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B-A in Urdu at Christ Church College
Kanpur Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Urdu at Christ Church College Kanpur Nagar?
This B.A. Urdu program at Christ Church College, Kanpur, focuses on imparting a deep understanding of Urdu language, literature, and culture, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It covers classical and modern poetry, prose, literary criticism, and the historical evolution of Urdu literature, making it relevant for cultural preservation and academic pursuits in India. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills like translation and journalistic writing, catering to the diverse demands of the Indian literary and media landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students with a keen interest in Urdu language and literature, fresh 10+2 graduates aspiring for careers in academia, journalism, translation, or cultural preservation. It also suits individuals passionate about exploring the rich heritage of Indo-Islamic culture and those looking to develop strong linguistic and analytical skills for various public and private sector roles. Students with prior exposure to Urdu will find this program enriching, while beginners with dedication can also excel.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Urdu teachers, content writers, translators, journalists, editors, and researchers in government or private cultural institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in publishing, media, and academia. The program''''s focus on critical thinking and communication skills also prepares students for competitive examinations and further studies like M.A., M.Phil., and Ph.D. in Urdu.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Linguistic Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering Urdu grammar, vocabulary, and calligraphy from Semester 1. Regularly read classical and contemporary texts to enhance comprehension and expression. Utilize online dictionaries like Rekhta''''s Urdu dictionary and grammar guides. Actively participate in class discussions and seek feedback on written assignments to refine language skills.
Tools & Resources
Rekhta.org, Urdu grammar books, Calligraphy practice sheets, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong linguistic foundation is crucial for all career paths, especially for effective communication in journalism, translation, and teaching. It forms the bedrock for advanced literary analysis.
Engage with Literary History & Movements- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom lectures, delve into the historical context of Urdu literary movements and major poets/writers. Read biographies and critical essays to understand their influences. Join college literary societies or clubs to discuss literary works and share interpretations, fostering a deeper appreciation for the subject.
Tools & Resources
Biographies of Urdu poets/writers, Literary journals, College literary club, Cultural events
Career Connection
A comprehensive understanding of literary history is essential for academic research, teaching, and cultural content creation. It provides context for modern literary trends and criticism.
Develop Presentation and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice presenting on literary topics regularly, even for small assignments. Learn basic research methodologies, including how to find credible sources, annotate texts, and structure academic essays. Utilize the college library''''s resources and attend workshops on academic writing and public speaking.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Microsoft PowerPoint/Google Slides, Public speaking workshops
Career Connection
Effective presentation and research skills are vital for academic success, higher studies, and professional roles requiring documentation, reporting, or public engagement.
Intermediate Stage
Master Critical Analysis and Interpretation- (Semester 3-4)
Actively apply various literary theories and critical approaches to analyze texts. Practice writing detailed critical essays, focusing on thematic analysis, character development, and stylistic elements. Engage in debates and discussions on controversial literary topics to sharpen analytical thinking and articulate informed opinions.
Tools & Resources
Literary theory textbooks, Research papers on literary criticism, Online literary forums
Career Connection
Strong critical analysis skills are highly valued in academia, research, content editing, and journalism, enabling graduates to provide insightful perspectives on complex issues.
Explore Creative Writing and Translation- (Semester 3-4)
Experiment with creative writing in Urdu, such as short stories, poetry, or essays. Undertake small translation projects, translating between Urdu and English/Hindi, to understand the nuances of language transfer. Seek feedback from professors or peers on your creative and translational efforts to refine your craft.
Tools & Resources
Urdu literary magazines for submission, Translation software for practice, Workshops on creative writing
Career Connection
Developing skills in creative writing opens doors to content creation, scriptwriting, and authorship, while translation skills are in high demand across various industries and government sectors.
Attend Seminars and Workshops- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, webinars, and literary workshops organized by the college or other institutions. These events offer exposure to current research, new perspectives, and networking opportunities with established scholars and practitioners in the field of Urdu literature.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notices, Online event platforms, Professional literary associations
Career Connection
Participation in such events expands knowledge, provides networking opportunities, and demonstrates proactive engagement, all beneficial for academic progression and career development.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Significant Research Project- (Semester 5-6)
In Semester 5, commit to a robust dissertation/project work. Choose a research topic that genuinely interests you and aligns with your career aspirations. Work closely with a faculty mentor, meticulously collecting data, analyzing findings, and writing a well-structured academic paper. Aim for original contribution or a fresh perspective.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Research methodology guides, Faculty mentorship, Plagiarism check software
Career Connection
A strong research project is a major asset for postgraduate studies (MA, M.Phil., Ph.D.) and research-oriented roles. It showcases independent thinking, analytical rigor, and subject mastery.
Focus on Professional Skill Development- (Semester 5-6)
Concentrate on refining skills directly applicable to chosen career paths. For aspiring journalists, practice journalistic writing, interviewing, and editing. For translators, focus on specialized translation areas (e.g., legal, technical). For teachers, gain experience in lesson planning and classroom management. Seek relevant internships.
