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MA in History at Murati Devi Smarak Mahavidyalaya
Siddharthnagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at Murati Devi Smarak Mahavidyalaya Siddharthnagar?
This MA History program at Murati Devi Smarak Mahavidyalaya focuses on a comprehensive understanding of Indian and World History, spanning ancient to contemporary periods. It delves into political, social, economic, and cultural transformations, offering insights crucial for historical analysis and research within the dynamic Indian academic landscape. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and in-depth knowledge.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Arts graduates, especially those with a history background, seeking to deepen their historical knowledge. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in academia, civil services, archival research, or cultural heritage management, and those passionate about understanding societal evolution in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue careers as historians, archaeologists, museum curators, archivists, educators, or civil servants in India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 5 LPA, with significant growth potential in academic and government sectors. The program provides a strong foundation for UGC NET/JRF and Ph.D. studies, enhancing career trajectories.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Historiographical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding different historical interpretations, theories, and research methodologies. Actively participate in lectures, engage in critical reading of foundational texts, and practice analytical essay writing to form a robust base for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
University library, JSTOR (if accessible), Historical journals, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Essential for developing critical thinking and research skills, crucial for academic careers, civil services, and any role requiring deep analytical ability and evidence-based reasoning.
Master Chronological and Conceptual Understanding- (Semester 1-2)
Create detailed timelines and concept maps for major historical periods, movements, and figures. Regularly review key dates, events, and their significance through self-quizzing, mnemonic techniques, and discussion with peers to solidify knowledge.
Tools & Resources
History textbooks, Online encyclopedias, Flashcards, Group discussions
Career Connection
Provides a robust knowledge base required for teaching, competitive examinations (like UPSC/PCS), and any research-oriented position in history, ensuring factual accuracy and contextual understanding.
Develop Effective Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice structuring historical arguments, citing sources correctly using academic styles (e.g., Chicago), and presenting evidence logically in assignments and essays. Seek constructive feedback from professors and peers on clarity, coherence, and originality.
Tools & Resources
University writing center (if available), Citation guides, Grammarly, Sample academic papers
Career Connection
Crucial for dissertation writing, academic publications, report generation in government roles, and clear, persuasive communication in any professional context, enhancing credibility.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Primary Source Analysis- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek out and analyze primary historical documents, inscriptions, numismatics, and archaeological reports. Learn to critically evaluate their authenticity, potential bias, and historical context to gain deeper insights into past events.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, State archives, University digital libraries, Specialized historical databases, Field visits to local historical sites
Career Connection
Essential for archival research, museum studies, archaeology, and historical consulting, providing a deeper understanding of evidence-based historical inquiry and research methodologies.
Prepare for National Level Competitive Exams- (Semester 3-4)
Simultaneously prepare for examinations like UGC NET/JRF, civil services (UPSC/PCS), or other state-level competitive exams. Focus on general studies, current affairs, and history-specific modules, integrating syllabus knowledge with exam preparation.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes (optional), Current affairs magazines (e.g., Pratiyogita Darpan), Online mock test series
Career Connection
Directly facilitates entry into higher education (Assistant Professor), research fellowships, and prestigious government administrative services in India, opening diverse career pathways.
Explore Specializations and Elective Interests- (Semester 3-4)
Dive deeper into specific historical periods or themes (e.g., Medieval Indian History, European History, Archaeology) based on the comprehensive curriculum. Network with faculty specializing in these areas for guidance on future research or career paths.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic texts, Research papers, Faculty office hours, Professional history associations in India
Career Connection
Helps in identifying a niche for doctoral studies, specialized research roles, or becoming an expert in a particular historical domain, contributing to academic and professional growth.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Robust Dissertation/Project- (Semester 3-4)
Choose a research topic early in the final year, conduct thorough literature review, collect data, and write a high-quality dissertation under faculty mentorship. Focus on original analysis, critical interpretation, and significant contribution to the field.
Tools & Resources
Academic supervisors, University library resources, Plagiarism detection software, Thesis writing guides, Citation management tools
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a strong portfolio piece for Ph.D. admissions, research assistant roles, and demonstrates independent research capabilities for any professional setting, showcasing advanced skills.
