

BA-HONOURS-URDU in Urdu at Satyawati College (Evening)


Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Urdu at Satyawati College (Evening) Delhi?
This BA (Honours) Urdu program at Satyawati College (Evening), affiliated with the University of Delhi, offers a deep dive into the rich literary and cultural heritage of the Urdu language. It focuses on classical and modern Urdu poetry, prose, criticism, and history, providing a comprehensive understanding of its artistic depth. The program emphasizes critical analysis, linguistic proficiency, and cultural appreciation, crucial for preserving and promoting this unique Indian linguistic tradition.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students passionate about language, literature, and culture, seeking to delve into the nuances of Urdu. It attracts fresh graduates with an interest in humanities, those aspiring for careers in academia, media, or cultural institutions, and individuals keen on mastering a language with profound historical significance in India. A background in language or literature, though not always mandatory, is beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in India, including journalism, publishing, translation, teaching, content writing, and cultural heritage management. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities also exist in government sectors, archives, and diplomatic services, contributing to cross-cultural understanding and language preservation efforts.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Urdu Script & Grammar- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate early semesters to rigorously mastering the Nastaliq script, vocabulary, and intricate grammar of Urdu. Consistent practice in reading, writing, and spoken Urdu will form a strong linguistic base, crucial for understanding complex literary texts.
Tools & Resources
Urdu language textbooks, Online Nastaliq script tutorials, Language exchange apps, Urdu dictionaries (Rekhta Foundation)
Career Connection
Strong foundational linguistic skills are indispensable for any career in Urdu, from teaching to translation, ensuring accuracy and fluency in professional communication and literary analysis.
Engage with Classical Literature- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom readings, actively seek out and read classical Urdu poetry and prose. Participate in departmental literary clubs and discussions to deepen comprehension of historical contexts and poetic traditions.
Tools & Resources
University library''''s Urdu collection, Rekhta.org, Jashn-e-Rekhta archives, Departmental literary societies
Career Connection
Develops a profound appreciation for literary heritage, essential for roles in academia, research, and cultural preservation, and enriches critical thinking for content creation.
Develop Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on structuring essays, research papers, and critical analyses in Urdu. Seek feedback from professors and peers to refine articulation, argumentation, and adherence to academic conventions.
Tools & Resources
Writing workshops, Peer review sessions, Reference books on Urdu literary criticism, Faculty office hours
Career Connection
Crucial for academic success and future roles in publishing, journalism, or any field requiring clear, concise, and well-supported written communication.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Modern Literary Trends- (Semester 3-5)
Expand reading to include contemporary Urdu writers, engaging with modern themes, experimental forms, and critical theories. Analyze how Urdu literature responds to contemporary Indian and global issues.
Tools & Resources
Contemporary Urdu journals, Literary seminars and conferences, Online literary platforms focusing on modern Urdu, Interviews with modern authors
Career Connection
Prepares students for roles in modern media, journalism, and content creation, enabling them to connect classical knowledge with current societal relevance and industry demands.
Participate in Skill Enhancement Courses- (Semester 3-5)
Utilize SECs and electives to build practical skills like translation, calligraphy, journalism, or creative writing. These skills directly enhance employability and provide a competitive edge.
Tools & Resources
University''''s SEC offerings, Workshops by external language institutes, Online courses on specific skills, Freelancing platforms for practice
Career Connection
Directly links academic learning to vocational skills, opening doors to careers in translation, media, content development, and cultural entrepreneurship, offering immediate practical application.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Studies- (Semester 3-5)
Select Generic Electives (GEs) that complement Urdu studies, such as History, Political Science, or Philosophy, to gain broader perspectives and enrich literary interpretations. This builds a holistic understanding.
Tools & Resources
DU''''s list of GE courses, Interdepartmental lectures and seminars, Academic journals on comparative literature and cultural studies
Career Connection
Fosters critical thinking and adaptability, making graduates versatile for roles requiring analytical skills and a broad understanding of society, valuable in civil services and policy-making.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Research & Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Leverage the opportunity to pursue a Dissertation/Project in the final year. Choose a topic of deep interest, conduct thorough research, and contribute original insights under faculty guidance.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, Academic mentors, Research methodology workshops, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management
Career Connection
Develops advanced research and analytical skills, highly valued in academia, think tanks, and specialized research roles. It''''s a strong portfolio piece for higher studies and R&D positions.
Network and Seek Internships- (Semester 6)
Actively network with professionals in Urdu literary circles, media, and cultural organizations. Seek internships in publishing houses, media agencies, or government cultural departments to gain practical experience and industry insights.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Department alumni network, Career services cell, Cultural event organizers, National Council for Promotion of Urdu Language
Career Connection
Essential for job placement and career advancement. Internships provide real-world exposure, build professional networks, and often lead to pre-placement offers or valuable recommendations.
