.png&w=1920&q=75)
MA in History at CMS College Kottayam
Kottayam, Kerala
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is History at CMS College Kottayam Kottayam?
This MA History program at CMS College Kottayam, affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of Indian, Kerala, and World History through critical historiographical approaches. It delves into political, socio-economic, and cultural transformations, preparing students for diverse roles in academia, research, and public service. The program emphasizes historical research methodology crucial for Indian heritage and archival sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history graduates seeking in-depth knowledge and research skills in historical studies. It caters to individuals passionate about India''''s past, culture, and societal evolution. Aspiring academics, museum professionals, archivists, civil service aspirants, and anyone aiming for a career in heritage management will find this program beneficial due to its rigorous academic and research-oriented curriculum.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as historians, archivists, museum curators, heritage managers, or researchers in India. The skills acquired are highly valued in government agencies, NGOs, educational institutions, and cultural organizations. Potential salary ranges from INR 3-6 lakhs annually for entry-level positions to significantly higher for experienced professionals, with strong growth trajectories in Indian public and private heritage sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Core Historical Concepts and Sources- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on diligently understanding fundamental historical periods, movements, and key concepts from Indian, Kerala, and World History. Engage deeply with the prescribed readings and original source materials to build a strong base. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts, enhancing conceptual clarity from the outset.
Tools & Resources
University Library historical collections, E-journals (JSTOR, Project MUSE), Academic study groups, MGU Digital Library resources
Career Connection
A strong conceptual foundation is critical for clearing competitive exams (UPSC, PSC) and for advanced historical research, forming the bedrock for any history-related career.
Developing Critical Historiographical Thinking- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in discussions on different schools of historiography. Practice analyzing historical narratives from multiple perspectives, questioning biases, and evaluating evidence. Regularly write critical essays on various historical interpretations to hone analytical and argumentative skills, crucial for academic rigor.
Tools & Resources
Assigned readings on historiography, Departmental seminars and workshops, Peer review sessions for essays, Online forums for historical debate
Career Connection
This skill is indispensable for research, teaching, and for critically engaging with information in fields like journalism, policy analysis, and cultural studies.
Cultivating Effective Research and Writing Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Start early with academic writing practices. Attend workshops on research methodology and citation styles. Practice writing precise summaries and analytical paragraphs. Seek feedback from professors on all written assignments to continuously improve academic writing, which is vital for thesis work and publications.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley/Zotero for referencing, Purdue OWL for writing guides, Grammarly premium, Faculty office hours for feedback
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic research and writing is fundamental for dissertations, publications, and any role requiring detailed documentation or report generation.
Intermediate Stage
Engaging in Advanced Research and Fieldwork- (Semester 3)
Identify specific areas of historical interest and begin preliminary research for the dissertation. Explore opportunities for internships at local archives, museums, or heritage sites. Participate in field visits or oral history projects to gain practical experience in data collection and archival research methods relevant to Indian contexts.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, Kerala State Archives, Regional museums, Oral history interview techniques, Research funding opportunities
Career Connection
Hands-on research experience significantly enhances employability in academic research, archival management, and heritage conservation roles.
Presenting Academic Papers and Participating in Seminars- (Semester 3)
Prepare and present research papers at departmental seminars or local history conferences. Engage actively in academic discussions, question sessions, and peer feedback. This practice builds public speaking confidence and refines research communication skills, vital for an academic or public history career.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar series, Local history associations, Academic presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Feedback from faculty/peers
Career Connection
Strong presentation skills are crucial for academic positions, public speaking roles, and effectively communicating historical knowledge to diverse audiences.
Networking with Historians and Cultural Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend lectures, workshops, and symposiums beyond the college campus. Connect with established historians, museum curators, and cultural professionals. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to build a professional network, seeking mentorship and opportunities for collaboration, particularly within the Indian historical community.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional history associations (e.g., Indian History Congress), University alumni network, Guest lecture series
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to research projects, job opportunities, and collaborative ventures in the academic and cultural heritage sectors across India.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Dissertation Writing and Defense Preparation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate focused effort to writing the MA dissertation, ensuring rigorous research, clear argumentation, and proper citation. Work closely with the supervisor for guidance and feedback. Practice defending the research findings and methodology, preparing for the viva-voce examination with confidence.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor mentorship, Academic writing center support, Mock viva sessions, Relevant research databases
Career Connection
A well-written and successfully defended dissertation is a strong credential for doctoral studies, research positions, and demonstrates advanced critical thinking and research capabilities.
Exploring Career Paths and Placement Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Actively research various career paths such as academia, archival science, museology, civil services, and heritage tourism. Prepare tailored resumes and cover letters. Attend career guidance workshops and placement drives, focusing on institutions and organizations in India that align with historical expertise.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Career counseling services, Job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn), UPSC/PSC coaching materials
Career Connection
Proactive career exploration and preparation directly lead to successful placements and entry into desired professional fields.
Developing Pedagogical Skills (for Academia)- (Semester 4)
For those aspiring to teach, seek opportunities to assist professors, lead tutorial sessions, or deliver short presentations. Learn effective teaching methodologies and classroom management techniques. Read educational psychology principles to enhance communication and engagement with students, particularly in the Indian higher education context.
