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BA in History at Santosh Kumar Mahavidyalaya, Kasimpur Behdar
Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at Santosh Kumar Mahavidyalaya, Kasimpur Behdar Hardoi?
This History program at Santosh Kumar Mahavidyalaya focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of human civilization''''s past, from ancient to contemporary eras, with a strong emphasis on Indian history. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and analytical skills, crucial for interpreting historical events and their impact on present-day India. It is highly relevant for roles in education, civil services, journalism, and cultural heritage management within the Indian context, where demand for historical expertise remains constant.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in human societies, cultural evolution, and political developments. It suits individuals aspiring to pursue careers in civil services, teaching, museum curation, or journalism. It also benefits those seeking a strong foundation in liberal arts for further postgraduate studies, particularly in humanities and social sciences, catering to a diverse academic and professional demographic in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum professionals, educators, and civil servants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in government sectors or academic institutions. This degree also provides a solid foundation for competitive exams like UPSC and state PSCs, offering a clear growth trajectory in public service and academic research within India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Historical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with core concepts of ancient and medieval Indian history. Focus on understanding timelines, key events, and primary historical figures. Utilize library resources for additional reading beyond textbooks to broaden perspective. Regularly participate in classroom discussions to articulate your understanding.
Tools & Resources
College Library, NCERT History Books (Class XI-XII), Online platforms like eGyanKosh for history courses, Academic journals accessible through college subscription
Career Connection
A strong foundation is critical for competitive exams (UPSC, State PSCs) and for advanced studies in history, providing the necessary depth to analyze complex historical narratives.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice analyzing historical texts and sources critically. Learn to identify biases, evaluate evidence, and form independent conclusions. Engage in debates and essay writing to hone your analytical expression. Seek feedback from professors on your written assignments to improve clarity and historical argumentation.
Tools & Resources
Critical thinking workbooks, Online academic writing guides, Peer study groups for discussion, Faculty office hours for personalized guidance
Career Connection
These skills are invaluable for research-oriented roles, journalism, policy analysis, and any profession requiring informed decision-making and strong communication.
Leverage Co-curricular and Value Added Courses- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in Co-curricular subjects like Food, Nutrition & Hygiene and Analytical Ability & Digital Awareness. These courses, though seemingly distinct, enhance general knowledge, health literacy, and essential digital skills. For Value Added Courses, actively participate in NCC/NSS to develop leadership and community service ethos.
Tools & Resources
Digital literacy tutorials, Government websites for e-governance, Local community service opportunities, NCC/NSS unit activities
Career Connection
These broaden your profile for public service, NGOs, and develop soft skills highly sought after in Indian workplaces, especially in government roles where community engagement is vital.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC)- (Semester 3-4)
Choose SEC subjects like Archival Studies, Historical Tourism, or Research Methodology strategically. Dedicate time to practical components, such as visiting local museums, archives, or heritage sites. Try to intern at a local cultural institution or government body during semester breaks to apply theoretical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Uttar Pradesh State Archives, Local museums and heritage sites, University''''s career services for internship leads, Online courses on archival science
Career Connection
These courses build practical skills directly applicable to careers in heritage management, archaeology, archival services, and cultural tourism, which are growing sectors in India.
Engage in Historical Research Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Proactively seek opportunities to work on small research projects with faculty members. This could involve assisting with data collection, literature reviews, or drafting sections of papers. Participation in college-level history seminars or conferences, even as an attendee, will expose you to academic discourse.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, Shodhganga (via college library), Research ethics guidelines, Collaboration with professors, Departmental research club
Career Connection
Hands-on research experience is invaluable for postgraduate studies, academic careers, and think-tank positions, providing a competitive edge in India''''s research landscape.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 3-4)
Begin early preparation for competitive examinations like UPSC Civil Services, State Public Service Commissions (UPPSC), or NET/JRF for academia. Integrate syllabus topics from History into your preparation strategy. Join a study group focused on these exams and regularly attempt mock tests.
Tools & Resources
Online coaching platforms (Unacademy, Byju''''s for UPSC), Previous year question papers, Government publications (India Year Book), Mentorship from senior students/alumni who cleared these exams
Career Connection
Targeting civil services opens up prestigious career avenues in administration and policy-making within the Indian government, a common aspiration for BA graduates.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Major Research Project / Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
For Semester 6, choose a compelling research topic for your Major Research Project/Dissertation. Work closely with your assigned supervisor, focusing on rigorous methodology, original analysis, and clear presentation. This project serves as a capstone experience, demonstrating your comprehensive historical understanding.
Tools & Resources
College research guidelines, Academic software for citation management (Zotero), Access to relevant historical databases, Regular supervisor meetings
Career Connection
A well-executed project is a strong portfolio piece for higher education admissions (MA, PhD) and demonstrates independent research capabilities, highly valued in academic and policy roles.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 5-6)
Actively network with alumni, guest lecturers, and professionals in fields related to history (e.g., archaeologists, museologists, journalists, civil servants). Attend webinars, workshops, and career fairs. Seek mentorship to gain insights into specific career paths and industry trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Departmental guest lectures, Professional organizations for historians
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship and job opportunities, providing valuable connections and guidance for career navigation in the diverse Indian job market.
