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M-A in History at Saint Girdhar College
Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at Saint Girdhar College Vidisha?
This M.A. History program at Saint Girdhar College focuses on a comprehensive understanding of Indian and World History, emphasizing critical thinking and research skills. It covers ancient, medieval, and modern periods with a blend of political, socio-economic, and cultural history. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for historians, researchers, and educators in various Indian academic and cultural institutions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history enthusiasts, fresh graduates seeking entry into academia, archival and museum professions, or civil services. It also suits working professionals looking to upskill in historical research and analysis, or career changers aiming for roles in heritage management, content creation, or journalism, where a strong historical foundation is valued.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as college lecturers, researchers, archivists, museum curators, and content writers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 8 LPA. The program aligns with UGC NET/JRF preparation, enhancing growth trajectories in Indian universities and research bodies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Historiographical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with core historiographical theories and methods from Semester 1. Regularly read and analyze historical texts to understand different schools of thought. Form study groups to discuss interpretations and develop critical analytical skills.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Textbooks by E.H. Carr, R.G. Collingwood, Online lectures on historical methodology
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge is crucial for academic research, competitive exams like UPSC, and effective teaching, building a robust base for future specialization.
Develop Effective Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on structuring historical arguments, proper citation methods, and synthesizing information from multiple sources. Practice writing essays and research papers regularly, seeking feedback from professors to refine your academic writing style.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, University library resources, Purdue OWL for writing guidance
Career Connection
Excellent research and writing skills are indispensable for any role requiring documentation, analysis, or communication, including academic publishing, journalism, and content development.
Participate in History Department Activities- (Semester 1-2)
Actively join departmental seminars, workshops, and historical society events. This provides exposure to diverse historical topics, networking opportunities with peers and faculty, and a deeper engagement with the subject beyond the classroom.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards for event announcements, Department faculty as mentors
Career Connection
Building a network and gaining exposure early on opens doors to research projects, internships, and provides insights into various career paths in the humanities.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Archival and Field Research- (Semester 3-4)
Seek opportunities for internships or mini-projects at local archives, museums, or archaeological sites, particularly focusing on the history of Madhya Pradesh. This provides hands-on experience in handling historical records and primary sources.
Tools & Resources
Madhya Pradesh State Archives, Local archaeological museums, District Gazetteers
Career Connection
Practical experience with primary sources is invaluable for roles in archival management, museum curation, and advanced historical research.
Specialize through Elective Choices- (Semester 3-4)
Strategically choose Discipline Specific Electives that align with your career interests, whether it''''s economic history, art history, or social history. Use these electives to delve deeper into specific areas and build expertise.
Tools & Resources
Consultation with faculty advisors, Reviewing syllabus for DSE options
Career Connection
Specialization enhances your profile for specific research areas, Ph.D. admissions, or niche roles in heritage and cultural sectors.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 3-4)
Integrate preparation for national-level competitive exams like UGC NET/JRF or state civil services examinations alongside your academic studies. Focus on general knowledge, current affairs, and detailed history syllabi to enhance readiness.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Online test series for NET/UPSC, Dedicated study guides
Career Connection
Success in these exams opens pathways to lectureships, research fellowships, and prestigious government positions in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Research Project- (Semester 4)
In the final semesters, select a compelling research topic, conduct extensive primary and secondary research, and produce a well-argued dissertation. This showcases your independent research capabilities and deep understanding of a historical subject.
Tools & Resources
Access to university libraries and online databases, Guidance from a faculty supervisor, Academic writing software
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is a key credential for Ph.D. admissions, research positions, and demonstrates high-level analytical and scholarly abilities to potential employers.
Network with Professionals and Academics- (Semester 4)
Attend national/international history conferences, workshops, and engage with established historians. Build a professional network that can offer mentorship, collaboration opportunities, and insights into the academic and professional world.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations like Indian History Congress, Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Department alumni network
Career Connection
Networking is vital for discovering job opportunities, securing recommendations, and staying updated on developments in the field, facilitating smoother career transitions.
Develop Pedagogical Skills (If interested in Teaching)- (Semester 4)
If aspiring to teach, volunteer for teaching assistant roles, lead study sessions, or participate in college-level teaching workshops. Practice presenting historical concepts clearly and engagingly to diverse audiences.
