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MASTER-OF-ARTS in English at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Mahavidyalaya, Purwa Sujan
Auraiya, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is English at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Mahavidyalaya, Purwa Sujan Auraiya?
This Master of Arts in English program at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with CSJMU Kanpur, focuses on a comprehensive study of English literature, language, and critical theory. The curriculum, designed as per NEP-2020 guidelines, delves into various literary periods, genres, and emerging fields like post-colonial and diasporic literature, with a strong emphasis on research methodology relevant to the Indian academic landscape. The program aims to cultivate deep analytical skills and a nuanced understanding of global literary traditions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in English Literature who aspire to careers in academia, research, content creation, or publishing. It also caters to aspiring educators seeking to enhance their pedagogical skills in English Language Teaching, and professionals looking to transition into roles requiring strong communication and analytical capabilities in various Indian industries.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including roles as Assistant Professors in colleges, researchers in literary studies, content writers, editors in publishing houses, and subject matter experts in educational tech firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 8 LPA or more. The program fosters critical thinking and communication skills essential for upward growth in Indian companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Literary Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with foundational texts and theories from Indian, British, and American literature. Form study groups to discuss critical concepts, historical contexts, and literary movements covered in early semesters. Focus on developing strong analytical reading and academic writing skills.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online literary journals (e.g., JSTOR, Project MUSE for abstracts), Study groups
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for excelling in competitive exams like UGC NET/JRF, which are gateways to academic careers in India, and for developing the analytical acumen valued in various professional fields.
Enhance Academic Writing and Research Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the ''''Research Methodology and Literary Studies'''' course. Practice writing essays, critical analyses, and small research papers following standard academic citation styles (e.g., MLA). Seek feedback from professors to refine writing style and argumentation.
Tools & Resources
MLA Handbook, Grammarly, Turnitin (if available through institution), Professor''''s office hours
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic writing is vital for thesis/dissertation writing, applying for higher studies (PhD), and for roles in content development, editing, and research, which are prevalent in the Indian job market.
Participate in Literary Discussions and Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, seminars, and departmental literary events. Present papers, engage in debates on literary theories, and join college literary societies. This builds confidence, critical thinking, and public speaking skills.
Tools & Resources
College Literary Society, Departmental seminars, Inter-college literary festivals
Career Connection
These skills are invaluable for aspiring teachers, public speakers, and communicators. Strong articulation and debate skills also contribute to success in interviews and leadership roles.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Specializations through Electives and Independent Reading- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose elective papers (e.g., ELT, World Literature, Diasporic Literature) based on career interests. Supplement coursework with independent reading in chosen areas, exploring diverse authors and critical perspectives. Consider taking online courses on platforms like NPTEL or Coursera for deeper insights.
Tools & Resources
Elective course offerings, NPTEL/Coursera, Goodreads/Literary blogs
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge helps in targeting specific job roles (e.g., ELT for teaching, post-colonial for research) and provides an edge in a competitive Indian job market by demonstrating focused expertise.
Undertake a Meaningful Project/Dissertation- (Semester 3)
Invest significant effort in the ''''Project Work/Dissertation'''' in Semester 3. Select a topic of genuine interest, conduct thorough research, and aim for original contribution. This project will be a cornerstone of your academic portfolio and a strong talking point in interviews.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (e.g., Shodhganga, Google Scholar), Faculty advisors, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
A well-executed project demonstrates research capability, independent thinking, and subject mastery, highly valued for PhD admissions, academic positions, and roles in think tanks or research organizations in India.
Network with Academics and Professionals- (Semester 3)
Attend university-level seminars, workshops, and guest lectures. Connect with professors, visiting scholars, and alumni who are in relevant fields. Use platforms like LinkedIn to build a professional network and explore mentorship opportunities within the Indian literary and educational sectors.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Professional conferences
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, research collaborations, and job opportunities. Professional connections often provide valuable career guidance and referrals, which are crucial in the Indian context.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for UGC NET/JRF Examination- (Semester 4)
Start dedicated preparation for the UGC NET/JRF exam, which is mandatory for Assistant Professorship and provides a fellowship for PhD. Focus on comprehensive revision of all MA English syllabus topics and rigorous practice of previous year''''s question papers. Join coaching classes if feasible.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET/JRF previous year papers, Standard reference books for English Literature, Online coaching platforms
Career Connection
Success in NET/JRF is a direct pathway to academic careers as Assistant Professors in Indian universities and colleges, and significantly boosts PhD admission prospects with financial support.
Refine Viva-Voce and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Prepare thoroughly for the ''''Viva-Voce'''' in Semester 4, practicing defending your research and engaging in scholarly discussions. Simultaneously, hone general presentation skills for interviews and academic conferences, focusing on clarity, coherence, and confidence.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions with peers/professors, Public speaking clubs, Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint)
Career Connection
Strong viva and presentation skills are essential for PhD defense, conference presentations, and crucial for success in job interviews across various sectors that require articulate communication.
Develop a Professional Portfolio and Career Plan- (Semester 4)
Compile a professional portfolio including your best academic papers, project report, and any publications. Develop a clear career plan, whether it''''s academia, content writing, or civil services, and tailor your resume and cover letter accordingly. Seek career counseling from the college''''s placement cell.
