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BA in History at Shakuntala Devi Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Kayamganj, Farrukhabad
Farrukhabad, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is History at Shakuntala Devi Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Kayamganj, Farrukhabad Farrukhabad?
This History program at Shakuntala Devi Mahila Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with CSJMU, focuses on developing a deep understanding of human societies, cultures, and political systems across various epochs. Emphasizing critical analysis and research skills, it covers ancient, medieval, and modern Indian and world history. The program is designed to cultivate an analytical mindset essential for interpreting historical events and their contemporary relevance, catering to a consistent demand for historically informed perspectives in diverse Indian sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in humanities, social sciences, and a curiosity about the past. It suits individuals aspiring for careers in civil services, education, journalism, heritage management, or research. Students looking to develop strong analytical, interpretive, and writing skills, with an inclination towards exploring India''''s rich historical tapestry and global narratives, will find this program deeply enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in UPSC and state PSC exams, teaching, archival management, museology, and content creation. Entry-level salaries range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 7 LPA or more in government and educational sectors. The program strengthens critical thinking and research, offering a solid foundation for postgraduate studies or competitive examinations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master NCERT History Books- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly read and understand NCERT history textbooks from Class 6 to 12. These books form the bedrock for all competitive exams and university studies, providing a comprehensive and accurate overview of Indian history. Focus on timelines, key events, and personalities.
Tools & Resources
NCERT E-books app, Physical NCERT textbooks
Career Connection
Builds strong fundamentals crucial for UPSC/state PSC exams and higher academic pursuits in History.
Develop Academic Reading and Note-Taking- (Semester 1-2)
Practice reading historical texts, journal articles, and primary sources actively. Learn effective note-taking techniques like the Cornell method or mind mapping to summarize information and link concepts. Regularly review notes to reinforce learning.
Tools & Resources
Physical notebooks, Evernote/OneNote for digital notes, University library resources
Career Connection
Enhances critical analysis and information retention, vital for research, teaching, and professional communication.
Engage in Peer Learning and Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss historical concepts, debates, and interpretations. Actively participate in classroom discussions. Explaining concepts to peers solidifies your understanding and exposes you to diverse perspectives, refining your arguments.
Tools & Resources
College common rooms, Online discussion forums (e.g., WhatsApp groups), Textbooks and academic articles
Career Connection
Improves communication skills, fosters collaborative thinking, and prepares for group discussions common in competitive exams and academic settings.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Local Historical Site Visits and Documentation- (Semester 3-4)
Organize and participate in field trips to local historical sites, museums, and archives. Document your observations through photographs, detailed notes, and sketches. Research the historical context of these sites before and after your visit to enrich your understanding.
Tools & Resources
Local museums, State archives, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) sites
Career Connection
Develops practical skills in heritage management, research, and documentation, beneficial for museology, archival studies, and tourism.
Master Essay Writing and Argumentation- (Semester 3-5)
Regularly practice writing analytical essays on historical topics. Focus on constructing clear arguments, using evidence effectively, and refining your writing style. Seek feedback from professors and peers to improve clarity and coherence.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL for academic writing guidelines, History journal articles for examples
Career Connection
Crucial for competitive exams requiring essay papers, academic research, journalism, and any role demanding strong written communication.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3-5)
Connect historical events with concepts from other social sciences like Political Science, Economics, Sociology, and Geography. Understanding these interconnections provides a holistic perspective and strengthens analytical capabilities. Read books and articles that bridge these disciplines.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Interdisciplinary books, MOOCs on related subjects
Career Connection
Broadens intellectual horizons, essential for civil services where multidisciplinary knowledge is tested, and for holistic problem-solving in policy-making.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 5-6)
Begin focused preparation for UPSC Civil Services or State PSC exams. This involves in-depth study of specific syllabi, practicing previous year''''s question papers, current affairs analysis, and joining mock test series. History is a popular optional subject, so specialize in it.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Reputable coaching institute materials, Current affairs magazines and newspapers
Career Connection
Directly prepares for prestigious government jobs, offering stable and impactful career paths in India.
