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MA in History at Lala Laxmi Narayan Degree College
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at Lala Laxmi Narayan Degree College Prayagraj?
This MA History program at Lala Laxmi Narayan Degree College focuses on a comprehensive study of Indian and world history, emphasizing political, socio-economic, and cultural dimensions. It also offers specialized papers in Uttar Pradesh history and optional fields like archaeology, numismatics, epigraphy, or archival studies. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and research skills crucial for understanding India''''s rich past and its global interactions, meeting the growing demand for historical research and heritage management.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history enthusiasts, fresh graduates with a background in arts or social sciences, and professionals in fields like journalism, education, or civil services who seek to deepen their historical knowledge. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in academia, museums, archives, or cultural heritage management, providing a strong foundation for advanced research and competitive examinations.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, heritage consultants, educators, or researchers. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program prepares students for UGC NET/JRF, civil services, and advanced research, enabling them to contribute to academic scholarship and cultural preservation.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Historiographical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding different historical interpretations, research methodologies, and sources. Regularly practice critical reading of primary and secondary sources to build a strong analytical base.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, J-STOR, Google Scholar, Reputable history journals
Career Connection
Essential for developing analytical skills, which are transferable to research, content creation, journalism, and academic roles. Strong foundational understanding is crucial for competitive exams.
Develop Comprehensive Knowledge of Indian History- (Semester 1-2)
Systematically cover the political, social, economic, and cultural aspects of Ancient, Medieval, and Modern India. Use timeline mapping and comparative analysis to connect historical events across periods and regions.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., NCERT, R.S. Sharma, Satish Chandra), Online lecture series (e.g., NPTEL, Swayam), Historical atlases
Career Connection
Forms the core knowledge base required for teaching, civil services, heritage management, and historical research positions throughout India.
Engage in Peer Learning and Discussion Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex historical theories, debates, and primary source interpretations. Present findings and engage in constructive academic discussions to deepen understanding and refine arguments.
Tools & Resources
College common rooms, Online meeting platforms (Google Meet/Zoom), Shared document platforms (Google Docs)
Career Connection
Enhances communication, critical thinking, and collaborative skills, which are highly valued in academic environments, research teams, and interdisciplinary projects.
Intermediate Stage
Specialization in Regional History & Optional Fields- (Semester 3-4)
Deep dive into the history of Uttar Pradesh and the chosen optional subject (e.g., Archaeology). Seek out local archives, museums, and historical sites in and around Prayagraj for practical field exposure.
Tools & Resources
State Archives of Uttar Pradesh, Local museums (e.g., Allahabad Museum), Historical societies, Specialized books and journals
Career Connection
Builds niche expertise, making graduates attractive for roles in state cultural departments, regional museums, heritage tourism, and local historical research.
Enhance Research & Analytical Writing Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in seminars, present research papers, and refine academic writing. Focus on structuring arguments, proper citation (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), and critical analysis of historical evidence.
Tools & Resources
Academic style guides, Grammarly, Plagiarism checkers, University writing centers (if available)
Career Connection
Crucial for academic publications, dissertation writing, grant proposals, and any research-intensive role in the public or private sector.
Begin Dissertation/Project Work Early- (Semester 3-4)
Choose a dissertation topic early in Semester 3, finalize the research proposal, and start preliminary literature review and data collection under consistent faculty guidance. This ensures thoroughness and quality.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, University research databases, Archival sources, Survey tools (if applicable)
Career Connection
Provides hands-on research experience, a significant portfolio piece, and a strong foundation for M.Phil./Ph.D. programs or advanced research positions.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for NET/JRF and Civil Services Exams- (Semester 4 and Post-Graduation)
Dedicate time during the final year to prepare for competitive examinations like UGC NET/JRF for academia and various Civil Services exams. Focus on general studies, history optional, and teaching aptitude.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Online coaching platforms, Standard reference books for competitive exams, Study groups
Career Connection
Opens pathways to teaching positions (Assistant Professor), research fellowships, and prestigious government administrative roles in India, ensuring diverse career options.
Build a Professional Network and Portfolio- (Semester 4 and Post-Graduation)
Attend national/regional history conferences, workshops, and seminars. Network with academics, museum professionals, and archivists. Start building a portfolio of research papers, projects, and relevant experiences.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Academic conferences (e.g., Indian History Congress), Departmental alumni network, Personal website/blog for showcasing work
Career Connection
Facilitates job search, mentorship opportunities, and collaborations in academic and cultural heritage sectors, enhancing career prospects.
Explore Practical Applications of Historical Knowledge- (Semester 4 and immediately Post-Graduation)
Look for short-term internships or volunteer opportunities at local museums, NGOs working in heritage conservation, or publishing houses to gain practical experience in documentation, interpretation, and public history.
