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M-A in History at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College
Mayurbhanj, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is History at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College Mayurbhanj?
This M.A. History program at Maharaja Purna Chandra Autonomous College focuses on a comprehensive understanding of historical developments across various periods and regions. With a strong emphasis on Indian, Odishan, European, American, and Asian history, the program also delves into crucial areas like historiography, gender studies, and environmental history, reflecting contemporary relevance in the Indian academic landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history graduates seeking in-depth knowledge and research skills in the discipline. It caters to individuals passionate about historical inquiry, aspiring to careers in teaching, research, archival management, museum studies, or competitive civil services exams in India, where a strong humanities background is highly valued.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including academic roles as lecturers/professors, researchers, archaeologists, archivists, museum curators, and heritage managers. They are also well-prepared for civil services examinations (UPSC, OPSC) and roles in journalism or public policy, with potential entry-level salaries ranging from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, growing significantly with experience.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historical Concepts and Methods- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with historiographical theories, fundamental historical periods (Ancient, Medieval, Modern India, Europe), and diverse research methods. Focus on understanding historical debates, causation, objectivity, and different schools of thought. Utilize college library resources, online academic databases, and faculty consultations to build a robust foundational understanding.
Tools & Resources
College Library, Jstor (if institutional access), Faculty Mentorship
Career Connection
A strong grasp of historical concepts is fundamental for academic success, higher-level research, and crucial for initial rounds of competitive examinations for teaching or civil services roles in India.
Develop Critical Reading and Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice reading primary and secondary sources critically, identifying arguments, evidence, and biases. Systematically organize notes using digital tools or traditional methods, linking concepts across different historical periods. Focus on developing clear, concise, and evidence-based academic writing for assignments and term papers, seeking feedback from professors.
Tools & Resources
Evernote, OneNote, Academic Writing Guides, Peer Review Groups
Career Connection
Strong analytical and organizational skills, coupled with effective academic writing, are indispensable for dissertation writing, research publications, and for excelling in essay-based competitive examinations like UPSC or OPSC.
Engage in Departmental Activities and Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to broaden perspectives and engage with current historical research. Join study groups and participate in classroom discussions to hone presentation and argumentative skills. Peer learning and faculty interaction help clarify complex topics and foster an academic environment, vital for networking within the Indian academic community.
Tools & Resources
Departmental Event Calendars, Study Groups, Discussion Forums
Career Connection
Active engagement builds confidence, enhances networking opportunities with peers and faculty, and prepares students for collaborative academic or professional work environments common in India.
Intermediate Stage
Deepen Specialization through Electives and Focused Research- (Semester 2-3)
Choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that strongly align with your emerging research interests and career aspirations (e.g., Archives & Museum Management for curatorial roles). Initiate literature review and topic exploration for the eventual Semester 4 dissertation/project. Engage in mini-research assignments to apply methodological skills to specific historical inquiries.
Tools & Resources
Academic Journals, Research Databases, Faculty Advisors for DSE selection
Career Connection
This focused approach allows students to develop an area of expertise, which is highly valued for specialist roles in heritage, archives, or research institutions across India, and strengthens postgraduate applications.
Explore Internship Opportunities in Cultural Institutions- (Semester 2-3 (During summer breaks or concurrent))
Actively search for internships with state archives, local museums, heritage sites, or NGOs working in cultural preservation within Odisha or other Indian states. Practical exposure provides invaluable real-world experience, helps in applying theoretical knowledge, and builds a professional network that can lead to future employment opportunities.
Tools & Resources
College Career Cell, Online Internship Portals (e.g., Internshala), Direct outreach to institutions
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for gaining practical experience, developing industry-specific skills, and establishing professional contacts that can be instrumental for securing placements in the Indian cultural and heritage sector.
Prepare Systematically for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 2-3 onwards)
Begin focused preparation for competitive exams like UGC NET (for lectureship/JRF), OPSC (Odisha Public Service Commission), or UPSC Civil Services. Integrate exam syllabi with course material, solving previous year''''s questions and participating in mock tests. This dual focus ensures academic excellence while concurrently building a strong foundation for a career in academia or public administration.
