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MA in History at Devaswom Board College, Thalayolaparambu
Kottayam, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is History at Devaswom Board College, Thalayolaparambu Kottayam?
This MA History program at Devaswom Board College, Kottayam, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of historical processes, interpretations, and research methodologies. It covers diverse aspects of Indian and World History, including socio-economic, political, and cultural developments. The program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills essential for historical inquiry, fostering a deep appreciation for the past in the context of contemporary India. It stands out by integrating regional history with broader national and global perspectives.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history enthusiasts, fresh graduates with a background in humanities seeking advanced academic pursuit, and aspiring researchers or educators. It also caters to individuals looking to qualify for competitive examinations in India, such as UPSC and State Civil Services, where a strong foundation in history is crucial. Furthermore, professionals in heritage management, archival sciences, or cultural tourism seeking to deepen their expertise will find this specialization highly relevant.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, and academic researchers. Many also excel as educators in schools and colleges or contribute to policy research in think tanks. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 7 LPA to 12 LPA or more in specialized roles. The program also serves as a strong foundation for M.Phil. and Ph.D. studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Robust Reading and Critical Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with prescribed readings and supplementary materials, focusing on identifying main arguments, historical contexts, and biases. Participate in classroom discussions to hone critical thinking. Utilize university library resources, including journal databases and historical archives.
Tools & Resources
Mahatma Gandhi University Library online catalog, JSTOR, Project MUSE, MGU e-journals, Academic reading groups
Career Connection
Essential for research, academic writing, and analytical roles in any field requiring deep textual comprehension.
Master Research Methodology Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the ''''Research Methodology in History'''' course. Practice formulating research questions, identifying relevant sources (primary and secondary), and understanding different historiographical approaches. Start a small-scale research project, even if unofficial, to apply concepts.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology textbooks, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Guidance from faculty, Mahatma Gandhi University research workshops
Career Connection
Direct preparation for dissertation, M.Phil./Ph.D. research, and any professional role involving data analysis or report writing.
Build a Strong Foundational Knowledge Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding the core narratives of Early, Medieval, and Modern Indian History, alongside World History and Kerala History. Create detailed notes, timelines, and concept maps. Regularly review previous material to build connections across different historical periods and themes.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks, Historical atlases, Online educational platforms like NPTEL, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Crucial for qualifying competitive exams (UPSC, PSC), teaching positions, and building credibility as a historian.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Diverse Historiographical Debates- (Semester 3)
Dive deep into the ''''Theories and Methods in History'''' course. Critically evaluate different schools of historical thought (Marxist, Subaltern, Annales, Postmodern). Participate in seminars and debates, presenting your own informed perspectives on historical interpretations.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), University faculty, Guest lectures, Online academic forums
Career Connection
Develops advanced analytical skills, crucial for academic research, higher education, and intellectual leadership roles.
Explore Discipline-Specific Electives for Specialization- (Semester 3)
Choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) strategically based on your career interests (e.g., Gender History for social advocacy, Tourism & Heritage for cultural management). Use these courses to build specialized knowledge and network with faculty working in those areas.
Tools & Resources
Elective course descriptions, Faculty office hours, Relevant professional bodies (e.g., ICOMOS India for heritage)
Career Connection
Tailors your skillset for specific career paths in heritage, cultural studies, social history, or public policy.
Develop Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 3)
Actively seek opportunities to write research papers, essays, and deliver presentations. Pay attention to academic rigor, citation styles (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), and clear argumentation. Seek feedback from professors and peers to refine your communication.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, Academic style guides, Practice presentations in study groups, Mahatma Gandhi University''''s internal workshops
Career Connection
Essential for academic careers, research positions, content creation, and professional communication in various industries.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a High-Quality Project/Dissertation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time and effort to your MA Project/Dissertation. Choose a topic that genuinely interests you and aligns with your career goals. Work closely with your supervisor, conduct thorough primary and secondary research, and aim for a publication-worthy output.
Tools & Resources
University archives, National Archives of India, Mahatma Gandhi University digital repository, Research grants, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Serves as a portfolio piece for Ph.D. admissions, research roles, and demonstrates independent scholarly capability for employers.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 4)
Attend history conferences, workshops, and guest lectures hosted by Mahatma Gandhi University or other institutions. Network with established historians, academics, and professionals in related fields. Seek mentorship from professors for career guidance and opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Professional historical associations in India (e.g., Indian History Congress), LinkedIn, Departmental alumni network, University career services
Career Connection
Opens doors to job opportunities, collaborative projects, and provides invaluable insights into the profession.