Develop Presentation and Communication Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Practice presenting research findings effectively in seminars, workshops, and the final viva voce. Participate in mock interviews for academic or government positions to refine public speaking and communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Public speaking clubs, Mock interview panels, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
Essential for teaching roles, conference presentations, public engagement in heritage management, and effective communication in any leadership position, enhancing professional impact.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 3-4)
Attend history conferences, seminars, and alumni events organized by the university or department. Connect with historians, archaeologists, museum professionals, and civil servants to gain insights into career paths and potential opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional history associations (e.g., Indian History Congress), University career services, Guest lectures and workshops
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internships, job opportunities, and collaborative projects, crucial for career advancement and visibility in the academic and professional fields of history.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. with History from a recognized university
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS101 | Historiography, Concepts, Methods and Tools of History | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Causation in History, Objectivity and Bias, Historian''''s Craft, Historical Research and Sources |
| HIS102 | Ancient Indian Political Ideas and Institutions (Up to 1200 A.D.) | Core | 4 | State in Ancient India, Kingship and Republics, Administrative Structure, Judicial System, Political Thought (Kautilya, Dharma Sastras) |
| HIS103 | History of Modern India (1857-1964 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Revolt of 1857, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Gandhian Movements, Partition of India, Post-Independence Challenges and Nehruvian Era |
| HIS104 | History of World Civilizations (From Pre-History to 1500 A.D.) | Core | 4 | River Valley Civilizations, Greek and Roman Civilizations, Rise of Feudalism, Renaissance and Reformation, Major Islamic Civilizations |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS201 | Indian Social and Economic Formations (Up to 1200 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Social Stratification and Varna System, Family, Marriage and Status of Women, Agrarian Economy and Land Ownership, Trade, Commerce and Urbanization, Religious Movements and Social Change |
| HIS202 | India in the Eighteenth Century | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire, Rise of Regional Powers (Bengal, Awadh, Hyderabad), Maratha Confederacy, Sikhs and Jats, Advent of European Trading Companies |
| HIS203 | History of Contemporary India (1964-2014 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Nehruvian Legacy and Shastri Era, Indira Gandhi Era and Emergency, Economic Liberalization and Reforms, Coalition Politics and Regional Assertions, Rise of BJP and Major Political Shifts |
| HIS204 | History of the World (1500-1945 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Age of Exploration and Discoveries, Industrial Revolution, American and French Revolutions, Imperialism and Colonialism, World Wars I and II |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS301 | History of India (1200-1707 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire: Administration and Expansion, Sufi and Bhakti Movements, Architecture and Art, Decline of Mughal Empire |
| HIS302 | Social and Cultural History of Medieval India (1200-1707 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Social Structure and Stratification, Status of Women in Medieval Society, Religious Syncretism, Education, Literature and Fine Arts, Festivals, Customs and Daily Life |
| HIS303 | History of Europe (1789-1871 A.D.) | Core | 4 | French Revolution and its Impact, Napoleonic Era and Europe, Congress of Vienna and Concert of Europe, Revolutions of 1830 and 1848, Unification of Germany and Italy |
| HIS304 | History of Modern East Asia (China & Japan) (1839-1949 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Opium Wars and Unequal Treaties, Taiping Rebellion and Boxer Uprising, Meiji Restoration in Japan, Sino-Japanese Wars, Rise of Communism in China |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS401 | History of India (1707-1857 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire, Rise of British Power and Company Rule, Anglo-Maratha and Anglo-Mysore Wars, Economic Exploitation under British Rule, Social and Religious Reform Movements |
| HIS402 | History of Europe (1871-1945 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Age of Imperialism, First World War: Causes and Consequences, Russian Revolution of 1917, Rise of Fascism and Nazism, Second World War: Global Impact |
| HIS403 | Historical Archaeology | Core | 4 | Principles and Methods of Archaeology, Excavation Techniques, Dating Methods, Study of Artifacts and Monuments, Conservation and Preservation of Heritage |
| HIS404 | Dissertation/Project Work/Viva Voce | Project | 4 | Research Methodology, Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Viva Voce Examination |
