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M-A in History at Raghuraja Ramgopal Mahavidyalaya
Unnao, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at Raghuraja Ramgopal Mahavidyalaya Unnao?
This M.A. History program at Raghuraja Ramgopal Mahavidyalaya, Unnao, focuses on a comprehensive study of Indian and World History, emphasizing historiographical approaches and critical analysis. It provides a deep dive into ancient, medieval, and modern periods, covering political, socio-economic, and cultural developments. The program also integrates specific regional histories like Uttar Pradesh, crucial for understanding local contexts and their broader implications in the Indian landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history enthusiasts, humanities graduates seeking advanced knowledge, aspiring educators, researchers, and individuals aiming for civil services. It caters to those who possess strong analytical skills and a curiosity for past events, their interpretations, and relevance to contemporary society. Ideal candidates often have a Bachelor''''s degree in History or a related social science discipline, demonstrating a foundational interest in historical inquiry.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, educators, journalists, and policy analysts. Many also pursue competitive examinations for government services (UPSC, UPPSC). Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in academic or research roles. The program also lays a strong foundation for M.Phil. and Ph.D. studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historical Concepts & Historiography- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to understanding foundational historical theories, different schools of thought (historiography), and critical source analysis. Engage actively in classroom discussions and utilize library resources to explore diverse perspectives on key historical events.
Tools & Resources
University Library historical texts, Online academic journals (JSTOR, Project MUSE if accessible), Lecture notes and peer study groups
Career Connection
Strong conceptual understanding forms the bedrock for advanced research and critical analysis, essential for academic roles, competitive exams, and informed historical interpretation in any professional context.
Develop Effective Research and Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Practice efficient reading of dense historical texts, learning to extract key arguments and evidence. Begin honing research skills by identifying reliable sources, making organized notes, and formulating basic research questions. Participate in college seminars and paper presentations.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Note-taking apps (Evernote, OneNote), College faculty for guidance on research methodology
Career Connection
Proficiency in research and critical reading is invaluable for roles in academia, research, archives, policy analysis, and any profession requiring information synthesis and evidence-based reasoning.
Engage in Local History and Field Visits- (Semester 1-2)
Seek opportunities for field visits to local historical sites, museums, and archives in Unnao and nearby cities like Lucknow or Kanpur. This practical exposure enhances understanding of regional history and connects theoretical knowledge with tangible heritage.
Tools & Resources
Local history societies, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) sites, State Archives, Lucknow
Career Connection
Direct engagement with historical artifacts and sites builds practical knowledge crucial for careers in museology, archaeology, heritage management, and cultural tourism, particularly relevant in heritage-rich Uttar Pradesh.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Electives and Advanced Readings- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully choose elective subjects that align with your career aspirations or research interests. Delve deeper into these specialized areas through extensive reading beyond the syllabus, attending workshops, and engaging with experts.
Tools & Resources
Advanced academic books and monographs, Specialized online courses (e.g., NPTEL for humanities if available), Departmental faculty for mentorship on specialization areas
Career Connection
Specialization builds expertise, making you a more attractive candidate for focused roles in research, niche journalism, or specific government departments dealing with culture and heritage.
Participate in National Level Seminars and Conferences- (Semester 3-4)
Actively look for and present papers at national or regional history seminars and conferences. This builds confidence, refines presentation skills, and provides exposure to the wider academic community and current research trends in India.
Tools & Resources
Indian History Congress notices, UGC conference grants (if applicable), Networking with faculty and senior researchers
Career Connection
Presenting research enhances your profile for academic positions, research fellowships, and demonstrates scholarly engagement, which is highly valued in higher education and think tanks.
Begin Research for Dissertation/Project- (Semester 3-4)
Start brainstorming dissertation topics early, consult with faculty advisors, and begin preliminary literature reviews. Develop a clear research proposal and outline for your final project, identifying potential primary and secondary sources. This phased approach reduces pressure.
Tools & Resources
CSJMU Research guidelines, Academic databases (EBSCOhost, ProQuest through institutional access), Guidance from research supervisors
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation showcases independent research capability, a key skill for M.Phil./Ph.D. admissions, research-oriented jobs, and for civil services examinations where analytical writing is crucial.
Advanced Stage
Refine Dissertation and Develop Strong Writing Skills- (Semester 4)
Focus intensely on completing and refining your dissertation. Pay close attention to academic writing conventions, argumentation, and evidence-based analysis. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and consider peer reviews to improve clarity and coherence.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly (for proofreading), University writing center (if available), Supervisor''''s feedback and revision tools
Career Connection
A high-quality dissertation is a significant academic achievement, opening doors to top Ph.D. programs and demonstrating advanced communication skills crucial for any professional writing or research role.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations or Career Entry- (Semester 4)
Identify specific career paths (e.g., NET/JRF, UPSC, State PSCs, museum jobs) and tailor your preparation. This includes studying general knowledge, current affairs, and subject-specific content. Engage in mock tests, interview preparation, and skill-building workshops.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/UPPSC past papers, NET/JRF study material, Career counseling services at the college, Online news portals for current affairs
Career Connection
Targeted preparation enhances your chances of success in competitive examinations, which are primary entry points for many prestigious government and academic positions in India.
