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M-A in History at Ram Krishna Dwarika Mahavidyalaya, Lohiya Nagar, Patna
Patna, Bihar
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About the Specialization
What is History at Ram Krishna Dwarika Mahavidyalaya, Lohiya Nagar, Patna Patna?
This M.A. History program at Ram Krishna Dwarika Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with Patliputra University, offers a rigorous and comprehensive study of Indian and world history, with a special emphasis on the history of Bihar. It aims to develop critical thinking, research skills, and a nuanced understanding of historical processes. The program is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled historians and researchers in India''''s vibrant heritage, education, and public policy sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in History or related humanities fields who aspire to academic careers, competitive civil services examinations (UPSC, BPSC), or roles in cultural institutions. It also caters to individuals passionate about India''''s rich historical and cultural heritage, seeking to deepen their knowledge and contribute to its preservation and interpretation.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, educators, researchers, and content developers for heritage tourism. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals in academic or government sectors earning significantly more. The program provides a strong academic foundation for further research, including UGC-NET/JRF and Ph.D. aspirations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong understanding of historiography, research methodologies, and the key periods of ancient and medieval Indian history. Regularly revise timelines, significant events, and different schools of historical thought. Actively engage with prescribed readings and foundational texts.
Tools & Resources
Patliputra University Library resources, NCERT History textbooks (Class XI & XII), Standard Indian history reference books (e.g., Upinder Singh, Satish Chandra), Online academic databases
Career Connection
Essential for building a robust knowledge base required for higher studies, competitive exams (UPSC, BPSC), and academic writing, forming the bedrock for all future historical pursuits.
Cultivate Critical Reading and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice dissecting primary and secondary sources to identify bias, evaluate arguments, and form independent interpretations. Participate actively in classroom discussions, seminars, and debates on historical controversies to sharpen analytical thinking.
Tools & Resources
Historical essays and academic papers, Peer group discussions and study circles, Faculty mentorship and feedback, Online courses on critical thinking and historical analysis
Career Connection
Crucial for research roles, policy analysis, journalism, and any profession requiring informed decision-making, nuanced understanding, and the ability to critically assess information.
Engage with Regional History (Bihar Focus)- (Semester 1-2)
Deep dive into the ancient and medieval history of Bihar, utilizing local resources and visiting historical sites. Focus on the unique aspects and contributions of Bihar to Indian history, understanding its regional context and significance.
Tools & Resources
Bihar State Archives, Patna Museum and local historical sites (Nalanda, Rajgir), Specific books and research papers on Bihar''''s history, Field trips and local historical societies
Career Connection
Opens doors to specialized roles in regional heritage management, tourism, state-level competitive exams (BPSC), and local research, providing a unique regional expertise.
Intermediate Stage
Specialized Research and Dissertation Preparation- (Semester 3-4)
Identify areas of interest for your dissertation early in Semester 3. Start reviewing existing literature, formulating precise research questions, and collecting data. Actively attend workshops on advanced research methodology and academic writing offered by the university or department.
Tools & Resources
Mendeley or Zotero for citation management, JSTOR, Shodhganga for literature review, University research guides and faculty supervisors, Interview or survey tools if applicable to research
Career Connection
Develops advanced research skills highly valued in academia, think tanks, and content development, directly preparing for PhD admissions and dedicated research positions.
Develop Academic Presentation and Writing Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Regularly present your research findings in departmental seminars, and actively participate in academic conferences (even local college-level ones). Practice writing well-structured essays, research papers, and your dissertation with clarity, strong argumentation, and proper academic conventions.
Tools & Resources
PowerPoint or Google Slides for presentations, Academic writing guides and style manuals, Peer review groups and feedback from professors, Grammarly or similar grammar checking tools
Career Connection
Essential for teaching, publishing, public speaking, and any role requiring effective and compelling communication of complex ideas, enhancing professional credibility.
Explore Elective Interests and Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3-4)
Utilize the elective papers to delve into specialized historical fields like Economic History, History of Science, or specific regional/world histories. Actively look for connections between historical events and other disciplines like sociology, political science, or economics to broaden your analytical perspective.
Tools & Resources
Elective course materials and specialized journals, Online courses (Coursera, edX) in related disciplines, Guest lectures from interdisciplinary experts, Cross-departmental seminars
Career Connection
Broadens career horizons, making graduates suitable for roles requiring diverse analytical perspectives, such as policy research, cultural heritage management, or cross-functional academic collaborations.
Advanced Stage
Refine Dissertation for Publication/Presentation- (Semester 4 and immediately post-graduation)
Focus on completing a high-quality dissertation by the end of Semester 4. Seek detailed and iterative feedback from your supervisor and peers. Consider refining suitable chapters for submission to academic journals or presenting your work at national/international seminars to gain early academic recognition.
Tools & Resources
Academic publishing guidelines, Institutional repositories for past dissertations, Conference call for papers notices, Professional editing services (if budget allows)
Career Connection
Establishes academic credibility, crucial for securing research grants, academic positions (lecturer, researcher), or admission to competitive doctoral programs in India and abroad.
Prepare for Competitive Exams and Academia- (Semester 4 and post-graduation)
Dedicate focused time to prepare for national-level competitive exams like UGC-NET/JRF for lectureship and research, or state/union civil services exams (UPSC, BPSC) where History is a highly popular optional subject. Develop a strategic study plan and utilize mock tests.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers and solution books, Dedicated study groups and online forums, Online mock tests and exam preparation platforms, Standard guides for UGC-NET/JRF and Civil Services exams
Career Connection
Directly targets careers in college/university teaching, research institutions, and prestigious government administrative services, which are highly sought-after in India.
Network and Explore Professional Opportunities- (Semester 4 and ongoing)
Actively attend history-related conferences, workshops, and seminars beyond the university. Connect with faculty, fellow researchers, and professionals in heritage, archives, education, and cultural organizations. Explore potential internships or voluntary work in museums or NGOs to gain practical experience.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn and academic social networks, University alumni network, Professional associations like the Indian History Congress, Career counseling services and job portals for academic/research roles
Career Connection
Helps in discovering unadvertised opportunities, gaining mentorship, and building a professional reputation vital for career advancement in specialized historical fields within the Indian context.
