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B-A-PROGRAMME in General at Kirori Mal College
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is General at Kirori Mal College Delhi?
This B.A. Programme at Kirori Mal College, affiliated with the University of Delhi, offers a broad, interdisciplinary education across humanities, social sciences, and languages. It focuses on developing critical thinking, analytical skills, and a holistic understanding of various subjects crucial for diverse roles in the Indian landscape. This program is designed for students seeking a flexible curriculum that allows them to explore multiple academic interests rather than specializing in a single discipline, addressing the growing demand for versatile graduates in India''''s dynamic job market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students who have completed their 10+2 education and possess a keen interest in humanities, social sciences, and languages, without a definitive preference for a single discipline. It caters to those who thrive on interdisciplinary learning and wish to build a strong foundation for diverse career paths or further academic pursuits. It also suits individuals aspiring for civil services, journalism, teaching, or roles in NGOs, where a broad knowledge base and adaptable skills are highly valued.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue varied career paths in India, including journalism, content creation, teaching, public relations, social work, and entry-level positions in government and corporate sectors. Starting salaries in these fields typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA for fresh graduates, with significant growth potential based on experience and further education. The program also robustly prepares students for competitive examinations like UPSC Civil Services, state PSCs, and various postgraduate courses.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Reading and Critical Thinking Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with prescribed readings and supplementary materials from day one. Form reading groups to discuss complex theories and concepts, focusing on understanding diverse perspectives. Practice summarizing arguments and identifying key takeaways, which is essential for analytical development.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Online academic journals (e.g., JSTOR via DU library portal), Peer discussion groups
Career Connection
Essential for competitive exams like UPSC, research-oriented roles, and any profession requiring analytical decision-making and informed opinion formation.
Master Effective Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to essay structure, argumentation, and citation styles from the initial assignments. Seek feedback from professors and utilize college writing centers to refine your academic writing. Practice presenting ideas clearly and concisely, building a strong foundation for formal communication.
Tools & Resources
University writing workshops, Grammarly (for grammar and style checks), Purdue OWL (for citation guidelines), Faculty feedback sessions
Career Connection
Crucial for report writing, policy analysis, content creation, and any professional role demanding coherent and formal written communication.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections and Electives- (Semester 1-2)
Actively choose Generic Electives (GE) and Value Addition Courses (VAC) that genuinely interest you, even if outside your core disciplines. Look for connections between subjects, as this broadens your perspective and enhances problem-solving abilities, preparing you for complex real-world challenges.
Tools & Resources
DU course catalogs, Faculty consultations for subject guidance, Online course platforms for introductory modules (e.g., Swayam)
Career Connection
Cultivates versatility and adaptability, highly valued in dynamic Indian job markets where multidisciplinary understanding and flexible skills are increasingly sought after.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Skill Enhancement (SEC) & Practical Application- (Semester 3-5)
Leverage Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) to acquire practical skills like academic writing, research methodology, or digital literacy. Apply these skills in mini-projects, assignments, or debates within your chosen disciplines to solidify learning and build a practical portfolio.
Tools & Resources
SEC course materials, Departmental workshops, Online tools for data analysis/presentation (e.g., basic Excel, Canva), College debate societies
Career Connection
Directly builds resume-ready skills for roles in communication, research, and data interpretation, significantly improving overall employability in diverse fields.
Participate in College Societies & Extracurriculars- (Semester 3-5)
Join academic, cultural, or social societies at Kirori Mal College. Take on leadership roles, organize events, and collaborate with peers. This actively develops essential soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and leadership, which are crucial for professional success in India.
Tools & Resources
College society official pages, Student body representatives, Faculty mentors for guidance on leadership roles
Career Connection
Enhances soft skills, provides valuable networking opportunities, and demonstrates initiative, making you a more attractive candidate for Indian employers across various sectors.
Seek Internships or Volunteer Opportunities- (Semester 4-5 (during summer breaks or part-time))
Identify NGOs, think tanks, local media houses, or government bodies in Delhi offering short-term internships or volunteer positions related to your interests (History, Political Science, Economics, etc.). Gain practical exposure and begin building a professional network for future career prospects.
