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MA-HISTORY in General at Patita Paban Mahavidyalaya, Sainkul
Keonjhar, Odisha
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About the Specialization
What is General at Patita Paban Mahavidyalaya, Sainkul Keonjhar?
This MA History program at Patita Paban Mahavidyalaya focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of historical processes, methods, and interpretations. With a curriculum spanning ancient, medieval, modern Indian, and world history, it also delves into the rich history of Odisha. The program emphasizes critical analysis of historical sources and contemporary relevance, preparing students for diverse academic and professional pursuits in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history graduates seeking advanced knowledge and research skills in the discipline. It also caters to individuals passionate about India''''s rich cultural heritage and historical evolution, including those aspiring for careers in academia, archives, museums, or civil services. Working professionals from related fields can also benefit from deepening their historical understanding and analytical capabilities.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to develop strong research, analytical, and critical thinking skills, highly valued in the Indian job market. Potential career paths include university teaching, archival research, museum curation, historical journalism, and civil services. Salaries vary widely, with entry-level academic positions starting from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization. It also prepares students for NET/JRF examinations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Historiography and Research Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding the core concepts of historiography, historical methods, and research ethics. Regularly practice source criticism and analytical writing. Engage with classic historical texts beyond class readings to build a robust foundation.
Tools & Resources
University Library (journals, primary sources), Online academic databases (JSTOR, Project MUSE), Department workshops on research methodology
Career Connection
Builds a strong analytical foundation crucial for all research-based roles, academic positions, and competitive examinations like UPSC/OSSC.
Active Participation in Departmental Seminars- (Semester 1-2)
Attend and actively participate in all departmental seminars, guest lectures, and discussions. Prepare insightful questions beforehand and engage with faculty and visiting scholars to broaden perspectives and enhance critical thinking.
Tools & Resources
Department notice board, College event calendar, Note-taking apps
Career Connection
Enhances critical thinking, public speaking, and communication skills, vital for academic careers, teaching, and professional communication.
Deep Dive into Indian Regional History- (Semester 1-2)
While covering broader Indian history, specifically dedicate time to extensively explore the history and culture of Odisha. Utilize local archives, visit historical sites, and read regional publications to gain specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Odisha State Archives, Local museums, Odia history books, Regional historical societies
Career Connection
Develops specialized knowledge highly sought after in regional cultural bodies, tourism, heritage management, and state-level administrative services.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Specialized Research Interests- (Semester 3)
Based on coursework and personal aptitude, identify specific areas of historical interest (e.g., gender history, environmental history, economic history) and begin reading extensively in those fields. Discuss potential dissertation topics with faculty mentors early on.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentorship, Advanced academic journals, Specialized monographs
Career Connection
Crucial for shaping a future research career, pursuing a PhD, or becoming an expert in a niche historical area, increasing employability in specialized fields.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Studies- (Semester 3)
Explore connections between history and other disciplines like sociology, political science, economics, and literature. Attend lectures or workshops outside the history department to gain new perspectives and broaden intellectual horizons.
Tools & Resources
University lectures from other departments, Interdisciplinary seminars, Online courses on related subjects
Career Connection
Broadens intellectual horizons and makes graduates more adaptable, valuable for roles requiring multi-faceted understanding and problem-solving skills.
Enhance Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 3)
Regularly practice writing advanced research papers and giving oral presentations. Actively seek feedback from professors and peers, focusing on clarity, coherence, evidence-based argumentation, and effective communication of complex ideas.
Tools & Resources
Writing workshops, Peer review sessions, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides)
Career Connection
Essential for academic publishing, teaching, conference presentations, and professional communication in any field, particularly academia and research.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Rigorous Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Plan and execute a comprehensive research project or dissertation under faculty supervision. Focus on original research, meticulous data analysis, scholarly writing, and adhering to academic integrity standards.
Tools & Resources
Research guides, Extensive library resources, Faculty supervisors, Plagiarism checking tools
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is a key credential for PhD applications, research positions, and demonstrates advanced research capabilities to employers, enhancing career prospects.
Prepare for NET/JRF and Civil Services Exams- (Semester 4)
Systematically study for national-level eligibility tests like UGC NET/JRF or state/central civil services exams. Focus on general studies, historical methods, and specific historical periods relevant to these competitive examinations.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes (if opting), Online study groups, Standard reference books for competitive exams
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for careers in academia (Assistant Professor) and prestigious government services in India, opening up high-impact career paths.
