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M-A in History at Alagappa University
Sivaganga, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is History at Alagappa University Sivaganga?
This M.A. History program at Alagappa University focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of historical processes, from ancient civilizations to contemporary global events, with a strong emphasis on Indian history. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, research skills, and an analytical perspective on past societies. It is particularly relevant for students interested in academic research, cultural heritage management, and public service careers within India, where historical knowledge is crucial for policy making and societal understanding.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from humanities backgrounds, particularly those with a Bachelor''''s degree in History or a related discipline, seeking to deepen their academic knowledge. It also caters to aspiring researchers, educators, civil service aspirants, and individuals passionate about preserving and interpreting India''''s rich cultural and historical legacy. Professionals working in cultural institutions or archives looking to formalize their expertise can also benefit significantly.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, archaeologists, research assistants, and educators. The robust analytical and research skills developed are highly valued in competitive examinations for central and state government services. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 5 LPA, with experienced professionals in academia or heritage management potentially earning significantly more, growing within public and private sector roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Historical Inquiry Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding primary and secondary sources, critically evaluating historical narratives, and mastering basic research methodologies taught in ''''Historiography and Historical Methods''''. Regularly read scholarly articles and historical texts beyond the syllabus to broaden perspective.
Tools & Resources
University Library digital archives, Jstor, Project Muse, local history society publications, NCERT textbooks
Career Connection
Essential for all historical research roles, civil services exams, and developing the analytical rigor required for any academic or research-oriented career.
Engage with Local History and Heritage- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in department-organized field trips to local historical sites, museums, and archives. Seek out opportunities to volunteer at local heritage organizations or cultural festivals to gain practical exposure to preservation and interpretation, linking theoretical knowledge from ''''Archives and Museums'''' to real-world applications.
Tools & Resources
State Archives Department, local museum volunteers, heritage walk groups in Tamil Nadu
Career Connection
Direct experience for roles in museum curation, archival management, heritage tourism, and local government cultural departments.
Develop Effective Academic Writing and Presentation- (Semester 1-2)
Practice structuring essays, crafting clear arguments, and citing sources correctly in all assignments. Actively participate in class discussions and volunteer for presentations to enhance public speaking and communication skills, which are crucial for academic and professional success.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, academic journals for example essays, peer review groups, Zotero
Career Connection
Strong writing is vital for thesis development, grant applications, academic publishing, and effective communication in any professional setting, including government reports.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives and In-depth Research- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose open elective courses like ''''History of Freedom Struggle in Tamil Nadu'''' to develop a specific area of expertise. Begin identifying potential dissertation topics early and conduct preliminary literature reviews, building upon the methodological foundations laid in earlier semesters.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentorship, specialized research databases, Tamil Nadu State Archives, digital libraries, regional historical journals
Career Connection
A focused area of specialization enhances employability in academic research, doctoral studies, and targeted roles within heritage or cultural institutions.
Cultivate Archaeological and Epigraphic Skills- (Semester 3-4)
For students interested in archaeology, actively engage with the ''''Principles of Archaeology'''' and ''''Epigraphy and Paleography'''' courses. Seek out opportunities for field visits to excavation sites (if available through the department or local ASI offices) and practice deciphering inscriptions to gain practical, hands-on experience.
Tools & Resources
ASI publications, epigraphical records, departmental workshops, local heritage trusts focused on ancient sites
Career Connection
Direct pathway to roles in the Archaeological Survey of India, state archaeology departments, museum research, and cultural heritage conservation.
Enhance Professional Networking and Mentorship- (Semester 3-4)
Attend history conferences, seminars, and workshops both within and outside the university to meet established historians, researchers, and professionals. Seek mentorship from faculty members on career paths, research opportunities, and navigating the academic or heritage sector.
Tools & Resources
Academic conference calendars, departmental seminar series, LinkedIn for professional networking, faculty office hours
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for securing research grants, academic positions, and opportunities in cultural and heritage organizations across India.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation Research and Writing- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the ''''Dissertation and Viva Voce'''' component. Systematically collect data, analyze findings, and meticulously write the thesis. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and refine your arguments, ensuring originality and academic rigor.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology guides, university ethics board guidelines, anti-plagiarism software checks, writing support
Career Connection
A well-researched dissertation is a strong portfolio piece for doctoral applications, research roles, and showcases advanced analytical capabilities to potential employers.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations and Interviews- (Semester 4)
Simultaneously with dissertation work, begin targeted preparation for UGC NET/JRF, civil services exams (UPSC, TNPSC), or other relevant competitive examinations. Practice mock interviews and aptitude tests to enhance employability in government and public sectors.
Tools & Resources
Online test series, coaching institutes (if opting), previous year question papers, current affairs magazines, university career guidance cell
Career Connection
Direct route to careers in academia, civil services, public administration, and other government-regulated professional roles.
Explore Alternative Career Paths and Skill Development- (Semester 4)
Beyond traditional academic roles, explore skills gained from courses like ''''Journalism'''' or ''''Tourism and Hospitality Management.'''' Develop a strong resume highlighting transferable skills like research, analysis, communication, and project management. Consider certifications in areas like digital humanities or archival practices if personal interest dictates.
