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BA-HONS in History at Government Girls College, Gardanibagh
Patna, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is History at Government Girls College, Gardanibagh Patna?
This History (Hons) program at Government Girls College, Patna, focuses on developing a critical understanding of the past, encompassing Indian, European, and World history across ancient, medieval, and modern periods. It emphasizes analytical skills, research methodologies, and an in-depth study of socio-economic, political, and cultural transformations. The program is crucial for understanding India''''s rich heritage and its global interactions, fostering informed citizens and future researchers.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in historical inquiry, social sciences, and critical thinking. It is perfect for those aspiring to careers in civil services, academia, journalism, heritage management, or public policy. Individuals seeking to build a strong foundational knowledge in humanities for further postgraduate studies will also find this program highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, archaeologists, journalists, content writers, and educators. It is a highly valued degree for civil service examinations, offering strong analytical and writing skills. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, with significant growth potential in specialized fields or after postgraduate qualifications.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Reading and Note-Taking Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time daily to critically read prescribed texts, journal articles, and primary sources. Develop a systematic note-taking method (e.g., Cornell method) for effective retention and revision. Engage with diverse historical narratives.
Tools & Resources
College Library resources, NCERT History textbooks, Online academic journals (JSTOR, if accessible), Effective study guides
Career Connection
Strong reading comprehension and structured note-taking are fundamental for academic success, competitive exams like UPSC, and any role requiring extensive research and documentation.
Participate in Debates and Group Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Actively join classroom debates, seminars, and form study groups to discuss historical interpretations. This enhances critical thinking, articulation skills, and exposes students to different perspectives on complex historical events.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, Student history clubs, Online forums for historical discussion
Career Connection
These skills are vital for civil services interviews, teaching, journalism, and any profession demanding strong communication and analytical reasoning.
Explore Local History and Heritage- (Semester 1-2)
Visit local historical sites, museums, and archives in and around Patna and Bihar. Engage with the physical remnants of history. This provides practical context to theoretical knowledge and fosters a deeper connection to the subject.
Tools & Resources
Bihar Museum, Patna Museum, Kumhrar archaeological site, Local heritage walks
Career Connection
Direct exposure to heritage sites builds a foundation for careers in archaeology, museum studies, heritage management, and cultural tourism in India.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Basic Research and Essay Writing Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Focus on developing structured essay writing, proper citation methods, and basic research techniques. Practice writing critical analyses of historical arguments and synthesizing information from multiple sources. Seek feedback from professors regularly.
Tools & Resources
MLA/Chicago Style guides, Academic writing workshops, Turnitin (if available), Library databases
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic writing and research is essential for postgraduate studies, journalism, civil services, and any role requiring report writing or analytical output.
Engage with Historiography- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond factual recall, understand different schools of historical thought (e.g., nationalist, Marxist, subaltern). Critically evaluate how historians interpret the past, recognizing biases and methodologies. This deepens academic understanding.
Tools & Resources
Recommended historiography texts, Lectures on historical theory, Seminars by guest historians
Career Connection
A strong grasp of historiography is crucial for advanced research, academic careers, and developing a nuanced perspective essential for public policy and informed opinion-making.
Consider an Internship or Project in a Relevant Field- (Semester 4-5)
Seek opportunities for short internships with local cultural organizations, NGOs working on heritage, publishing houses, or even educational institutions for assistance in research projects. This provides practical experience.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell (if any), Networking with faculty, Online platforms for internships (e.g., Internshala), Local government departments
Career Connection
Practical exposure during this stage can clarify career interests and build a professional network, making graduates more competitive for roles in heritage, research, or education.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Civil Services or Higher Education Entrance- (Semester 5-6)
If aspiring for civil services (UPSC, BPSC) or postgraduate studies, start dedicated preparation. Focus on general studies, current affairs, and optional subject syllabus for civil services, or prepare for specific university entrance exams for MA History.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if opted), Online test series, Previous year question papers, Mentorship from seniors/alumni
Career Connection
Targeted preparation at this stage significantly increases chances of success in highly competitive Indian civil services exams or securing admission to prestigious postgraduate programs.
Develop a Specialization and Dissertation/Project- (Semester 5-6)
Choose DSE papers wisely, aligning with career goals or research interests. Undertake a significant research project or dissertation under faculty guidance. This showcases independent research capability and in-depth knowledge in a chosen area.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentorship, Access to specialized libraries/archives, Research methodology guides, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
A strong dissertation or project is invaluable for academic applications, research positions, and demonstrates advanced analytical and writing skills to potential employers.
