

B-A in History at A.D.V.S. Arts & Commerce First Grade College


Davangere, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is History at A.D.V.S. Arts & Commerce First Grade College Davangere?
This History program at Adi Dravida Vidya Samsthe (R) Arts & Commerce First Grade College focuses on understanding Indian and global historical narratives from ancient times to the contemporary era. It emphasizes critical thinking, source analysis, and comprehending societal evolution. In India, a deep understanding of history is crucial for careers in civil services, heritage management, and journalism, given the nation''''s rich and complex past.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates passionate about unraveling the past, aspiring civil servants, museum curators, archivists, and educators. It also caters to those seeking to develop strong analytical and research skills applicable across various fields, providing a foundational understanding of social, political, and economic transformations in an Indian context.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect career paths in archaeology, museology, archives, historical research, teaching, and civil services. Entry-level salaries in heritage and research roles in India typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities also exist in historical documentary making, tourism, and policy analysis within government organizations.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Foundational Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core concepts of ancient and medieval Indian history, along with introductory European history. Utilize recommended textbooks, library resources, and online platforms like e-PG Pathshala for in-depth learning. Regularly engage in class discussions to clarify doubts and solidify understanding.
Tools & Resources
University Library Resources, e-PG Pathshala, NCERT History Textbooks, Online History Courses (NPTEL)
Career Connection
A strong foundation is essential for advanced studies, competitive exams like UPSC/KPSC, and informed historical analysis, ensuring accuracy and depth in future roles.
Develop Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice analyzing historical sources (primary and secondary), evaluating different interpretations, and forming reasoned arguments. Participate in debates and essay writing competitions to hone analytical capabilities and articulate perspectives effectively.
Tools & Resources
Historical Journals, Research Papers, Debate Clubs, Essay Writing Workshops
Career Connection
These skills are crucial for research, journalism, policy analysis, and any profession requiring informed decision-making and persuasive communication, highly valued in Indian administrative roles.
Engage with General Knowledge and Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of reading newspapers daily and following national/international news. This broadens understanding of contemporary issues and helps connect them to historical contexts, vital for competitive exams and a holistic perspective on India''''s place in the world.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, All India Radio News, Yojana & Kurukshetra Magazines
Career Connection
Essential for civil services, media, and academic careers, as it enhances comprehensive understanding and improves performance in general studies papers.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Historical Research Methodologies- (Semester 3-4)
Begin exploring basic research techniques, including identifying credible sources, data collection, and elementary historiography. Undertake small research projects or term papers, seeking guidance from faculty members to refine research skills and prepare for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
Research Guides, Academic Databases (JSTOR, Shodhganga), Faculty Mentorship
Career Connection
Prepares students for postgraduate research, academic roles, and positions in archives or museums where research is a core function.
Participate in History-related Extracurriculars- (Semester 3-4)
Join college history clubs, participate in heritage walks, and attend seminars or workshops organized by academic bodies or local heritage groups. This provides practical exposure, networking opportunities, and a deeper appreciation for cultural preservation in India.
Tools & Resources
College History Club, Local Heritage Societies, Archaeological Survey of India Events
Career Connection
Enhances practical knowledge for careers in heritage management, tourism, and cultural administration, and builds a professional network.
Develop Language Proficiency for Historical Texts- (Semester 3-4)
Improve proficiency in languages relevant to historical research, such as Sanskrit, Kannada, or Persian, if pursuing specialized areas. Even a basic understanding can aid in interpreting primary sources and enhance job prospects in specific fields like epigraphy or archival work.
Tools & Resources
Language Learning Apps, University Language Departments, Online Dictionaries
Career Connection
Opens doors to specialized research, archival jobs, and roles requiring expertise in ancient or medieval Indian texts, often highly valued in government and academic institutions.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Internships/Fieldwork in Heritage/Archives- (Semester 5-6)
Seek internships at museums, archaeological sites, national/state archives, or cultural institutions like IGNCA. This provides invaluable hands-on experience, exposure to professional practices, and helps build a strong resume for placements and further studies.
