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B-A-HONS in English at RK University
Rajkot, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is English at RK University Rajkot?
This B.A. (Hons.) English program at RK University focuses on a comprehensive study of English language and literature from diverse periods and cultures. It delves into critical analysis, literary theory, and creative expression, preparing students for various communication and content-driven roles in the Indian market. The program emphasizes both academic rigor and practical skill development, distinguishing itself through a blend of classical and contemporary texts.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a strong inclination towards literature, critical thinking, and linguistic proficiency, seeking entry into media, publishing, teaching, or content creation. It also caters to individuals aiming for postgraduate studies in English or related humanities fields. Aspiring writers, journalists, and educators will find the curriculum particularly enriching, requiring a foundational interest in reading and analytical skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including content writing, editing, journalism, public relations, teaching, and research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization. Graduates can pursue roles as authors, copywriters, communication specialists, and academics, aligning with a growing demand for skilled communicators in India''''s digital economy. The program also serves as a strong foundation for civil services and other competitive examinations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Cultivate Extensive Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively with diverse literary forms and periods beyond the prescribed texts. This builds a strong foundational understanding of literary movements and critical analysis. Join the university''''s literary club or book discussion groups to broaden perspectives.
Tools & Resources
University Library, Online literary archives (Project Gutenberg), Goodreads, Literary clubs
Career Connection
Develops a broad knowledge base crucial for careers in research, teaching, and content creation, enhancing analytical and interpretative skills.
Master Academic Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving English language communication, both written and oral. Actively participate in class discussions, practice essay writing, and seek feedback on academic assignments. Attend workshops on grammar, vocabulary, and effective presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Online dictionaries, English speaking clubs, University writing center
Career Connection
Essential for academic success, future research, and professional roles requiring clear and persuasive communication, such as journalism or public relations.
Build a Strong Theoretical Base- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to understanding literary terms, forms, and introductory theories. Create flashcards, summary notes, and engage in peer-teaching sessions to solidify these core concepts. This forms the bedrock for advanced literary analysis.
Tools & Resources
Literary Theory: An Introduction by Terry Eagleton, Handbooks of Literary Terms, Study groups
Career Connection
Provides the critical framework necessary for advanced studies, research, and for developing sophisticated analytical skills valued in various industries.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Interdisciplinary Learning- (Semester 3-4)
Explore connections between English literature and other disciplines through generic electives (like Social Media & Communication) or by reading widely across humanities and social sciences. This enriches understanding of literary contexts and broadens perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Cross-disciplinary journals, Online courses (NPTEL, Coursera), University guest lectures
Career Connection
Develops versatile thinking, crucial for roles in content strategy, media analysis, and diverse fields requiring critical perspective, making graduates adaptable to new challenges.
Develop Skill Enhancement Expertise- (Semester 3-5)
Actively pursue the skills taught in SEC courses like Academic Writing and English for Media. Undertake practical projects, write for university publications, or engage in campus media activities to apply learning in real-world scenarios.
Tools & Resources
University magazine/newsletter, Local media internships, Blogging platforms
Career Connection
Directly enhances employability in specific sectors like journalism, content writing, editing, and technical communication, providing tangible portfolio items for placements.
Participate in Literary Competitions and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Join literary events, debate competitions, poetry slams, and creative writing workshops hosted by the university or local cultural organizations. This hones creative expression, public speaking, and critical thinking skills while building a professional network.
Tools & Resources
University cultural committee, Local literary societies, Online writing communities
Career Connection
Builds confidence, networking opportunities, and a portfolio of achievements valuable for careers in writing, media, and public relations.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Independent Research and Projects- (Semester 5-6)
Proactively identify a research area of interest, consult faculty mentors, and work on independent research projects or dissertations. This demonstrates advanced analytical capabilities and a deeper engagement with the subject.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, MLA International Bibliography), Research journals, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Prepares students for academic research careers, postgraduate studies, and roles requiring in-depth analysis and critical inquiry, differentiating them in the job market.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 5-6)
Attend conferences, seminars, and guest lectures to interact with academics and industry professionals. Seek mentorship from professors or alumni in desired career fields. Building a professional network is vital for career advancement.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Sahitya Akademi events), Alumni network
Career Connection
Opens doors to internships, job opportunities, and invaluable career guidance, significantly impacting post-graduation success and professional growth.
