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BA-HONS-ENGLISH in English at Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College

Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, a premier institution located in New Delhi, stands as a co-educational constituent college of the University of Delhi. Established in 1959, ARSD College is recognized for its academic strength, offering 28 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across Arts, Science, and Commerce. The college holds an A++ NAAC accreditation and secured the 5th position in the NIRF 2024 rankings for colleges, highlighting its commitment to excellence and strong placement record with a median UG salary of ₹6.00 LPA.

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Delhi, Delhi

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About the Specialization

What is English at Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College Delhi?

This English specialization program at Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College, affiliated with the University of Delhi, offers a comprehensive exploration of literature, critical theory, and cultural studies from diverse traditions. It nurtures analytical thinking, effective communication, and a profound understanding of human experiences, highly relevant for India''''s burgeoning creative and knowledge economy. The program emphasizes global perspectives while grounding students in Indian literary traditions and contemporary issues, making it distinctive in its approach to literary education and social relevance.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for fresh graduates from humanities or science streams with a strong interest in literature, critical analysis, and written communication. It caters to those aspiring for careers in content creation, journalism, academia, civil services, and publishing, as well as working professionals seeking to enhance their analytical and communication skills for diverse industry roles. Enthusiastic readers, aspiring writers, and those keen on interdisciplinary thought and cultural studies will find this program deeply engaging and rewarding.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles such as content writer, editor, journalist, public relations specialist, teacher, academician, research associate, and civil servant. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 10-15 LPA or more for experienced professionals in publishing, media, corporate communications, and educational sectors. The program fosters advanced critical thinking, research, and communication skills, aligning graduates for both professional employment and higher studies in India and abroad.

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Specialization

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Cultivate Extensive Reading and Critical Analysis- (Semester 1-2)

Engage deeply with core texts from Indian and European classical literature, focusing on character analysis, thematic interpretations, and historical contexts. Participate actively in classroom discussions and departmental literary clubs to sharpen critical thinking and articulate perspectives clearly.

Tools & Resources

College Library resources, e-journals (JSTOR, Project MUSE via DU library), Introductory literary theory texts, Departmental reading groups and book clubs

Career Connection

Develops foundational analytical skills crucial for all literary and communication-centric careers, including content creation, journalism, and academic research, by building a strong base in textual interpretation.

Enhance Academic Writing and Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)

Focus on structured essay writing, research paper composition, and effective oral presentations. Seek regular feedback from professors and utilize college writing centers to refine academic expression and communication clarity. Master citation styles like MLA and learn proofreading techniques.

Tools & Resources

Purdue OWL guide to MLA style, Grammarly Premium (if available/affordable), Peer-review sessions, College writing workshop on academic integrity and effective communication

Career Connection

Essential for all professional fields, strong academic writing and communication skills are highly valued by employers in publishing, media, and corporate sectors for crafting compelling narratives and reports.

Explore Interdisciplinary Electives and Value-Added Courses- (Semester 1-2)

Strategically choose Generic Electives (GEs) from diverse disciplines like History, Political Science, or Psychology to broaden intellectual horizons and foster interdisciplinary connections. Engage in Value Addition Courses (VACs) to acquire practical life skills, digital literacy, or ethical understanding.

Tools & Resources

Delhi University Common Pool of GEs and VACs, Departmental counselors for guidance on course selection, Online courses for skill development

Career Connection

Develops a versatile skill set and broad knowledge base, enhancing adaptability and problem-solving abilities sought after in multidisciplinary job roles in diverse Indian industries.

Intermediate Stage

Immerse in Literary Theory and Diverse Genres- (Semester 3-5)

Engage with core literary theories (e.g., Feminism, Postcolonialism, Marxism) and explore varied genres like American Literature, Popular Literature, and Women''''s Writing. Critically apply theoretical frameworks to texts, participating in seminars and paper presentations to deepen understanding.

Tools & Resources

Critical theory anthologies (e.g., Leitch''''s The Norton Anthology of Theory and Criticism), Online literary forums and discussion groups, Departmental seminars and student conferences, DU Syllabus for in-depth readings and theoretical texts

Career Connection

Provides a robust conceptual framework for advanced research, literary criticism, and analytical roles in academia, media, and cultural organizations, preparing for specialized content roles.

Undertake Skill Enhancement and Practical Application- (Semester 3-5)

Enroll in Skill Enhancement Courses (SECs) focused on creative writing, academic editing, digital humanities, or professional communication. Seek internships with publishing houses, NGOs, content agencies, or media organizations during breaks to gain practical industry exposure and build a portfolio.

Tools & Resources

College placement cell and career services, Internshala for internship opportunities, LinkedIn for networking with industry professionals, Industry-specific workshops and training programs

Career Connection

Translates theoretical knowledge into practical, marketable skills, making graduates highly employable in roles like content creation, editing, digital marketing, and communication specialists in India''''s growing service sector.

Network and Participate in Departmental Activities- (Semester 3-5)

Actively participate in the English Department''''s literary society events, workshops, guest lectures, and student-led initiatives. Network with faculty, alumni, and visiting scholars to gain insights into various career paths, build professional connections, and explore collaborative projects.

