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M-A in History at RAM MANOHAR LOHIA DEGREE COLLEGE
Deoria, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at RAM MANOHAR LOHIA DEGREE COLLEGE Deoria?
This M.A. History program at Ram Manohar Lohia Degree College, Deoria, affiliated with DDU Gorakhpur University, focuses on a comprehensive study of Indian and World History, spanning ancient to contemporary periods. It delves into historiography, research methodologies, and specialized areas like regional history, cultural studies, and economic history, equipping students with critical analytical skills. The program''''s relevance in India lies in understanding the nation''''s rich heritage and its global connections.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history graduates seeking to deepen their understanding of historical processes, theories, and research. It caters to aspiring academics, museum and archival professionals, competitive exam aspirants (UPSC, state PSCs), and educators looking to enhance their subject expertise. Individuals interested in cultural heritage management, journalism, or policy analysis with a historical perspective will also find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, and academic researchers. Many also pursue careers in civil services, journalism, teaching, and heritage conservation. Salary ranges for entry-level roles typically start from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in academia, government, or specialized fields. The program fosters critical thinking and analytical abilities, highly valued in various professional domains.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with lectures and primary texts to build a strong foundation in ancient, medieval, and modern Indian and World History. Focus on understanding historical movements, key figures, and their impact. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and different interpretations of historical events.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., NCERT for basics, advanced academic books), university library resources, online academic journals
Career Connection
A solid conceptual base is crucial for competitive exams (UPSC/PCS), academic research, and effective teaching in the long run.
Develop Critical Reading & Note-Taking Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice reading historical sources and secondary literature critically. Learn to identify biases, evaluate evidence, and synthesize information effectively. Develop a systematic note-taking method (e.g., Cornell notes, mind mapping) to organize vast amounts of historical data.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Zotero/Mendeley for bibliography management, online research databases like JSTOR, Project MUSE (if accessible)
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for research, academic writing, and analytical roles in policy or media, ensuring you can process and present complex information accurately.
Explore Research Methodology Basics- (Semester 1-2)
Familiarize yourself with the fundamentals of historiography and research methods introduced in the first semester. Attend workshops on academic writing and research ethics. Begin identifying areas of historical interest that could form the basis of future projects or dissertations.
Tools & Resources
University research guides, workshops on research ethics, basic statistical software for social sciences (if applicable)
Career Connection
Early exposure to research methods prepares you for advanced academic pursuits, dissertations, and evidence-based roles in public service or think tanks.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Primary Sources and Archival Material- (Semester 3-4)
Seek opportunities to work with primary sources, such as government records, personal letters, or historical documents available in local archives (e.g., State Archives, National Archives if accessible) or digital repositories. Learn practical skills in source analysis and preservation.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, State Archives websites, online digital libraries, NAI''''s Abhilekh Patal portal
Career Connection
Direct experience with primary sources is invaluable for becoming an archivist, museum curator, or a meticulous historical researcher.
Participate in Seminars and Conferences- (Semester 3-4)
Attend history seminars, workshops, and student conferences, even if just as an audience member. Gradually work towards presenting a paper based on your research interests. This helps in networking, gaining exposure to diverse perspectives, and improving public speaking skills.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards for events, academic society websites (e.g., Indian History Congress), departmental research forums
Career Connection
Active participation enhances your academic profile, builds a professional network, and is crucial for a career in academia or research.
Choose Electives Strategically and Deepen Specialization- (Semester 3-4)
Select elective courses that align with your long-term career goals or deepest interests. If considering a dissertation, choose electives that complement your potential research area. Engage in extensive reading beyond the syllabus for your chosen specialization.
Tools & Resources
Academic advisors, senior students, research papers in your chosen field
Career Connection
Strategic elective choices allow you to build expertise in a niche area, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in heritage, cultural institutions, or specific research projects.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Research Project or Internship- (Semester 4)
Opt for the Project Work/Dissertation or Internship elective in your final semester. This provides a capstone experience where you apply all learned skills to an independent research problem or gain hands-on experience in a historical institution. Focus on rigorous methodology and clear articulation of findings.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, research software (e.g., NVivo for qualitative analysis), professional writing and editing tools, internship portals like Internshala for relevant opportunities
Career Connection
A strong dissertation or relevant internship is a critical asset for higher studies (PhD), competitive exams, and direct entry into research-oriented or cultural sector jobs.