Prepare for Higher Studies or Competitive Exams- (Semester 4 and Post-Graduation)
For those aspiring for Ph.D., start preparing for NET/JRF examinations. For competitive exams like UPSC, devote time to revision, mock tests, and current affairs. For career entry, tailor your resume and cover letter, and practice interview skills, highlighting your research and analytical abilities.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET study materials, Competitive exam coaching centers, Online platforms for mock tests, University career counseling services
Career Connection
Direct pathway to academic positions, civil services, or specialized roles in heritage/archives, ensuring post-program success.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A candidate shall be eligible for admission to the program leading to the Degree of Master of Arts in History provided he/she has passed the B.A. Degree Examination with History as Main or any other equivalent examination accepted by Mahatma Gandhi University as equivalent thereto with not less than 45% marks in the main/core subject. For candidates belonging to SC/ST, the minimum marks required shall be 40% in the main/core subject.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 84 (calculated as per course scheme, official document states 80) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS1C01 | Early India: Interpretations | Core | 4 | Historiography of Early India, Stone Age Cultures and Harappan Civilization, Vedic and Post-Vedic Societies, State Formation in Early India, Early Indian Religions, Social Structures and Economic Systems |
| HIS1C02 | History of Medieval India: Interpretations | Core | 4 | Historiography of Medieval India, Early Medieval Transition, Delhi Sultanate: Polity and Society, Mughal Empire: Administration and Culture, Society and Economy in Medieval India, Religious Movements and Bhakti-Sufi Traditions |
| HIS1C03 | History of Modern India: Interpretations | Core | 4 | Historiography of Modern India, Colonialism and British Expansion, Economic Impact of Colonial Rule, Social and Religious Reform Movements, Indian Nationalism and Freedom Struggle, Partition and Independence |
| HIS1C04 | History of Kerala: Interpretations | Core | 4 | Historiography of Kerala, Pre-history and Proto-history of Kerala, Early Historic Period (Chera Dynasty), Medieval Kerala Society and Economy, Colonial Encounter and Impact, Social Reforms and Nationalism in Kerala |
| HIS1A01 | Research Methodology in History | Elective (Open Elective) | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Historical Sources and Evidence, Critical Analysis of Historical Evidence, Research Design and Hypothesis Formation, Writing History: Narrative and Structure, Ethical Considerations in Historical Research |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS2C05 | Approaches to History | Core | 4 | Nature of History and its Methods, Positivist and Objectivist Schools, Annales School and Cultural History, Marxist Historiography, Subaltern Studies and Postmodernism, Gender History and Environmental History |
| HIS2C06 | Themes in Modern Indian History | Core | 4 | Economic Modernity and Underdevelopment, Social Reform Movements, Peasant and Tribal Movements, Working Class and Trade Unionism, Women''''s History and Gender Dynamics, Caste and Politics in Modern India |
| HIS2C07 | History of Contemporary India | Core | 4 | India After Independence, Nehruvian Era and Nation Building, Political Developments and Coalition Politics, Economic Reforms and Liberalization, Social Transformations and Identities, Foreign Policy and International Relations |
| HIS2C08 | World History: Early Modern and Modern | Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment, Industrial Revolution and Capitalism, World Wars and their Aftermath, Cold War and Decolonization, Globalization and Contemporary World Issues |
| HIS2E01 | History of Modern Kerala | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Travancore and Kochi Modernization, Malabar under British Rule, Agrarian Relations and Revolts, Caste and Social Reform Movements, Nationalism and Communist Movement in Kerala, Linguistic Reorganization and Post-Independence Kerala |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS3C09 | Theories and Methods in History | Core | 4 | Historical Explanation and Causation, Narrative and Interpretation in History, Oral History: Theory and Practice, Archival Research and Source Criticism, Public History and its Applications, Digital Humanities and History |
| HIS3C10 | History of Economic Thought in India | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Economic Ideas, Mughal Economic Policies and Debates, Colonial Economic Policies and their Impact, Drain of Wealth Theory, Gandhian Economic Philosophy, Nehruvian Model and Economic Planning |
| HIS3D01 | Early Indian Society and Culture | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Social Stratification: Varna and Jati, Family, Kinship, and Marriage Systems, Religious Practices and Belief Systems, Art, Architecture, and Literature, Education Systems and Knowledge Traditions, Science and Technology in Ancient India |
| HIS3D02 | Gender and History | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Patriarchy, Matriarchy, and Gender Systems, Women in Ancient and Medieval India, Colonial Impact on Gender Roles, Women''''s Movements and Activism, Gender and Nationalism, Queer History and Sexuality |
| HIS3D03 | History of Tourism and Heritage Studies | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Evolution of Tourism and Travel, Heritage Sites Management and Conservation, Cultural Tourism and its Dynamics, Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Practices, Role of Government in Tourism Development, Impact of Tourism on Society and Economy |
| HIS3G01 | Contemporary World Issues | Elective (Generic Elective) | 4 | Geopolitics of the Post-Cold War Era, Rise of Non-Aligned Movement, Global Terrorism and Security Challenges, Environmental Challenges and Climate Change, Human Rights Issues and International Law, Regional Conflicts and Peacekeeping |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS4C11 | Indian Diaspora | Core | 4 | Patterns of Indian Migration, Indentured Labour System, Early Indian Communities Abroad, Global Indian Identity and Culture, Impact of Diaspora on India, Transnationalism and Contemporary Migration |
| HIS4D05 | Environmental History of India | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Human-Environment Interaction in Ancient India, Forest Policies and Resource Management, Water Management and Irrigation Systems, Famines, Epidemics, and Natural Disasters, Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change Impacts and Adaptations |
| HIS4D06 | History of Art and Architecture in India | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Indus Valley Art and Iconography, Buddhist and Jain Art Forms, Hindu Temple Architecture, Mughal Architecture and Miniature Painting, Colonial Art and its Influences, Modern Indian Art and its Movements |
| HIS4D07 | Intellectual History of India | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Ancient Indian Philosophical Traditions, Medieval Islamic Thought in India, Enlightenment and Modern Thought in India, Nationalist Thought and Ideologies, Social Reformers and their Ideas, Contemporary Indian Thinkers and Movements |
| HIS4P01 | Project/Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research Problem Formulation, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Data Collection Methods (Primary/Secondary), Analysis and Interpretation of Historical Data, Thesis Writing and Structure, Presentation and Viva Voce |