Build a Professional Network and Portfolio- (Semester 4)
Connect with alumni, faculty, and professionals in your chosen field through LinkedIn, academic events, and departmental activities. Start compiling a portfolio of your research papers, projects, and academic achievements to showcase your capabilities to potential employers or institutions.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, Department alumni networks, Personal website/blog to showcase work
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, job opportunities, and mentorship. A well-curated portfolio effectively communicates your skills and potential, aiding in placements and further academic pursuits.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree (B.A.) with History or an equivalent degree from a recognized University.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 66 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | Indian Historiography | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Ancient Indian Historiography, Medieval Indian Historiography, Modern Indian Historiography, Post-Modernist Approaches, Regional Historiography |
| Paper II | History of Ancient India (600 BC-1200 AD) | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Rise of Mahajanapadas and Mauryan Empire, Gupta Age: Administration, Society, Economy, Post-Gupta Period: Harshavardhana, Regional Powers, Emergence of Rajputs and South Indian Dynasties |
| Paper III | History of Medieval India (1206-1707 AD) | Core | 4 | Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire: Babur to Aurangzeb, Socio-Economic Life under Sultanate and Mughals, Administrative Systems: Iqta, Mansabdari, Bhakti and Sufi Movements, Rise of Marathas and Regional Kingdoms |
| Paper IV | History of Modern India (1707-1947 AD) | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire, European Trading Companies, British Expansion and Consolidation, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Revolt of 1857, Indian National Movement and Partition |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper V | History of Uttar Pradesh (Ancient to Modern) | Core | 4 | Pre-history and Early Kingdoms in UP, Major Dynasties and Cultural Centers in UP, Medieval Rule and Sufi Saints in UP, Role of UP in 1857 and Freedom Struggle, Social and Economic Changes in Modern UP, Post-Independence Developments in UP |
| Paper VI | World History (1453-1871 AD) | Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Enlightenment and Revolutions, American War of Independence, French Revolution and Napoleonic Era, Industrial Revolution, Unification of Germany and Italy |
| Paper VII | World History (1871-1991 AD) | Core | 4 | Imperialism and Colonialism, World War I: Causes and Consequences, Russian Revolution and Rise of Communism, Rise of Fascism and Nazism, World War II and its Aftermath, Cold War and Decolonization |
| Paper VIII (A) | History of Art and Architecture in India | Elective | 4 | Indus Valley Civilization Art, Mauryan and Post-Mauryan Art, Gupta Age: Golden Age of Art, North Indian Temple Architecture (Nagara style), South Indian Temple Architecture (Dravida style), Mughal and Colonial Architecture |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper IX | Historiography: Concepts, Methods and Tools | Core | 4 | Historical Research and Sources, Objectivity and Bias in History, Causation and Generalization in History, Auxiliary Sciences of History, Interpretation and Historical Imagination, Role of Digital Humanities in History |
| Paper X | History of Science & Technology in India | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Science: Astronomy, Mathematics, Medicine, Technological Developments in Ancient India, Medieval Period Contributions to Science, Impact of Colonial Rule on Science, Science and Technology in Post-Independence India |
| Paper XI | History of China & Japan (1840-1949 AD) | Core | 4 | Opium Wars and Unequal Treaties, Taiping Rebellion and Self-Strengthening Movement, Meiji Restoration in Japan, Sino-Japanese Wars and Imperialism, Rise of Nationalism and Republic in China, Chinese Communist Revolution |
| Paper XII (A) | Social and Cultural History of India | Elective | 4 | Caste System and its Evolution, Family Structures and Kinship, Religious Syncretism and Popular Cults, Education and Social Reforms, Status of Women in different periods, Modern Cultural Trends |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper XIII | Dissertation / Research Project | Project | 6 | Topic Selection and Research Proposal, Literature Review and Source Analysis, Data Collection and Fieldwork (if applicable), Methodology and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Viva Voce Examination |
| Paper XIV | History of Europe (1789-1919 AD) | Core | 4 | French Revolution and its Impact, Concert of Europe and Vienna Congress, Revolutions of 1848, Growth of Nationalism and Imperialism, Industrialization and Social Changes, Causes and Consequences of World War I |
| Paper XV | History of America (1776-1945 AD) | Core | 4 | American Revolution and Constitution, Expansion and Manifest Destiny, Civil War and Reconstruction, Industrialization and Progressive Era, Great Depression and New Deal, USA''''s Role in World Wars |
| Paper XVI (A) | Environmental History of India | Elective | 4 | Human-Environment Interaction in Ancient India, Forest Policies and Resource Management, History of Famines and Water Scarcity, Colonial Impact on Environment, Environmental Movements in Modern India, Urbanization, Pollution, and Climate Change History |
