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B-A-HONS in English at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College
Mayurbhanj, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is English at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College Mayurbhanj?
This English (Hons) program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College, Baripada, focuses on developing a deep understanding of literature, critical thinking, and communication skills. In the Indian context, a strong command of English is crucial for corporate communication, content creation, and media. This program integrates classical and modern literature with contemporary themes, meeting the growing demand for skilled communicators in India''''s diverse job market.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from intermediate or 10+2 who possess a keen interest in literature, language, and cultural studies. It also appeals to individuals aspiring for careers in teaching, journalism, publishing, and creative writing. Students with a strong aptitude for reading, analysis, and articulate expression will find this course rewarding, preparing them for intellectual and professional pursuits in various sectors.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in content writing, editing, teaching, public relations, and civil services. Entry-level salaries in these fields typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, which are highly valued by Indian companies. It also provides a strong foundation for professional certifications in language proficiency and competitive examinations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Canonical Literature- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong habit of reading widely from the classical European and Indian texts introduced. Focus on understanding historical contexts and literary movements. Join or form a book club to discuss and analyze readings, enhancing comprehension and critical perspective.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Online literary archives (Project Gutenberg), Peer discussion groups
Career Connection
Builds a robust foundation for advanced literary analysis, essential for teaching, research, and critical content creation roles.
Master Academic Communication Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to AECC courses focusing on communication. Practice concise and clear written communication through essays and reports. Actively participate in classroom discussions to improve verbal expression and public speaking confidence.
Tools & Resources
Grammar and style guides (Strunk & White), Online Writing Labs (OWL Purdue), Public speaking clubs or college debates
Career Connection
Essential for all professional fields, particularly journalism, public relations, corporate communication, and academia, where clarity and persuasion are key.
Engage in Early Research and Annotation- (Semester 1-2)
Begin developing basic research skills by exploring secondary sources for core texts. Learn effective annotation techniques for critical reading, highlighting key arguments, and forming personal interpretations. Practice summarizing academic articles.
Tools & Resources
Reference management tools (Zotero), Academic databases accessible via college library, Note-taking apps
Career Connection
Lays the groundwork for advanced research projects, dissertations, and analytical roles in market research, policy analysis, and scholarly writing.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Literary Theory Application- (Semester 3-4)
Actively apply various literary theories (feminism, Marxism, postcolonialism) to texts studied in core and elective courses. Challenge conventional interpretations and formulate original analytical arguments in essays and presentations. Attend departmental seminars on critical approaches.
Tools & Resources
Beginning Theory by Peter Barry, Online academic journals on literary criticism, Departmental workshops, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Develops advanced analytical and interpretive skills, crucial for roles in publishing, academic research, policy drafting, and high-level content strategy.
Cultivate Creative and Professional Writing Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Utilize skill enhancement courses like ''''Academic Writing and Composition'''' and ''''Creative Writing'''' to hone practical writing abilities. Experiment with different genres. Seek feedback on written work from peers and faculty, and consider submitting to college magazines or local literary competitions.
Tools & Resources
Writing workshops, Online writing communities (Wattpad), Creative writing guides, Literary magazines
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for careers in journalism, content creation, advertising, technical writing, and self-publishing, crucial for India''''s booming digital content industry.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3-4)
Actively choose Generic Elective (GE) courses that complement English studies (e.g., History, Sociology, Psychology). Explore how different disciplines intersect with literary themes and critical theory. This broadens perspective and enhances the ability to make cross-domain connections.
Tools & Resources
Course catalogs for other departments, Academic discussions with students from different disciplines, Interdisciplinary seminars
Career Connection
Fosters holistic understanding, making graduates versatile for roles requiring diverse knowledge, such as policy analysis, educational program development, and cross-functional team leadership.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Focused Research Projects- (Semester 5-6)
Identify a specific area of interest within English studies and undertake a mini-research project, ideally aligning with DSE courses like ''''Research Methodology''''. Develop a research proposal, conduct literature reviews, and present findings, possibly leading to a departmental paper or seminar.
Tools & Resources
University research databases (JSTOR, MLA International Bibliography), Academic style guides (MLA, Chicago), Faculty research guidance
Career Connection
Essential for pursuing higher education (MA, PhD), academic careers, and research roles in think tanks, NGOs, or corporate intelligence.