Network with Historians and Cultural Professionals- (Semester 4)
Attend national/regional history conferences, academic workshops, and cultural events. Actively network with established historians, archivists, museum professionals, and other experts in the field to build professional relationships.
Tools & Resources
Conference proceedings, Professional association websites (e.g., Indian History Congress), LinkedIn
Career Connection
Opens doors for collaborations, mentorship, job opportunities, and staying updated with current historical scholarship and industry trends, fostering career growth.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20% (per subject), External: 80% (per subject)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH-101 | Historiography and Historical Methods | Core | 4 | Meaning & Scope of History, Nature of History, Historical Objectivity, Causation in History, Philosophy of History, Historical Research |
| MAH-102 | Ancient Indian History (From Earliest Times to 600 CE) | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-historic Culture, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Culture, Mauryan Period, Gupta Period |
| MAH-103 | Medieval Indian History (1206-1526 CE) | Core | 4 | Sources of Medieval Indian History, Foundation of Delhi Sultanate, The Khaljis & Tughlaqs, The Sayyids & Lodis, Sufi and Bhakti Movements |
| MAH-104 | Modern Indian History (1757-1857 CE) | Core | 4 | Sources of Modern Indian History, Decline of Mughal Empire, British Expansion, Economic Policies of British, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Revolt of 1857 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH-201 | Ancient Indian History (600-1206 CE) | Core | 4 | Sources, Major Dynasties of North India, Major Dynasties of South India, Administration, Society & Economy, Art & Architecture |
| MAH-202 | Medieval Indian History (1526-1757 CE) | Core | 4 | Sources, Foundation of Mughal Empire, Mughal Rulers (Akbar, Aurangzeb), Mughal Administration, Society & Economy, Decline of Mughal Empire |
| MAH-203 | Modern Indian History (1858-1947 CE) | Core | 4 | Aftermath of 1857, Administrative Changes, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Gandhian Movement, Partition of India |
| MAH-204 | History of Odisha (From Earliest Times to 1568 CE) | Core | 4 | Sources of Odisha History, Early Rulers (Sailodbhavas, Bhaumakaras), Somavamsis, Gangas, Suryavamsi Gajapatis, Society & Culture |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH-301 | Modern World History (1453-1945 CE) | Core | 4 | Renaissance & Reformation, Enlightenment, Revolutions (American, French, Industrial), Imperialism & Colonialism, World Wars I & II |
| MAH-302 | History of Odisha (1568-1947 CE) | Core | 4 | Decline of Suryavamsis, Afghan Rule in Odisha, Mughal Rule in Odisha, Maratha Rule in Odisha, British Occupation of Odisha, Freedom Movement in Odisha |
| MAH-303A | History of Science and Technology in India | Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Science, Science & Technology in Medieval India, Colonial Science, Post-Independence Scientific Development |
| MAH-303B | History of Environmental Studies | Elective | 4 | Environmental History, Human-Nature Relationship, Major Environmental Movements, Environmental Policies |
| MAH-304A | History of Tourism | Elective | 4 | Concept of Tourism, Historical Development of Tourism, Types of Tourism, Tourism in India, Impact of Tourism |
| MAH-304B | Historical Archaeology | Elective | 4 | Introduction to Archaeology, Types of Archaeology, Methods of Exploration & Excavation, Dating Methods, Archaeological Ethics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAH-401 | History of Freedom Movement in India (1885-1947) | Core | 4 | Moderates & Extremists, Revolutionary Nationalism, Gandhian Era, Quit India Movement, Partition of India |
| MAH-402 | Women in Indian History | Core | 4 | Position of Women in Ancient India, Women in Medieval India, Women in Modern India, Women''''s Movements, Women & Law |
| MAH-403A | History of Art and Architecture in India | Elective | 4 | Harappan Art, Mauryan & Gupta Art, Temple Architecture (North & South), Mughal Art & Architecture, Colonial Art |
| MAH-403B | History of Sports in India | Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Sports, Medieval Sports & Leisure, Colonial Impact on Sports, Modern Indian Sports, Sports Policies & Development |
| MAH-404 | Project Work/Dissertation | Project | 4 | Research Methodology, Literature Review, Data Collection & Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation & Defense |
