.png&w=1920&q=75)
B-A in English at Sardar Patel Mahavidyalaya
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is English at Sardar Patel Mahavidyalaya Varanasi?
This B.A. English program at Sardar Patel Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with MGKVP, focuses on a comprehensive study of English literature from various global traditions, critical theory, and advanced writing skills under the NEP 2020 framework. It aims to develop strong analytical and communication abilities, preparing students for diverse intellectual and professional challenges in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for 10+2 graduates with a passion for language, literature, and critical thinking, seeking a strong foundation for careers in academia, media, content creation, or civil services. It also suits individuals aiming for higher education in English or related fields, providing robust analytical and interpretive skills.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as content writers, editors, journalists, teachers, literary critics, or prepare for competitive examinations including civil services. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 2.5-4 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 6-10+ LPA, reflecting growth in the dynamic content and education sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immersive Reading and Critical Analysis- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate strong reading habits by engaging with prescribed prose and poetry beyond surface-level understanding. Participate actively in classroom discussions and literary groups to develop critical analytical skills for texts, authors, and literary movements.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Online literary journals, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Develops foundational analytical skills crucial for all literary and content-driven careers, enhancing comprehension and interpretation.
Mastering Academic and Creative Writing- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intently on developing proficiency in various writing forms, including essays, précis, reports, and creative pieces. Seek regular feedback from professors and peers to refine clarity, structure, and argumentative strength in written communication.
Tools & Resources
Writing workshops, Grammarly, Purdue OWL
Career Connection
Establishes excellent written communication skills, a prerequisite for content writing, journalism, editing, and academic roles.
Engaging with Literary Societies and Events- (Semester 1-2)
Join the college''''s literary society or club to participate in debates, book reviews, poetry slams, and workshops. This helps in building a network, practicing public speaking, and gaining exposure to diverse literary perspectives and talents.
Tools & Resources
College cultural committees, Local literary festivals, Online forums
Career Connection
Enhances soft skills like communication, networking, and critical discourse, valuable for professional development and team environments.
Intermediate Stage
Applying Literary Theory and Criticism- (Semester 3-5)
Actively delve into various literary theories and critical approaches, applying them to the analysis of drama, fiction, and poetry. Engage in independent research to understand how different theoretical frameworks illuminate texts.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (JSTOR, MLA), Specialized textbooks on literary theory, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Sharpens advanced analytical and research skills, essential for academic pursuits, critical writing, and nuanced understanding in any field requiring deep analysis.
Exploring Diverse Literary Traditions- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond the core syllabus, read widely across Indian, American, African, and other non-British literatures. This broadens cultural understanding and provides a global perspective on literary themes, styles, and contexts.
Tools & Resources
Translated works, International literary databases, Documentaries on global cultures
Career Connection
Cultivates a global perspective and cultural sensitivity, highly valued in international organizations, media, and cross-cultural communication roles.
Participating in Skill Enhancement Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to attend workshops focused on practical skills like advanced content writing, digital journalism, proofreading, or public relations. This translates academic learning into tangible, industry-relevant competencies.
Tools & Resources
Online course platforms (Coursera, edX), Industry association webinars, College career services
Career Connection
Builds a practical skill portfolio directly applicable to content marketing, journalism, publishing, and corporate communication roles in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertaking a Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Engage in a self-directed research project or dissertation in Semester 6, focusing on a specific area of English literature. This involves formulating research questions, data collection, critical analysis, and academic writing, guided by a faculty mentor.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Academic databases, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Develops independent research, problem-solving, and scholarly communication skills, highly valued for postgraduate studies, research roles, and analytical positions.
Career-Focused Skill and Portfolio Development- (Semester 6)
Proactively build a professional portfolio showcasing best writing samples, research papers, and creative works. Practice interview techniques, resume writing, and soft skills relevant to desired career paths in teaching, media, or content creation.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Learning, Career counseling services, Mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for placements and job interviews, enabling them to articulate their skills and experiences effectively to potential employers.
Networking and Higher Education Planning- (Semester 6)
Actively network with alumni, guest lecturers, and industry professionals to explore career opportunities and gain insights. Research and prepare for postgraduate studies (M.A., B.Ed) or competitive examinations, aligning future academic or career goals.
Tools & Resources
Alumni network platforms, Professional social media (LinkedIn), University admissions guides
Career Connection
Opens doors to advanced academic programs and expands professional networks, providing pathways to specialized careers and leadership roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Intermediate (10+2) or equivalent examination passed from a recognized board
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 32 (for English Major subjects) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A010101T | English Prose and Writing Skills (Major Core I) | Core | 4 | History of English Prose, Prescribed Prose Texts (e.g., Bacon, Lamb, Orwell), Writing Skills (Paragraph, Essay, Precis), Letter Writing and Report Writing, Comprehension |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A010201T | English Poetry (Major Core II) | Core | 4 | History of English Poetry, Forms of Poetry (Sonnet, Ode, Elegy), Prescribed Poems (e.g., Shakespeare, Milton, Wordsworth), Prosody and Poetic Devices, Figures of Speech |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A010301T | English Drama (Major Core III) | Core | 4 | History of English Drama, Types of Drama (Tragedy, Comedy, Farce), Prescribed Plays (e.g., Shakespeare, Marlowe, Shaw), Dramatic Techniques, Theatrical Conventions |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A010401T | English Fiction (Major Core IV) | Core | 4 | History of English Fiction, Elements of Fiction (Plot, Character, Setting), Prescribed Novels/Short Stories (e.g., Austen, Dickens, Hardy), Narrative Techniques, Literary Movements in Fiction |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A010501T | Literary Criticism and Theory (Major Core V) | Core | 4 | Classical Criticism (Aristotle, Longinus), Romantic Criticism (Wordsworth, Coleridge), Modern Criticism (Eliot, Richards), Literary Theories (Formalism, Structuralism), Indian Aesthetics |
| A010502T | Indian Writing in English (Major Core VI) | Core | 4 | Evolution of Indian English Literature, Indian English Poetry (Derozio, Tagore, Ezekiel), Indian English Fiction (Mulk Raj Anand, R.K. Narayan), Indian English Drama (Girish Karnad, Mahesh Dattani), Themes in Indian English Writing |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A010601T | American and Other Non-British Literatures (Major Core VII) | Core | 4 | American Literature (Whitman, Frost, Hemingway), Canadian Literature, African Literature, Australian Literature, Postcolonial Literature |
| A010602T | Research Methodology and Dissertation/Project (Major Core VIII) | Core | 4 | Introduction to Research Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing, Research Proposal Development, Dissertation/Project Work |
