

M-A in History at Institute of Advanced Studies in Education


Churu, Rajasthan
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About the Specialization
What is History at Institute of Advanced Studies in Education Churu?
This M.A. History program at Institute of Advanced Studies in Education, Churu, Rajasthan, offers an in-depth exploration of historical events, societies, and cultures. It emphasizes analytical thinking and critical interpretation of diverse historical narratives, which is crucial for understanding India''''s complex socio-political evolution. The program differentiates itself by integrating regional history of Rajasthan with national and international historical trends, catering to the growing demand for skilled historians and researchers in academic and cultural institutions across India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history enthusiasts, fresh graduates in humanities seeking entry into research, teaching, or heritage management. It also benefits working professionals like educators or public servants looking to deepen their historical understanding or transition into specialized roles requiring historical expertise. Candidates with a strong interest in Indian history, historiography, and social sciences, along with analytical writing skills, would find this program highly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding career paths as historians, archivists, museum curators, researchers, educators, or civil servants in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience, potentially reaching INR 8-15 LPA for experienced professionals in academia or government. The program prepares students for NET/SET examinations, PhD research, and roles in cultural preservation, contributing to India''''s vibrant heritage sector.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historical Concepts & Historiography- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on understanding key historical concepts, theories, and the evolution of historiography. Regularly engage with primary and secondary sources, practicing critical analysis and developing a strong academic writing style. Participate actively in classroom discussions and seminars to articulate historical arguments effectively.
Tools & Resources
University Library (physical and digital archives), J-STOR, Google Scholar, Reputable historical journals, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Builds a robust academic foundation essential for research, teaching, and any analytical role requiring historical understanding, directly impacting success in competitive exams like NET/SET.
Develop Strong Research & Documentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Early on, start familiarizing yourself with various research methodologies, source criticism, and proper citation techniques. Practice compiling bibliographies and writing short research papers. Utilize institutional resources for accessing academic databases and reference materials.
Tools & Resources
MLA/Chicago Style Guides, Zotero/Mendeley (for bibliography management), Institutional library databases, Official university research workshops
Career Connection
Essential for academic research, dissertation writing, and roles in archives or publishing, providing a foundational skill set for information management.
Engage with Regional & National History- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbooks, explore local historical sites, museums, and community archives in Churu and Rajasthan. Actively participate in departmental historical walks or workshops focused on regional history. This provides practical context to theoretical knowledge and fosters an appreciation for local heritage.
Tools & Resources
Rajasthan State Archives, Local museums, Historical societies, Online portals for Rajasthan history, Departmental field trips
Career Connection
Prepares for roles in heritage tourism, regional historical research, and cultural resource management, opening avenues in state government and non-profit organizations.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize Through Electives & Interdisciplinary Study- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose option papers that align with your career aspirations (e.g., Museum Management, History of Environment). Seek out opportunities for interdisciplinary learning by exploring related courses or seminars in allied departments like Political Science or Sociology to broaden historical perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, Course catalogs of related departments, Online learning platforms offering interdisciplinary history courses
Career Connection
Helps in carving out a niche, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in specific historical fields or cross-functional positions.
Participate in Seminars & Paper Presentations- (Semester 3)
Actively present research papers in departmental seminars and college-level conferences. This hones public speaking skills, strengthens research methodology, and provides valuable feedback from peers and faculty, which is crucial for academic and professional growth.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar series, College research colloquiums, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides)
Career Connection
Enhances communication and analytical presentation skills, vital for roles in academia, policy analysis, and public relations.
Network with Historians & Academics- (Semester 3)
Attend guest lectures, workshops, and national history conferences (if available or accessible online). Engage with visiting scholars and faculty members beyond the classroom. Building a professional network can open doors to research opportunities, internships, and mentorship.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations like Indian History Congress, LinkedIn, University alumni network, Departmental guest lecture series
Career Connection
Facilitates access to job opportunities, collaborative projects, and career guidance from experienced professionals in the field.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Substantial Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Focus intensely on your final dissertation or project, applying all learned research methodologies and analytical skills. Choose a topic that aligns with your career interests, aiming for original contributions. Regular consultations with your supervisor are critical for timely completion and quality.
Tools & Resources
University research grants (if available), Statistical software (if applicable), Advanced academic databases, Writing workshops
Career Connection
This serves as a major portfolio piece, demonstrating independent research capability, which is highly valued by employers and for further academic pursuits like PhDs.
Prepare for NET/SET & Higher Studies- (Semester 4)
Start rigorous preparation for National Eligibility Test (NET) or State Eligibility Test (SET) for assistant professorship and Junior Research Fellowship. Combine syllabus-specific study with general paper preparation. Explore PhD opportunities and prepare research proposals if interested in academia.
Tools & Resources
Previous year''''s question papers, UGC NET/SET study materials, Online coaching platforms, University career guidance cell
Career Connection
Directly impacts eligibility for teaching positions in Indian universities/colleges and securing research fellowships, critical for an academic career.
Develop Practical Skills for Heritage & Tourism- (Semester 4)
If interested in non-academic roles, actively seek out short-term internships or volunteer opportunities in museums, archives, or heritage tourism organizations. Develop skills in curation, preservation, documentation, and historical interpretation, especially for India''''s rich cultural heritage.
