

BA in History at Shri Kalavara Varadaraja M. Shetty Government First Grade College


Udupi, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is History at Shri Kalavara Varadaraja M. Shetty Government First Grade College Udupi?
This History specialization program at Shree Kalavara Varadaraj M Shetty Government First Grade College, Udupi, focuses on a comprehensive study of Indian and World history from ancient to contemporary times, encompassing political, socio-cultural, and economic dimensions. Leveraging the NEP 2020 framework from Mangalore University, the program encourages interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. It is highly relevant in India for understanding its rich heritage, diverse social fabric, and for careers in cultural preservation and public service.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in human civilizations, past events, and their impact on the present. It suits aspirants for civil services (UPSC, KPSC), museum and archive professionals, and those aiming for careers in journalism, education, or heritage management. Individuals seeking a strong foundation in humanities for further academic pursuits or research in historical studies will also find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, archaeologists, teachers, research associates, and content writers. They are well-prepared for civil services examinations due to the strong emphasis on Indian history and current affairs. Entry-level salaries range from INR 2.5-4 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in specialized fields like heritage conservation or academic research. The analytical and critical thinking skills developed are highly valued across various sectors.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Research and Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a habit of thorough reading beyond textbooks, utilizing the college library and online academic databases. Focus on understanding historical methodologies and source criticism early on to build a robust analytical foundation. Participate in classroom discussions and prepare short presentations.
Tools & Resources
College Library resources, JSTOR, Project MUSE (if accessible via university subscription), NCERT history books for foundational clarity
Career Connection
Strong research skills are fundamental for any career in academia, civil services, or even journalism, enabling effective information gathering and critical analysis.
Engage with Local History and Heritage- (Semester 1-2)
Actively explore the rich historical and cultural landscape of Udupi and Karnataka. Visit local historical sites, temples, museums, and archaeological parks. Participate in college-organized field trips or local history clubs to gain practical insights into heritage preservation and study.
Tools & Resources
Local museums (e.g., Hasta Shilpa Heritage Village), Temples, Historical sites, Local history books and journals
Career Connection
Direct engagement enhances understanding for roles in museology, archaeology, heritage management, and cultural tourism, which are significant in India.
Develop Effective Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, report structuring, and citation styles specific to historical research. Seek feedback from professors on assignments and participate in writing workshops if available. Practice structuring arguments logically and supporting them with evidence.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style for History), Grammarly, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Clear and persuasive writing is crucial for academic papers, competitive exams, content creation, and professional reports in any field.
Intermediate Stage
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 3-5)
Start dedicated preparation for civil services (UPSC, KPSC) or other government job exams early. Focus on General Studies, particularly history, and consider optional history papers. Join study groups and practice previous year question papers.
Tools & Resources
Previous year UPSC/KPSC question papers, Online coaching platforms (e.g., Unacademy, Byju''''s for GS), Standard reference books for competitive exams
Career Connection
Directly enhances chances for securing prestigious government positions, a common aspiration for History graduates in India.
Pursue Internships and Volunteering- (Semester 3-5)
Seek internships at museums, archives, heritage organizations, NGOs working on cultural preservation, or even local archaeological survey projects during semester breaks. Volunteer for heritage walks or historical documentation projects.
Tools & Resources
INTACH chapters in Karnataka, State Archaeology Department, Local NGOs, College career cell for leads
Career Connection
Gains practical experience, builds professional networks, and provides a competitive edge for jobs in heritage, cultural, and public sectors.
Participate in Seminars and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Attend and actively participate in history seminars, conferences, and workshops organized by the college, university, or other academic institutions. Present papers or research findings, even on minor topics, to build confidence and refine presentation skills.
Tools & Resources
University event calendars, Department notices, Academic journals
Career Connection
Develops public speaking, critical analysis, and networking skills, which are vital for academic careers, research roles, and leadership positions.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Significant Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6-8)
For Honours students, dedicate substantial effort to the dissertation in the final year. Choose a topic of genuine interest, conduct rigorous primary and secondary research, and present a well-argued, original piece of work. This is crucial for higher studies and research careers.
Tools & Resources
Academic supervisors, Specialized library resources, Archival materials (if accessible), Research methodology books
Career Connection
Essential for pursuing MA/PhD in History, and demonstrates advanced research capabilities valued in think tanks, policy analysis, and specialized government roles.
Network with Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 6-8)
Actively connect with professors, visiting lecturers, professionals in relevant fields (e.g., museum directors, government officials), and college alumni who have pursued careers in history or related areas. Attend alumni meets and utilize platforms like LinkedIn.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Professional conferences
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to mentorship, job opportunities, and insights into various career paths, which is especially beneficial in India''''s competitive job market.
