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B-A-HONS in English at Patna Women's College
Patna, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is English at Patna Women's College Patna?
This B.A. (Hons.) English program at Patna Women''''s College focuses on a comprehensive study of literature from classical to contemporary periods, alongside developing critical thinking and communication skills. It delves into diverse literary traditions including Indian, British, American, and European, while also exploring emerging fields like Postcolonial and Women''''s writing. In the Indian context, a strong command of English literature and language is highly valued across various sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in literature, language, and cultural studies, aspiring to delve into the nuances of global literary traditions. It caters to individuals passionate about critical analysis, creative expression, and effective communication. Students aiming for careers in academia, journalism, content creation, civil services, or publishing will find this a foundational degree.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as content writers, editors, teachers, journalists, public relations specialists, or pursuing higher education. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in content management, digital marketing, and teaching. It aligns well with competitive exams like UPSC and State PSCs, requiring strong verbal and analytical skills.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Literary Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with prescribed texts by practicing close reading, identifying literary devices, and understanding historical contexts. Join college literary clubs to participate in discussions and critical analyses of classic and contemporary works.
Tools & Resources
Online literary journals, Critical essays from JSTOR, College literary societies, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Builds foundational analytical abilities crucial for advanced studies, research, content writing, and competitive examinations in India.
Enhance Academic Writing and Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on structured essay writing, proper citation (MLA/APA format), and clear articulation of ideas in assignments. Seek feedback from professors and utilize college writing centers (if available) to refine written and oral communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL, College writing workshops, English department seminars
Career Connection
Essential for all professional fields in India, particularly journalism, publishing, content creation, teaching, and effective corporate communication.
Cultivate a Broad Reading Habit- (Semester 1-2)
Go beyond the prescribed syllabus by reading diverse genres, authors, and literary criticism. This broadens perspective and enriches understanding, preparing for a deeper engagement with literature. Maintain a reading journal to document insights and reflections.
Tools & Resources
College library, Local public libraries, Project Gutenberg, Goodreads.com
Career Connection
Fosters intellectual curiosity, general knowledge, and a nuanced understanding of culture, beneficial for civil services, media, and academic pursuits in India.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Specialization through Electives- (Semester 3-5)
Strategically choose Skill Enhancement (SEC) and Generic Elective (GE) courses that align with your career interests. For example, if interested in media, opt for creative writing or communication-focused electives; if academia, choose research-oriented ones.
Tools & Resources
Departmental faculty advisors, Alumni network for career insights, College prospectus for elective descriptions, Online course platforms for supplementary learning
Career Connection
Allows for early specialization and skill development in areas like content creation, research, teaching, or public relations, making you a more targeted candidate in the Indian job market.
Participate in Research and Academic Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to assist professors with their research or undertake minor individual research projects, especially during summer breaks. Present findings at college seminars or local conferences to gain experience in academic discourse.
Tools & Resources
College research cells, Departmental research guides, Literary journals, Online academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar)
Career Connection
Builds research aptitude crucial for postgraduate studies, academic careers, policy analysis, and roles requiring analytical investigation in India.
Develop Interpersonal and Soft Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in extracurricular activities, take on leadership roles in college societies, and participate in debates, quizzes, and workshops. These experiences refine teamwork, leadership, and public speaking abilities, which are highly valued by employers.
Tools & Resources
College cultural fests, Debate societies, Student council, Leadership workshops
Career Connection
Enhances employability across all sectors in India, particularly in roles requiring client interaction, team management, and effective communication (e.g., HR, PR, management).
Advanced Stage
Focus on Career-Specific Skill Refinement- (Semester 6)
Identify specific career paths (e.g., publishing, civil services, teaching) and acquire relevant supplementary skills. For publishing, learn editing software; for civil services, focus on current affairs and general studies; for teaching, consider a B.Ed. or relevant certifications.
Tools & Resources
Online certification courses (NPTEL, Coursera), Workshops on professional writing/editing, Civil service coaching institutes, Career counseling from college placement cell
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for entry into chosen professions by bridging academic learning with practical industry requirements, enhancing marketability in the Indian job market.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 6)
Connect with alumni, industry professionals, and senior faculty members. Attend literary festivals, book launches, and academic conferences. Seek mentorship to gain insights into career trajectories and industry trends in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni association events, Professional literary associations, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Opens doors to internship opportunities, job referrals, and valuable career guidance, crucial for navigating the Indian job market effectively.
