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B-A in History at R.N. Girls Degree College
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at R.N. Girls Degree College Lucknow?
This History program at R.N. Girls Degree College focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of human civilization''''s past, with a strong emphasis on Indian and World history. It delves into political, social, economic, and cultural developments across various eras, equipping students with analytical and critical thinking skills. The program is designed to foster an appreciation for historical context, crucial for understanding contemporary Indian society and its global connections.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students with a keen interest in exploring historical narratives, societal evolution, and cultural heritage. It suits fresh graduates seeking entry into academic research, civil services, journalism, or museum studies. Individuals passionate about preserving and interpreting India''''s rich past, as well as those desiring to develop strong research and communication skills, will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue careers in academia as lecturers or researchers, join the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), work as archivists, museologists, journalists, or content writers. Entry-level salaries in these fields can range from INR 2.5 to 5 LPA, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals, especially in civil services or specialized research roles within Indian cultural bodies and think tanks.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Robust Research & Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate daily reading habits beyond textbooks, focusing on primary and secondary historical sources. Learn to effectively use library resources, academic journals, and online archives to gather information for assignments and projects.
Tools & Resources
College library, University of Lucknow e-resources, JSTOR, Project Gutenberg, NCERT history books
Career Connection
Essential for academic writing, critical analysis, and success in competitive exams like UPSC, where extensive reading and comprehension are paramount.
Master Historical Interpretation & Argumentation- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding different schools of historical thought and how to construct well-reasoned arguments based on evidence. Participate actively in classroom discussions and practice writing analytical essays, defending your historical perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Peer study groups, Faculty office hours, Online resources on essay writing and critical thinking
Career Connection
Builds analytical and persuasive communication skills, crucial for roles in journalism, policy analysis, teaching, and legal professions.
Engage with Local History & Heritage- (Semester 1-2)
Explore local historical sites, museums, and archives in Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh. Undertake small projects or field visits to document regional history, interact with local historians, and understand the practical aspects of historical preservation.
Tools & Resources
State Archives, Regional museums, Local historical societies, Guided tours
Career Connection
Provides practical experience for careers in museology, archaeology (entry-level), cultural tourism, and heritage management in India.
Intermediate Stage
Specialise in Chosen Historical Periods/Themes- (Semester 3-4)
Identify specific areas of history (e.g., ancient Indian economy, Mughal administration, modern Indian nationalism) that resonate with your interests. Read extensively in these areas, perhaps taking on extra research papers or presentations, to develop in-depth expertise.
Tools & Resources
Advanced academic books, Specialized journals, Mentorship from professors
Career Connection
Develops domain expertise, crucial for postgraduate studies, specialized research, and roles requiring expert knowledge in specific historical periods or topics.
Participate in Historical Seminars & Conferences- (Semester 3-4)
Attend webinars, seminars, and local conferences organized by the university or other academic bodies. Present papers if opportunities arise, gaining exposure to scholarly discourse and networking with fellow historians and researchers.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards, Academic event listings, Departmental faculty
Career Connection
Enhances presentation skills, expands academic network, and provides insights into current historical research, valuable for academic and research careers.
Develop Digital History Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Learn basic digital tools for historical research, such as creating timelines, mapping historical events using GIS (Geographic Information Systems), or managing digital archives. Explore data visualization techniques for historical information.
Tools & Resources
Online tutorials for tools like TimelineJS, Google Earth, Basic data management software, Digital humanities platforms
Career Connection
Equips students with modern skills for digital archiving, historical data analysis, and content creation, relevant for media, ed-tech, and heritage management sectors.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Competitive Examinations & Higher Studies- (Semester 5-6)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for postgraduate entrance exams (e.g., M.A. History) or civil service exams (UPSC, UPPSC). Focus on comprehensive revision, current affairs related to history, and mock tests.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes (if desired), Previous year question papers, Dedicated study groups, Online exam portals
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for the most sought-after career paths for History graduates in India: academia and government services.
Undertake a Major Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Work closely with a faculty mentor on an independent research project or dissertation on a topic of your choice. This involves extensive primary and secondary source research, critical analysis, and structured academic writing.
Tools & Resources
University library, Research databases, Faculty mentorship, Academic writing guides
Career Connection
Develops advanced research, analytical, and writing skills, essential for academic roles, policy research, and any career requiring rigorous investigation and reporting.
Network with Professionals & Alumni- (Semester 5-6)
Actively seek out opportunities to connect with alumni working in relevant fields, historians, archivists, and civil servants. Attend professional workshops or career fairs to gain insights into various career paths and potential opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network, Departmental career counseling, Professional associations
Career Connection
Facilitates internships, mentorship, and job placements by leveraging professional connections within the Indian historical and public service communities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed Intermediate (10+2) in any stream from a recognized board (UP Board/CBSE or equivalent).
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Approximately 120-132 credits for the full B.A. program (32 credits specifically for History Major papers) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H100101T | History of Ancient India (From Beginning to 6th Century B.C.) | Core (Major) | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Stone Age Cultures, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic and Later Vedic Age, Rise of Mahajanapadas, Religious Movements (Buddhism, Jainism) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H100201T | History of India (6th Century B.C. to 6th Century A.D.) | Core (Major) | 4 | Rise of Magadha and Mauryan Empire, Post-Mauryan Period (Sungas, Satavahanas, Kushanas), Gupta Age (Political and Cultural Aspects), Harshavardhana and Regional Kingdoms, Administration and Economy of Ancient India, Art, Architecture and Science in Ancient India |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H100301T | History of India (650 A.D. to 1206 A.D.) | Core (Major) | 4 | Rise of Rajputs, Tripartite Struggle (Palas, Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas), Cholas and other South Indian Kingdoms, Turkish Invasions, Socio-Economic Life (650-1200 A.D.), Art and Architecture in Early Medieval India |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H100401T | History of India (1206 A.D. to 1707 A.D.) | Core (Major) | 4 | Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Sultanate Administration and Society, Rise of Mughal Empire, Akbar''''s Policies and Administration, Mughal Society, Economy and Culture, Decline of Mughal Empire |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H100501T | History of India (1707 A.D. to 1857 A.D.) | Core (Major) | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire and Rise of Regional Powers, Advent of European Trading Companies, Anglo-French Rivalry, British Expansion and Consolidation (Wars, Annexations), Early Colonial Administration, Socio-Religious Reform Movements |
| H100502T | History of India (1857 A.D. to 1947 A.D.) | Core (Major) | 4 | Revolt of 1857, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Moderate and Extremist Phases, Gandhian Era and Mass Movements, Constitutional Developments (Acts of 1909, 1919, 1935), Partition and Independence |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H100601T | History of the World (1453 A.D. to 1871 A.D.) | Core (Major) | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Discoveries, Rise of Nation States, Enlightenment and Revolutions (American, French), Industrial Revolution, Rise of Nationalism in Europe |
| H100602T | History of the World (1871 A.D. to 1945 A.D.) | Core (Major) | 4 | Imperialism and Colonialism, World War I and its Consequences, Russian Revolution, Rise of Fascism and Nazism, World War II and its Aftermath, League of Nations and UNO |
