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BACHELOR-OF-ARTS in English Hons at Govind Mohan National College
Ambala, Haryana
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About the Specialization
What is English Hons at Govind Mohan National College Ambala?
This English Hons program at Gandhi Memorial National College, Ambala, affiliated with Kurukshetra University, focuses on developing a deep understanding of English language, literature, and critical theory. It provides a robust foundation in literary history, diverse literary forms, and contemporary linguistic concepts, preparing students for various communication and academic roles within the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 graduates with a strong aptitude for literature, language, and critical analysis. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in teaching, journalism, content writing, publishing, or higher studies in English literature, preparing them for the intellectual demands of a dynamic professional landscape in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as content writers, editors, journalists, public relations specialists, or educators in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential up to INR 8-12 lakhs for experienced professionals. The program also acts as a strong foundation for competitive exams and postgraduate studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Reading & Comprehension Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on extensively reading prescribed texts, historical literary periods, and supplementary critical essays. Develop a habit of annotating, summarizing, and critically analyzing texts to grasp core themes and arguments, improving foundational understanding for all subsequent semesters.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, online literary databases (e.g., Project Gutenberg), peer study groups, faculty guidance
Career Connection
Essential for any role requiring strong analytical and communication skills, such as content creation, research, and journalism.
Master Academic Writing & Grammar- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to grammar, syntax, and academic writing conventions taught in language skills courses. Practice essay writing, paragraph structuring, and coherent argumentation regularly, seeking feedback from professors to refine writing proficiency.
Tools & Resources
Grammar handbooks, online writing labs (e.g., Purdue OWL), college writing center (if available), English language faculty
Career Connection
Crucial for success in content writing, editing, technical writing, and excelling in higher education applications.
Engage in Literary Discussions & Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions and join college literary societies. Engage in debates on literary themes, characters, and critical interpretations to sharpen analytical thinking, articulate arguments effectively, and build confidence in public speaking.
Tools & Resources
Literary club events, inter-college debates, online literary forums
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and communication skills vital for roles in journalism, teaching, public relations, and legal professions.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Diverse Literary Forms & Cultures- (Semester 3-4)
Beyond core texts, delve into Indian literature in translation and contemporary Indian writing. Attend workshops on different literary genres (poetry, drama, fiction) and explore cultural contexts to broaden literary perspectives and appreciate global narratives.
Tools & Resources
College library''''s diverse collection, literary festivals (online streams), regional literary bodies
Career Connection
Provides a wider cultural understanding beneficial for content localization, international journalism, and academic research in comparative literature.
Develop Research & Citation Skills- (Semester 3-4)
For papers requiring research, learn to effectively use library databases, identify credible sources, and apply proper citation styles (e.g., MLA, Chicago). This lays the groundwork for academic integrity and thorough scholarly work.
Tools & Resources
University library research guides, MLA/Chicago style guides, academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar)
Career Connection
Essential for academic research, publishing, and any role involving information gathering and accurate referencing.
Seek Internships in Communication Fields- (Semester 3-4)
Look for short-term internships in local newspapers, digital marketing agencies, NGOs, or content creation companies. This practical exposure helps apply theoretical knowledge, understand industry demands, and build a professional network.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, online internship platforms (e.g., Internshala), LinkedIn
Career Connection
Directly enhances employability, provides real-world experience, and helps clarify career interests post-graduation.
Advanced Stage
Specialise in Literary Theory & Criticism- (Semester 5-6)
Deeply engage with various literary theories (feminism, postcolonialism, Marxism) and critical approaches. Apply these theories to analyse texts, developing a sophisticated understanding of power dynamics, cultural representation, and diverse interpretations.
Tools & Resources
Advanced literary theory textbooks, academic journals, specialized faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Crucial for pursuing postgraduate studies, research, and critical analysis roles in media or policy.