Tools & Resources
Personal website/blog, LinkedIn profile, College placement cell, Resume builders
Career Connection
A well-structured portfolio and a clear career plan enhance your marketability, helping you stand out to recruiters and selection committees, and effectively navigate the diverse career landscape in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduates with at least 45% marks in the respective subject (English) or a related field are generally eligible for PG courses as per CSJMU guidelines.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 (as per university guideline; individual papers sum to 64 credits) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAENG101 | Indian English Literature | Core | 4 | History and Evolution of Indian English Literature, Major Indian English Poets, Prominent Indian English Novelists, Indian English Drama and Prose Writers, Themes in Indian English Writing |
| MAENG102 | History of English Literature (From Chaucer to Eighteenth Century) | Core | 4 | Medieval Period and Chaucer, The Renaissance and Elizabethan Age, Jacobean and Caroline Periods, The Puritan Interregnum, Restoration and Eighteenth-Century Literature |
| MAENG103 | Literary Criticism (From Aristotle to Post-Colonial) | Core | 4 | Classical Criticism: Aristotle, Longinus, Neoclassical Criticism: Dryden, Johnson, Romantic and Victorian Criticism, Modern Criticism: Eliot, Richards, Introduction to Post-Colonial Criticism |
| MAENG104 | English Language and Linguistics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Linguistics, Phonetics and Phonology, Morphology and Syntax, Semantics and Pragmatics, Sociolinguistics and Psycholinguistics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAENG201 | American Literature | Core | 4 | Colonial and Early American Literature, American Romanticism and Transcendentalism, Realism and Naturalism, Modern American Poetry and Prose, Post-War American Fiction and Drama |
| MAENG202 | History of English Literature (From Nineteenth Century to Modern Age) | Core | 4 | The Romantic Movement, Victorian Literature and its Characteristics, Early Twentieth-Century Literature, Modernism and its Manifestations, Post-Modern and Contemporary Trends |
| MAENG203 | English Literary Criticism (Literary Theories) | Core | 4 | New Criticism and its Principles, Structuralism and Post-Structuralism, Deconstruction and Reader-Response Theory, Feminist Literary Theory, Marxist and Psychoanalytic Criticism |
| MAENG204 | Research Methodology and Literary Studies | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research in Humanities, Formulating Research Questions and Hypothesis, Data Collection and Analysis in Literary Studies, Academic Writing and Citation Styles, Ethics in Research and Avoiding Plagiarism |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAENG301 | English Literature in Translation | Core | 4 | Theories and Principles of Translation, Cultural Contexts of Translation, Translating Poetry, Prose, and Drama, Major Translated Works of Indian Literature, World Literature in English Translation |
| MAENG302 | Post-Colonial Literature | Core | 4 | Introduction to Post-Colonial Theory, Themes of Identity, Hybridity, and Resistance, Literature from African Countries, Caribbean and Australian Literature, Subaltern Studies and Post-Colonial Discourse |
| MAENG303A | English Language Teaching (ELT) | Elective (Choose one from MAENG303A/B) | 4 | Methods and Approaches in ELT, Teaching of Language Skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading, Writing), Material Development and Evaluation, Classroom Management in ELT, Assessment and Evaluation in Language Teaching |
| MAENG303B | World Literature (From Classical to Modern) | Elective (Choose one from MAENG303A/B) | 4 | Ancient Greek and Roman Literature, Medieval European and Asian Epics, Renaissance and Enlightenment Works, Modern European and Global Narratives, Introduction to Major World Authors |
| MAENG304 | Project Work/Dissertation | Core/Project | 4 | Developing a Research Proposal, Conducting Literature Review, Methodology and Data Analysis, Writing the Dissertation/Project Report, Presentation of Research Findings |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAENG401 | Shakespeare Studies | Core | 4 | Shakespeare''''s Life, Times, and Elizabethan Theatre, Major Tragedies and Comedies, Historical Plays and Romances, Shakespeare''''s Sonnets and Poetry, Critical Approaches to Shakespeare |
| MAENG402 | Contemporary Literary Theory and Cultural Studies | Core | 4 | Postmodernism and its Tenets, Introduction to Cultural Studies, Gender Studies and Queer Theory, Ecocriticism and Environmental Humanities, Digital Humanities and Literary Analysis |
| MAENG403A | Diasporic Literature | Elective (Choose one from MAENG403A/B) | 4 | Concept of Diaspora and its Forms, Themes of Displacement, Memory, and Belonging, Literature of Indian Diaspora, Jewish and African Diasporic Writing, Identity Formation in Diasporic Narratives |
| MAENG403B | European Drama (From Greek to Modern) | Elective (Choose one from MAENG403A/B) | 4 | Ancient Greek Tragedy and Comedy, Roman and Medieval Drama, Renaissance Drama beyond Shakespeare, European Drama in the 19th Century, Modern and Contemporary European Playwrights |
| MAENG404 | Viva-Voce | Core/Viva | 4 | Oral Examination on Core Literary Concepts, Discussion on Research Project/Dissertation, General Knowledge of English Literature, Defense of Academic Arguments, Presentation and Communication Skills |
