

BA in History at Maharaja Madakari Nayaka First Grade College


Chitradurga, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is History at Maharaja Madakari Nayaka First Grade College Chitradurga?
This History program at Maharaja Madakari Nayaka First Grade Arts and Commerce College, affiliated with Davangere University, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of Indian and World history from ancient to modern times, including a special emphasis on Karnataka''''s rich historical legacy. It delves into political, social, economic, and cultural developments, offering a critical perspective on historical events and historiographical methods. This foundational knowledge is crucial for a wide range of careers in India that value analytical thinking and contextual awareness.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into fields like civil services, teaching, journalism, or heritage management, which require strong analytical and research skills. It also suits individuals with a passion for uncovering the past, understanding societal evolution, and contributing to cultural preservation. Aspiring academics, museum curators, archivists, and historical researchers will find the curriculum particularly enriching, providing a solid academic bedrock.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths such as archaeologists, historians, museum professionals, archivists, educators, journalists, or civil servants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 8-12 LPA in specialized roles. Growth trajectories often lead to leadership positions in cultural institutions, academic leadership, or senior roles in public administration within the Indian context.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Strong Reading and Critical Thinking Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with prescribed texts and supplementary historical literature. Develop the ability to analyze primary and secondary sources, identify biases, and formulate independent interpretations. Practice structured note-taking and academic essay writing from the first semester.
Tools & Resources
University library, National Digital Library of India (NDLI), Academic journals
Career Connection
Essential for research, analysis, and effective communication in academic, civil services, and media careers.
Build Foundational Knowledge in Indian History- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intently on understanding the chronological progression and key themes of Ancient and Medieval Indian History, as these form the bedrock for advanced studies. Regularly review timelines, significant events, and cultural movements. Participate in discussions to solidify understanding.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., NCERT, Bipan Chandra), Historical atlases, Online lecture series on Indian history
Career Connection
Crucial for competitive exams like UPSC/KPSC, teaching positions, and heritage management roles requiring deep historical context.
Master Academic Writing and Research Ethics- (Semester 1-2)
Learn the conventions of academic essay writing, referencing styles (e.g., MLA/Chicago if applicable), and the principles of avoiding plagiarism. Seek feedback on early assignments to refine writing skills and understand ethical research practices.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, Online guides on academic writing, Citation management tools
Career Connection
Fundamental for any professional path requiring reports, research papers, or formal communication, ensuring credibility and integrity.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Regional and Global Historical Perspectives- (Semester 3-4)
Beyond Indian history, actively engage with modules on Karnataka History and Modern World History. Draw comparisons, identify interconnections, and understand global historical processes. This broadens your analytical framework and contextual understanding.
Tools & Resources
World history textbooks, Historical maps, Khan Academy history sections, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Enhances readiness for international relations, global journalism, or positions in institutions with a global outreach.
Participate in Historical Debates and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Actively engage in classroom discussions, departmental seminars, and inter-collegiate history events. Present your viewpoints, defend arguments with evidence, and learn from diverse interpretations. This hones public speaking and intellectual sparring skills.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, History societies, Departmental notice boards for event announcements
Career Connection
Develops strong communication, argumentation, and presentation skills vital for civil services interviews, teaching, and advocacy roles.
Seek Internships or Volunteer in Heritage/Archival Projects- (Semester 4-5)
Look for opportunities to intern at local museums, state archives, heritage sites, or historical societies during academic breaks. This provides practical experience in historical preservation, documentation, and research outside the classroom.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Local heritage organizations, Government cultural departments
Career Connection
Hands-on experience is invaluable for careers in museology, archival management, archaeology, and cultural tourism, building a professional portfolio.
Advanced Stage
Specialize in Research Methodology and Historiography- (Semester 5-6)
Focus intensely on ''''Historiography'''' and ''''Principles of Archaeology'''' in your final semesters. Understand different schools of historical thought, advanced research methods, and source criticism. This specialized knowledge is crucial for advanced academic work or deep dives into specific historical periods.
Tools & Resources
Advanced academic texts on historiography, Research methodology workshops, Guidance from faculty on dissertation topics
Career Connection
Prepares students for postgraduate studies (MA, PhD), academic research, and specialized roles in historical consultancy or writing.
Prepare Systematically for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 5-6)
If aiming for civil services (UPSC, KPSC) or other government jobs, begin dedicated preparation using your History knowledge base. Integrate current affairs with historical context. Form study groups and practice mock tests regularly.
Tools & Resources
Competitive exam coaching institutes, Previous year question papers, Current affairs magazines, Online forums for exam preparation
Career Connection
Directly impacts success in competitive exams, opening doors to prestigious government administrative and public service roles in India.