Prepare for Higher Studies or Placements- (Semester 6)
If aiming for an MA/PhD, start preparing for entrance exams (e.g., NET/SET, university-specific tests) and develop a strong research proposal. For placements, refine your resume/CV, practice interview skills, and actively apply for roles in relevant sectors through the college placement cell or online portals.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Mock interviews, Career fairs, Placement drives, Online job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn)
Career Connection
Ensures a smooth transition post-graduation, whether into advanced academic pursuits or direct employment, maximizing opportunities in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Intermediate/+2 or equivalent examination recognized by Patna University. Admission is purely on merit basis based on marks obtained in the entrance test conducted by the college.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG-AECC-101 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Ecosystems, Natural Resources, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Human Population and Environment |
| ENG-GE-101 | Generic Elective - I | Generic Elective (GE) - Optional from other departments | 6 | Chosen by student from a list of GEs offered by other departments, Not specified within English Hons syllabus, Focus on interdisciplinary learning |
| ENG-CC-101 | Indian Classical Literature | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Sanskrit Drama and Poetics (Kalidasa, Bharata), Epic Tradition (Valmiki''''s Ramayana), Ancient Indian Aesthetics (Rasa, Dhvani), Classical Indian Narrative Forms, Literary Criticism in Ancient India |
| ENG-CC-102 | European Classical Literature | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Greek Epic (Homer''''s Iliad), Greek Tragedy (Sophocles'''' Oedipus Rex), Latin Epic (Virgil''''s Aeneid), Classical Literary Criticism (Aristotle''''s Poetics), Classical Rhetoric and Philosophy |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG-AECC-202 | Communicative English / MIL | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Theory of Communication, Reading Comprehension Strategies, Academic and Professional Writing, Spoken English and Pronunciation, Public Speaking and Group Discussion |
| ENG-GE-202 | Generic Elective - II | Generic Elective (GE) - Optional from other departments | 6 | Chosen by student from a list of GEs offered by other departments, Not specified within English Hons syllabus, Focus on interdisciplinary learning |
| ENG-CC-203 | Indian Writing in English | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Evolution of Indian English Literature, Early Indian Novel (Mulk Raj Anand, R.K. Narayan), Indian English Poetry (Nissim Ezekiel, Kamala Das), Themes in Indian English Writing (Identity, Colonialism), Contemporary Indian English Fiction |
| ENG-CC-204 | British Poetry and Drama: 14th to 17th Centuries | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Chaucer and Medieval Literature, Elizabethan Drama (Shakespeare, Marlowe), Renaissance Poetry (Spenser, Sidney), Metaphysical Poets (Donne, Marvell), Jacobean Drama and Comedy (Ben Jonson) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG-SEC-301 A/B | Skill Enhancement Course - I (Optional) | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Academic Writing and Composition (Research, Essay Writing, Referencing), English Language Teaching (Methods, Classroom Management, Lesson Planning), Student chooses one from departmental offerings |
| ENG-GE-303 | Generic Elective - III | Generic Elective (GE) - Optional from other departments | 6 | Chosen by student from a list of GEs offered by other departments, Not specified within English Hons syllabus, Focus on interdisciplinary learning |
| ENG-CC-305 | American Literature | Core Course (CC) | 6 | American Romanticism and Transcendentalism (Emerson, Whitman), American Realism and Naturalism (Mark Twain, Faulkner), Modern American Poetry (Emily Dickinson, Robert Frost), African-American Literature (Langston Hughes), Major Themes in American Writing |
| ENG-CC-306 | Popular Literature | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Defining Popular Literature and its Genres, Detective Fiction (Arthur Conan Doyle, Agatha Christie), Science Fiction and Fantasy (J.R.R. Tolkien, Isaac Asimov), Children''''s Literature (Lewis Carroll, Roald Dahl), Graphic Novels and Bollywood Narratives |
