.png&w=1920&q=75)
MA in History at Dayanand Subhash National Post Graduate College
Unnao, Uttar Pradesh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is History at Dayanand Subhash National Post Graduate College Unnao?
This MA History program at Dayanand Subhash National Post Graduate College, Unnao, focuses on a comprehensive study of past societies, cultures, and political systems from ancient to contemporary times. It emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and a nuanced understanding of historical processes within an Indian context. The program prepares students for diverse roles requiring analytical and interpretive abilities, aligning with a growing demand for heritage management, archival science, and historical research in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history graduates seeking in-depth knowledge and research skills in the discipline. It also suits individuals passionate about cultural heritage, civil service aspirants, and educators looking to enhance their historical expertise. Graduates interested in journalism, museology, or archival work will find this program beneficial for career entry or advancement within India''''s rich historical landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as historians, archivists, museum curators, heritage managers, teachers, or civil servants in India. Entry-level salaries for history graduates in related fields can range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The analytical and research skills acquired are highly valued across various sectors, offering strong growth trajectories in Indian cultural and educational institutions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Research Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to understanding historiography, research methodologies, and source criticism in the initial semesters. Actively participate in library orientation sessions and workshops on academic writing. Familiarize yourself with primary and secondary historical sources available in college and local libraries.
Tools & Resources
College Library resources, JSTOR/Shodhganga (if institutional access available), Academic writing guides
Career Connection
Strong foundational research skills are crucial for any career in history, from academic research to civil services, ensuring credible and well-supported arguments.
Engage with Indian Historical Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom lectures, delve into major historical debates and interpretations specific to Indian history. Form study groups to discuss different perspectives and critically analyze historical narratives. Attend guest lectures or seminars on Indian history organized by the department.
Tools & Resources
Indian History Congress proceedings, Journal of Indian History, NCERT textbooks for broader context
Career Connection
A deep understanding of Indian historical debates is vital for competitive exams like UPSC and for roles in educational institutions or historical preservation.
Develop Academic Writing & Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, research paper structuring, and effective oral presentation. Seek feedback from professors on assignments and participate in departmental presentations or student conferences to refine communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL writing resources, Microsoft PowerPoint/Google Slides
Career Connection
Clear communication and academic writing are essential for publishing research, preparing reports in government roles, and delivering lectures in academia.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Local History and Heritage- (Semester 3-4)
Utilize Unnao''''s historical context by undertaking mini-projects or field visits to local historical sites, archives, or cultural institutions. This practical exposure helps apply theoretical knowledge and understand local heritage management challenges.
Tools & Resources
Local archives/museums in Unnao/Kanpur, Departmental faculty for guidance on local research
Career Connection
Practical experience in local history and heritage can open doors to roles in tourism, heritage conservation, and local government cultural departments.
Participate in National Level Competitions/Seminars- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek opportunities to present papers at university-level or national history seminars and conferences. This provides exposure to broader academic discourse and networking opportunities with peers and scholars across India.
Tools & Resources
Notices from CSJMU/UGC for events, University/College notice boards for calls for papers
Career Connection
Presenting at conferences enhances academic visibility, builds confidence, and is a strong credential for higher studies or research positions.
Begin Specialization in Elective Areas- (Semester 3-4)
Once elective subjects are chosen (e.g., Archaeology, Environmental History), delve deeper into those specific areas through extra reading, online courses, or short-term certifications. This builds specialized knowledge sought after in specific historical fields.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL/SWAYAM courses on related topics, Specialized journals, Books on specific elective themes
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge makes you a more competitive candidate for niche roles in archaeology, museum studies, or environmental policy research.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Exams/NET- (Semester 4)
For those aspiring for Civil Services (UPSC, UPPSC) or Junior Research Fellowship (JRF/NET), dedicate significant time in the final year to exam preparation. Focus on general studies, specific history optional papers, and mock tests.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Online coaching platforms, Standard reference books for UPSC/NET History
Career Connection
Cracking competitive exams like UPSC or NET opens direct pathways to prestigious government positions, academia, and research roles in India.