Prepare for Higher Education & Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
Start preparing for entrance exams for MA English programs (e.g., Delhi University, JNU) or competitive examinations like UGC NET/JRF, IAS, PCS. Focus on general knowledge, current affairs, and advanced English comprehension.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if required), previous year''''s question papers, online test series, mock interviews
Career Connection
Opens pathways to academic careers, civil services, and research opportunities across India.
Build a Professional Portfolio & Network- (Semester 5-6)
Compile a portfolio of best academic essays, creative writing pieces, or research projects. Actively network with alumni, guest speakers, and industry professionals at college events and online platforms to explore career opportunities and mentorship.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, personal website/blog, professional networking events, alumni association
Career Connection
Directly aids in securing job placements, freelance opportunities, and building a sustainable career in communication, media, or academia.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (with English as a compulsory subject)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 66 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-101 | English Language Skills | Core | 4 | Communication Process, Grammar Fundamentals, Vocabulary Building, Effective Writing Skills, Listening and Speaking |
| DSC-102 | History of English Literature (from Chaucer to Shakespeare) | Core | 4 | Chaucer and Middle Ages, Renaissance Period, Elizabethan Age, Shakespearean Drama, Metaphysical Poets |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-201 | English Language Skills-II | Core | 4 | Advanced Communication, Report Writing, Resume and CV Writing, Group Discussion Techniques, Interview Skills |
| DSC-202 | History of English Literature (from Milton to Augustan Age) | Core | 4 | Milton and Puritan Age, Restoration Period, Augustan Age, Dryden and Pope, Swift and Satire |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-301 | Indian Literature in English Translation | Core | 4 | Indian English Fiction, Indian English Poetry, Regional Literature, Post-Colonial Voices, Critical Perspectives |
| DSC-302 | 19th Century English Literature | Core | 4 | Romanticism, Victorian Poetry, Victorian Novel, Wordsworth and Coleridge, Tennyson and Browning |
| AEC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory | 4 | Natural Resources, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and Environment, Environmental Ethics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-401 | Contemporary Indian Writing in English | Core | 4 | Post-Independence Fiction, Contemporary Indian Poetry, Indian English Drama, Diaspora Literature, Themes and Trends |
| DSC-402 | 20th Century English Literature | Core | 4 | Modernism and Postmodernism, W.B. Yeats and T.S. Eliot, Virginia Woolf and D.H. Lawrence, Absurd Theatre, Post-War Literature |
| SEC-1 | Communicative English | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Oral Communication, Written Communication, Public Speaking, Soft Skills Development, Email Etiquette |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-501 | Literary Criticism | Core | 4 | Classical Criticism (Plato, Aristotle), Romantic Criticism (Wordsworth, Coleridge), New Criticism, Practical Criticism, Formalism and Russian Formalism |
| DSC-502 | American Literature | Core | 4 | Early American Writing, American Renaissance, Transcendentalism, Modern American Fiction, African-American Literature |
| DSE-1 | Literary Theory | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Marxist Literary Theory, Feminist Literary Theory, Postcolonial Theory, Psychoanalytic Criticism, Deconstruction |
| SEC-2 | Academic Writing and Composition | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Research Paper Writing, Essay Writing, Referencing and Citation, Avoiding Plagiarism, Critical Thinking for Writing |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-601 | World Literatures in English | Core | 4 | African Literature, Canadian Literature, Australian Literature, Caribbean Literature, Postcolonial Narratives |
| DSC-602 | English Language Teaching (ELT) | Core | 4 | Language Acquisition Theories, Teaching Methodologies, Classroom Management, Lesson Planning, Assessment in ELT |
| DSE-2 | Modern European Drama | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Realism and Naturalism, Expressionist Theatre, Theatre of the Absurd, Ibsen and Strindberg, Beckett and Pinter |
| SEC-3 | Translation Studies | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Theories of Translation, Types of Translation, Cultural Translation, Machine Translation, Ethics in Translation |