Tools & Resources
Observing experienced faculty, Teaching assistant roles (if available), Online courses on pedagogy, Educational journals
Career Connection
Developing teaching skills is essential for securing positions as lecturers, professors, or educators in schools and colleges across India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s Degree in History (main) or Bachelor’s Degree in any other subject with History as a subsidiary/complementary for two years, or BA Degree in any other discipline, with not less than 45% marks in aggregate. For SC/ST candidates, minimum 40%.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: Minimum 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS010101 | History of India - I (From Ancient to 6th Century A.D.) | Core | 4 | Pre-historic cultures and early farming communities, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic and post-Vedic cultures, Rise of Mahajanapadas and Heterodox sects, Mauryan and Post-Mauryan polities, Gupta and Post-Gupta periods |
| HS010102 | Historiography - I | Core | 4 | Meaning, nature and scope of History, History and other social sciences, Source materials of history, Historical facts and interpretation, Ancient and Medieval Historiography |
| HS010103 | History of Kerala - I (Pre-History to C.E. 1500) | Core | 4 | Geographical features and sources of Kerala History, Pre-historic and Megalithic cultures, Sangam Age and early polity, Second Chera Empire, Religious and cultural developments, Trade and Society |
| HS010104 | History of Ancient Civilizations | Core Elective | 4 | Pre-historic human cultures, Mesopotamian Civilization, Egyptian Civilization, Chinese Civilization, Greek Civilization, Roman Civilization |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS010201 | History of India - II (6th Century A.D. to 1526) | Core | 4 | Northern India: Regional Kingdoms and political structures, Deccan and South India: Major dynasties, Early Medieval society and economy, Sultanate Age: Administration and economy, Religious movements: Bhakti and Sufi traditions, Cultural synthesis and regional identities |
| HS010202 | Historiography - II | Core | 4 | Enlightenment Historiography, Romantic and Nationalist Historiography, Marxist Historiography, Subaltern Studies, Post-Modernism and Feminist Historiography, Oral history and Public history |
| HS010203 | History of Kerala - II (C.E. 1500 to 1800) | Core | 4 | Arrival of European powers (Portuguese, Dutch, English), Trade and colonial rivalries, Rise of princely states: Travancore, Cochin, Zamorin, Mysorean invasion of Kerala, Socio-economic changes and resistance movements, Art and literature in the age of transition |
| HS010204 | Gender Studies | Core Elective | 4 | Concepts of Sex and Gender, Feminist movements and theories, Gender roles in ancient and medieval India, Gender in colonial and post-colonial India, Women''''s movements in Kerala, Contemporary issues in Gender |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS010301 | History of India - III (1526-1857) | Core | 4 | Mughal Empire: Establishment and expansion, Mughal administration, economy, society, and culture, Decline of the Mughal Empire and rise of regional powers, Arrival of European trading companies and colonial expansion, Company Rule: Administration, economic policies, and social reforms, Revolt of 1857: Causes, nature, and consequences |
| HS010302 | History of Colonialism (17th Century to 1945) | Core | 4 | Theories of Imperialism and Colonialism, Phases of colonial expansion (Asia, Africa), Impact of colonialism: Economic, social, political, Decolonization movements and struggles for independence, Case studies of colonialism (e.g., Africa, Southeast Asia), Legacy of colonialism in the contemporary world |
| HS010303 | History of Kerala - III (C.E. 1800-1947) | Core | 4 | British paramountcy and political integration, Land reforms and agrarian changes, Caste system and social reform movements, Rise of nationalism and political organizations, Malabar Rebellion, Towards responsible government and integration |
| HS010304 | Open Elective (e.g., Tourism and Heritage Management) | Open Elective | 4 | Concepts of Heritage and Tourism, Types of heritage tourism, Heritage interpretation and presentation, Management of historical sites and museums, Sustainable tourism development, Challenges and opportunities in heritage tourism |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HS010401 | History of India - IV (1857-1964) | Core | 4 | Rise of Indian nationalism and early political associations, Gandhi and mass movements, Constitutional developments and communalism, Partition of India and independence, Post-independence consolidation and nation-building, Nehruvian era: policies and challenges |
| HS010402 | Post-Colonial World (1945 onwards) | Core | 4 | Emergence of the Cold War, Non-Aligned Movement and Third World, Globalization and neo-liberalism, Rise of new global powers, Environmental concerns and human rights issues, Cultural transformations in the post-colonial era |
| HS010403 | History of Kerala - IV (C.E. 1947 onwards) | Core | 4 | Formation of Kerala State, Land reforms and their impact, Education, health, and social welfare policies, Migration and remittances (Kerala Model), Political developments and coalition politics, Environmental challenges and sustainable development |
| HS010404 | Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research methodology and design, Data collection and analysis, Academic writing and citation, Presentation skills, Critical thinking and independent research |
| HS010405 | Viva-Voce | Assessment | 0 | Oral examination on dissertation and overall knowledge of history |
