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B-A-PROG-ENGLISH-HISTORY in English History at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is English & History at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College Delhi?
This B.A. Programme English & History at Shaheed Bhagat Singh College, affiliated with the University of Delhi, focuses on developing a robust understanding of both literary traditions and historical narratives. The program cultivates critical thinking, analytical skills, and cultural awareness crucial for diverse fields in the Indian market. It prepares students for careers requiring strong research, communication, and contextual understanding. The interdisciplinary approach is a key differentiator, offering a broad intellectual foundation.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any stream who possess a keen interest in literature, history, and the interplay between culture and society. It suits individuals aspiring to careers in civil services, journalism, teaching, publishing, content creation, or academia. Students with a strong aptitude for reading, research, and critical analysis, who seek a comprehensive liberal arts education, will thrive in this environment. No specific prerequisite backgrounds beyond Class 12th are strictly required, making it accessible.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as content writers, editors, researchers, archivists, museum curators, and educators. They are well-prepared for competitive exams like UPSC, driving demand in government sectors. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The analytical and communication skills honed are highly valued, leading to growth trajectories in both public and private sectors. Advanced studies in either discipline are also a popular outcome.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Reading & Research Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with prescribed texts for both English and History, focusing on critical reading and comprehension. Develop effective note-taking strategies and utilize the college library''''s resources for additional readings. Practice synthesizing information from various sources for assignments.
Tools & Resources
College library, DU e-resources, Online academic journals, Note-taking apps like Evernote, Zotero for basic citation management
Career Connection
Essential for all research-based roles, academic pursuits, and competitive exams requiring extensive general knowledge and analytical skills.
Master Academic Writing & Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing clear, coherent, and well-structured essays and assignments. Seek feedback from professors and peers, and actively work on improving grammar, vocabulary, and argumentative skills. Participate in discussions to enhance verbal communication.
Tools & Resources
University writing center (if available), Grammarly, Purdue OWL, Peer review groups, College literary or debating societies
Career Connection
Fundamental for content writing, journalism, publishing, teaching, and effective communication in any professional setting.
Engage with Interdisciplinary Perspectives- (Semester 1-2)
Recognize and explore the connections between English literature and historical contexts. Analyze how historical events influence literary works and how literature reflects societal changes. Attend workshops or seminars that bridge these disciplines.
Tools & Resources
Interdepartmental seminars, Guest lectures, Online courses on cultural studies, Historical documentaries
Career Connection
Develops a holistic understanding crucial for civil services, cultural heritage management, policy analysis, and advanced research combining both fields.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Critical Analytical Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Move beyond descriptive learning to critical analysis of literary texts and historical events. Formulate independent arguments, evaluate different interpretations, and challenge conventional wisdom. Engage in debates and analytical discussions.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Critical essays, Philosophy forums, Participation in college''''s history or English societies
Career Connection
Highly valued in research, think tanks, strategic communication, and roles requiring problem-solving and nuanced understanding.
Explore Research Opportunities & Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Identify areas of interest within English or History and initiate small-scale research projects, even if not formally part of the curriculum. Seek guidance from faculty for project ideas and methodology. Participate in college-level research competitions.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentorship, Research methodology workshops, JSTOR, Project Gutenberg, National Digital Library of India (NDLI)
Career Connection
Builds a strong foundation for postgraduate studies, research roles, and demonstrates initiative and specialized knowledge to potential employers.
Network and Attend Academic Events- (Semester 3-4)
Attend national and international seminars, conferences, and workshops related to English and History. Network with professors, scholars, and fellow students from other institutions. Join academic clubs and societies.
Tools & Resources
Conference announcements on DU website, Professional academic associations, LinkedIn for academic networking, College alumni network
Career Connection
Provides exposure to current research trends, builds professional connections, and opens doors to mentorship and collaborative opportunities.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Higher Education & Civil Services- (Semester 5-6)
For those aspiring for higher studies (MA/M.Phil/Ph.D), begin preparing for entrance exams like NET/JRF or university-specific tests. For civil services, dedicate time to general studies, current affairs, and optional subject preparation.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes (if opting), Online study groups, NCERT books, The Hindu/Indian Express for current affairs
Career Connection
Direct pathway to academic careers, research positions, prestigious government roles, and think tanks.
Build a Professional Portfolio- (Semester 5-6)
Curate a portfolio of best academic papers, research projects, creative writing pieces, or historical analyses. Include any certificates of participation in workshops or conferences. Consider starting a blog or online presence to showcase work.
Tools & Resources
Google Sites, LinkedIn, Academic portfolios, Personal blogs, Online writing platforms
Career Connection
Essential for demonstrating skills and capabilities to prospective employers in content, media, publishing, and research industries.
