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MA in History at Chaudhary Mahadev Prasad Mahavidyalaya
Unnao, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at Chaudhary Mahadev Prasad Mahavidyalaya Unnao?
This MA History program at Chaudhary Mahadev Prasad Mahavidyalaya, Unnao, focuses on a comprehensive study of Indian and World History, from ancient to contemporary times. Rooted in the NEP 2020 framework, the curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research methodology, and interdisciplinary perspectives. It prepares students for diverse career paths in a rapidly evolving Indian academic and cultural landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history graduates seeking in-depth knowledge and research skills, educators aiming to enhance their subject expertise, and individuals passionate about historical inquiry. It attracts those aspiring for roles in public service, academic research, heritage management, and cultural institutions across India, requiring a strong foundation in historical analysis.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as historians, archivists, museum curators, civil servants, journalists, or educators in India. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program equips students with analytical and research skills highly valued in both public and private sectors, aligning with various competitive examinations and cultural preservation initiatives.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historical Concepts- (undefined)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational theories of historiography, key historical periods, and diverse sources. Utilize textbooks, reference books from the college library, and open educational resources (OERs) on Indian history. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts, focusing on conceptual clarity.
Tools & Resources
College Library, NCERT History Books (Advanced Level), Indian Culture Portal, Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong conceptual base is crucial for academic excellence, competitive exams (like UPSC, NET/JRF), and articulate historical arguments in any professional setting.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (undefined)
Engage deeply with primary and secondary historical sources. Practice identifying author biases, historical context, and conflicting interpretations. Regularly read academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly, Indian Historical Review) and scholarly articles available via college subscriptions or JSTOR (if accessible).
Tools & Resources
JSTOR (through university library portal), EPW archives, Critique exercises
Career Connection
These skills are invaluable for research, policy analysis, journalism, and any role requiring informed decision-making and critical evaluation of information.
Participate in Departmental Seminars & Discussions- (undefined)
Actively attend and contribute to departmental seminars, guest lectures, and discussions. This helps in understanding different historiographical debates, exposure to new research, and networking with faculty and peers. Prepare questions in advance and summarize key takeaways after each session.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, Seminar notes, Faculty interaction
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, academic discourse, and provides insights into current research trends, preparing for higher academic pursuits or presentations in professional roles.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (undefined)
Connect historical studies with other disciplines like political science, sociology, economics, and archaeology, especially for optional papers. Read books and articles that explore these linkages. This broadens your perspective and enhances your ability to analyze complex historical phenomena.
Tools & Resources
Cross-disciplinary journals, Books on historical sociology/economics, Online courses on related subjects
Career Connection
Fosters a holistic understanding beneficial for civil services, think tanks, policy analysis, and diverse research careers that demand multidisciplinary insights.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects- (undefined)
Beyond regular assignments, initiate small-scale research projects on topics of personal interest or local history. This could involve interviewing elderly community members, visiting local archives/museums, or analyzing primary documents. This builds practical research experience crucial for dissertation.
Tools & Resources
Local archives (e.g., State Archives UP), Oral history interview techniques, Mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
Develops independent research capabilities, problem-solving skills, and builds a portfolio for M.Phil./PhD admissions or research-oriented job roles.
Engage with Heritage and Cultural Organizations- (undefined)
Seek opportunities to volunteer or intern with local museums, heritage sites, or cultural NGOs in Unnao, Kanpur, or nearby cities. This provides practical exposure to heritage management, conservation, and public history, directly linking academic knowledge to real-world application.
Tools & Resources
INTACH (Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage), State Archaeology Department, Local Museum contacts
Career Connection
Offers valuable hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and a clearer understanding of career paths in cultural preservation and tourism, especially relevant for India.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Dissertation Research & Writing- (undefined)
Devote significant time to your Dissertation/Research Project (MAH-402). Choose a topic early, consult regularly with your supervisor, and meticulously follow research ethics and methodologies. Focus on structured writing, clear argumentation, and proper citation techniques.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, University''''s research guidelines, Supervisor meetings
Career Connection
This capstone project is vital for demonstrating independent research capability, a key requirement for academic positions, advanced degrees, and research-based careers.
Prepare for Post-MA Career Paths- (undefined)
Identify your desired career path (e.g., civil services, teaching, museum work, journalism) and tailor your preparation. For teaching, prepare for NET/JRF. For civil services, dedicate time to general studies and history optional. For other roles, build a strong CV showcasing research and writing skills.
Tools & Resources
UGC-NET/JRF past papers, Civil Services exam coaching materials, Career counseling sessions
Career Connection
Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition from academics to professional life, maximizing placement or further study opportunities upon graduation.
Network and Attend Conferences- (undefined)
Attend history conferences, workshops, and seminars at regional or national levels (e.g., Indian History Congress). Present papers if opportunities arise. Network with established historians, academics, and professionals in related fields. This expands your academic and professional circle.