Tools & Resources
Previous Year Question Papers, UPSC/OPSC/UGC NET Syllabi, Coaching Material (if opted)
Career Connection
Early and systematic preparation significantly increases chances of success in these high-stakes exams, which are gateways to prestigious careers in teaching, research, and civil services across India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Robust Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Execute a well-researched dissertation or project (CC-15) under dedicated faculty guidance. Focus on demonstrating independent research capability, analytical rigor, and strong academic writing. This serves as a capstone project, showcasing specialized knowledge and research potential, a critical component for both academic and non-academic roles.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated Faculty Supervisor, Research Software (e.g., Zotero for referencing), Plagiarism Check Tools
Career Connection
A high-quality dissertation is a testament to research aptitude, crucial for Ph.D. admissions, research assistant roles, and adds significant weight to a candidate''''s profile for any intellectually demanding position in India.
Intensify Career-Specific Skill Development and Networking- (Semester 4)
For those pursuing specific career paths (e.g., archives, museums), dedicate time to acquiring specialized software skills or attending specific workshops. Intensify networking efforts with professionals in target industries or academic fields. Seek informational interviews and mentorship from established professionals to gain insights into industry expectations and job market trends in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional Conferences/Webinars, Industry-Specific Software Training
Career Connection
Targeted skill development and professional networking are crucial for transitioning from academia to industry, opening doors to specific job roles and helping navigate the Indian job market effectively.
Develop a Professional Portfolio and Refine Interview Skills- (Semester 4)
Compile a comprehensive professional portfolio including research papers, project reports, certificates, and a strong Curriculum Vitae (CV) tailored to specific job applications. Practice interview skills, focusing on articulating historical knowledge, research experience, and career aspirations clearly. Attend placement workshops or career counseling sessions, if offered by the college, to enhance readiness.
Tools & Resources
Professional Portfolio Website/Folder, Mock Interview Sessions, Career Counseling Services
Career Connection
A well-prepared portfolio and polished interview skills are essential for making a strong impression on potential employers or admission committees, significantly improving placement and higher education prospects in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree with Honours/Major in History with 45% marks in aggregate or Bachelor''''s Degree with 50% marks in aggregate as a regular student of any recognized University / Autonomous College.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-1 | Historiography: Concepts, Methods & Tools of History | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Causation and Objectivity, Role of Bias and Ethics, Historical Methods and Research Design, Sources of History and Archival Research, Major Schools of Historical Thought |
| CC-2 | Ancient Indian History (Earliest Times to 1200 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Sources and Historiography, Harappan Civilization and Vedic Culture, Rise of Mahajanapadas and Heterodox Sects, Mauryan Empire and Post-Mauryan Developments, Gupta Age and Regional Kingdoms, Society, Economy, Culture in Ancient India |
| CC-3 | Medieval Indian History (1200 A.D. to 1750 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Sources of Medieval Indian History, Establishment and Consolidation of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire: Administration, Society, Economy, Rise of Provincial Dynasties and Bhakti-Sufi Movements, Art, Architecture, and Culture of Medieval India, Decline of Mughal Empire and Regional Powers |
| CC-4 | Modern Indian History (1750 A.D. to 1950 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire and Rise of British Power, Colonial Economy, Society, and Administration, Social and Religious Reform Movements, Rise of Indian Nationalism and Mass Movements, Gandhian Era and Struggle for Independence, Partition of India and Challenges of Nation Building |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-5 | History of the USA (1776 A.D. to 1945 A.D.) | Core | 4 | American Revolution and Constitution, Expansion and Westward Movement, American Civil War and Reconstruction, Industrialization and Progressive Era, Rise as a World Power: WWI and its Aftermath, Great Depression and New Deal |