Tools & Resources
Internship portals (e.g., Internshala), Online courses on specific skills, Industry mentors
Career Connection
Tailoring skills to specific job roles significantly enhances employability and readiness for the professional world, directly impacting placement success and career progression.
Network and Career Planning- (Semester 5-6)
Actively network with alumni, professionals in media, academia, and cultural organizations. Attend career fairs and workshops on resume building and interview preparation. Explore options for higher education or civil services. Develop a clear career plan, identifying short-term and long-term goals.
Tools & Resources
Alumni network, LinkedIn, Career counseling services, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Strategic networking and proactive career planning are instrumental in securing desired job placements, discovering hidden opportunities, and setting a clear trajectory for future professional growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Intermediate (10+2) or equivalent examination passed from a recognized board/university, with minimum marks as per university norms.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 44 (for Urdu Major specialization only) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U010101T | Classical Poetry (Ghazal & Qasida) | Major Core Theory | 4 | Origin and Development of Ghazal, Major Ghazal Poets (Mir, Ghalib, Momin), Origin and Development of Qasida, Major Qasida Poets (Sauda, Zauq), Elements of Classical Urdu Poetry |
| U010102P | Internal Assessment/Tutorial (Classical Poetry) | Major Practical/Tutorial | 2 | Practical application of Ghazal and Qasida analysis, Recitation and interpretation, Short assignments on classical poets, Research methodology basics, Presentation skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U010201T | Classical Poetry (Masnavi & Marsia) | Major Core Theory | 4 | Origin and Development of Masnavi, Major Masnavi Poets (Mir Hasan, Dayashankar Naseem), Origin and Development of Marsia, Major Marsia Poets (Anees, Dabir), Narrative and Elegiac forms in Urdu |
| U010202P | Internal Assessment/Tutorial (Classical Poetry) | Major Practical/Tutorial | 2 | Practical application of Masnavi and Marsia analysis, Critical appreciation of narrative poetry, Comparative study of poetic forms, Essay writing on classical themes, Oral presentations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U020301T | Classical Prose (Dastaan, Novel, Drama) | Major Core Theory | 4 | Origin and Development of Dastaan, Major Dastaan Writers and works, Origin and Development of Urdu Novel, Major Novelists (Premchand, Nazir Ahmad), Origin and Development of Urdu Drama |
| U020302P | Internal Assessment/Tutorial (Classical Prose) | Major Practical/Tutorial | 2 | Analysis of classical prose narratives, Character study and plot analysis, Understanding dramatic structures, Book reviews and critical essays, Group discussions on literary movements |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U020401T | Classical Prose (Afsana, Inshaiya, Khaka) | Major Core Theory | 4 | Origin and Development of Afsana (Short Story), Major Afsana Writers (Manto, Krishan Chander), Origin and Development of Inshaiya (Essay), Major Inshaiya Writers and styles, Origin and Development of Khaka (Sketch) |
| U020402P | Internal Assessment/Tutorial (Classical Prose) | Major Practical/Tutorial | 2 | Analysis of modern prose forms, Creative writing exercises (short stories, essays), Interview techniques for literary sketches, Critique of contemporary Urdu prose, Digital archiving of literary works |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U030501T | Literary Theory and Criticism | Major Core Theory | 4 | Definition and Importance of Literary Criticism, Classical Theories of Criticism (Greek, Sanskrit), Urdu Critical Traditions and Movements, Modern Critical Approaches (Marxist, Psychological), Role and Responsibilities of a Critic |
| U030502T | History of Urdu Literature (Early Period to Modern) | Major Core Theory | 4 | Origin and Evolution of Urdu Language, Deccani Period of Urdu Literature, Delhi School of Poetry and Prose, Lucknow School of Poetry and Prose, Modern Trends and Movements in Urdu Literature |
| U030503P | Project Work / Dissertation | Major Project | 2 | In-depth research on a chosen Urdu literary topic, Methodology for dissertation writing, Academic writing and citation standards, Data collection and analysis in literary studies, Presentation and defense of research findings |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U030601T | Modern Urdu Poetry and Prose | Major Core Theory | 4 | Evolution of Modern Urdu Poetry, Major Modern Poets (Iqbal, Faiz, Josh), New trends in Urdu Ghazal and Nazm, Modern Urdu Prose forms (Travelogue, Reportage), Contemporary Writers and their Contributions |
| U030602T | Translation and Journalistic Writing | Major Core Theory | 4 | Theory and Principles of Translation, Types of Translation (Literary, Technical, Commercial), History of Translation in Urdu, Journalistic Writing Techniques and Ethics, Urdu Journalism: History, Impact, and Future Trends |
| U030603P | Viva-Voce / Internal Assessment (Modern Urdu & Translation) | Major Practical/Viva | 2 | Oral examination on modern Urdu literature, Assessment of translation projects, Discussions on journalistic assignments, Critical review of contemporary literary works, Preparation for higher studies or media careers |