Prepare for Competitive Exams / Academic Applications- (Semester 4)
Begin focused preparation for civil services, NET/JRF, or other entrance exams for higher education. This includes revision of the entire syllabus, practicing mock tests, and improving general knowledge. Simultaneously, prepare statements of purpose and research proposals for PhD applications.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if desired), online test series, previous year''''s question papers, UPSC/UGC NET official websites
Career Connection
Dedicated preparation is key to securing coveted positions in Indian civil services, public sector, or qualifying for teaching and research roles in universities.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 4)
Actively build relationships with professors, visiting faculty, and professionals in your field. Seek their guidance on career paths, research topics, and opportunities. Networking can open doors to research assistantships, collaborations, and valuable career advice.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, academic social platforms, departmental events, alumni networks
Career Connection
Mentorship and networking are crucial for navigating the academic and professional landscape in India, providing insights into job markets and potential collaborations that can shape your career trajectory.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. with History as a subject, or equivalent degree from a recognized university.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HISC-101 | Historiography, Concepts, Methods and Tools of Research | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Objective and Subjectivity in History, Sources of History, Historical Methods and Interpretation, Research Methodology in History, Ethics and Plagiarism in Historical Research |
| HISC-102 | History of Ancient India (From Earliest Times to 1200 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Age and Mahajanapadas, Mauryan and Gupta Empires, Post-Gupta Period and Regional Kingdoms, Social, Economic and Cultural Life |
| HISC-103 | History of Medieval India (1200-1707 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Khalji and Tughlaq Dynasties, Bhakti and Sufi Movements, Mughal Empire: Babur to Aurangzeb, Administration and Economy under Mughals, Art, Architecture and Culture of Medieval India |
| HISC-104 | History of Modern India (1707-1964 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire, Rise of Regional Powers, Establishment of British Rule, Revolt of 1857, Indian National Movement, Partition of India and Post-Independence India |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HISC-201 | History of the World (1453-1815 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Exploration and Discovery, Rise of Nation States, Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment, American Revolution, French Revolution and Napoleonic Era |
| HISC-202 | History of the World (1815-1945 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Congress of Vienna and Concert of Europe, Industrial Revolution and Social Changes, Unification of Germany and Italy, Imperialism and Colonialism, World War I and Russian Revolution, Rise of Fascism and World War II |
| HISC-203 | History of Uttar Pradesh (From Earliest Times to 1947 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Ancient History of Uttar Pradesh, Medieval Kingdoms and Sultanate in UP, Mughal Rule and Nawabs of Awadh, British Administration in UP, Social and Cultural Movements in UP, Role of UP in Indian Freedom Struggle |
| HISC-204A | History of Science and Technology in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian contributions to Science, Medieval advancements in Technology, Science under Colonial Rule, Post-Independence Scientific Development, Traditional knowledge systems, Impact of science on Indian society |
| HISC-204B | History of Indian Art and Architecture (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Indus Valley Art, Buddhist and Jain Art, Temple Architecture (North and South), Mughal Art and Architecture, Colonial Art Forms, Modern Indian Art |
| HISC-204C | History of Religions in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Religions, Buddhism and Jainism, Rise of Islam and Sufism, Bhakti Movement, Sikhism, Religious Pluralism and Syncretism |
| HISC-204D | Economic History of India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Economy, Trade and Commerce in Medieval India, Economic Policies of British Rule, De-industrialization and Famines, Agrarian Structure, Post-Independence Economic Development |
| HISC-204E | Archaeology and Numismatics (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Introduction to Archaeology, Methods of Excavation, Dating Techniques, Early Indian Coinage, Numismatic Sources for History, Conservation of Archaeological Sites |
| HISC-204F | Archival Studies (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Role of Archives in Historical Research, Types of Archival Records, Preservation and Conservation, Digital Archiving, Access and Use of Archives, Major Indian Archives |
| HISC-204G | History of Education in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Ancient Gurukul System, Medieval Education System, Colonial Education Policies, Indigenous Education, Post-Independence Education Reforms, Challenges and Achievements in Indian Education |
