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M-A in History at Shree V. D. Kankiya Arts & Smt. M. R. Sanghvi Commerce College
Amreli, Gujarat
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About the Specialization
What is History at Shree V. D. Kankiya Arts & Smt. M. R. Sanghvi Commerce College Amreli?
This History program at Shree V. D. Kankiya Arts And Srimati M. R. Sanghvi Commerce College, Amreli focuses on a comprehensive study of Indian and World History, spanning ancient to contemporary periods, with special emphasis on Gujarat''''s historical narrative. The curriculum incorporates diverse methodologies like historiography and archaeology, preparing students for deep analytical engagement with the past. It addresses the growing need for historical expertise in India''''s cultural heritage, academic, and research sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history graduates seeking advanced research skills and a deeper understanding of historical processes. It attracts fresh graduates aiming for careers in academia, museums, archives, or public service. Working professionals like teachers or heritage managers can upskill, while career changers with a strong interest in historical inquiry can transition into related fields, provided they have a relevant bachelor''''s degree.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museologists, academic researchers, and educators in schools and colleges. They can also find opportunities in cultural institutions, government departments, and media houses focusing on historical content. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization in specific historical periods or research areas.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historiographical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding different historical theories, methods, and the nuances of historical interpretation. Engage with primary source analysis and critical evaluation techniques through assigned readings and discussions.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online academic journals (e.g., JSTOR, Project MUSE for abstracts), Historical methodology textbooks, Peer discussion groups
Career Connection
Develops strong research skills, critical thinking, and a foundational understanding essential for any historical profession, including academia, research, and policy analysis.
Develop Strong Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice academic essay writing, research paper structuring, and bibliographic referencing diligently. Actively participate in departmental seminars and present your findings to refine oral communication skills.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Academic writing guides, Peer review groups, Faculty mentorship during assignments
Career Connection
Crucial for academic success, future PhD pursuits, and roles requiring documentation, report writing, content creation, or publishing in historical fields.
Engage with Regional and National History Societies- (Semester 1-2)
Join local historical associations or the college''''s history club. Attend workshops, guest lectures, and heritage walks organized by the college or local groups to broaden your perspective and network with established historians.
Tools & Resources
Local university history departments, Gujarat Itihas Parishad, Indian History Congress (for information), College cultural committees
Career Connection
Builds professional networks, exposes students to current research trends, and opens doors for volunteering or introductory roles in heritage management and cultural organizations.
Intermediate Stage
Specialise and Deepen Elective Knowledge- (Semester 3-4)
Dive deeply into your chosen elective stream (e.g., Archaeology, Cultural History, Economic History) through advanced readings, specialized workshops, and field visits if opportunities arise locally or through institutional partnerships.
Tools & Resources
Advanced texts in your specialization, Department-specific research resources, Access to archaeological sites or cultural institutions (if available in Amreli/Gujarat)
Career Connection
Develops expertise in a niche area, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized research roles, museum positions, archival work, or further academic studies.
Undertake an Independent Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 3-4)
Work closely with a faculty mentor to identify a feasible research topic, collect and analyze data from primary and secondary sources, and write a substantial dissertation. This is a capstone for in-depth learning.
Tools & Resources
University library archives, Online research databases, Faculty supervision and feedback on research proposals, Statistical tools (if quantitative history)
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced research capability, a key requirement for academic positions, PhD admissions, and analytical roles in think tanks, government, or policy research.
Explore Internship Opportunities in Heritage/Archives- (Semester 3-4)
Seek short-term internships with local museums, government archives, heritage foundations, or cultural departments in Gujarat. These provide practical exposure to professional historical work beyond academics.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell (if available), Online internship portals (e.g., Internshala for relevant roles), Direct outreach to cultural institutions in Gujarat, Gujarat State Archives
Career Connection
Provides valuable practical exposure to the field, builds professional contacts, and significantly enhances your resume for roles in conservation, documentation, historical research, and cultural tourism.