Networking and Career Mapping- (Semester 6)
Attend university career fairs, alumni meetups, and professional workshops to network with professionals in desired fields (e.g., education, media, public sector). Seek advice on career paths and job search strategies. Develop a comprehensive resume.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Career counseling services, Professional networking platforms
Career Connection
Proactive networking opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and helps in understanding industry expectations, leading to successful placements or career transitions post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) pass from a recognized board, with minimum 45% marks in aggregate or in the Honours subject. (As per Patliputra University Admission Guidelines)
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCHIS-101 | History of India - I | Core | 6 | Reconstructing Ancient Indian History, Prehistoric Cultures, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic and Later Vedic Societies, Rise of Mahajanapadas and Buddhism/Jainism |
| CCHIS-102 | Social Formations and Cultural Patterns of the Ancient World | Core | 6 | Evolution of Humankind, Neolithic Revolution, Bronze Age Civilizations (Egypt, Mesopotamia), Nomadic Pastoralism and its Impact, Early Iron Age and the Rise of Empires |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies / Hindi Communication / English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Sustainable Development, Basic Language Skills, Reading Comprehension and Writing |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective - I (from another discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Introduction to chosen discipline, Fundamental concepts, Key theories, Applications, Case studies |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCHIS-203 | History of India - II | Core | 6 | Mauryan Empire (Polity, Economy, Society), Post-Mauryan Developments (Satavahanas, Kushanas), Gupta Age (Administration, Culture, Science), Post-Gupta Period (Harsha, Regional Kingdoms), Early Medieval Society and Feudalism |
| CCHIS-204 | Economic History of India (18th-19th Century) | Core | 6 | Indian Economy in the 18th Century, Colonial Exploitation and Revenue Systems, De-industrialization and Commercialization of Agriculture, Growth of Modern Industries, Famines and Economic Nationalism |
| AECC-2 | Environmental Studies / Hindi Communication / English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Conservation of Resources, Environmental Ethics, Climate Change, Effective Communication, Public Speaking and Presentation |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective - II (from another discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Advanced topics in chosen discipline, Methodologies, Current trends, Problem-solving, Specialized applications |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCHIS-305 | History of India - III | Core | 6 | Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Expansion of Delhi Sultanate, Sultanate Administration and Society, Regional Kingdoms (Vijayanagara, Bahmani), Bhakti and Sufi Movements |
| CCHIS-306 | Rise of Modern West - I | Core | 6 | Feudalism to Capitalism Transition, Renaissance and Reformation, European Expansion and Colonization, Scientific Revolution, Mercantilism and Absolutism |
| CCHIS-307 | History of Bihar (From Ancient to 18th Century) | Core | 6 | Bihar in Ancient Times (Magadha, Maurya, Gupta), Advent of Islam in Bihar, Bihar under Delhi Sultanate and Mughals, Emergence of Regional Powers, Art, Architecture and Culture of Bihar |
| SEC-1 | Archives and Museum / Tourism and Heritage Management (Options) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Archival Keeping and Preservation, Museum Types and Functions, Heritage Conservation, Tourism Planning and Marketing, Cultural Resource Management |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective - III (from another discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Interdisciplinary perspectives, Research methods, Contemporary issues, Policy implications, Ethical considerations |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCHIS-408 | History of India - IV | Core | 6 | Mughal Empire (Babur to Aurangzeb), Mughal Administration and Economy, Mughal Society and Culture, Decline of Mughal Empire, Rise of Regional States (Marathas, Sikhs, Bengal) |
| CCHIS-409 | Rise of Modern West - II | Core | 6 | English Revolution, American Revolution, French Revolution, Industrial Revolution, Colonialism and Imperialism |
| CCHIS-410 | History of Bihar (1757-1947 A.D.) | Core | 6 | Bihar under British Rule, Revolt of 1857 in Bihar, Tribal Revolts and Peasant Movements, Bihar and the Nationalist Movement, Social and Cultural Renaissance in Bihar |
| SEC-2 | Art Appreciation / Historical Methods (Options) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Elements of Art, Indian Art Forms, Art History Overview, Historiography and Sources, Historical Writing and Interpretation |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective - IV (from another discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Advanced research techniques, Critical analysis, Independent study, Project work, Capstone experience |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCHIS-511 | History of India - V | Core | 6 | British Conquest and Consolidation, Early Colonial Administration, Impact of British Rule on Indian Society, Social and Religious Reform Movements, Beginning of Indian Nationalism |
| CCHIS-512 | History of Modern Europe - I (1780-1939 A.D.) | Core | 6 | Age of Revolutions (French Revolution), Napoleonic Era, Concert of Europe and 1848 Revolutions, Nationalism and Nation-State Formation, Industrialization and Rise of Imperialism |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - I (e.g., History of Ancient Civilizations / History of USA / History of East Asia) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Specific geographical/thematic history, Political and economic structures, Social and cultural developments, Major events and personalities, Historiographical debates |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - II (e.g., History of Ancient Civilizations / History of USA / History of East Asia) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | In-depth study of selected topics, Comparative perspectives, Primary source analysis, Historiographical approaches, Regional or global dynamics |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CCHIS-613 | History of India - VI | Core | 6 | Emergence of Gandhi and Mass Nationalism, Non-Cooperation and Civil Disobedience Movements, Communalism and Partition of India, Indian Independence and Constitution Making, Challenges of Nation-Building |
| CCHIS-614 | History of Modern Europe - II (1780-1939 A.D.) | Core | 6 | First World War, Russian Revolutions, Inter-War Period (Great Depression), Rise of Fascism and Nazism, Second World War |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective - III (e.g., History of Modern India 1947-2000 / Environment and History / Themes in World History) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Post-colonial developments, Specialized historical fields, Thematic studies, Historical methodology application, Independent research project |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective - IV (e.g., History of Modern India 1947-2000 / Environment and History / Themes in World History) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Advanced historical research, Critical evaluation of sources, Dissertation/Project work, Contemporary historical issues, Public history and its relevance |
