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MTH in History Of Christianity at Serampore College
Hooghly, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is History of Christianity at Serampore College Hooghly?
This History of Christianity program at Serampore College focuses on rigorous academic study of the Christian past, with a significant emphasis on its development and impact within India. It equips students with advanced research skills and a deep understanding of theological and historical methodologies. The program is crucial for theological education in India, preparing scholars and leaders who can critically analyze the historical trajectory of Christianity, particularly its diverse expressions and challenges in the Indian subcontinent.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Divinity (B.D.) graduates or those with equivalent theological qualifications seeking to pursue advanced research in church history. It is also suitable for theological educators, pastors, and church leaders looking to deepen their historical understanding for more effective ministry and academic contributions. Individuals passionate about the intersection of history, theology, and Indian culture, and aspiring to roles in academia, research, or denominational leadership within India, will find this program particularly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as theological educators, researchers, church historians, and denominational archivists in India. They will be prepared for doctoral studies (D.Th. or Ph.D.) and equipped to contribute scholarly articles to Indian theological journals. While specific salary ranges are context-dependent for non-profit/religious organizations, a research-oriented MTh often provides a strong foundation for leadership roles in seminaries and church bodies, with potential for growth into senior academic or administrative positions.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Theological Research Methodologies- (Semester 1-2)
Develop strong foundational skills in theological research by diligently studying MTH 01. Actively engage with academic databases and theological libraries (e.g., ATLA Religion Database, Senate Library). This practice is crucial for structuring research proposals, identifying credible sources, and laying the groundwork for the dissertation, directly aiding future academic and research career paths.
Tools & Resources
ATLA Religion Database, Senate Library resources, Academic writing guides
Career Connection
Essential for research-oriented roles, doctoral studies, and producing publishable academic work.
Immerse in Indian Church History- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on the Indian context as early as HOC 02 and HOC 03. Utilize local archives, historical sites, and oral histories where feasible, alongside prescribed texts. Joining study groups to discuss the nuanced historical narratives of Christianity in India will deepen understanding and provide context for future specialization, preparing for roles as Indian church historians.
Tools & Resources
Local archives, Historical sites, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Develops specialized knowledge for teaching, research, and leadership in Indian theological institutions.
Cultivate Critical Historiographical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the principles of historiography and source criticism (HOC 01). Practice identifying biases, evaluating primary and secondary sources, and constructing coherent historical arguments. Regularly participate in departmental seminars or workshops on historical methods to refine critical thinking, a vital skill for both academic research and teaching.
Tools & Resources
Historiography textbooks, Academic journals, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Enhances analytical abilities crucial for scholarly research, academic writing, and theological education.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Indian Christian Thought- (Semester 3)
Deeply explore the intellectual and theological contributions of Indian Christian thinkers and movements (HOC 05). Attend conferences or webinars focused on contemporary Indian Christian theology and dialogue with scholars. This practice is essential for developing a unique research perspective relevant to the Indian context and for contributing to indigenous theological discourse.
Tools & Resources
Indian Christian theological journals, Theological conferences, Scholarly webinars
Career Connection
Positions graduates as experts in Indian Christian thought, valuable for academic and church leadership roles.
Participate in Ecumenical Dialogues- (Semester 3)
Study the Ecumenical Movement in India (HOC 06) and actively seek opportunities to engage with different Christian traditions and ecumenical bodies in West Bengal or nationally. This could involve attending inter-denominational meetings or volunteering for ecumenical initiatives, broadening one''''s perspective and fostering skills in inter-church relations for future leadership roles.
Tools & Resources
National Council of Churches in India (NCCI), Student Christian Movement (SCM)
Career Connection
Prepares for leadership in inter-church relations, ecumenical bodies, and pastoral ministry.
Initiate Dissertation Research Early- (Semester 3)
Begin defining your dissertation topic and outline (HOC 07) well in advance, collaborating closely with your supervisor. Start compiling a robust bibliography and drafting initial chapters. Utilizing tools like Zotero or Mendeley for citation management will streamline the research process, ensuring a well-structured and timely submission for MTH 13, crucial for academic advancement.
Tools & Resources
Zotero, Mendeley, Supervisor consultations
Career Connection
Crucial for successful dissertation completion, a prerequisite for advanced academic and research positions.