Advanced Stage
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in Arts with History as a subject or equivalent from a recognized university
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H-101 | Historiography and Historical Methods | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Relationship with other disciplines, Objectivity and Bias in History, Historical Method and Criticism, Types of History, Indian Historiography |
| H-102 | Ancient Indian History: Political and Cultural Development (Upto 650 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Harappan Civilization, Vedic Age and Mahajanapadas, Mauryan Empire and Administration, Post-Mauryan Developments, Gupta Age and its Cultural Achievements |
| H-103 | Medieval India: Political and Cultural Development (1200 A.D. to 1526 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Turkish Conquest and Delhi Sultanate, Slave Dynasty, Khilji Dynasty and Reforms, Tughlaq Dynasty, Sayyid and Lodi Dynasties, Socio-Economic and Cultural aspects of Sultanate Period |
| H-104 | Twentieth Century World (1914 to 1945) | Core | 4 | Causes and Consequences of World War I, Russian Revolution of 1917, Treaty of Versailles and its Impact, Rise of Fascism in Italy and Nazism in Germany, Causes and Consequences of World War II, League of Nations |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H-201 | Aspects of Indian National Movement (1857-1947) | Core | 4 | Revolt of 1857 and its Impact, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Moderate and Extremist Phases, Gandhian Era and Mass Movements, Quit India Movement, Partition and Independence of India |
| H-202 | Ancient Indian History: Political and Cultural Development (650 A.D. to 1200 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Post-Gupta Period and Harshavardhana, Rise of Regional Kingdoms in North India (Rajputs), Pallavas and Chalukyas in South India, Chola Empire: Administration and Culture, Palas, Senas, and Gurjara-Pratiharas, Society and Culture in Early Medieval India |
| H-203 | Medieval India: Political and Cultural Development (1526 A.D. to 1707 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Establishment of Mughal Empire (Babur, Humayun), Akbar: Administration and Religious Policy, Jahangir and Shah Jahan: Art and Architecture, Aurangzeb: Religious Policy and Deccan Policy, Mughal Administration and Economy, Socio-Cultural Life under Mughals |
| H-204 | Twentieth Century World (1945 to 2000) | Core | 4 | Origins and Development of the Cold War, United Nations and its Role, Decolonization in Asia and Africa, Rise of Superpowers and Bloc Politics, Middle East Conflicts, End of Cold War and Globalization |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H-301 | Contemporary India (1947 A.D. to Present) | Core | 4 | Challenges of Partition and Nation Building, Framing of the Indian Constitution, Nehruvian Era: Policies and Planning, Economic Development and Reforms, Social Movements and Changes, India''''s Foreign Policy and Regional Relations |
| H-302 | Introduction to Archaeology | Elective (Group A Choice) | 4 | Definition and Scope of Archaeology, History of Archaeological Research, Methods and Techniques of Excavation, Dating Methods in Archaeology, Cultural Sequences and Chronology, Types of Archaeological Sites |
| H-302 | Social History of India (Ancient to Medieval) | Elective (Group B Choice) | 4 | Social Structures in Ancient India, Caste System and Varna Hierarchy, Family, Marriage and Status of Women, Religious Movements and Social Impact, Social Institutions in Medieval India, Urban and Rural Social Life |
| H-302 | Economic History of India (Ancient to Medieval) | Elective (Group C Choice) | 4 | Economic Structure of Harappan Civilization, Agriculture and Land Revenue in Ancient India, Trade and Commerce Routes, Urban Centers and Craft Production, Agrarian Structure in Medieval India, Currency and Taxation Systems |
| H-302 | Social History of Modern India | Elective (Group D Choice) | 4 | Impact of British Rule on Indian Society, Social Reform Movements, Caste and Class in Colonial India, Status of Women and Social Legislation, Growth of Education, Urbanization and Social Change |
| H-303 | Pre-History of India | Elective (Group A Choice) | 4 | Geological and Climatic Changes, Paleolithic Cultures: Lower, Middle, Upper, Mesolithic Age: Tools and Art, Neolithic Revolution and Early Agriculture, Chalcolithic Cultures, Megalithic Cultures of South India |