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Research Project- (Semester 4)
If chosen, treat the dissertation as a capstone research project. Select a topic of personal interest, work closely with your supervisor, and aim for original contribution. This is a crucial step towards developing independent research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Departmental research guidelines, Statistical software (if applicable), EndNote/Zotero for referencing
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a strong portfolio piece for PhD applications, research fellowships, or positions requiring advanced analytical skills.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 4)
Engage with alumni, professors, and professionals in fields related to history. Seek mentorship for career guidance, job opportunities, and insights into specific industry demands. Attend alumni meets and career fairs.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network, Professional associations (e.g., Indian History Congress)
Career Connection
Networking is invaluable for discovering job opportunities, gaining industry insights, and building professional relationships that can aid career progression in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline from a recognized university, with a preference for a background in History. Eligibility criteria are as per Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University (CSJMU) norms for postgraduate programs, which are adopted by affiliated colleges.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH 101 | History of Ancient India: From Earliest Times to c. 7th Century CE | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-history & Proto-history (Paleolithic to Harappan), Vedic Age & Mahajanapadas, Mauryan Empire & Post-Mauryan Dynasties, Gupta Age & Post-Gupta Period |
| MAH 102 | Historiography, Concepts, Methods & Tools of History | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature & Scope of History, Objectivity & Bias in History, Schools of Historiography (Annales, Subaltern), Historical Research Methods & Sources, Uses & Abuses of History |
| MAH 103 | History of Medieval India: c. 712 CE to c. 1750 CE | Core | 4 | Sources of Medieval Indian History, Delhi Sultanate (Establishment, Expansion, Decline), Mughal Empire (Foundation, Major Rulers), Socio-Economic & Religious Life, Regional Powers & Marathas |
| MAH 104 | History of Modern India: c. 1757 CE to c. 1964 CE | Core | 4 | Sources of Modern Indian History, Advent of Europeans & British Expansion, Revolt of 1857 & Socio-Religious Reforms, Rise of Nationalism & Gandhian Era, Partition, Independence & Post-Independence Challenges |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH 201 | Political History of India (c. 650-1200 CE) | Core | 4 | North Indian Kingdoms (Palas, Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas), Rajputs & their Political Structure, Chalukyas, Cholas & other South Indian Dynasties, Ghaznavid and Ghurid Invasions, Administration and Political Transition |
| MAH 202 | Social and Economic History of Medieval India (c. 1200-1750 CE) | Core | 4 | Urbanization & Agrarian Structure, Land Revenue System & Trade, Crafts & Industries, Monetary System, Social Stratification & Role of Women, Bhakti and Sufi Movements |
| MAH 203 | Economic History of Modern India (c. 1757-1947 CE) | Core | 4 | Colonial Exploitation & Commercialization of Agriculture, De-industrialization & Famines, Railway & Infrastructure Development, Rise of Indian Capitalist Class, Drain of Wealth Theory |
| MAH 204 | Political and Constitutional History of Modern India (c. 1757-1964 CE) | Core | 4 | British Administrative & Constitutional Reforms, Acts of 1858, 1909, 1919, 1935, Road to Independence & Constitution Making, Post-Independence Constitution & State Reorganization, Early Foreign Policy of India |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH 301 | History of World Civilizations (c. 3000 BCE - 500 CE) | Core | 4 | Ancient River Valley Civilizations (Egypt, Mesopotamia, Indus), Greek Civilization (Polis, Philosophy, Democracy), Roman Civilization (Republic, Empire, Law), Persian Empire & Chinese Dynasties, Early Christianity & Major Religions |
| MAH 302 | History of World (c. 500-1500 CE) | Core | 4 | Decline of Roman Empire & Rise of Islam, Feudalism in Europe & Crusades, Mongol Empire & its Impact, Renaissance & Reformation, Ottoman Empire & Ming Dynasty China |
| MAH 303 | History of Uttar Pradesh (Optional Paper-I) | Elective | 4 | Ancient Kingdoms of UP (Kuru, Panchala, Koshala), Buddhist & Jain Centers in UP, Medieval Kingdoms (Awadh, Jaunpur Sultanate), Mughal Era Contributions & 1857 Revolt in UP, Nationalist Movement & Post-Independence UP |
| MAH 304 | Archaeology and Museology (Optional Paper-II) | Elective | 4 | Definition & Scope of Archaeology, Methods of Excavation & Dating Techniques, Types of Museums & Museum Administration, Preservation & Conservation of Artifacts, Exhibition Design & Heritage Management |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH 401 | History of World (c. 1500-1945 CE) | Core | 4 | Age of Exploration & Mercantilism, Scientific Revolution & Enlightenment, French & Industrial Revolutions, Rise of Nation-States & Imperialism, World Wars I & II |
| MAH 402 | History of World (c. 1945 CE - Present) | Core | 4 | Decolonization & Cold War, United Nations & Global Governance, Globalization & Economic Integration, Environmental Movements & Human Rights, Contemporary Global Issues & Post-Cold War World Order |
| MAH 403 | Environmental History of India (Optional Paper-III) | Elective | 4 | Concept & Scope of Environmental History, Forests, Water & Land Use in Ancient India, Colonial Impact on Environment & Resource Exploitation, Post-Independence Environmental Policies, Environmental Movements in India |
| MAH 404 | Dissertation/Research Project (Optional Paper-IV or Project) | Project | 4 | Research Methodology & Topic Selection, Literature Review & Data Collection, Critical Analysis & Interpretation, Thesis Writing & Documentation, Presentation & Viva Voce |