Refine Communication and Interview Skills- (Semester 5-6)
Focus on enhancing your communication skills, both written and oral, especially for presenting research findings and during job interviews. Participate in mock interviews and group discussions organized by the college''''s placement cell. Prepare a strong resume highlighting your historical research, analytical abilities, and soft skills.
Tools & Resources
Placement Cell workshops, Online interview preparation resources, Public speaking clubs, Resume building tools
Career Connection
Excellent communication and interview skills are paramount for securing placements in various sectors, from teaching to content writing and public relations, and for excelling in civil service interviews.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) examination passed from any recognized Board.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 132 (for complete BA program under NEP 2020, including all subjects) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A010101T | Ancient History of India (Up to 1200 AD) | Core (Major) | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-historic cultures and Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Age and Mahajanapadas, Rise of Magadha and Mauryan Empire, Gupta Age and Post-Gupta period, Political, Social, and Economic Structures |
| A010501T | Food, Nutrition and Hygiene | Co-curricular | 2 | Concept of Food and Nutrition, Nutrients: Macro and Micro, Balanced Diet and Malnutrition, Food Adulteration and Safety, Personal and Environmental Hygiene, Common Communicable Diseases |
| VAC101 | National Cadet Corps / National Service Scheme / Ranger-Rover / Physical Education & Yoga | Value Added Course (Elective) | 2 | Leadership and Discipline, Community Service and Social Responsibility, Physical Fitness and Well-being, Yoga and Meditation Practices, First Aid and Emergency Response, Environmental Awareness |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A020101T | History of Medieval India (1206 AD to 1757 AD) | Core (Major) | 4 | Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Major Dynasties: Khalji, Tughlaq, Sayyid, Lodi, Mughal Empire: Babur to Aurangzeb, Mughal Administration and Economy, Art, Architecture, and Literature of Medieval India, Bhakti and Sufi Movements |
| A020501T | An Analytical Ability and Digital Awareness | Co-curricular | 2 | Logical Reasoning and Problem Solving, Data Interpretation and Analysis, Basic Computer Operations, Internet and E-governance Services, Cyber Security Fundamentals, Digital Literacy and Tools |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030101T | History of Modern India (1757 AD to 1950 AD) | Core (Major) | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire and Rise of British Power, Revolt of 1857 and its aftermath, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Gandhian Era and Mass Movements, Partition of India and Independence, Constituent Assembly and Constitution Making |
| A030301T | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC): Archival Studies / Historical Tourism / Museum & Archeology (Choose one) | Skill Enhancement Course (Elective) | 2 | Concept and Types of Archives, Preservation of Historical Documents, Digital Archives and Access, Understanding Historical Tourism, Museum Management and Curating, Fundamentals of Archaeology |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A040101T | History of the World (1453 AD to 1945 AD) | Core (Major) | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Exploration and Enlightenment, American and French Revolutions, Industrial Revolution and Imperialism, First and Second World Wars, Rise of Fascism and Nazism |
| A040301T | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC): Research Methodology in History / Oral History / Historical Writing (Choose one) | Skill Enhancement Course (Elective) | 2 | Historiography and Historical Interpretation, Primary and Secondary Sources of History, Interview Techniques for Oral History, Ethics in Historical Research, Writing a Research Paper/Thesis, Citation and Referencing Styles |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A050101T | History of Uttar Pradesh (Up to 1950 AD) | Core (Major) | 4 | Ancient and Medieval History of Uttar Pradesh, Social and Cultural Life in UP, Role of UP in the Freedom Struggle, Art, Architecture, and Literature of UP, Political and Administrative Developments, Economy and Society of Colonial UP |
| A050102T | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE): Indian National Movement / Economic History of India / Cultural History of India (Choose one) | Discipline Specific Elective (Major) | 4 | Phases of Indian Nationalism, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Colonial Economic Policies and their Impact, Development of Modern Indian Industries, Diversity of Indian Culture and Traditions, Art Forms, Literature, and Philosophy in India |
| A050501T | Communication Skills and Personality Development | Co-curricular | 2 | Verbal and Non-verbal Communication, Public Speaking and Presentation Skills, Group Discussion and Interview Techniques, Emotional Intelligence and Etiquette, Time Management and Stress Management, Goal Setting and Self-Motivation |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A060101T | Contemporary India (1950 AD to Present) | Core (Major) | 4 | Challenges of Nation-Building Post-Independence, Economic Planning and Reforms in India, Social Movements and Identities, India''''s Foreign Policy and International Relations, Science, Technology, and Education in Contemporary India, Contemporary Political and Cultural Developments |
| A060102T | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE): History of Environment in India / History of Science & Technology in India / Gender History in India (Choose one) | Discipline Specific Elective (Major) | 4 | Environmental Policies and Movements in India, Development of Science and Technology in Ancient India, Impact of Colonialism on Indian Environment, Gender Roles and Status in Indian Society, Women''''s Movements and Empowerment, Technological Advancements in Modern India |
| A060103P | Major Research Project / Dissertation / Internship | Project | 4 | Formulation of Research Question, Literature Review and Data Collection, Methodology and Analysis, Report Writing and Presentation, Internship Report Submission, Viva Voce Examination |
