challenges. This heightened focus creates a favorable environment for graduates in planetary and cultural studies, with numerous job opportunities emerging in this field. The program equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to tackle the pressing problems of tomorrow's world. Therefore, pursuing a BA / B.Sc. in PLANETARY AND CULTURAL STUDIES provides a solid foundation for a meaningful and impactful career in addressing the interconnected issues faced by our planet and society.

With a BA / B.Sc. in PLANETARY AND CULTURAL STUDIES, graduates gain a unique advantage in pursuing careers related to climate change. The comprehensive training they receive in both cultural and planetary studies equips them with the skills necessary for addressing this global issue. Recognizing the importance of integrating macro policies with local micro-solutions, these individuals possess a deep understanding of cultural contexts. They can effectively identify and categorize cultural aspects, establish meaningful dialogues with local communities, and empower them to become active participants in shaping their own future.

The BA / B.Sc. in PLANETARY AND CULTURAL STUDIES, offered by UPES, is an exciting new course that combines the study of planetary sciences with an exploration of cultural and societal aspects related to space exploration and celestial bodies. As a multidisciplinary field, Planetary and Cultural Studies equips students with a diverse skill set that can be applied to various career paths. Graduates of this program may find opportunities in research institutions, space agencies, museums, educational institutions, cultural organizations, and more.

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