Tools & Resources
Peer teaching groups, Presentation tools like PowerPoint, Feedback from experienced educators
Career Connection
Developing strong pedagogical skills directly prepares you for roles as college lecturers or school teachers, making you a more effective and sought-after educator.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (B.A.) with History as a subject, typically with a minimum of 45-50% marks from a recognized university.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 84 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHI-101 | Historiography: Concepts, Methods & Tools | Core | 4 | History as Science and Art, Historical Causation and Objectivity, Major Historiographical Traditions, Source Material: Primary and Secondary, Oral History and Field Work |
| MAHI-102 | History of India (c. 1200-1750 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Khalji and Tughlaq Dynasties, Rise of Mughal Empire, Akbar''''s Policies and Administration, Socio-Economic and Cultural Developments |
| MAHI-103 | World History (c. 1453-1919 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Geographical Discoveries and Colonialism, Rise of Capitalism and Industrial Revolution, American and French Revolutions, Causes and Consequences of World War I |
| MAHI-104 | History of Madhya Pradesh (up to 12th Century A.D.) | Core | 4 | Pre-History of Madhya Pradesh, Ancient Dynasties: Malwa, Kalachuris, Chandellas, Art and Architecture of Early MP, Literary and Cultural Heritage, Socio-Economic Conditions |
| MAHI-DSE-1A | History of Ancient Indian Social Structure (Discipline Specific Elective) | Elective | 4 | Varna and Jati System Evolution, Family, Marriage and Kinship, Gender Roles and Status of Women, Education and Social Institutions, Social Stratification and Mobility |
| MAHI-SEC-1A | Archaeological Heritage (Skill Enhancement Course) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Principles of Archaeology, Excavation Techniques and Methods, Documentation and Interpretation of Finds, Conservation of Archaeological Sites, Heritage Management and Tourism |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHI-201 | Major Trends in Indian Historiography | Core | 4 | Nationalist Historiography, Imperialist and Colonial Approaches, Marxist Historiography, Subaltern Studies, Feminist and Post-Modern Perspectives |
| MAHI-202 | History of India (c. 1750-1964 A.D.) | Core | 4 | British Ascendancy and Colonialism, Administration and Economic Exploitation, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Indian National Movement, Post-Independence Challenges and Consolidation |
| MAHI-203 | World History (c. 1919-2000 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Inter-War Period and Great Depression, Causes and Consequences of World War II, Cold War: Origins and Impact, Decolonization and New World Order, Globalization and Regional Conflicts |
| MAHI-204 | History of Madhya Pradesh (c. 13th Century-1956 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Medieval Dynasties in MP, Mughal and Maratha Influence, British Paramountcy and Princely States, Freedom Struggle in Madhya Pradesh, Reorganization and Formation of Modern MP |
| MAHI-DSE-2A | History of Ancient Indian Economy (Discipline Specific Elective) | Elective | 4 | Agrarian Structure and Land Systems, Trade, Commerce and Urbanization, Craft Production and Guilds, Currency and Banking Systems, Economic Policies and State Intervention |
| MAHI-SEC-2A | Museology (Skill Enhancement Course) | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Introduction to Museum Studies, Types of Museums and their Functions, Collection Management and Documentation, Exhibition Design and Interpretation, Museum Education and Public Programs |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHI-301 | Ancient India: Social and Economic History (c. 600 B.C.-600 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Second Urbanization and its Impact, Social Stratification and Caste System, Agrarian Economy and Land Ownership, Trade Routes and Merchant Guilds, Rise of Buddhism and Jainism |
| MAHI-302 | Medieval India: Political History (c. 1206-1707 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Political Structure of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Central and Provincial Administration, Dynastic Succession and Challenges, Military Organization and Warfare, Impact of Major Political Events |
| MAHI-303 | Modern India: Society and Economy (c. 1757-1947 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Colonial Economic Policies and Impact, Commercialization of Agriculture, De-industrialization and Urbanization, Social Reform Movements, Growth of Middle Class and Education |
| MAHI-304 | History of South-East Asia (c. 19th-20th Century) | Core | 4 | Colonialism in Southeast Asia, Nationalism and Independence Movements, Formation of Post-Colonial States, Regional Conflicts and Alliances, Economic Development and ASEAN |
| MAHI-DSE-3A | Environmental History of India (Discipline Specific Elective) | Elective | 4 | Man-Environment Relationship in Ancient India, Colonial Forest Policies, Water Management and Famines, Impact of Industrialization and Urbanization, Environmental Movements in Modern India |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHI-401 | Ancient India: Political History (c. 600 B.C.-600 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Rise of Mahajanapadas, Mauryan Empire and Administration, Gupta Dynasty and Golden Age, Post-Gupta Political Landscape, Political Institutions and Governance |
| MAHI-402 | Medieval India: Society and Economy (c. 1206-1707 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Agrarian Relations and Peasantry, Urbanization and Craft Production, Internal and External Trade, Social Classes and Mobility, Sufi and Bhakti Movements |
| MAHI-403 | Modern India: Political History (c. 1757-1947 A.D.) | Core | 4 | British Administrative Structure, Constitutional Reforms and Acts, Princely States and Integration, Rise of Communalism, Partition of India |
| MAHI-404 | History of East Asia (c. 19th-20th Century) | Core | 4 | Opium Wars and Western Imperialism in China, Meiji Restoration in Japan, Chinese Revolution and Rise of Communism, Korean War and Division, Economic Development and Regional Dynamics |
| MAHI-DSE-4A | History of Science and Technology in India (Discipline Specific Elective) | Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Contributions to Science, Medieval Period Technological Advancements, Colonial Impact on Science and Education, Post-Independence Scientific Growth, Challenges and Future of Indian Science |