Tools & Resources
Conference announcements (online/departmental), Professional associations (e.g., Indian History Congress), LinkedIn
Career Connection
Building a professional network is crucial for job referrals, mentorship, collaborative research opportunities, and staying abreast of developments in the field.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline with a minimum of 45% aggregate marks from a recognized university. A background in History at the undergraduate level is highly recommended for optimal learning.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 88 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH-101 | Historiography, Concepts, Methods & Tools of History | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of History, Objectivity and Bias in History, Causation and Determinism, Historical Research Methodology, Historiographical Traditions, Writing of History |
| MAH-102 | History of Ancient India upto 1000 A.D. | Core | 6 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Harappan Civilization, Vedic Civilization, Rise of Mahajanapadas, Mauryan Empire and Administration, Gupta Age and Post-Gupta Period |
| MAH-103 | History of Medieval India (1000-1707 A.D.) | Core | 6 | Sources of Medieval Indian History, Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire (Babur to Aurangzeb), Medieval Administration and Society, Economy and Trade in Medieval India, Art, Architecture and Culture |
| MAH-104 | History of Modern India (1707-1947 A.D.) | Core | 6 | Decline of Mughal Empire, Advent of European Powers, British Expansion and Consolidation, Economic Impact of British Rule, Social & Religious Reform Movements, Rise of Indian Nationalism and Partition |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH-201 | Indian Constitution and Administration | Core | 6 | Constitutional Development in India, Salient Features of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Union and State Governments, Judiciary and Local Self-Government, Emergency Provisions |
| MAH-202 | History of Contemporary India (1947-2000 A.D.) | Core | 6 | Partition and its Aftermath, Integration of Princely States, Nehruvian Era: Foreign Policy and Economic Planning, Indira Gandhi Era: Emergency and Green Revolution, Liberalization and Economic Reforms, Social and Political Movements |
| MAH-203 | World History (1453-1871 A.D.) | Core | 6 | Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Enlightenment, American Revolution, French Revolution and Napoleon, Industrial Revolution, Rise of Nationalism and Unification Movements |
| MAH-204 (Option A) | Tourism in India: Principles & Practices | Skill Development Course (Elective) | 4 | Concept and Types of Tourism, Tourist Resources of India, Tourism Management and Marketing, Sustainable and Responsible Tourism, Impacts of Tourism (Socio-Economic, Cultural), Government Policies and Initiatives in Tourism |
| MAH-204 (Option B) | Archaeology: Principles & Methods | Skill Development Course (Elective) | 4 | Definition and Scope of Archaeology, History of Archaeological Research, Methods of Exploration and Survey, Archaeological Excavation Techniques, Dating Methods in Archaeology, Archaeological Ethics and Conservation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH-301 | History of Ancient Societies & Culture | Core | 6 | Sources of Ancient World History, River Valley Civilizations (Mesopotamia, Egypt, China), Greek Civilization (Polis, Democracy, Philosophy), Roman Civilization (Republic, Empire, Law), Persian Empire, Early Christian Societies |
| MAH-302 | History of Medieval Societies & Culture | Core | 6 | Rise of Christianity and Islam, Islamic Civilization and its Contributions, Feudalism in Europe, Crusades and their Impact, Byzantine Empire and Ottoman Empire, Rise of Nation States in Europe |
| MAH-303 | History of Modern World (1871-2000 A.D.) | Core | 6 | Imperialism and Colonialism, World War I and its Consequences, Russian Revolution and Inter-war Period, Rise of Fascism and Nazism, World War II and its Aftermath, Cold War, Decolonization, and Globalization |
| MAH-304 (Option A) | History of Women in India | Elective | 6 | Women in Ancient and Medieval India, Bhakti Movement and Women, Social Reform Movements and Women''''s Emancipation, Women''''s Participation in National Movement, Status of Women in Post-Independence India, Women and Law in India |
| MAH-304 (Option B) | Indian Art and Architecture | Elective | 6 | Harappan Art and Vedic Art, Mauryan and Post-Mauryan Art (Stupas, Sculpture), Gupta Art and Architecture, Medieval Temple Architecture (North and South Indian Styles), Mughal Architecture and Gardens, Colonial and Modern Indian Architecture |
| MAH-304 (Option C) | Economic History of India | Elective | 6 | Ancient Indian Economy (Agriculture, Trade), Medieval Economy (Agrarian Structure, Craft Production), Colonial Economy (Land Revenue Systems, De-industrialization), Commercialization of Agriculture, Rise of Modern Industry in India, Economic Policies in Post-Independence India |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH-401 | Contemporary World Affairs | Core | 6 | End of Cold War and New World Order, International Organizations (UN, WTO, IMF), Regional Groupings (EU, ASEAN, SAARC), Globalization and its Impact, Terrorism and International Security, Human Rights and Environmental Issues |
| MAH-402 | Research Project/Dissertation | Project | 6 | Selection of Research Topic, Literature Review and Hypothesis Formulation, Research Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Dissertation Writing and Formatting, Viva-Voce and Presentation Skills |
| MAH-403 (Option A) | Historiography of Local History and Regional Studies | Elective | 6 | Concept and Significance of Local History, Sources for Local and Regional History, Methodology for Local History Research, Case Studies of Regional Histories in India, Uttar Pradesh: A Regional Historical Perspective, Interdisciplinary Approaches to Regional Studies |
| MAH-403 (Option B) | History of Science and Technology in India | Elective | 6 | Ancient Indian Science (Astronomy, Mathematics, Medicine), Technological Developments in Ancient India, Science and Technology in Medieval India, Impact of Colonial Rule on Indian Science, Modern Science and Technology in Post-Independence India, Science Education and Research in India |