Tools & Resources

Departmental notice boards and social media groups for college events, Alumni network platforms and mentorship programs, Literary festivals and conferences in Delhi

Career Connection

Expands professional network, provides exposure to industry trends, and facilitates mentorship opportunities, leading to informed career choices and potential job leads in the Indian market.

Advanced Stage

Specialize through Discipline Specific Electives and Research- (Semester 6-8)

Choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) aligning with post-graduation goals, whether academic or professional (e.g., Literature and Cinema, Translation Studies, Digital Humanities). Begin working on a comprehensive research project or dissertation under faculty mentorship, focusing on original contribution.

Tools & Resources

Specialized e-databases (e.g., MLA International Bibliography), Research journals and academic publications, Faculty mentorship for thesis guidance, Plagiarism checker tools (e.g., Turnitin)

Career Connection

Develops expertise in chosen sub-fields, critical for postgraduate studies (MA, PhD) and specialized roles requiring deep subject knowledge and advanced research acumen in academia, think tanks, or research organizations.

Prepare for Higher Studies or Competitive Examinations- (Semester 6-8)

For those aspiring for academia, prepare diligently for UGC NET/JRF or MA entrance exams for top universities. For civil services, focus on current affairs, essay writing, and general studies. Leverage the college''''s career counseling and alumni network for guidance and exam preparation resources.

Tools & Resources

UGC NET study materials and previous year papers, Civil Services exam coaching guidance and mock tests, University career counseling cell, Alumni success stories and mentoring for competitive exams

Career Connection

Directly supports entry into prestigious postgraduate academic programs, civil services, or other high-level competitive career paths, opening doors to leadership and public service roles in India.

Refine Professional Portfolio and Placement Readiness- (Semester 6-8)

Compile a strong professional portfolio showcasing academic papers, creative writing samples, or internship reports. Attend placement workshops, mock interviews, and resume-building sessions organized by the college to enhance employability for diverse industry roles and confidently face recruitment processes.

Tools & Resources

Professional portfolio platforms (e.g., LinkedIn, personal website), College placement drives and career fairs, Industry recruiters and HR workshops, Interview preparation guides and aptitude tests

Career Connection

Ensures graduates are well-prepared for job applications and interviews, leading to successful placements in desired corporate, media, non-profit, or educational sectors, kickstarting their career journey in India.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • Candidates must have passed 10+2 (or equivalent) from a recognized board. Admission is based on the Common University Entrance Test (CUET UG) scores, requiring a language from List A and three subjects from List B1 OR a language from List A, any two subjects from List B1 and one subject from List B2.

Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)

Credits: 136 Credits

Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-1Indian Classical LiteratureCore4Classical Indian Aesthetics, Sanskrit Drama (e.g., Kalidasa), Epic Traditions (e.g., Mahabharata), Poetics and Literary Conventions, Themes of Dharma and Karma
DSC-2European Classical LiteratureCore4Ancient Greek and Roman Epics (e.g., Homer, Virgil), Tragedy and Comedy (e.g., Sophocles, Aristophanes), Classical Rhetoric and Philosophy, Mythology in Literature, Themes of Fate and Free Will
GE-1Generic Elective 1Elective4Introduction to chosen discipline, Basic concepts and theories, Foundational knowledge, Interdisciplinary perspectives, Analytical skills
AECC-1Environmental StudiesAbility Enhancement Compulsory Course2Multidisciplinary nature of environmental studies, Ecosystems and biodiversity, Environmental pollution and control, Global environmental issues, Sustainable development
VAC-1Value Addition Course 1Value Addition Course2Ethical considerations and values, Constitutional values and fundamental duties, Digital literacy and empowerment, Art of being happy and well-being, Yoga and meditation

Semester 2

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-3Indian Writing in EnglishCore4Emergence of Indian English literature, Themes of identity, nation, and diaspora, Post-colonial perspectives and resistance, Diverse forms: poetry, prose, drama, Modern Indian sensibilities and cultural hybridity
DSC-4British Poetry and Drama: 14th to 17th CenturiesCore4Chaucer and medieval narratives, Renaissance drama and poetry (e.g., Shakespeare, Marlowe), Metaphysical poetry and satire, Jacobean and Caroline literature, Themes of love, religion, and power
GE-2Generic Elective 2Elective4Introduction to chosen discipline, Analytical frameworks, Problem-solving approaches, Critical thinking, Interdisciplinary applications
AECC-2English LanguageAbility Enhancement Compulsory Course2Grammar and usage, Reading comprehension, Writing skills and essay composition, Oral communication and presentation, Vocabulary development and effective expression
VAC-2Value Addition Course 2Value Addition Course2Constitutional literacy, Financial literacy, Art of communication, Health and wellness, National service scheme