Tools & Resources
College career services, Direct outreach to organizations, Online internship portals (e.g., Internshala)
Career Connection
Bridges the gap between academic learning and professional practice, providing valuable work experience and making graduates job-ready for diverse roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. with History from a recognized University
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hist. 101 | Historiography, Concepts, Methods and Tools | Core | 4 | Nature, Scope and Philosophy of History, Objectivity and Subjectivity in History, Sources of History and their Authenticity, Historical Research Methodology, Major Schools of Historiography (Ancient to Modern) |
| Hist. 102 | History of Ancient India upto 1200 A.D. (Political, Social, Economic & Cultural Aspects) | Core | 4 | Sources for Ancient Indian History, Indus Valley Civilization and Vedic Culture, Rise of Mahajanapadas and Mauryan Empire, Gupta Age and Post-Gupta Period, Major Dynasties and Socio-Economic Formations |
| Hist. 103 | History of Medieval India (1200 A.D. to 1707 A.D.) (Political, Social, Economic & Cultural Aspects) | Core | 4 | Establishment and Consolidation of Delhi Sultanate, Vijaynagar and Bahamani Kingdoms, Mughal Empire: Administration, Economy, Society, Bhakti and Sufi Movements, Art, Architecture and Literature of Medieval Period |
| Hist. 104 | History of Modern India (1707 A.D. to 1950 A.D.) (Political, Social, Economic & Cultural Aspects) | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire and Rise of Regional Powers, Advent of European Powers and British Expansion, Revolt of 1857 and its Impact, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Indian National Movement and Independence |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hist. 201 | History of Modern World (1453 A.D. to 1945 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Enlightenment and Revolutions (American, French), Industrial Revolution and Rise of Nationalism, Imperialism, Colonialism and World Wars, Cold War origins and Post-War World Order |
| Hist. 202 | Social, Economic & Cultural History of India (c. 600 B.C. to 1200 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Varna System and Social Stratification, Status of Women and Family Structures, Land Grants and Agrarian Economy, Trade, Urbanization and Guilds, Religious Developments, Art and Education |
| Hist. 203 | Social, Economic & Cultural History of India (1200 A.D. to 1707 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Social Structure and Mobility in Sultanate & Mughal India, Agrarian Relations and Revenue System, Trade and Commerce, Urban Centers, Sufi and Bhakti Movements and their Impact, Mughal Art, Architecture, Language and Literature |
| Hist. 204 | Social, Economic & Cultural History of India (1707 A.D. to 1950 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Changes in Social Structure and Caste System, Land Revenue Settlements and their Consequences, Commercialization of Agriculture and Industrialization, Growth of Education and Print Culture, Cultural Nationalism and Revivalism |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hist. 301 | History of Uttar Pradesh (Ancient Period) | Core | 4 | Sources for UP History, Pre-history & Proto-history, Vedic and Post-Vedic Culture in UP, Mahajanapadas, Mauryan, Sunga and Kushana Periods in UP, Gupta Age and Post-Gupta Dynasties in UP, Cultural Heritage of Ancient Uttar Pradesh |
| Hist. 302 | History of Uttar Pradesh (Medieval Period) | Core | 4 | Early Turkish Rule and Delhi Sultanate in UP, Jaunpur Sultanate and other Provincial Kingdoms, Mughal Rule and Administration in UP, Awadh and Ruhelkhand during Medieval Period, Bhakti and Sufi Traditions in Uttar Pradesh |
| Hist. 303 | History of Uttar Pradesh (Modern Period) | Core | 4 | British Consolidation and Annexation of Awadh, Revolt of 1857 and its impact in UP, Peasant and Nationalist Movements in UP, Growth of Education and Political Consciousness, Post-Independence Socio-Political Developments |
| Hist. 304 | Introduction to Archaeology (Optional - Group A) | Elective | 4 | Definition, Aims, Scope and History of Archaeology, Methods of Exploration and Excavation, Dating Methods in Archaeology, Archaeological Sites and Cultures, Conservation and Preservation of Archaeological Remains |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hist. 401 | History of Uttar Pradesh (Cultural Period) | Core | 4 | Art and Architecture of Uttar Pradesh (Ancient to Modern), Development of Literature and Languages in UP, Educational Institutions and Centers, Religious Traditions, Fairs and Festivals, Social Reforms and Cultural Movements |
| Hist. 402 | History of Historiography (Western & Indian) | Core | 4 | Greek and Roman Historiographical Traditions, Medieval European and Enlightenment Historians, Modern Western Historiography: Annales, Marxist, Postmodern, Ancient, Medieval and Modern Indian Historiography, Subaltern, Feminist and Environmental History |
| Hist. 403 | Dissertation / Project | Core | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review and Source Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Documentation, Presentation and Viva-Voce |
| Hist. 404 | Field Archaeology & Museology (Optional - Group A) | Elective | 4 | Archaeological Exploration and Survey Techniques, Excavation Methods and Site Documentation, Post-Excavation Analysis and Reporting, Principles of Museology and Museum Management, Conservation, Display and Education in Museums |