Tools & Resources
Kirori Mal College placement cell, Online internship portals (e.g., Internshala, LinkedIn), Direct outreach to organizations
Career Connection
Provides invaluable real-world experience, helps clarify career interests, and significantly strengthens your resume for future job applications and placements.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Higher Education or Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
If aspiring for postgraduate studies (MA, MBA) or competitive examinations (UPSC, state PSCs, banking), dedicate significant time in your final semester to focused preparation. Enroll in coaching classes if needed, solve previous year papers diligently, and take mock tests to refine your strategy.
Tools & Resources
Reputable coaching institutes in Delhi, Online test series and study materials, Previous year question papers, Faculty guidance for exam strategies
Career Connection
Directly impacts success in securing admission to desired postgraduate programs or clearing coveted government job examinations, paving the way for a stable career.
Develop a Professional Portfolio or Skill Showcase- (Semester 6)
Compile your best academic papers, research projects, articles, or any creative work into a cohesive portfolio. If you''''ve developed digital skills, showcase them through a personal blog or online portfolio. This effectively demonstrates your capabilities to potential employers or universities.
Tools & Resources
Google Sites or WordPress for personal websites, LinkedIn profile for professional networking, Online drives for organizing documents and work samples
Career Connection
Provides tangible proof of your skills and accomplishments, significantly boosting your profile for job applications and interviews in competitive Indian markets.
Network Strategically and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 6)
Actively connect with alumni, faculty, and professionals in your areas of interest through LinkedIn, college events, or informational interviews. Seek their guidance on career paths, industry trends, and job search strategies to gain a competitive edge.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Professional Networking Platform, Kirori Mal College alumni networks and events, Career fairs, Faculty office hours for mentorship
Career Connection
Opens doors to hidden job opportunities, provides invaluable insights into industry demands, and builds a supportive professional ecosystem for long-term career growth in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Successful completion of 10+2 (or equivalent) examination from a recognized board, with minimum aggregate marks as prescribed by the University of Delhi for admission to B.A. Programme.
Duration: 6 semesters (3 years)
Credits: 132 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25-30%, External: 70-75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-1A (Example) | History of India - I (Earliest Times to c. 300 CE) | Discipline Specific Core (Student Choice) | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Paleolithic to Neolithic Cultures, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic and Post-Vedic Periods, Rise of Mahajanapadas and Early Empires |
| DSC-1B (Example) | Introduction to Political Theory | Discipline Specific Core (Student Choice) | 4 | What is Political Theory, Concepts of Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights and Citizenship, Democracy and its Forms, Major Political Ideologies |
| GE-1 (Example) | Principles of Microeconomics | Generic Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Introduction to Economics, Demand and Supply Analysis, Consumer Behavior, Production and Cost, Market Structures |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Natural Resources and Their Management, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues, Environmental Policies and Practices |
| VAC-1 | Indian Constitution and Public Policy | Value Addition Course | 2 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Basic Structure of Indian Governance, Public Policy in India |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-2A (Example) | History of India - II (c. 300 CE to 1200 CE) | Discipline Specific Core (Student Choice) | 4 | Gupta Age and Its Legacy, Post-Gupta Dynasties, Early Medieval Society and Economy, Emergence of Regional Kingdoms, Cultural Developments and Trade Networks |
| DSC-2B (Example) | Indian Government and Politics | Discipline Specific Core (Student Choice) | 4 | Colonial Legacy and Indian Nationalism, Framing of the Indian Constitution, Key Institutions: Parliament, Executive, Judiciary, Federalism and Local Self-Government, Challenges to Indian Democracy |
| GE-2 (Example) | English Literature: Form and Context | Generic Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Introduction to Literary Forms (Poetry, Prose, Drama), Literary Movements (Romanticism, Modernism), Contextual Reading of Texts, Literary Devices and Analysis, Selected Readings from Indian and Western Literature |
| AECC-2 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Theories of Communication, Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication, Listening and Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension and Writing Reports, Presentation Skills and Group Discussion |
