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BACHELOR-OF-ARTS-BA in History at Manohar Lal Damodar Prasad Kashi Prasad Yadav College
Araria, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is History at Manohar Lal Damodar Prasad Kashi Prasad Yadav College Araria?
This History program at M.L.D.P.K.Y. College, affiliated with Purnea University, provides a comprehensive understanding of Indian and world history from ancient to contemporary times. It fosters critical thinking, research acumen, and a nuanced perspective on socio-political and economic transformations, which is highly relevant for various competitive examinations and academic pursuits in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students deeply interested in India''''s rich historical narrative and global developments. It attracts aspirants for civil services, journalism, research, and teaching. It also suits individuals seeking a strong humanities foundation for higher studies in fields like archaeology, museology, or international relations.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in government administration (UPSC, BPSC), museums, archives, media, tourism, and education sectors across India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, with significant growth potential. The program strongly prepares students for competitive exams and future academic or research roles.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Strong Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read prescribed texts, primary sources, and supplementary history books beyond class lectures to build a comprehensive understanding of ancient civilizations and early Indian history. Focus on understanding diverse historical interpretations.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Online archives (e.g., Project Gutenberg), NCERT history textbooks for foundational clarity
Career Connection
Essential for competitive exams like UPSC/BPSC, where in-depth historical knowledge and analytical reading are crucial for success.
Develop Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on structuring essays, developing arguments with evidence, and proper referencing techniques. Practice writing clear and concise answers for internal assessments and end-semester examinations to improve articulation.
Tools & Resources
University writing guides, Peer review with classmates, Online resources for academic writing and citation styles
Career Connection
Improves communication and critical reasoning, which are vital for all professional roles, particularly for descriptive papers in civil services and research endeavors.
Engage in Historical Debates and Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, historical society debates (if available), and group projects. This helps develop critical thinking and allows students to articulate different perspectives on complex historical events.
Tools & Resources
History department forums, Current affairs discussions with historical context, Reputable history documentaries for broader understanding
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, argumentation, and analytical skills, which are invaluable for careers in policy-making, journalism, teaching, and civil services interviews.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Regional History and Heritage- (Semester 3-5)
Deep dive into the history of Bihar and neighboring regions, focusing on local heritage sites, archaeological findings, and regional historical narratives. Plan visits to local museums and historically significant places to gain practical insights.
Tools & Resources
Patna Museum, Nalanda University ruins, Local archives and libraries, Bihar State Text Book Publishing Corporation history books
Career Connection
Opens pathways in local tourism, heritage management, regional history research, and state-level civil services (BPSC) specifically.
Build Research and Documentation Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Learn to locate and synthesize information from various sources including books, academic journals, and digital archives. Practice compiling accurate bibliographies and writing short research papers with proper citation.
Tools & Resources
Jstor and Shodhganga (via university library), University e-library portals, Workshops on research methodology and citation styles
Career Connection
This forms the foundation for postgraduate studies, academic research, archiving roles, and positions requiring meticulous data handling and analytical reporting.
Participate in Quizzes and Essay Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in inter-college history quizzes, essay writing competitions, and debates. This tests knowledge retention, improves subject recall, and provides a platform to gain recognition for academic prowess.
Tools & Resources
College cultural and academic committees, Online quiz platforms focused on history, General knowledge and history reference books
Career Connection
Sharpens competitive exam skills, boosts confidence, and helps build a strong academic resume, beneficial for future job applications and higher education.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
Align studies with the syllabus of UPSC/BPSC Civil Services examinations, particularly focusing on History as an optional or general studies subject. Practice answer writing under timed conditions and join dedicated study groups.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers of UPSC/BPSC, Reputable coaching institute materials (if self-studying), Online forums for civil services aspirants
Career Connection
Provides direct and structured preparation for highly sought-after career paths in Indian administration, public service, and policy-making.
Undertake a Mini-Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Work closely with a faculty mentor to choose a specific historical topic, conduct in-depth primary and secondary research, and write a small dissertation or comprehensive term paper demonstrating advanced historical analysis.
Tools & Resources
Faculty guidance and supervision, Access to university and specialized research libraries, Workshops on advanced research methodology and thesis writing
Career Connection
Develops advanced research, analytical, and critical thinking skills, essential for academic careers, think tanks, and high-level analytical roles in various organizations.
Network with Historians and Academicians- (Semester 6)
Attend history seminars, workshops, and guest lectures organized by the department, university, or other institutions. Engage with faculty and visiting scholars to gain insights into historical research, current debates, and academic career pathways.