Undertake an Independent Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Choose a specific historical topic of interest and conduct an independent research project under faculty guidance. This involves extensive literature review, primary source analysis, data collection (if applicable), and writing a scholarly paper or dissertation.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, JSTOR, Google Scholar, Research methodology guides
Career Connection
Develops advanced research skills, critical for academic careers, PhD programs, think tanks, and high-level analytical roles.
Network with Historians and Academics- (Semester 5-6)
Attend history conferences, seminars, and workshops (online and offline). Engage with professors, guest lecturers, and established historians. This builds a professional network, provides insights into ongoing research, and opens doors for mentorship and further opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Academic event calendars, LinkedIn for professional networking, Departmental seminars
Career Connection
Facilitates access to job opportunities in academia, research, and related fields, and provides guidance for career progression.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Intermediate (10+2) pass from a recognized board, as per college and university norms.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 128 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A040101T | History of Ancient India (From Beginning to 1200 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-historic Cultures and Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic and Later Vedic Period, Mahajanpadas and Magadhan Empire, Mauryan, Post-Mauryan and Gupta Age, Post-Gupta Period: Harshavardhana, Regional Kingdoms |
| A040102P | Map Work / Project Work | Practical/Project | 2 | Identification of Ancient Indian Sites, Mapping of Empires and Cultural Zones, Project on Historical Personalities, Archaeological Site Report |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A040201T | History of Medieval India (1200 A.D. to 1707 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Sources of Medieval Indian History, Establishment and Consolidation of Delhi Sultanate, Khalji, Tughlaq, Sayyid and Lodi Dynasties, Bhakti and Sufi Movements, Mughal Empire: Babur to Aurangzeb, Mughal Administration, Art and Culture |
| A040202P | Map Work / Project Work | Practical/Project | 2 | Mapping of Sultanate and Mughal Territories, Identification of Historical Sites, Project on Medieval Monuments, Report on Administrative Reforms |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A040301T | History of Modern India (1707 A.D. to 1947 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire and Rise of Regional Powers, Arrival of European Powers and British Expansion, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Revolt of 1857 and its Impact, Indian National Movement: Gandhian Era, Partition of India and Independence |
| A040302P | Project Work / Field Study | Practical/Project | 2 | Project on Freedom Fighters, Field Study of Colonial Architecture, Report on Nationalist Movements, Analysis of Socio-Religious Reforms |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A040401T | History of Contemporary India (1947 A.D. to 2000 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Partition and its Aftermath, Integration of Princely States, Nehruvian Era: Nation Building and Economic Planning, Foreign Policy and Non-Alignment Movement, Challenges to Democracy: Emergency and Regionalism, Economic Reforms and Globalization, Social Movements and Identities |
| A040402P | Internship / Field Study | Practical/Project | 2 | Internship with Archives/Museums, Field Study on Modern India Issues, Report on Contemporary Historical Events, Oral History Interview Project |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A040501T | History of World Civilizations (Ancient and Medieval) | Core | 4 | Ancient River Valley Civilizations: Mesopotamia, Egypt, Ancient Greece: City-States, Democracy, Culture, Roman Civilization: Republic, Empire, Law, Rise of Christianity and Islam, Medieval Europe: Feudalism, Church, Crusades, Byzantine Empire and Islamic Golden Age |
| A040502T | History of Europe (1789-1919 A.D.) | Elective | 4 | French Revolution and Napoleonic Era, Industrial Revolution and its Impact, Rise of Nationalism in Europe, Unification of Germany and Italy, Imperialism and Colonialism, Causes and Consequences of World War I |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A040601T | History of World Civilizations (Modern) | Core | 4 | Enlightenment and its Impact, American Revolution and Independence, Revolutions of 1830 and 1848, Imperialism and its Consequences, World Wars I and II, Cold War and Decolonization |
| A040602T | History of East Asia (1839-1949 A.D.) | Elective | 4 | China: Opium Wars and Boxer Rebellion, Japan: Meiji Restoration and Modernization, Rise of Nationalism in China, Emergence of Japan as a Great Power, Chinese Revolution of 1911 and its Aftermath, World War II and East Asia |