| H-303 | Cultural History of India (Ancient to Medieval) | Elective (Group B Choice) | 4 | Art and Architecture of Ancient India, Development of Literature and Philosophy, Religious Beliefs and Practices, Education Systems, Cultural Synthesis in Medieval India, Sufi and Bhakti Movements |
| H-303 | Agrarian and Urban Economy (Ancient to Medieval) | Elective (Group C Choice) | 4 | Land Systems and Land Grants, Irrigation and Agricultural Technology, Guilds and Craft Production, Urban Growth and Trade Centers, Markets and Merchants, Revenue Administration |
| H-303 | Cultural History of Modern India | Elective (Group D Choice) | 4 | Impact of Western Culture, Rise of Print Culture and Journalism, Development of Modern Indian Languages, Art, Architecture and Music in Colonial India, Theatre and Cinema, Cultural Nationalism |
| H-304 | History of Gujarat (1750 A.D. to 1960 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Maratha Rule in Gujarat, Establishment of British Rule and Administration, Socio-Religious Reform Movements in Gujarat, Growth of Nationalism and Prajamandal Movement, Integration of Princely States, Formation of Gujarat State |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H-401 | Intellectual History of Modern India (1757 A.D. to 1947 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Indian Renaissance and Enlightenment, Rise of Modern Political Thought, Social and Religious Reformers, Nationalist Ideologies and Leaders, Impact of Western Thought, Philosophy of Indian Nationalism |
| H-402 | Proto-History and Historical Archaeology of India | Elective (Group A Choice) | 4 | Harappan Archaeology and Post-Urban Phase, Archaeology of the Vedic Period, Early Historic Archaeology: Mahajanapadas to Gupta Period, Urban Centers and Material Culture, Numismatics and Epigraphy as Archaeological Sources, Archaeology of Ancient Trade Routes |
| H-402 | Social History of India (Modern) | Elective (Group B Choice) | 4 | Social Changes under Colonialism, Caste Movements and Dalit Consciousness, Women''''s Movement and Emancipation, Communalism and Identity Politics, Labour Movements and Peasant Uprisings, Impact of Industrialization on Society |
| H-402 | Economic History of Modern India | Elective (Group C Choice) | 4 | Colonial Economic Policies, Deindustrialization and Agrarian Commercialization, Famines and Poverty, Drain of Wealth Theory, Development of Railways and Modern Industries, Impact of World Wars on Indian Economy |
| H-402 | Political Thought in Modern India | Elective (Group D Choice) | 4 | Emergence of Nationalist Thought, Liberal and Moderate Ideologies, Extremist and Revolutionary Thought, Gandhian Philosophy of Satyagraha, Socialist and Communist Ideas, Subaltern Perspectives |
| H-403 | Field Archaeology and Conservation of Antiquities | Elective (Group A Choice) | 4 | Principles of Archaeological Survey, Methods of Site Excavation and Documentation, Post-Excavation Analysis and Report Writing, Conservation and Preservation of Archaeological Sites, Museology and Exhibition Techniques, Heritage Management and Legislation |
| H-403 | Cultural History of India (Modern) | Elective (Group B Choice) | 4 | Impact of Western Education and Ideas, Print Culture and Public Sphere, Growth of Regional Literature and Arts, Emergence of Modern Indian Art and Architecture, Music, Dance, and Performing Arts, Cinema and Mass Culture |
| H-403 | Trade and Commerce in Modern India | Elective (Group C Choice) | 4 | Colonial Trade Policies and Patterns, Internal and External Trade, Commercialization of Agriculture, Development of Banking and Finance, Rise of Indian Business Communities, Impact of Globalization on Indian Economy |
| H-403 | Administrative History of Modern India | Elective (Group D Choice) | 4 | Evolution of Colonial Administration, Judicial and Legal Reforms, Land Revenue Settlements, Police and Army Reforms, Local Self-Government, Constitutional Developments |
| H-404 | History of Gujarat (1960 A.D. to Present) | Core | 4 | Political Developments Post-1960, Socio-Economic Changes in Gujarat, Industrialization and Urbanization, Major Political Movements and Leaders, Cultural Trends and Regional Identity, Contemporary Challenges and Prospects |