Prepare for Professional Pathways- (Semester 5-6)
Actively participate in career counseling sessions, placement drives, and workshops organized by the college''''s career services. Tailor resumes and cover letters for specific job roles. Practice interview skills and aptitude tests, focusing on areas like verbal reasoning and logical thinking.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online mock interview platforms, Aptitude test preparation books, LinkedIn for networking
Career Connection
Direct preparation for job placements in teaching, content development, marketing communications, public administration (through competitive exams), and media.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Network- (Semester 5-6)
Compile a portfolio of best academic essays, creative writing pieces, presentations, and any published works. Attend literary festivals, academic conferences, and alumni events to network with professionals in desired fields. Seek mentorship from faculty and industry experts.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (Medium, personal blog), Professional networking events, Alumni association, Guest lectures
Career Connection
Increases visibility and professional credibility, leading to better internship and job opportunities, fostering long-term career growth in literary, communication, and educational sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 pass or equivalent from a recognized board
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 148 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-I | Indian Classical Literature | Core | 6 | Kalidasa: Abhijnanasakuntalam, Sudraka: Mrcchakatika, Bharata''''s Natyashastra, Sanskrit Drama, Indian Poetics |
| CC-II | European Classical Literature | Core | 6 | Homer: The Iliad, Sophocles: Oedipus Rex, Horace: Ars Poetica, Virgil: The Aeneid, Greek Tragedy |
| AECC-I | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Ecosystems, Natural Resources, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Human Population and Environment |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-III | Indian Writing in English | Core | 6 | R.K. Narayan: The Guide, Mulk Raj Anand: Untouchable, Raja Rao: Kanthapura, Kamala Das: Poetry, Indian English Drama |
| CC-IV | British Poetry and Drama (14th to 17th Centuries) | Core | 6 | Geoffrey Chaucer: The Prologue, William Shakespeare: Sonnets, John Donne: Metaphysical Poetry, Christopher Marlowe: Doctor Faustus, Elizabethan Theatre |
| AECC-II | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Theories of Communication, Language of Communication, Public Speaking, Presentation Skills, Written Communication |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-V | British Poetry and Drama (17th and 18th Centuries) | Core | 6 | John Milton: Paradise Lost (Book 1), John Dryden: Mac Flecknoe, Alexander Pope: The Rape of the Lock, William Congreve: The Way of the World, Restoration Comedy |
| CC-VI | British Novel (18th Century) | Core | 6 | Daniel Defoe: Robinson Crusoe, Henry Fielding: Tom Jones, Samuel Richardson: Pamela, Sentimental Novel, Gothic Novel |
| CC-VII | British Romantic Literature | Core | 6 | William Wordsworth: Lyrical Ballads, S.T. Coleridge: Kubla Khan, Lord Byron: Childe Harold''''s Pilgrimage, P.B. Shelley: Ode to the West Wind, John Keats: Odes |
| SEC-I | Academic Writing and Composition | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Academic Essay Writing, Thesis Statement and Argumentation, Research Skills, Referencing Styles (MLA, APA), Paraphrasing and Summarizing |
| GE-I | Generic Elective (from another discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-VIII | British Literature (19th Century) | Core | 6 | Alfred Tennyson: Ulysses, Robert Browning: My Last Duchess, Charles Dickens: Great Expectations, George Eliot: Mill on the Floss, Victorian Poetry |
| CC-IX | Women''''s Writing | Core | 6 | Jane Austen: Pride and Prejudice, Charlotte Bronte: Jane Eyre, Virginia Woolf: A Room of One''''s Own, Feminist Literary Theory, Subaltern Studies |
| CC-X | Modern European Drama | Core | 6 | Henrik Ibsen: A Doll''''s House, George Bernard Shaw: Pygmalion, Bertolt Brecht: Mother Courage and Her Children, Samuel Beckett: Waiting for Godot, Theatre of the Absurd |
| SEC-II | Creative Writing | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Elements of Fiction Writing, Poetry Writing Techniques, Playwriting Basics, Scriptwriting for Media, Journalistic Writing |
| GE-II | Generic Elective (from another discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-XI | American Literature | Core | 6 | Walt Whitman: Leaves of Grass, Emily Dickinson: Selected Poems, Mark Twain: Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, F. Scott Fitzgerald: The Great Gatsby, Harlem Renaissance Writers |
| CC-XII | Popular Literature | Core | 6 | Detective Fiction (Arthur Conan Doyle), Fantasy Literature (J.R.R. Tolkien), Science Fiction (H.G. Wells), Children''''s Literature (Lewis Carroll), Graphic Novels |
| DSE-I | Literary Theory | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Structuralism and Post-structuralism, Deconstruction, Marxist Criticism, Psychoanalytic Criticism, New Historicism |
| DSE-II | Anglo-American Writing | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | T.S. Eliot: The Waste Land, Ezra Pound: Hugh Selwyn Mauberley, William Faulkner: The Sound and the Fury, Ernest Hemingway: The Old Man and the Sea, Modernist Poetry and Prose |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-XIII | Postcolonial Literatures | Core | 6 | Chinua Achebe: Things Fall Apart, Ngugi wa Thiong''''o: Weep Not, Child, Salman Rushdie: Midnight''''s Children, Postcolonial Theory, Hybridity and Cultural Identity |
| CC-XIV | Literature and Cinema | Core | 6 | Adaptation of Literature to Film, Film Theory and Criticism, Narrative Techniques in Film, Auteur Theory, Intertextuality in Literature and Film |
| DSE-III | Modern Indian Writing in English Translation | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Rabindranath Tagore: Gitanjali, Mahasweta Devi: Breast Stories, Ismat Chughtai: The Quilt, Dalit Literature in Translation, Regional Literatures of India |
| DSE-IV | Research Methodology | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Introduction to Research, Research Design and Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Qualitative and Quantitative Research, Academic Ethics and Plagiarism |