Semester 3

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-5British Poetry and Drama: 17th and 18th CenturiesCore4Restoration drama and comedy of manners, Augustan poetry and satire (e.g., Pope, Dryden), Rise of the novel (e.g., Defoe, Swift), Sentimental literature and sensibility, Enlightenment thought and its literary impact
DSC-6American LiteratureCore4Early American narratives and Puritanism, Transcendentalism (e.g., Emerson, Thoreau), American Modernism and experimentation, African American literature and civil rights, Post-war American fiction and identity
DSC-7Popular LiteratureCore4Defining popular literature and genre fiction, Detective fiction and its conventions, Fantasy and science fiction narratives, Romance novels and their tropes, Children''''s literature and its cultural impact
GE-3Generic Elective 3Elective4Application of core concepts, Advanced topics in chosen discipline, Research methodology basics, Case studies and problem analysis, Interdisciplinary project work
SEC-1Skill Enhancement Course 1Skill Enhancement Course3Academic writing and composition, Creative writing techniques, Digital humanities tools and methods, Text and performance studies, Professional communication skills

Semester 4

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-8British Romantic LiteratureCore4Romanticism: themes and characteristics, Poetry of Wordsworth, Coleridge, Keats, Shelley, Blake, Gothic novel and its influence, Nature, imagination, and emotion, Social and political critiques of the era
DSC-919th Century European RealismCore4Rise of realism in European literature, Social commentary and class dynamics, Naturalism and determinism, Psychological realism and character depth, Representation of everyday life and societal norms
DSC-10Women''''s WritingCore4Feminist literary criticism and theories, Representations of gender and patriarchy, Women''''s experiences and voices in literature, Intersectionality in writing, Narratives of resistance and empowerment
GE-4Generic Elective 4Elective4Advanced theories and models, Specialized topics in chosen discipline, Quantitative and qualitative research, Policy analysis, Societal impact of discipline
SEC-2Skill Enhancement Course 2Skill Enhancement Course3Professional editing and proofreading, Content creation for digital media, Translation studies: theory and practice, Public speaking and presentation skills, Event management and cultural organization

Semester 5

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-11British Literature: The Early 20th CenturyCore4Modernism in literature and its characteristics, Impact of World War I on writing, Stream of consciousness technique, Experiments in narrative form and perspective, Poetry of Eliot, Yeats, Auden
DSC-12Modern European DramaCore4Realism and Naturalism in drama, Theatre of the Absurd (e.g., Beckett, Ionesco), Symbolism and Expressionism in theatre, Brechtian theatre and alienation effect, Political and social themes in modern drama
DSE-1Discipline Specific Elective 1Elective4Literary criticism and theory applications, Literature and cinema studies, Travel writing: narratives and contexts, Autobiography and life writing, Science fiction and detective literature
DSE-2Discipline Specific Elective 2Elective4Children''''s literature: theory and analysis, Graphic narratives and visual storytelling, Narratives of human rights, Ecological studies and environmental literature, Literature and gender studies

Semester 6

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-13Postcolonial LiteraturesCore4Colonialism and its legacies, Nationalism and identity formation in postcolonial contexts, Hybridity and mimicry, Subaltern voices and representation, Diasporic writing and transnationalism
DSC-14Contemporary India: Women and the NationCore4Women''''s role in nation-building and freedom struggle, Gender and politics in modern India, Feminist movements and activism, Representation of women in media and literature, Challenges and empowerment of women in India
DSE-3Discipline Specific Elective 3Elective4Indian aesthetics and literary traditions, South Asian literature and regional voices, Oral traditions and folklore studies, Performing arts studies and theatre history, Literature and psychoanalysis
DSE-4Discipline Specific Elective 4Elective4Disability studies in literature, Dalit literature and social justice, Partition literature and its narratives, Caste and literature studies, Memory studies and historical trauma

Semester 7

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-15Literary Criticism and TheoryCore4Foundations of literary criticism, Structuralism and Post-structuralism, Marxist and Feminist literary theories, Postcolonial theory and its applications, Reader-response criticism and reception aesthetics
DSC-16Research MethodologyCore4Introduction to research in humanities, Qualitative and quantitative research methods, Academic writing and citation styles (MLA, Chicago), Literature review techniques and proposal writing, Data collection, analysis, and interpretation
DSE-5Discipline Specific Elective 5Elective4Advanced translation studies, Ecocriticism and environmental humanities, Children''''s literature in a global context, Advanced graphic narratives, Cinema studies and adaptation theory
DSE-6Discipline Specific Elective 6Elective4Digital humanities projects and methodologies, Advanced gender studies in literature, Critical race theory and literature, Subaltern studies in literary contexts, Interdisciplinary approaches to literary analysis

Semester 8

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
DSC-17Project / DissertationCore6Independent research project development, Literature review and research proposal, Methodology design and data analysis, Thesis writing and academic argumentation, Oral defense and scholarly contribution
DSC-18Digital HumanitiesCore4Introduction to digital humanities methods, Text mining and distant reading, Digital archiving and curation, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for literary studies, Digital storytelling and publishing platforms
DSE-7Discipline Specific Elective 7Elective4Media studies and communication theory, Journalism and creative writing for media, Cultural studies and popular culture, Advanced literary theory applications, Comparative literature and world literary systems
DSE-8Discipline Specific Elective 8Elective4Global Anglophone literature, Literature of the Indian diaspora, Indigenous literature and oral traditions, Performance studies and theatre criticism, Critical pedagogy and teaching literature
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