Prepare for Higher Studies/Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
If aspiring for M.A., Ph.D., or civil services, begin focused preparation by solving past papers, attending coaching, and staying updated on current affairs, leveraging your strong humanities foundation.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET/JRF study materials, Civil Services exam guides, Coaching institutes, Online current affairs platforms, Mock interviews
Career Connection
Directly supports progression into advanced academic research, university teaching, or prestigious government positions, maximizing career opportunities post-graduation.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters (for BA Honours Degree)
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URD-CC-01 | Urdu Nasr: Asnaf aur Tahreekin (Urdu Prose: Genres and Movements) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Urdu fiction forms (short story, novel), Urdu drama and its evolution, Urdu essay and criticism genres, Fort William College movement and impact, Sir Syed movement and its literary contributions |
| URD-CC-02 | Urdu Ghazal-1 (Urdu Ghazal-1) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Origin and evolution of Urdu Ghazal, Early Ghazal poets and their contributions (Wali, Mir), Characteristics of Dilli School of Ghazal, Characteristics of Lucknow School of Ghazal, Major themes and conventions in classical Ghazal |
| AECC-I | Environmental Science/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | |
| GE-I | Generic Elective-I | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | |
| VAC-I | Value Added Course-I | Value Added Course (VAC) | 2 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URD-CC-03 | Urdu Nazm (Urdu Poem) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Evolution of Urdu Nazm as a poetic form, Major Nazm poets and their works (e.g., Hali, Iqbal, Faiz), Different forms and structures within Nazm, Themes and stylistic features of modern Nazm, Impact of social and political changes on Nazm |
| URD-CC-04 | Urdu Drama (Urdu Drama) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Origin and early development of Urdu drama, Prominent playwrights and their contributions (e.g., Agha Hashr, Imtiaz Ali Taj), Modern trends and experimental forms in Urdu drama, Elements of dramatic theory and stage techniques, Social and cultural relevance of Urdu theatre |
| AECC-II | English Communication/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | |
| GE-II | Generic Elective-II | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | |
| VAC-II | Value Added Course-II | Value Added Course (VAC) | 2 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URD-CC-05 | Urdu Ghazal-2 (Urdu Ghazal-2) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | In-depth study of major Ghazal poets (e.g., Ghalib, Mir Taqi Mir, Momin), Classical and modern perspectives on Ghazal form, Stylistic analysis of renowned Ghazal compositions, Themes such as love, philosophy, mysticism in Ghazal, Influence of cultural context on Ghazal poetry |
| URD-CC-06 | Urdu Dastan (Urdu Dastan) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Origin and evolution of Urdu Dastan (prose narrative), Characteristics of classical Dastans (e.g., Bagh-o-Bahar), Elements of Dastan: plot, character, setting, fantasy, Oral storytelling tradition and its transition to written form, Sociocultural significance of Dastans |
| URD-CC-07 | Urdu Tanqeed (Urdu Criticism) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Principles and theories of literary criticism, Different schools of Urdu criticism (e.g., Impressionistic, Scientific), Contributions of major Urdu critics (e.g., Hali, Shibli, Ehtisham Hussain), Application of critical theories to Urdu literature, Evolution of critical thought in Urdu |
| SEC-I | Skill Enhancement Course-I | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | |
| GE-III | Generic Elective-III | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | |
| VAC-III | Value Added Course-III | Value Added Course (VAC) | 2 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URD-CC-08 | Urdu Afsana (Urdu Short Story) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Origin and development of Urdu Afsana (short story), Major Urdu short story writers (e.g., Premchand, Manto, Ismat Chughtai), Themes and techniques in classical and modern Afsana, Influence of social realism and psychological aspects, Evolution of the short story form in Urdu literature |
| URD-CC-09 | Urdu Marsia (Urdu Elegy) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Origin and characteristics of Urdu Marsia, Prominent Marsia writers (e.g., Mir Anees, Mirza Dabir), Structure and thematic elements of a Marsia (grief, heroism), Role of Marsia in Muharram commemorations, Literary and cultural significance of Marsia |
| URD-CC-10 | Urdu Essay (Urdu Essay) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Forms and types of Urdu essay writing, Contributions of prominent essayists (e.g., Sir Syed Ahmed Khan, Nazeer Ahmed), Distinction between classical and modern Urdu essays, Stylistic analysis and rhetorical devices in essays, Social and intellectual role of the essay in Urdu literature |
| SEC-II | Skill Enhancement Course-II | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | |
| GE-IV | Generic Elective-IV | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | |
| VAC-IV | Value Added Course-IV | Value Added Course (VAC) | 2 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URD-CC-11 | Urdu Rubai, Qita aur Geet (Urdu Rubai, Qita and Geet) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Forms and characteristics of Rubai (quatrain) poetry, Forms and characteristics of Qita (fragment) poetry, Forms and characteristics of Geet (song) poetry, Study of prominent poets in these genres, Thematic analysis and literary significance of these poetic forms |
| URD-CC-12 | Urdu Tareekh e Adab (History of Urdu Literature) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Chronological overview of Urdu literary periods, Major literary movements and their impact on Urdu literature, Evolution of different literary forms (poetry, prose), Key literary figures and their contributions across eras, Sociocultural and political influences on literary development |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective-I (Urdu) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective-II (Urdu) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URD-CC-13 | Urdu Ghazal: Intekhab aur Tafseer (Urdu Ghazal: Selection and Commentary) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | In-depth study and critical interpretation of selected classical Ghazals, Analytical commentary on poetic devices and thematic nuances, Modern perspectives and reinterpretations of Ghazal, Understanding the historical and cultural context of chosen Ghazals, Appreciation of aesthetic and philosophical dimensions |
| URD-CC-14 | Urdu Novel (Urdu Novel) | Core Course (CC) | 4 | Origin and development of the Urdu novel form, Study of prominent novelists (e.g., Nazir Ahmad, Premchand, Qurratulain Hyder), Themes, narrative techniques, and character development in Urdu novels, Major trends in classical and modern Urdu novels, Social and psychological aspects reflected in Urdu fiction |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective-III (Urdu) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective-IV (Urdu) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | |
| URD-DSE-09 | Dissertation/Project | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) / Project | 12 | Research methodology for literary studies, Topic selection and literature review, Data collection and analysis in humanities, Academic writing and thesis structuring, Presentation and defense of research findings |