Tools & Resources
Local museums, State archaeology departments, Heritage NGOs, Online courses in museum studies/archival science
Career Connection
Provides hands-on experience and builds a practical skill set, making you job-ready for roles in the booming heritage, cultural, and tourism sectors in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (10+2+3) or equivalent from any recognized University with a minimum of 45% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST/OBC candidates) or a grade equivalent to 45% marks.
Duration: 2 years (4 Semesters)
Credits: 64 (4 credits per paper, 16 papers total) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHIS-101 | Concepts, Theories & Historiography | Core | 4 | Nature & Scope of History, Causation, Objectivity, Impartiality, Ancient Indian Historiography, Medieval Muslim Historiography, Renaissance & Enlightenment Historiography, Modern Indian Historiography (Ranade, Sarkar, Tara Chand, R.C. Majumdar, Irfan Habib, Bipan Chandra, Romila Thapar, D.D. Kosambi) |
| MAHIS-102 | History of Rajasthan (From the Earliest Times to 1750 AD) | Core | 4 | Sources of Rajasthan History, Pre-Protohistoric Cultures, Origin of Rajputs, Pratiharas, Chauhans, Guhilas, Rathores & Kachwahas, Mughal-Rajput Relations, Rise of Maratha Power & Impact |
| MAHIS-103 | Social and Cultural History of Ancient India | Core | 4 | Social Stratification (Varna, Jati), Family, Marriage, Position of Women, Education System, Economic Life (Agriculture, Crafts, Trade), Religious Movements (Buddhism, Jainism, Bhakti), Art & Architecture |
| MAHIS-104 | Political and Administrative History of Ancient India | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Rise of Mahajanapadas, Mauryan Empire & Administration, Gupta Empire & Post-Gupta Period (Harsha), Chalukyas & Pallavas, Central, Provincial, Local Administration, King''''s Position, Law & Justice |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHIS-201 | Social and Cultural History of Medieval India | Core | 4 | Sources of Medieval Indian History, Social Structure (Ruling Class, Peasantry), Urbanization & Position of Women, Education & Literature, Religious Movements (Sufism, Bhakti), Art & Architecture (Sultanate, Mughal), Science & Technology |
| MAHIS-202 | Political and Administrative History of Medieval India | Core | 4 | Sources of Medieval Indian History, Delhi Sultanate (Foundation, Expansion, Administration, Decline), Mughal Empire (Foundation, Expansion, Administration, Decline), Rise of Marathas, Jagirdari and Mansabdari Systems |
| MAHIS-203 | History of Europe (1789-1871) | Core | 4 | French Revolution (Causes, Phases, Impact), Napoleon Bonaparte & Napoleonic Era, Congress of Vienna & Concert of Europe, Revolutions of 1830 & 1848, Unification of Italy, Unification of Germany |
| MAHIS-204 | Dissertation/Project/Option Paper | Project/Elective | 4 | History of Science & Technology in Ancient & Medieval India, Women in Indian History, History of Indian Diasporas, Research Methodology (for Dissertation/Project) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHIS-301 | Social and Cultural History of Modern India | Core | 4 | Society in 18th Century India, Socio-Religious Reform Movements (Brahmo Samaj, Arya Samaj), Education & Print Media, Position of Women & Caste System, Peasant & Tribal Movements, Cultural Renaissance |
| MAHIS-302 | Political and Administrative History of Modern India | Core | 4 | British Expansion & Administration, Land Revenue, Judicial, Police Systems, Revolt of 1857, Indian Nationalism (Moderates, Extremists), Gandhi & Mass Movements, Partition of India & Integration of Princely States |
| MAHIS-303 | History of the USA (1865-1945) | Core | 4 | Reconstruction Era, Industrialization & Progressive Era, World War I & its Aftermath, The Great Depression & New Deal, USA''''s Entry into World War II |
| MAHIS-304 | Option Paper/Project/Field Work | Project/Elective | 4 | History of Environment in India, Archives & Museum Management, History of Sports in India, Field Work Techniques (for Project/Field Work) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAHIS-401 | Contemporary India (1947-2000 AD) | Core | 4 | Constitution Making & Linguistic Reorganization, Economic Planning & Development, Foreign Policy (Non-Alignment), Political Developments (Nehru to Vajpayee), Social Changes & Movements, Scientific & Technological Advancements |
| MAHIS-402 | International Relations (1919-2000 AD) | Core | 4 | Treaty of Versailles & League of Nations, Rise of Fascism & Nazism, World War II & its Consequences, Cold War & Non-Aligned Movement, United Nations & Decolonization, End of Cold War & Globalization |
| MAHIS-403 | Inter-disciplinary Paper/Option Paper/Project/Field Work | Elective/Project | 4 | History of Art & Architecture in India, Historical Tourism in India, Historiography: Trends & Perspectives, Inter-disciplinary Research Methods |
| MAHIS-404 | Dissertation/Project/Field Work | Project | 4 | Research Design & Methodology, Data Collection & Analysis, Thesis Writing & Structuring, Presentation & Defense of Research, Ethical Considerations in Research |




