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MA in History at Brahma Ramdeo Baba Devanand Post Graduate College
Deoria, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at Brahma Ramdeo Baba Devanand Post Graduate College Deoria?
This MA History program at Brahma Ramdeo Baba Devanand Post Graduate College focuses on providing an in-depth understanding of Indian and World History across various periods. It critically examines political, socio-economic, and cultural developments, fostering historical thinking and research skills. The curriculum is designed to meet the academic standards required for higher studies and research in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor''''s graduates with a keen interest in historical inquiry and research. It caters to individuals aspiring for careers in academia, civil services, heritage management, and journalism in India. Working professionals seeking to enhance their historical knowledge or transition into education can also greatly benefit, offering a strong foundation for diverse intellectual pursuits.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as historians, archivists, museum curators, and educators within India''''s vast heritage and educational sectors. Opportunities also exist in civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), research organizations, and policy analysis roles. The program equips students with analytical and critical thinking skills highly valued in various Indian industries, paving the way for academic progression like NET/JRF.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding core historical concepts, theories, and historiographical debates introduced in semesters 1 and 2. Regularly attend lectures, take detailed notes, and clarify doubts promptly with professors. Engage in discussions with peers to solidify understanding of diverse historical perspectives and methodologies.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks prescribed by DDUGU, Reference books on historiography, Peer study groups, College library resources
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for excelling in competitive exams like NET/JRF, UPSC, and State PSCs, which require deep conceptual clarity in History. It also forms the basis for advanced research.
Develop Effective Research and Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of extensive reading beyond textbooks, including primary and secondary sources. Learn to critically analyze historical documents and arguments. Practice summarizing complex historical narratives and formulating clear academic responses. Utilize the college library for journal articles and research papers.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Project MUSE (if accessible via DDUGU/college subscription), Historical journals, Reference sections of college library, Online archives for primary sources
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for academic research, writing dissertations, and excelling in careers requiring analytical rigor such as research associate, journalist, or content developer.
Participate in Academic Seminars and Workshops- (Semester 1-2)
Actively seek out and participate in history department seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the college or DDUGU. Present short papers or engage in debates to improve public speaking and critical argumentation skills. This exposes students to current research and diverse viewpoints.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards, Departmental communications, DDUGU academic event calendars, Student research forums
Career Connection
Participation enhances academic networking, presentation skills, and provides exposure to various career paths in academia and research, beneficial for future conferences and collaborations.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Source-Based Historical Analysis- (Semester 3-4)
Deepen understanding of research methodology by actively engaging with primary sources for specific historical periods. Learn to authenticate, evaluate, and interpret documents. Apply different historiographical lenses to existing narratives and formulate original arguments based on evidence. Focus on Indian historical context.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India (online resources), State archives (Uttar Pradesh State Archives), Digital libraries with historical texts, Critical analysis frameworks
Career Connection
This practice is essential for developing the expertise required for roles in archives, heritage conservation, and advanced research, making graduates highly valuable for academic and governmental positions.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Initiate small-scale research projects, perhaps on local history or specific regional aspects of Indian history. This involves selecting a topic, conducting literature review, gathering evidence, and writing a concise research paper. Seek guidance from faculty members throughout the process.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Local historical societies, District gazetteers, Regional language resources
Career Connection
Practical research experience enhances the resume, provides concrete examples for job interviews, and prepares students for the final dissertation and future research-oriented careers in think tanks or non-profits.
Prepare for Civil Services and NET/JRF- (Semester 3-4)
Begin focused preparation for competitive examinations like the UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE) and the National Eligibility Test (NET) for Assistant Professorship/Junior Research Fellowship (JRF). Integrate exam-oriented study into regular academic work, focusing on syllabus alignment, answer writing practice, and current affairs.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers (UPSC, NET), Standard reference books for competitive exams, Online coaching platforms (optional), Study circles
Career Connection
Early preparation significantly boosts chances of success in highly sought-after government jobs and academic positions in India, providing a clear career trajectory post-MA.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation Writing and Presentation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the MA dissertation, choosing an original research topic and meticulously executing the research plan. Develop advanced skills in academic writing, citation, and bibliography. Prepare thoroughly for the Viva Voce, articulating arguments clearly and defending findings confidently.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, Citation management tools (e.g., Zotero), DDUGU research guidelines, Mock viva sessions with peers/faculty
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a cornerstone for doctoral studies (Ph.D.) and enhances credibility for academic positions. It demonstrates advanced research capabilities to potential employers in research and content creation.
Network with Historians and Scholars- (Semester 4)
Actively engage with faculty members, visiting scholars, and professionals in the field of history. Attend conferences, seminars, and public lectures to broaden academic horizons and build professional relationships. Seek mentorship opportunities to guide career choices and research interests.
Tools & Resources
Academic conferences (e.g., Indian History Congress), Departmental alumni networks, Professional organizations in history, Social media academic groups
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to research collaborations, post-doctoral opportunities, and job referrals. It provides insights into the latest developments and career avenues in the highly specialized field of history.
Explore Interdisciplinary Applications of History- (Semester 4)
Consider how historical knowledge can be applied in interdisciplinary fields such as public policy, journalism, cultural studies, or museology. Engage with projects that blend history with other disciplines, enhancing versatility and opening up non-traditional career paths in India.
Tools & Resources
Elective courses (if available), Interdisciplinary journals, Workshops on public history/digital humanities, Internships with NGOs or cultural bodies
Career Connection
This broadens career prospects beyond traditional academia, preparing graduates for roles in media, policy research, heritage tourism, and cultural education, which are growing sectors in India.