Curate a Professional Portfolio- (Semester 5-6)
Systematically collect and present the best pieces of written work, creative projects, research papers, and certifications. A well-organized portfolio is crucial for showcasing skills and accomplishments to potential employers or for higher studies.
Tools & Resources
Online portfolio platforms (e.g., Medium, WordPress), Personal website, Digital archives of work
Career Connection
Directly aids in placement and admission processes, demonstrating tangible skills and experience in writing, research, and creative expression.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 12th Standard (H.S.C. or equivalent) from any stream with English as a compulsory subject, from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 148 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 101 | Literary Forms and Terms | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 6 | Understanding Poetry, Elements of Drama, Aspects of Prose, Figurative Language, Literary Movements |
| DSC 102 | English Literature from Chaucer to the Romantic Age | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 6 | Medieval English Literature, Renaissance and Elizabethan Age, Metaphysical Poetry, Restoration and Augustan Age, Romanticism |
| AECC 101 | English Language Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Basic English Grammar, Listening and Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension, Writing Paragraphs and Essays, Presentation Skills |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 201 | Indian Writing in English | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 6 | Early Indian English Prose, Indian English Poetry, Indian English Drama, Indian English Fiction, Themes in Indian English Writing |
| DSC 202 | English Literature from the Victorian to the Contemporary Age | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 6 | Victorian Literature, Modernism, Post-Modernism, Contemporary English Literature, Literary Theories |
| AECC 201 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Natural Resources, Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change, Sustainable Development |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 301 | American Literature | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 6 | Colonial and Early American Literature, Romanticism and Transcendentalism, Realism and Naturalism, Modern American Literature, Contemporary Voices |
| DSC 302 | Popular Literature | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 6 | Genres of Popular Fiction, Detective Fiction, Science Fiction and Fantasy, Children''''s Literature, Pulp Fiction and Graphic Novels |
| SEC 301 | Academic Writing and Composition | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 4 | Essay Structure, Research Skills, Citation and Referencing, Academic Honesty, Types of Academic Writing |
| GE 301 | Generic Elective (Option 1: Social Media & Communication) | Generic Elective (GE) | 6 | Basics of Social Media, Digital Communication, Content Creation, Online Ethics, Social Media Marketing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 401 | Literary Criticism and Theory | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 6 | Classical Criticism, Romantic Criticism, New Criticism, Structuralism and Post-structuralism, Feminist and Post-Colonial Theory |
| DSC 402 | European Classical Literature | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 6 | Ancient Greek Drama, Epic Poetry, Roman Literature, Mythology and Philosophy, Influence on Western Literature |
| SEC 401 | English for Media | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 4 | Journalistic Writing, Broadcast Media, Advertising Copywriting, Editing and Proofreading, Media Ethics |
| GE 401 | Generic Elective (Option 2: Public Speaking) | Generic Elective (GE) | 6 | Effective Communication, Speech Preparation, Delivery Techniques, Handling Audiences, Overcoming Stage Fear |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE 501 | Modern European Drama | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Realism and Naturalism, Symbolism and Expressionism, Theatre of the Absurd, Epic Theatre, Post-War European Drama |
| DSE 502 | Literary Translation | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Theories of Translation, Cultural Context in Translation, Translating Poetry and Prose, Challenges in Translation, Ethics of Translation |
| DSE 503 | Partition Literature | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Historical Context of Partition, Themes of Trauma and Displacement, Narratives of Identity, Representation in Fiction and Poetry, Memory and Oral Histories |
| DSE 504 | Travel Writing | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | History of Travel Writing, Narrative Techniques, Ethnography and Description, Ethical Considerations, Digital Travel Narratives |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE 601 | Postcolonial Literatures | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Theories of Postcolonialism, Resistance and Identity, Mimicry and Hybridity, Literature from Africa and Caribbean, Subaltern Studies |
| DSE 602 | Creative Writing | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Elements of Fiction, Writing Poetry, Scriptwriting Basics, Developing Characters and Plot, Editing and Revision |
| DSE 603 | Research Project / Dissertation | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Research Methodology, Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Writing and Presentation, Thesis Construction |
| DSE 604 | Disability Studies | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 6 | Models of Disability, Disability in Literature and Culture, Inclusive Practices, Representation and Stereotypes, Disability Rights Movement |
