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B-A in History at Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University
Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand
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About the Specialization
What is History at Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University Pauri Garhwal?
This History program at Hemvati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University focuses on a comprehensive study of Indian and world history, from ancient civilizations to modern times. It delves into political, social, economic, and cultural developments, offering deep insights into India''''s rich heritage and its global connections. The program is vital for understanding societal evolution and critical thinking in today''''s diverse Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring civil servants, educators, researchers, and cultural heritage enthusiasts. It suits fresh graduates seeking entry into public administration, museums, or journalism, and those keen on academic pursuits. Individuals passionate about uncovering the past and contributing to cultural preservation, or transitioning into fields requiring strong analytical skills, will find this program rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, archaeologists, teachers, and civil servants. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 lakhs annually, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 8-15 lakhs in government and cultural organizations. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, crucial for competitive examinations and academic growth in Indian institutions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Historical Research Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Develop strong foundational research skills by thoroughly understanding primary and secondary sources. Focus on evaluating source credibility, identifying biases, and synthesizing information effectively. Actively participate in library workshops on historical data collection and referencing.
Tools & Resources
University Library historical archives, JSTOR, Google Scholar, Local archives/museums for primary source exposure
Career Connection
Strong research forms the bedrock for any history-related career, from academia to civil services, ensuring credible and well-supported analyses in future roles.
Cultivating Critical Analysis and Argumentation- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with historical debates and controversies presented in lectures. Practice forming well-structured arguments and counter-arguments in essays and discussions. Join a history club or debate society to hone public speaking and analytical skills.
Tools & Resources
History Department study groups, Peer review sessions, Debate clubs
Career Connection
Develops essential analytical and communication skills prized in civil services, journalism, and research, enabling graduates to articulate complex ideas clearly.
Building a Strong Foundational Knowledge Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing a robust understanding of ancient and medieval Indian history by regularly reviewing lecture notes and textbooks. Create comprehensive timelines and concept maps to connect historical events and developments across periods. Regularly engage in self-assessment quizzes.
Tools & Resources
Standard Indian history textbooks (e.g., NCERT, Bipin Chandra), Online history resources for quizzes and summaries, Flashcards for key dates and figures
Career Connection
A solid historical foundation is crucial for competitive exams (UPSC, State PSCs) and provides the necessary context for advanced historical research and teaching.
Intermediate Stage
Exploring Specializations through Electives and Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Carefully select Discipline Specific Electives (DSE) and Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) that align with personal interests, such as Epigraphy, Numismatics, or Tourism Management. Undertake small research projects or term papers focusing on these specialized areas to gain deeper insights and practical experience.
Tools & Resources
Departmental faculty for guidance on research topics, Online academic databases, Relevant historical societies or institutes
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge enhances employability in niche areas like archaeology, archival management, or heritage tourism, making students more competitive for targeted roles.
Gaining Practical Exposure through Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek internships at local museums, archives, historical research institutions, or NGOs working in heritage preservation. This provides hands-on experience in cataloging, conservation, exhibition design, or historical documentation, connecting theoretical knowledge with real-world applications.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Networking with faculty and alumni, Online job portals for internships in cultural sector
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for building professional networks and acquiring practical skills, significantly boosting resume value for future employment in heritage, culture, or research organizations.
Engaging in Academic and Co-curricular Activities- (Semester 3-5)
Participate in history seminars, workshops, and quizzes organized by the department or other institutions. Consider presenting papers at student conferences or contributing to the department''''s newsletter. Join university cultural societies to broaden perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards for event announcements, University cultural committees, Relevant academic journals
Career Connection
Enhances soft skills like public speaking, critical thinking, and networking, which are vital for academic and professional growth, including competitive exams and leadership roles.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 6)
Begin rigorous preparation for civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), UGC NET/JRF, or other competitive examinations. Focus on in-depth study of historical periods, current affairs, and practice essay writing and general studies papers with a historical perspective.
Tools & Resources
Coaching centers for civil services, Online test series and study materials, Previous years'''' question papers
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for highly sought-after government positions, offering stable and impactful career paths in public administration and academia.
Developing Specialized Research and Dissertation Skills- (Semester 6)
If pursuing Honours, focus on developing a strong dissertation or major project. Work closely with faculty mentors, conduct extensive literature reviews, and apply advanced research methodologies. This stage is crucial for contributing original historical insights.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors for thesis guidance, University research labs/centers, Advanced statistical or qualitative analysis software if applicable
Career Connection
Essential for postgraduate studies (MA, PhD) and research-oriented careers, distinguishing graduates as capable of independent scholarly work.