Advanced Stage
Refine Research and Writing for Thesis- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to the research, writing, and revision of your Thesis/Dissertation (MTH 13). Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and peers. Attend writing workshops focused on academic publishing to polish your scholarly voice and ensure your work meets the highest academic standards, preparing for publication or doctoral studies.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor feedback sessions, Academic writing workshops, Grammarly/Turnitin
Career Connection
Produces high-quality research ready for publication, essential for academic careers and further studies.
Prepare for Comprehensive Viva Voce- (Semester 4)
Systematically review all MTh coursework and be prepared to articulate your research and its broader implications during the Comprehensive Viva Voce (HOC 08). Practice presenting your work concisely and confidently, anticipating potential questions. This final defense is crucial for demonstrating mastery of the subject and for validating your readiness for professional academic roles.
Tools & Resources
Mock viva sessions, Review of course materials, Presentation skills training
Career Connection
Develops presentation and defense skills vital for academic conferences, job interviews, and teaching.
Network with Theological Academics- (Semester 3-4)
Attend national theological conferences, network with faculty from other seminaries, and explore opportunities for academic presentations or teaching assistantships. Leverage the Senate of Serampore College''''s extensive network. These connections are invaluable for future career placement, collaboration on research projects, and staying abreast of developments in Indian theological scholarship.
Tools & Resources
Theological conferences (e.g., ATES), Academic associations, LinkedIn for academics
Career Connection
Facilitates job placements, collaborative research, and professional growth within the theological academic community.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.D. Degree (Senate of Serampore College) or its equivalent, with a minimum of B+ (60-69%) grade/GPA. Candidates with a B.D. from an unaccredited institution must appear for an entrance examination.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 48 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTH 01 | Methodology for Theological Research | Core | 4 | Definition and Nature of Research, Research Process and Design, Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Research Ethics and Theological Hermeneutics |
| HOC 01 | Historiography and Source Materials | Specialization Core | 4 | Understanding History and Historiography, Methods of Historical Research, Sources for Church History, Bias and Interpretation in Historical Writing, Theological Interpretations of History |
| HOC 02 | Early and Medieval History of Christianity with Special Reference to India | Specialization Core | 4 | Beginnings of Christianity, Patristic Period and Early Councils, Rise of Monasticism, Medieval Christianity and Scholasticism, Early Christian Presence in India (St. Thomas Tradition, Syrian Christianity) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MTH 02 | Christian Ministry in Context | Core | 4 | Theological Foundations of Ministry, Contextual Approaches to Ministry, Models of Ministry, Challenges and Opportunities in Ministry, Role of Spirituality in Ministry |
| HOC 03 | History of Reformation and Post-Reformation Christianity with Special Reference to India | Specialization Core | 4 | Pre-Reformation Movements, Protestant Reformation (Luther, Calvin), Catholic Reformation and Counter-Reformation, Impact of Reformation, Arrival of Protestant Missions in India |
| HOC 04 | History of Modern Christianity in India | Specialization Core | 4 | Colonialism and Christianity in India, 18th-19th Century Missionary Movements, Growth of Indigenous Churches, Social and Cultural Impact of Christianity, Challenges of Modern Christianity in India |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOC 05 | Studies in Indian Christian Theology, Thought and Movements | Specialization Core | 4 | Development of Indian Christian Theology, Theological Response to Indian Religions, Key Indian Christian Thinkers, Indian Christian Movements (Dalit, Tribal), Future of Indian Christian Thought |
| HOC 06 | Ecumenical Movement and Church Union in India | Specialization Core | 4 | Origins and Aims of Ecumenical Movement, World Council of Churches, Ecumenism in India (NCCI, SCM), Church Union Movements (CSI, CNI), Challenges and Prospects of Ecumenism |
| HOC 07 | Dissertation Writing | Specialization Research | 4 | Defining Research Problem and Scope, Literature Review Techniques, Developing Research Questions/Hypotheses, Structuring and Outlining Dissertation, Academic Writing and Citation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HOC 08 | Comprehensive Viva Voce | Specialization Evaluation | 4 | Review of M.Th. Coursework, Presentation of Dissertation Findings, Defense of Research Methodology, Engagement with Academic Questions, Overall Theological and Historical Understanding |
| MTH 13 | Thesis/Dissertation | Specialization Thesis | 8 | Independent Research Project, In-depth Study of a Chosen Topic, Original Contribution to the Field, Scholarly Presentation of Findings, Adherence to Academic Standards |