| ENG-CC-307 | British Poetry and Drama: 17th and 18th Centuries | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Neoclassical Poetry (John Dryden, Alexander Pope), Restoration Comedy (William Congreve), Augustan Prose and Satire (Jonathan Swift), Sentimental Drama and Novel, Pre-Romantic Poetry (Thomas Gray, William Blake) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG-SEC-402 A/B | Skill Enhancement Course - II (Optional) | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Creative Writing (Poetry, Short Story, Script Writing), Translation Studies (Theories, Process, Cultural Issues), Student chooses one from departmental offerings |
| ENG-GE-404 | Generic Elective - IV | Generic Elective (GE) - Optional from other departments | 6 | Chosen by student from a list of GEs offered by other departments, Not specified within English Hons syllabus, Focus on interdisciplinary learning |
| ENG-CC-408 | British Literature: 18th Century | Core Course (CC) | 6 | The Enlightenment and Neoclassicism, Rise of the English Novel (Defoe, Richardson, Fielding), Augustan Age Prose and Periodical Essays, Satire (Pope, Swift), Sentimentalism and its literary manifestations |
| ENG-CC-409 | British Romantic Literature | Core Course (CC) | 6 | The Romantic Movement (Wordsworth, Coleridge, Keats, Shelley, Byron), Nature Poetry and the Sublime, Gothic Novel and its influence, Romanticism in Prose (Jane Austen), Political and Social Context of Romanticism |
| ENG-CC-410 | British Literature: 19th Century | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Victorian Age Context (Industrial Revolution, Social Change), Victorian Poetry (Tennyson, Browning, Arnold), Victorian Novel (Dickens, George Eliot, Thomas Hardy), Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Literary Criticism in the 19th Century |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG-CC-511 | Women''''s Writing | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Feminist Literary Criticism, History of Women''''s Writing across cultures, Gender and Representation in Literature, Autobiographical Writing by Women (Virginia Woolf), Indian Women Writers (Mahasweta Devi, Ismat Chughtai) |
| ENG-CC-512 | Modern European Drama | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Realism and Naturalism (Henrik Ibsen, Anton Chekhov), Symbolism and Expressionism, Theatre of the Absurd (Samuel Beckett, Eugene Ionesco), Epic Theatre (Bertolt Brecht), Existentialist and Post-War Drama |
| ENG-DSE-501 A/B/C | Discipline Specific Elective - I (Optional) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Literary Theory (Structuralism, Post-structuralism, Feminism, Marxism), Research Methodology (Research Design, Data Collection, Academic Writing), Modern Indian Writing in English (Post-Independence, Diaspora, Regional in Translation), Student chooses one from departmental offerings |
| ENG-DSE-502 A/B/C | Discipline Specific Elective - II (Optional) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Dalit Literature (History, Autobiographies, Poetry, Themes), African American Literature (Harlem Renaissance, Civil Rights, Toni Morrison), Partition Literature (Historical Context, Representation, Themes of Displacement), Student chooses one from departmental offerings |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ENG-CC-613 | Postcolonial Literatures | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Defining Postcolonialism and its Theories (Said, Spivak, Bhabha), Commonwealth Literature and Global English, African and Caribbean Literature (Chinua Achebe, Derek Walcott), South Asian Postcolonial Writing (Salman Rushdie), Themes of Hybridity, Resistance, and Subalternity |
| ENG-CC-614 | Modern British Literature | Core Course (CC) | 6 | Modernism in British Literature (Virginia Woolf, James Joyce, T.S. Eliot), Edwardian and Georgian Literature, First World War Poets (Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon), Irish Renaissance and its impact, Post-War British Fiction and Contemporary Drama |
| ENG-DSE-603 A/B/C | Discipline Specific Elective - III (Optional) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Autobiography (Theories, Forms, Indian Autobiographies), Travel Writing (History, Narratives, Ethics of Representation), Children''''s Literature (History, Genres, Indian Children''''s Literature), Student chooses one from departmental offerings |
| ENG-DSE-604 A/B/C | Discipline Specific Elective - IV (Optional) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Literature and Cinema (Adaptation Theory, Film Language, Indian Cinema), Literature and Disability (Disability Studies, Representation, Narratives), Subaltern Studies (Concept, Caste, Gender, Resistance, South Asian Context), Student chooses one from departmental offerings |