Network and Attend Professional Conferences- (Semester 6)
Engage with faculty for mentorship, connect with alumni, and attend history conferences or workshops. Networking can open doors to research opportunities, advanced studies, and professional roles. Presenting a paper at a student conference adds immense value.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional academic organizations (e.g., Indian History Congress), College alumni network, University events calendar
Career Connection
Facilitates professional growth, potential job referrals, and staying updated on new research and opportunities in the field.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in 10+2 / Pre-University Examination of Karnataka State or equivalent.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 132 (for the entire BA degree as per university guidelines) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KAN 1.1 | Compulsory Kannada I | Language | 4 | Ancient Kannada Literature, Literary Forms, Grammar and Usage, Introduction to Kannada Writers, Cultural Aspects |
| ENG 1.2 | Compulsory English I | Language | 4 | Prose and Poetry, Basic English Grammar, Reading Comprehension, Communication Skills, Essay Writing |
| BAHY 101 | History of India from Earliest Times to 1206 A.D. | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-historic cultures, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Age and Janapadas, Mauryan and Gupta Empires, Early Medieval Kingdoms of South India |
| FC 1.1 | Constitution of India | Foundation Course | 2 | Framing of the Constitution, Preamble and Basic Features, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union and State Organs of Government |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KAN 2.1 | Compulsory Kannada II | Language | 4 | Medieval Kannada Literature, Modern Literary Movements, Kannada Drama and Folk Arts, Cultural History of Karnataka, Contemporary Kannada Writers |
| ENG 2.2 | Compulsory English II | Language | 4 | Advanced Grammar and Vocabulary, Business English and Report Writing, Public Speaking and Presentation Skills, Short Stories and Literary Appreciation, Critical Reading and Writing |
| BAHY 202 | History of India (1206 A.D. to 1707 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Vijayanagara and Bahamani Kingdoms, Mughal Empire: Administration and Expansion, Akbar and Aurangzeb''''s Reigns, Sufism and Bhakti Movement |
| FC 2.2 | Human Rights & Environmental Studies | Foundation Course | 2 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution and Sustainable Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAHY 303 | History of India (1707 A.D. to 1947 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughals and Rise of Marathas, Advent of Europeans and British Expansion, Revolt of 1857, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Rise of Indian Nationalism and Gandhian Era, Partition and Independence |
| BAHY 304 | History of Karnataka (From Earliest Times to 1799 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Sources of Karnataka History, Early Dynasties: Gangas and Kadambas, Chalukyas of Badami and Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas and Vijayanagara Empire, Bahamani Kingdom and Mysore Wodeyars |
| SEC 3.1 | Skill Enhancement Course (Generic) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Computer Fundamentals, Basic Software Applications, Internet Usage and Digital Literacy, Communication Skills, Presentation Techniques |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAHY 405 | History of Modern World (1453 A.D. to 1945 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution, French Revolution and Napoleonic Era, Unification of Germany and Italy, World War I and World War II, Rise of Fascism and Nazism |
| BAHY 406 | History of Karnataka (1799 A.D. to 1956 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Mysore Wodeyars and British Administration, Impact of 1857 Revolt in Karnataka, Freedom Movement in Karnataka, Role of Mysuru State in Indian Politics, Integration of Princely States, Unification of Karnataka |
| SEC 4.1 | Skill Enhancement Course (Generic) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Entrepreneurship Concepts, Business Plan Development, Financial Literacy, Project Management Basics, Soft Skills for Professional Success |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAHY 507 | Historiography | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of History, Objectivity and Causation in History, Schools of Historiography, Historical Method and Criticism, Oral History and Interdisciplinary Approaches |
| BAHY 508 | Principles of Archaeology | Elective | 4 | Introduction to Archaeology, Methods of Exploration and Excavation, Dating Methods in Archaeology, Conservation of Archaeological Remains, Ethics and Challenges in Archaeology |
| OE 5.1 | Open Elective (Generic) | Open Elective | 3 | Varies based on chosen elective from other departments, Examples: Basic Economics, Public Administration, Environmental Science Fundamentals, Introduction to Sociology, Indian Heritage and Culture |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAHY 609 | History of Freedom Movement in India | Core | 4 | Causes and Early Phase of Nationalism, Emergence of Extremism, Gandhian Era and Mass Movements, Role of Women and Revolutionary Activities, Partition of India and Independence |
| BAHY 610 | Social and Cultural History of India | Elective | 4 | Social Structures in Ancient India, Religious Movements and Philosophies, Art, Architecture, and Literature, Education and Science in India, Cultural Synthesis in Medieval Period |
| OE 6.1 | Open Elective (Generic) | Open Elective | 3 | Varies based on chosen elective from other departments, Examples: Human Resource Management, Marketing Management Basics, Disaster Management, Cyber Security Fundamentals |