Tools & Resources
Online certification platforms (Coursera, edX for relevant short courses), career counseling, alumni network for insights into diverse career paths
Career Connection
Broadens career prospects into media, tourism, content creation, policy analysis, and NGO sectors, making graduates versatile in the Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A Bachelor''''s degree (10+2+3 pattern) from any recognized University with History as Main/Ancillary subject or any Bachelor''''s degree with 50% of marks.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 90 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1MH1C1 | ANCIENT INDIA UP TO C.1200 CE | Core | 5 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Age and Janapadas, Mauryan and Post-Mauryan Period, Gupta Empire and Post-Gupta Period |
| 1MH1C2 | HISTORY OF INDIA FROM C.1200 TO C.1707 CE | Core | 5 | Sources of Medieval Indian History, Delhi Sultanate, Socio-Religious Movements, Mughal Empire (Babur to Akbar), Mughal Empire (Jahangir to Aurangazeb), Mughal Administration and Culture |
| 1MH1C3 | HISTORY OF INDIA FROM C.1707 TO C.1947 CE | Core | 5 | Decline of Mughal Empire and Regional Powers, Advent of Europeans and British Expansion, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Revolt of 1857, Indian National Movement (Early Phase) |
| 1MH1EC1 | ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS | Elective (Open Elective) | 4 | Egyptian Civilization, Mesopotamian Civilization, Chinese Civilization, Greek Civilization, Roman Civilization |
| 1MH1S1 | ARCHIVES AND MUSEUMS | Skill Based | 4 | Archives: Meaning, Types, Functions, Records Management and Conservation, Museums: Origin, Types, Functions, Museum Management and Exhibition, Digital Archiving |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1MH2C1 | HISTORIOGRAPHY AND HISTORICAL METHODS | Core | 5 | Meaning and Scope of History, Causation and Objectivity in History, Historical Research and Sources, Auxiliary Sciences of History, Schools of History and Postmodernism |
| 1MH2C2 | SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC HISTORY OF INDIA (C.1200-C.1707 CE) | Core | 5 | Social Structure and Institutions, Rural and Urban Economy, Trade, Commerce and Craft, Religious Movements and Education, Art, Architecture, Science and Technology |
| 1MH2C3 | CULTURAL HISTORY OF INDIA (C.1707-C.1947 CE) | Core | 5 | Education System and Literary Trends, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Developments in Art and Architecture, Music, Dance, and Theatre, Science, Technology, and Media |
| 1MH2EC2 | HUMAN RIGHTS | Elective (Open Elective) | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, Role of UN and International Instruments, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) |
| 1MH2S2 | JOURNALISM | Skill Based | 4 | History and Evolution of Journalism, Types of Journalism and News Gathering, News Reporting and Editing, Photojournalism and Media Ethics, Role of Media in Society |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1MH3C1 | HISTORY OF MODERN WORLD (C.1453-C.1870 CE) | Core | 5 | Renaissance and Reformation, Rise of Nation States and Scientific Revolution, Enlightenment and Absolutism, American and French Revolutions, Industrial Revolution and its Impact |
| 1MH3C2 | HISTORY OF MODERN WORLD (C.1870-C.1991 CE) | Core | 5 | Imperialism and Colonialism, World War I and Russian Revolution, Rise of Fascism and Nazism, World War II and its Aftermath, Cold War and Decolonization |
| 1MH3C3 | PRINCIPLES OF ARCHAEOLOGY | Core | 5 | Definition and Scope of Archaeology, Prehistoric and Protohistoric Archaeology, Historical Archaeology and Excavation Techniques, Dating Methods in Archaeology, Conservation of Archaeological Remains |
| 1MH3C4 | HISTORY OF SOUTH INDIA (C.1336-C.1707 CE) | Core | 5 | Vijayanagara Empire and Administration, Bahmani Kingdom and Successor States, Nayak Kingdoms of Tamil Nadu, Maratha Expansion in South India, Socio-Economic and Cultural Conditions |
| 1MH3EC3 | HISTORY OF FREEDOM STRUGGLE IN TAMIL NADU | Elective (Open Elective) | 4 | Early Rebellions and Vellore Mutiny, Non-Brahmin Movement and Self-Respect Movement, Role of Periyar E.V. Ramasamy, National Movement Leaders from Tamil Nadu, Gandhian Movements in Tamil Nadu |
| 1MH3S3 | TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT | Skill Based | 4 | Concepts and Types of Tourism, Tourist Destinations in India and Tamil Nadu, Hospitality Industry and Management, Tour Guiding and Travel Agencies, Impacts of Tourism |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1MH4C1 | CONTEMPORARY WORLD (C.1991 CE TO PRESENT) | Core | 5 | End of Cold War and New World Order, Globalization and its Impact, Rise of New Powers (BRICS), International Organizations and Global Challenges, Terrorism, Environmental Issues, and Human Rights |
| 1MH4C2 | INDIAN FREEDOM MOVEMENT (C.1885-C.1947 CE) | Core | 5 | Rise of Indian Nationalism: Moderates and Extremists, Gandhian Era and Non-Cooperation Movement, Civil Disobedience Movement, Quit India Movement and World War II, Partition of India and Independence |
| 1MH4C3 | HISTORY OF TAMIL NADU (C.1707-C.1947 CE) | Core | 5 | Poligar Revolts and Carnatic Wars, British Rule and Administration in Tamil Nadu, Socio-Religious Movements and Education, Economic Changes and Land Settlements, Cultural Developments and Nationalist Awakening |
| 1MH4C4 | DISSERTATION AND VIVA VOCE | Core (Project) | 5 | Research Methodology and Topic Selection, Literature Review and Data Collection, Thesis Writing and Structure, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Viva Voce Preparation and Presentation |
| 1MH4EC4 | DISASTER MANAGEMENT | Elective (Open Elective) | 4 | Types and Causes of Disasters, Disaster Cycle: Preparedness, Mitigation, Disaster Response and Relief, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction, Role of Government, NGOs, and Community |
| 1MH4S4 | EPIGRAPHY AND PALEOGRAPHY | Skill Based | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Epigraphy, Types of Inscriptions and their Study, Decipherment of Brahmi and Tamil Brahmi, Paleography: Study of Ancient Writing, Numismatics and Calligraphy |