Undertake Internships or Volunteering- (Semester 5-6)
Seek internships in publishing houses, media organizations, NGOs focused on education or heritage, archives, or museums. Volunteer for cultural festivals or literary events. This provides practical exposure and valuable experience.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Internshala, LinkedIn, Direct applications to organizations, Networking contacts
Career Connection
Gains real-world experience, develops industry-specific skills, expands professional network, and significantly enhances employability for immediate post-graduation roles.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed Class 12th examination from a recognized board (as per University of Delhi admission criteria for BA Programme)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 132 (minimum) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG101 | Literary Forms and Terms | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Poetry as a form and its elements, Drama genres and conventions, Fiction: narrative techniques and types, Literary terms and concepts, Critical approaches to literature |
| BAHIS101 | History of India - I (From earliest times up to c. 300 CE) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Paleolithic and Mesolithic cultures, Harappan Civilization, Vedic Age and social structures, Janapadas and the rise of Magadha, Mauryan Empire and Ashoka''''s Dhamma |
| UGCF-AECC1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Ecosystems and their functions, Biodiversity and conservation, Environmental pollution and control, Natural resources and management, Sustainable development and climate change |
| UGCF-VAC1 | Constitutional Values and Fundamental Duties | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Preamble and ideals of the Constitution, Fundamental Rights and their importance, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties of citizens, Citizenship and constitutional amendments |
| UGCF-GE1 | Generic Elective - I (Student''''s Choice) | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | Varies based on student choice from other disciplines like Economics, Political Science, Psychology, etc. |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG102 | Indian Writing in English | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Early Indian English novels and themes, Modern Indian English poetry and its evolution, Post-colonial literature and identity, Major Indian English writers and their works, Cultural expressions in Indian English writing |
| BAHIS102 | History of India - II (c. 300 to 1200 CE) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Gupta Empire: polity, economy, society, Post-Gupta kingdoms and regional powers, Harsha''''s empire and administrative system, Early medieval South Indian kingdoms (Cholas, Pallavas), Debates on Indian feudalism |
| UGCF-AECC2 | English/MIL Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 4 | Reading comprehension and critical analysis, Effective writing skills: essays, reports, Grammar, vocabulary, and language usage, Oral communication and presentation skills, Listening skills and interpersonal communication |
| UGCF-VAC2 | Ethics and Values | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Introduction to moral philosophy, Ethical dilemmas in contemporary society, Importance of values in personal and public life, Professional ethics and social responsibility, Personal integrity and decision-making |
| UGCF-GE2 | Generic Elective - II (Student''''s Choice) | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | Varies based on student choice from other disciplines like Economics, Political Science, Psychology, etc. |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG203 | European Classical Literature | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Greek epic poetry: Homer and Hesiod, Greek tragedy: Aeschylus, Sophocles, Euripides, Roman comedy: Plautus and Terence, Classical literary theory: Aristotle, Horace, Mythology and its influence on literature |
| BAHIS203 | History of India - III (c. 1200 to 1750 CE) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Establishment and expansion of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire: administration, society, culture, Vijayanagara and Bahmani kingdoms, Religious movements: Bhakti and Sufi traditions, Rise of regional powers and Maratha state |
| UGCF-SEC1 | Academic Writing and Composition | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Essay writing techniques and structure, Research paper development and argumentation, Referencing styles and ethical research, Critical analysis and synthesis of information, Avoiding plagiarism and academic integrity |
| UGCF-VAC3 | Yoga Philosophy and Practice | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Introduction to Yoga and its origins, Patanjali''''s Ashtanga Yoga, Basic Asanas and their benefits, Pranayama techniques and meditation, Yoga for physical and mental well-being |
| UGCF-GE3 | Generic Elective - III (Student''''s Choice) | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | Varies based on student choice from other disciplines like Economics, Political Science, Psychology, etc. |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG204 | British Literature (Early to Late 18th Century) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Restoration Drama and theatre, Augustan poetry and satire (Pope, Swift), Rise of the Novel (Defoe, Richardson, Fielding), Pre-Romantic and Romantic poetry, Enlightenment ideas and their literary reflection |
| BAHIS204 | History of India - IV (c. 1750 to 1950 CE) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Colonialism and British expansion in India, Economic impact of British rule, Social and religious reform movements, Revolt of 1857 and its aftermath, Rise of Indian nationalism and Partition |
| UGCF-SEC2 | Digital Fluency | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Fundamentals of digital literacy, Online communication and collaboration tools, Data management and digital organization, Cyber security basics and online safety, Productivity software for academic tasks |
| UGCF-VAC4 | Sports and Fitness | Value Addition Course (VAC) | 2 | Benefits of physical activity, Introduction to various sports, Basic fitness exercises and routines, Nutrition for health and performance, Injury prevention and healthy lifestyle choices |
| UGCF-GE4 | Generic Elective - IV (Student''''s Choice) | Generic Elective (GE) | 4 | Varies based on student choice from other disciplines like Economics, Political Science, Psychology, etc. |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG305 | Modern Indian Literature in Translation | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Regional Indian literatures and their significance, Theories and challenges of literary translation, Major literary movements in modern India, Folk traditions and oral narratives, Contemporary Indian narratives and subaltern voices |
| BAHIS305 | Environmental History | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Human-environment interaction through history, History of deforestation and resource exploitation, Water resources and their management in past societies, Impact of urbanization on natural landscapes, Environmental movements and ecological imperialism |
| UGCF-SEC3 | Data Analytics | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Fundamentals of data collection and organization, Basic statistical analysis and interpretation, Data visualization techniques and tools, Using spreadsheet software for data analysis, Applying data insights for decision making |
| UGCF-OPT51 | Optional Course - V (Student''''s Choice to meet credit requirements) | Optional | 4 | Varies based on student choice; could be an additional Generic Elective, Skill Enhancement Course, or another interdisciplinary offering. |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG306 | Literary Criticism | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Classical criticism (Plato, Aristotle), Romantic criticism and its principles, Formalism and its analytical approach, Structuralism and Post-structuralism, Feminist criticism and gender studies in literature |
| BAHIS306 | Gender in Indian History | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Patriarchy and gender relations in ancient India, Women''''s agency and resistance movements, Gender roles in medieval Indian society, Impact of colonialism on gender norms, Feminist historiography and women''''s history |
| UGCF-SEC4 | Entrepreneurship | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Ideation and business idea generation, Market research and feasibility analysis, Developing a comprehensive business plan, Sources of funding and financial management, Legal aspects and marketing strategies for startups |
| UGCF-OPT61 | Optional Course - VI (Student''''s Choice to meet credit requirements) | Optional | 4 | Varies based on student choice; could be an additional Generic Elective, Skill Enhancement Course, or another interdisciplinary offering. |