Tools & Resources
ASI (Archaeological Survey of India), State Archives Department, IGNCA (Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts), Local Museums
Career Connection
Directly links academic learning to professional roles in heritage, conservation, and archival management, significantly boosting employability in India.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 5-6)
Dedicatedly prepare for national and state-level competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, KPSC, NET/SET, which often feature a significant History component. Join coaching classes or study groups, practice past papers, and focus on both broad historical understanding and specific factual knowledge.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/KPSC Study Materials, Online Test Series, Coaching Institutes, Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
Directly targets highly sought-after government jobs in administration, education, and research, offering stable and prestigious career paths in India.
Develop a Specialization and Project Work- (Semester 5-6)
Choose a specific area of historical interest (e.g., ancient Indian economy, modern Indian nationalism, medieval art history) for your final year project or dissertation. This allows for deep engagement, demonstrates expertise, and can serve as a portfolio piece for higher education or niche job roles.
Tools & Resources
Academic Advisors, Specialized Books and Journals, Primary Source Databases
Career Connection
Showcases specialized knowledge for postgraduate admissions, research assistant positions, or roles requiring in-depth expertise in a particular historical domain.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 / PUC II year examination or equivalent from a recognized board/university.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 132 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAH101 | History of India - I (From Pre-History to 1000 BCE) | Core (Major) | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-historic Cultures (Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic), Indus Valley Civilization (Harappa & Mohenjo-Daro), Vedic Age (Early and Later Vedic Period), Transition to Iron Age, Megalithic Culture |
| AECC1.1 | Kannada / English Language I | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Basic Communication Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Introduction to Literary Forms |
| MIL1.1 | Modern Indian Language (e.g., Kannada, Hindi, Sanskrit) | Modern Indian Language | 3 | Regional Language Literature, Grammar and Usage, Cultural Aspects, Oral and Written Communication, Poetry and Prose |
| SEC1.1 | Skill Enhancement Course I (Generic) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Digital Fluency, Communication Skills, Environmental Awareness, Entrepreneurship Basics, Professional Ethics |
| OE1.1 | Open Elective I (from other discipline) | Open Elective | 3 | Introduction to Economics, Basic Political Science, Sociological Concepts, Fundamentals of Psychology, Introduction to Computer Applications |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAH202 | History of India - II (From 1000 BCE to 6th Century CE) | Core (Major) | 4 | Sixteen Mahajanapadas and Rise of Magadha, Jainism and Buddhism, Mauryan Empire (Ashoka''''s Dhamma), Post-Mauryan Period (Satavahanas, Kushanas), Gupta Age (Golden Age), Post-Gupta Period |
| AECC2.1 | Kannada / English Language II | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Advanced Communication, Critical Reading, Essay Writing, Public Speaking, Literary Analysis |
| MIL2.1 | Modern Indian Language (e.g., Kannada, Hindi, Sanskrit) | Modern Indian Language | 3 | Advanced Regional Language Literature, Composition and Translation, Cultural Heritage, Critical Appreciation, Folk Literature |
| SEC2.1 | Skill Enhancement Course II (Generic) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Personal Development, Creative Thinking, Problem-Solving, Teamwork and Collaboration, Ethics and Values |
| OE2.1 | Open Elective II (from other discipline) | Open Elective | 3 | Economic Development, International Relations, Social Stratification, Abnormal Psychology, Web Design Basics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAH303 | History of India - III (7th Century CE to 1526 CE) | Core (Major) | 4 | Early Medieval India (North and South Indian Dynasties), Delhi Sultanate (Administrative, Social, Economic conditions), Vijayanagara Empire (Political, Social, Economic, Cultural life), Bahamani Kingdom and Deccan Sultanates, Bhakti and Sufi Movements |