| CC-6 | History of Modern Europe (1789 A.D. to 1945 A.D.) | Core | 4 | French Revolution and Napoleonic Era, Congress of Vienna and Concert of Europe, Industrial Revolution and Social Changes, Rise of Nationalism and Nation-States, Imperialism and Colonialism, World Wars I and II |
| CC-7 | History of Odisha (Earliest Times to 1568 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Sources of Odishan History, Prehistoric and Protohistoric Odisha, Ancient Dynasties: Kalinga, Mahameghavahanas, Somavamsis, Eastern Gangas, Suryavamsi Gajapatis, Society, Economy, Religion and Culture in Ancient Odisha, Art and Architecture of Odisha |
| CC-8 | History of Odisha (1568 A.D. to 2000 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Fall of Gajapatis and Afghan Rule, Mughal and Maratha Administrations in Odisha, British Conquest and Colonial Rule, National Movement in Odisha, Formation of Odisha Province, Post-Independence Odisha |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-9 | Contemporary World (1945 A.D. to 2000 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Cold War: Origins, Phases, End, Decolonization and Emergence of Third World, United Nations Organization and Global Governance, Non-Aligned Movement, Globalization and Rise of Regional Blocs, Terrorism and Challenges to World Peace |
| CC-10 | History of South East Asia | Core | 4 | Geographical and Historical Background, Ancient Kingdoms and Cultural Influences, Colonialism in Southeast Asia, Nationalism and Independence Movements, Post-Independence Developments, Regional Organizations: ASEAN |
| CC-11 | History of China and Japan (1839 A.D. to 1949 A.D.) | Core | 4 | China: Opium Wars and Taiping Rebellion, Self-Strengthening Movement and Boxer Uprising, Revolution of 1911 and Rise of Communism, Japan: Meiji Restoration and Modernization, Sino-Japanese Wars and Japanese Imperialism, World War II in Asia |
| DSE-1 (Option A) | History of Modern East Asia (1949 A.D. to 2000 A.D.) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Cold War in East Asia, Korean War and its Impact, Rise of Maoist China and Cultural Revolution, Economic Growth of Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong and its Return to China, Regional Dynamics and Geopolitics |
| DSE-1 (Option B) | History of Modern West Asia (1945 A.D. to 2000 A.D.) | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Arab Nationalism and Decolonization, Creation of Israel and Arab-Israeli Wars, Suez Crisis and Cold War Interventions, Iranian Revolution and its Impact, Persian Gulf Conflicts, Oil Politics and Regional Stability |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-12 | Cultural History of India | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Cultural Traditions, Vedic Culture and Upanishadic Philosophy, Jainism, Buddhism, and their Cultural Impact, Art, Architecture, and Literature of India, Medieval Syncretism and Composite Culture, Colonial Impact on Indian Culture |
| CC-13 | Gender Studies | Core | 4 | Historical Construction of Gender, Patriarchy and Women in Indian Society, Women in Nationalist and Social Reform Movements, Gender and Colonialism, Women''''s Movements in Independent India, Gender, Law, and Development in India |
| CC-14 | Environmental History of India | Core | 4 | Nature-Human Relationship in Ancient India, Forest Policies and Colonial Resource Exploitation, Environmental Impact of Industrialization, Ecological Movements in India, Dams, Development, and Displacement, Contemporary Environmental Challenges |
| DSE-2 (Option A) | History of Science & Technology | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Science and Knowledge Systems, Medieval Scientific Traditions in India and Beyond, European Scientific Revolution, First and Second Industrial Revolutions, Impact of Science and Technology on Society, Modern Scientific Advancements and Ethics |
| DSE-2 (Option B) | Archives & Museum Management | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Nature, Scope, and Importance of Archives, Archival Management and Preservation, History and Evolution of Museums, Collection Management and Documentation, Conservation and Restoration of Artifacts, Exhibition Design and Museum Education |
| CC-15 | Project/Dissertation | Core (Project) | 4 | Research Question Formulation, Literature Review and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Structuring, Citation and Referencing, Presentation and Viva-Voce |