| VAC-2 | Ethics and Values | Value Addition Course | 2 | Introduction to Ethics, Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Reasoning, Values in Indian Thought, Professional Ethics, Ethics in Contemporary Society |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-3A (Example) | Rise of Modern West - I | Discipline Specific Core (Student Choice) | 4 | Transition from Feudalism to Capitalism, The Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Exploration and European Expansion, Scientific Revolution, Rise of Nation-States |
| DSC-3B (Example) | Comparative Government and Politics | Discipline Specific Core (Student Choice) | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutionalism and Forms of Government, Electoral Systems, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Challenges to Democratic Regimes |
| GE-3 (Example) | Introduction to Sociology | Generic Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Sociology, Culture and Socialization, Social Stratification, Family, Marriage, and Kinship, Social Change in India |
| SEC-1 | Academic Writing and Composition | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | Research Process and Topic Selection, Developing a Thesis Statement and Argument, Structuring Essays and Reports, Citation Styles and Avoiding Plagiarism, Effective Editing and Proofreading |
| VAC-3 | Digital Empowerment | Value Addition Course | 2 | Introduction to Digital Technologies, Internet and Web Browsing, Digital Communication and Collaboration, Cyber Security and Digital Rights, Digital Literacy for Public Services |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-4A (Example) | History of Modern Europe - I (c. 1780-1939) | Discipline Specific Core (Student Choice) | 4 | The French Revolution and Napoleon, Industrial Revolution, Rise of Nationalism in Europe, Liberalism, Socialism and Conservatism, World War I and Its Aftermath |
| DSC-4B (Example) | International Relations | Discipline Specific Core (Student Choice) | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, International Organizations (UN, WTO), Global Issues (Terrorism, Environment), India''''s Foreign Policy |
| GE-4 (Example) | Elementary Mathematics for Social Sciences | Generic Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Basic Algebra and Functions, Matrix Algebra, Calculus Fundamentals, Probability Theory, Statistical Concepts for Social Research |
| SEC-2 | Research Methodology | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | Introduction to Social Science Research, Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview, Observation), Data Analysis (Qualitative and Quantitative), Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
| VAC-4 | Financial Literacy | Value Addition Course | 2 | Basics of Personal Finance, Budgeting and Saving, Banking and Digital Payments, Investments (Stocks, Mutual Funds, FDs), Insurance and Retirement Planning |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-1A (Example) | Themes in Indian History - I (Social and Cultural) | Discipline Specific Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Caste System and Social Hierarchies, Gender and Family Structures, Religious Movements (Bhakti, Sufi), Art, Architecture, and Literature, Education and Knowledge Systems |
| DSE-1B (Example) | Public Administration | Discipline Specific Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy and Governance, Accountability and Control, Public Policy Formulation and Implementation |
| GE-5 (Example) | Introduction to Psychology | Generic Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | History and Schools of Psychology, Biological Basis of Behavior, Cognition and Learning, Personality and Intelligence, Mental Health and Well-being |
| SEC-3 | Communication in Everyday Life | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | Interpersonal Communication, Conflict Resolution Skills, Negotiation and Persuasion, Professional Etiquette, Digital Communication Ethics |
| GE-6 (Example) | Basics of Sanskrit | Generic Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Introduction to Devanagari Script, Basic Grammar and Vocabulary, Simple Sentence Construction, Reading Short Texts, Introduction to Sanskrit Literature |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE-2A (Example) | Themes in Indian History - II (Economic and Environmental) | Discipline Specific Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Agrarian Structure and Land Relations, Trade, Commerce, and Urbanization, Resource Utilization and Environmental History, Colonial Impact on Indian Economy, Economic Policies in Post-Independence India |
| DSE-2B (Example) | Human Rights, Gender & Environment | Discipline Specific Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Gender Equality and Women''''s Rights, Environmental Justice Movements, Intersections of Human Rights, Gender, Environment, International and National Human Rights Institutions |
| GE-7 (Example) | Computer Applications for Social Sciences | Generic Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Introduction to MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Data Management and Spreadsheet Functions, Presentation Tools and Techniques, Basic Internet Research Skills, Introduction to Statistical Software (e.g., SPSS basics) |
| SEC-4 | Entrepreneurship and Small Business | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | Concept of Entrepreneurship, Business Idea Generation and Feasibility, Market Research and Business Plan Development, Sources of Funding for Small Businesses, Legal and Regulatory Aspects for Startups in India |
| GE-8 (Example) | Public Speaking | Generic Elective (Student Choice) | 4 | Overcoming Stage Fright, Structuring a Speech, Voice Modulation and Body Language, Audience Analysis and Engagement, Debate and Argumentation Skills |