| BAH304 | History of Europe - I (1453 CE to 1789 CE) | Core (Major) | 4 | Renaissance (Italy and North Europe), Reformation (Protestant and Catholic), Rise of Nation States (England, France), Age of Revolutions (Scientific Revolution), Enlightenment Thinkers and Ideas |
| AECC3.1 | Environmental Studies / Indian Constitution | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources, Indian Constitution Features, Fundamental Rights and Duties |
| SEC3.1 | Skill Enhancement Course III (Generic) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Data Analysis Basics, Introduction to Research, Public Administration, Human Rights Education, Disaster Management |
| OE3.1 | Open Elective III (from other discipline) | Open Elective | 3 | Microeconomics, Political Thought, Rural Sociology, Counselling Psychology, E-commerce Fundamentals |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAH405 | History of India - IV (1526 CE to 1757 CE) | Core (Major) | 4 | Establishment of Mughal Empire, Mughal Administration, Art, and Architecture, Rise of Marathas (Shivaji Maharaj), Later Mughals and Decline of Empire, Advent of European Trading Companies |
| BAH406 | History of Europe - II (1789 CE to 1900 CE) | Core (Major) | 4 | French Revolution and its Impact, Napoleonic Era and Congress of Vienna, Revolutions of 1830 and 1848, Unification of Italy and Germany, Industrial Revolution and its Consequences |
| AECC4.1 | Indian Constitution / Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Constitutional Amendments, Judiciary and Legislature, Pollution Control Measures, Sustainable Development Goals, Climate Change Impacts |
| SEC4.1 | Skill Enhancement Course IV (Generic) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Soft Skills, Career Planning, Gender Studies, Peace and Conflict Resolution, Value Education |
| OE4.1 | Open Elective IV (from other discipline) | Open Elective | 3 | Macroeconomics, Public Administration Principles, Urban Sociology, Social Psychology, Digital Marketing |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAH507 | History of India - V (1757 CE to 1857 CE) | Core (Major) | 4 | Expansion of British Power, Colonial Administration and Policies, Economic Impact of British Rule, Social and Religious Reform Movements, Revolt of 1857: Causes and Consequences |
| BAH508 | History of Europe - III (1900 CE to 1945 CE) | Core (Major) | 4 | Causes and Consequences of World War I, Russian Revolutions of 1917, Rise of Totalitarian Regimes (Fascism, Nazism), Inter-war Period and Great Depression, Causes and Consequences of World War II |
| BAHDSE5.1 | World Civilizations - I (Optional DSE, student chooses one from list) | Disciplinary Specific Elective (DSE) | 3 | Egyptian Civilization (Nile Valley, Pharaohs), Mesopotamian Civilization (Sumer, Akkad, Babylon), Greek Civilization (City-states, Philosophy, Democracy), Roman Civilization (Republic, Empire, Law), Persian Empire (Achaemenid, Sassanid) |
| SEC5.1 | Skill Enhancement Course V (Generic) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Professional Communication, Entrepreneurial Skills, Human Rights Advocacy, Ethical Leadership, Financial Literacy |
| VA5.1 | Vocational Course / Internship / Project | Vocational / Project | 3 | Research Methodology, Data Collection Techniques, Report Writing, Practical Skill Application, Industry Exposure |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAH609 | History of India - VI (1858 CE to 1947 CE) | Core (Major) | 4 | Indian Nationalism and Rise of INC, Gandhian Era and Freedom Struggle, Constitutional Developments (Govt of India Acts), Towards Partition and Independence, Social and Economic Changes |
| BAH610 | Contemporary World History (1945 CE to Present) | Core (Major) | 4 | Origins and Phases of the Cold War, Decolonization in Asia and Africa, United Nations and International Organizations, Globalization and its Impact, Major Regional Conflicts and Developments |
| BAHDSE6.1 | Historical Methods (Optional DSE, student chooses one from list) | Disciplinary Specific Elective (DSE) | 3 | Nature and Scope of History, Sources of History (Primary and Secondary), Historical Research Methods, Historiography (Schools of Thought), Writing History (Interpretation and Presentation) |
| SEC6.1 | Skill Enhancement Course VI (Generic) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Civic Engagement, Cross-Cultural Communication, Leadership Skills, Conflict Resolution, Entrepreneurship Development |
| VA6.1 | Vocational Course / Internship / Project | Vocational / Project | 3 | Advanced Research Project, Dissertation Writing, Presentation Skills, Application of Historical Knowledge, Community Engagement Project |