Strategic Career Planning and Networking- (Semester 6)
Attend career fairs, interact with alumni working in diverse fields, and prepare tailored resumes and cover letters. Explore opportunities in teaching, content creation, historical consultancy, or heritage management. Utilize university placement cells for guidance.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn for professional networking, Career counseling services
Career Connection
Facilitates a smooth transition into employment by aligning skills with industry demands, leading to successful placements in relevant fields post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) examination or equivalent from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 156 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-101 | History of Ancient India upto 650 A.D. | Core | 6 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-History and Proto-History, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic and Later Vedic Age, Rise of Janapadas and Mahajanapadas, Mauryan Empire and Post-Mauryan Period, Gupta Empire and Post-Gupta Period |
| AECC-101 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and the Environment, Human Population and Environment |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-202 | History of India (650 A.D. to 1550 A.D.) | Core | 6 | North Indian Kingdoms (Rajputs, Palas, Pratiharas), South Indian Kingdoms (Cholas, Chalukyas), Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Delhi Sultanate Consolidation and Decline, Religious Movements: Bhakti and Sufi, Rise of Vijayanagara and Bahamani Kingdoms |
| AECC-202 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Theories of Communication, Language of Communication, Listening and Speaking Skills, Reading Skills, Writing Skills, Soft Skills |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-303 | History of India (1550 A.D. to 1750 A.D.) | Core | 6 | Establishment of Mughal Empire, Akbar''''s Administration and Policies, Jahangir and Shah Jahan: Art and Architecture, Aurangzeb''''s Religious and Deccan Policies, Rise of Marathas under Shivaji, Decline of Mughal Empire |
| HIST-GE-301 | Generic Elective - Any one from other departments | Generic Elective | 6 | Students choose one elective from a pool of subjects offered by other departments, not specific to History. |
| HIST-SEC-301 | Museum and Archival Studies | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Concept and Types of Museums, History of Museums in India, Principles of Archival Management, Conservation of Historical Documents, Digital Archiving, Career Opportunities in Heritage Sector |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-404 | History of India (1750 A.D. to 1857 A.D.) | Core | 6 | Decline of Mughal Empire, Rise of Regional Powers (Bengal, Awadh, Mysore), Consolidation of British East India Company, Colonial Economy and Land Revenue Settlements, Social and Religious Reform Movements, Revolt of 1857: Causes and Consequences |
| HIST-GE-402 | Generic Elective - Any one from other departments | Generic Elective | 6 | Students choose one elective from a pool of subjects offered by other departments, not specific to History. |
| HIST-SEC-402 | Indian Epigraphy and Numismatics | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Introduction to Epigraphy, Major Indian Scripts and Inscriptions, Introduction to Numismatics, Coins of Ancient India, Coins of Medieval India, Importance of Epigraphy and Numismatics as Sources |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-505 | History of India (1857 A.D. to 1950 A.D.) | Core | 6 | First War of Independence and its Aftermath, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Mahatma Gandhi and Mass Movements, Constitutional Developments, Partition of India, Integration of Princely States |
| HIST-DSE-501 | History of Modern World (1453 A.D. to 1789 A.D.) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Exploration and Discoveries, Rise of Modern States, Mercantilism and Colonialism, Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment, American Revolution |
| HIST-GE-503 | Generic Elective - Any one from other departments | Generic Elective | 6 | Students choose one elective from a pool of subjects offered by other departments, not specific to History. |
| HIST-SEC-503 | Tourism and Travel Management | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Concepts and Typology of Tourism, Historical Evolution of Tourism, Tourism in India: Destinations and Challenges, Travel Agencies and Tour Operators, Sustainable Tourism, Impact of Tourism on Economy and Culture |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-606 | History of Modern World (1789 A.D. to 1945 A.D.) | Core | 6 | French Revolution and Napoleonic Era, Industrial Revolution and its Impact, Rise of Nationalism and Nation States, Imperialism and Colonialism, World War I and its Consequences, World War II and its Aftermath |
| HIST-DSE-602 | History of Uttarakhand (Ancient to 1947 A.D.) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Sources for Uttarakhand History, Ancient Tribes and Dynasties, Medieval Dynasties (Katyuris, Chand, Parmar), Gorkha Rule, British Rule and Administration, Freedom Movement in Uttarakhand |
| HIST-GE-604 | Generic Elective - Any one from other departments | Generic Elective | 6 | Students choose one elective from a pool of subjects offered by other departments, not specific to History. |
| HIST-SEC-604 | Archives and Records Management | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Concept of Archives and Records, Principles of Records Management, Acquisition and Appraisal of Records, Arrangement and Description of Archival Holdings, Preservation and Conservation, Access and Outreach Programs |