Tools & Resources
University events calendar, Social media groups for historians, Professional academic associations (e.g., Indian History Congress)
Career Connection
Provides mentorship opportunities, opens doors for higher education admissions, potential research assistantships, and academic job opportunities, fostering professional growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed Intermediate (10+2) examination in any stream from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 148 Credits Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-1 | History of Ancient India (Up to c. 6th Century BCE) | Core | 6 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-Historic Cultures, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Period, Rise of Mahajanapadas |
| HIST-CC-2 | Social Formations and Cultural Patterns of the Ancient World | Core | 6 | Evolution of Humankind, Mesopotamian Civilization, Egyptian Civilization, Greek City States, Roman Empire |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies / MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Ecosystems, Biodiversity Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources, Sustainable Development |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective - I (from other discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics determined by chosen discipline (e.g., Political Science, Economics) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-3 | History of India (c. 6th Century BCE to c. 6th Century CE) | Core | 6 | Rise of Magadha, Mauryan Empire, Post-Mauryan Period, Gupta Empire, Harsha''''s Empire |
| HIST-CC-4 | Social Formations and Cultural Patterns of the Medieval World | Core | 6 | Feudalism in Europe, Rise of Islam, Byzantine Empire, Nomadic Empires, Crusades |
| AECC-2 | English Communication / MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Oral Communication, Report Writing |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective - II (from other discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics determined by chosen discipline (e.g., Psychology, Sociology) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-5 | History of India (c. 7th to 12th Century CE) | Core | 6 | Post-Gupta Period, Regional Kingdoms (Pallavas, Chalukyas), Rajput States, Cholas and their administration, Turkish Invasions |
| HIST-CC-6 | Rise of Modern West - I | Core | 6 | Renaissance and Reformation, Commercial Revolution, Growth of Nation States, Scientific Revolution, Enlightenment |
| HIST-CC-7 | History of India (1206-1707) | Core | 6 | Delhi Sultanate, Vijayanagara and Bahmani Kingdoms, Mughal Empire, Administration and Economy under Mughals, Decline of Mughal Empire |
| SEC-1 | Archives and Museums / Historical Tourism | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Introduction to Archives, Types of Museums, Heritage Management, Tourism in India, Ethics in Museum Studies |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective - III (from other discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics determined by chosen discipline |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-8 | History of India (1707-1950) | Core | 6 | Decline of Mughal Empire, Rise of Regional Powers, Establishment of British Rule, Colonial Economy and Society, Indian National Movement |
| HIST-CC-9 | Rise of Modern West - II | Core | 6 | Industrial Revolution, American Revolution, French Revolution, Nationalism and Imperialism, World Wars |
| HIST-CC-10 | History of Modern Europe (c. 1780-1939) | Core | 6 | French Revolution and Napoleon, Concert of Europe, Rise of Industrial Capitalism, Unification of Germany and Italy, World War I |
| SEC-2 | Understanding Heritage / Art and Culture of India | Skill Enhancement Course | 4 | Concept of Heritage, Architectural Heritage, Intangible Heritage, Indian Painting and Sculpture, Performing Arts |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective - IV (from other discipline) | Generic Elective | 6 | Topics determined by chosen discipline |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-11 | History of Bihar (Ancient Period) | Core | 6 | Sources for Bihar History, Early Man in Bihar, Pre-Mauryan Bihar, Mauryan and Post-Mauryan Bihar, Guptas and Later Guptas in Bihar |
| HIST-CC-12 | History of USA (c. 1776-1945) | Core | 6 | American Revolution, Formation of the Republic, Expansion and Regionalism, Civil War and Reconstruction, USA in World War I and II |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective - I (e.g., History of Modern East Asia / Economic History of India) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Topics based on chosen elective |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective - II (e.g., History of Latin America / Women in Indian History) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Topics based on chosen elective |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIST-CC-13 | History of Bihar (Medieval & Modern Period) | Core | 6 | Bihar under Delhi Sultanate, Bihar under Mughals, European Trading Companies in Bihar, Bihar in 1857 Revolt, Bihar in National Movement |
| HIST-CC-14 | Contemporary World History (c. 1945-2000s) | Core | 6 | Cold War, Decolonization, Emergence of New Nations, Globalization, Post-Cold War World Order |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective - III (e.g., History of Environment / Indian Diaspora) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Topics based on chosen elective |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective - IV (e.g., Tourism and Heritage Management / Gender in History) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Topics based on chosen elective |