| HISC-204H | History of Freedom Movement in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Early Resistance to British Rule, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Gandhian Movements, Revolutionary Activities, Role of Different Ideologies, Partition and Independence |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HISC-301 | History of Ancient Civilizations | Core | 4 | Mesopotamian Civilization, Egyptian Civilization, Greek Civilization, Roman Civilization, Chinese Civilization, Comparative Study of Ancient Civilizations |
| HISC-302 | History of Modern Political Thought | Core | 4 | Machiavelli and the State, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau and Social Contract, Liberalism and Utilitarianism, Marxism and Socialism, Anarchism and Nationalism, Feminist Political Thought |
| HISC-303 | History of Indian Diasporas | Core | 4 | Early Indian Migration, Colonial Indentured Labour Migration, Indian Diaspora in Southeast Asia, Indian Diaspora in Africa, Indian Diaspora in the West, Challenges and Contributions of Diaspora |
| HISC-304A | Cultural History of India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Culture, Cultural Synthesis in Medieval India, Colonial Influence on Culture, Performing Arts and Literature, Festivals and Traditions, Cultural Revivalism |
| HISC-304B | Environmental History of India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Human-Environment Interaction in Ancient India, Impact of Colonial Forest Policies, Environmental Movements in India, Resource Exploitation, Wildlife Conservation History, Climate Change and Indian History |
| HISC-304C | Gender and History (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Gender Roles in Ancient India, Women in Medieval Indian Society, Colonialism and Gender, Women''''s Movements in India, Patriarchy and Resistance, Gender in Historiography |
| HISC-304D | History of Peasant Movements in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Early Peasant Uprisings, Peasant Movements under British Rule, Gandhian Peasant Movements, Post-Independence Agrarian Reforms, Causes and Consequences of Peasant Struggles, Role of Peasant Organizations |
| HISC-304E | History of Labour Movements in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Early Industrial Labour in India, Formation of Trade Unions, Labour Movements under Colonialism, Impact of World Wars on Labour, Post-Independence Labour Policies, Challenges faced by Labour Movements |
| HISC-304F | History of Historiography of Modern India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Colonial Historiography, Nationalist Historiography, Marxist Historiography, Subaltern Studies, Cambridge School, Recent Trends in Indian Historiography |
| HISC-304G | Project Work/Dissertation (Elective Option) | Elective (Project) | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing, Presentation Skills, Independent Research |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HISC-401 | History of India''''s Foreign Policy (Post-Independence) | Core | 4 | Non-Aligned Movement, India''''s Relations with Neighbors, Cold War Era Diplomacy, Look East/Act East Policy, India in Global Organizations, Nuclear Policy and Security Concerns |
| HISC-402 | History of Contemporary India (1964-Present) | Core | 4 | Political Developments (1964-1977), Emergency and its Aftermath, Economic Reforms of 1991, Rise of Coalition Politics, Social Movements and Identities, Challenges of Modern India |
| HISC-403 | History of Subaltern Studies | Core | 4 | Introduction to Subaltern School, Critiques of Traditional Historiography, Concepts of Power and Hegemony, Subaltern Voices and Agency, Case Studies from Indian History, Impact and Limitations of Subaltern Studies |
| HISC-404A | Regional History of Eastern Uttar Pradesh (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Ancient History of Eastern UP, Medieval Dynasties in the Region, Socio-Economic Life, Cultural Heritage and Local Traditions, Role in Freedom Struggle, Post-Independence Regional Development |
| HISC-404B | History of Tourism in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Pilgrimage and Early Travel, Colonial Tourism, Post-Independence Tourism Development, Heritage Tourism, Eco-Tourism and Cultural Tourism, Impact of Tourism on Society and Economy |
| HISC-404C | History of Human Rights in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Concept of Rights, Human Rights under Colonial Rule, Constitutional Guarantees of Rights, Social Justice Movements, Role of Judiciary in Protecting Rights, Challenges to Human Rights |
| HISC-404D | History of Sports in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Traditional Indian Sports, Introduction of Western Sports, Sports under Colonial Patronage, Post-Independence Sports Development, Major Sporting Events in India, Women in Indian Sports |
| HISC-404E | History of Cinema in India (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Early Indian Cinema, Silent Era and Talkies, Golden Age of Indian Cinema, Regional Cinema, Impact of Social and Political Changes, New Wave and Contemporary Trends |
| HISC-404F | Museum and Archival Management (Elective Option) | Elective | 4 | Principles of Museum Management, Collection, Conservation and Exhibition, Digital Museology, Archival Science, Records Management, Role of Museums and Archives in Society |
| HISC-404G | Internship (Elective Option) | Elective (Practical) | 4 | Practical Application of Historical Knowledge, Research Skills in a Professional Setting, Project-based Learning, Report Writing, Networking and Professional Development, Real-world Exposure to Heritage/Archival Work |