Develop Digital Humanities Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Explore basic digital tools for historical research, data visualization, and online archiving. Learn about creating digital timelines, mapping historical data (GIS), or managing digital collections. This adds a modern edge to traditional historical skills.
Tools & Resources
Online tutorials for GIS basics, Digital archiving platforms, Basic data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau Public), University IT training
Career Connection
Highly sought-after skills in modern archives, digital museums, academic research, and content creation, making graduates versatile in a technology-driven world.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters) for BA Honours with Research. Multiple entry/exit options as per NEP 2020.
Credits: 176 (for 4-year Honours with Research as per NEP guidelines) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-I | History of India from Earliest Times to 600 CE | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-historic Cultures (Paleolithic, Mesolithic, Neolithic), Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic and Later Vedic Period, Rise of Mahajanapadas and Mauryan Empire, Post-Mauryan Period: Satavahanas and Kushanas |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-II | History of India from 600 CE to 1526 CE | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Post-Gupta Period and Rise of Regional Powers, Vardhanas of Thaneswar, Palas, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas of Badami and Kalyana, Gangas, Cholas, Advent of Islam and Delhi Sultanate, Expansion and Administration of Delhi Sultanate, Vijayanagara and Bahmani Kingdoms |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-III | History of India from 1526 CE to 1857 CE | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Establishment of Mughal Empire (Babur to Akbar), Mughal Administration, Art, and Architecture, Decline of Mughal Empire and Rise of Regional States, Marathas under Shivaji and Peshwas, Advent of Europeans and Anglo-French Rivalry, Expansion of British Power, Mysore Wars, Revolt of 1857 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-IV | History of India from 1857 CE to 1947 CE | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | British Administrative Policies Post-1857, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Rise of Indian Nationalism: Moderate and Extremist Phases, Gandhian Era and Mass Movements, Constitutional Developments (e.g., Govt of India Acts), Partition of India and Independence |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-V | History of Modern World from 1453 CE to 1945 CE | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Rise of Nation States and Absolutism, Enlightenment and Revolutions (English, American, French), Industrial Revolution and Capitalism, Unification of Germany and Italy, Imperialism, World Wars I and II |
| DSC-VI | History of Karnataka from Earliest Times to 1799 CE | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Sources of Karnataka History, Early Dynasties: Kadambas and Gangas, Chalukyas of Badami and Kalyana, Hoysalas and their Contributions, Vijayanagara Empire and its Administration, Bahmani Kingdom and Sultanates, Wodeyars of Mysore (Early Phase) |
| DSE-I (Example) | Historical Geography | Discipline Specific Elective (History) | 3 | Nature and Scope of Historical Geography, Man-Environment Relationship, Evolution of Settlements and Place Names, Historical Cartography, Impact of Geography on Historical Events |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-VII | Contemporary World since 1945 CE | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | The Cold War and Bipolar World Order, Decolonization and Rise of New Nations, Formation and Role of United Nations, Non-Aligned Movement, Globalization and its Impact, Regional Conflicts and Peace Initiatives |
| DSC-VIII | History of Karnataka from 1799 CE to 1956 CE | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Mysore under British Paramountcy, Freedom Movement in Karnataka, Role of Princely States in Integration, Agrarian Movements and Social Reforms, Unification of Karnataka, Post-Independence Developments in the State |
| DSE-II (Example) | Historiography | Discipline Specific Elective (History) | 3 | Nature and Scope of History, Objectivity and Bias in History, Schools of Historical Thought (e.g., Positivist, Marxist), Ancient, Medieval, and Modern Indian Historiography, Oral History and Subaltern Studies |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-IX | History of European Economic Institutions | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Feudalism and its Decline, Rise of Capitalism and Mercantilism, Agrarian and Industrial Revolutions, Emergence of Banking and Stock Markets, Colonialism and its Economic Impact, Post-War Economic Reconstruction and EU |
| DSC-X | History of Science and Technology | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Scientific Contributions of Ancient Civilizations (India, Greece), Science and Technology in Medieval Islam and Europe, The Scientific Revolution (Copernicus, Newton), Industrial Age Innovations and their Impact, Twentieth-Century Scientific Breakthroughs, Ethics of Science and Technology |
| DSE-III (Example) | Gender Studies | Discipline Specific Elective (History) | 3 | Understanding Concepts of Gender and Sex, Patriarchy and Matriarchy in Historical Context, Women''''s Movements in India and Global Context, Gender and Society in Ancient and Medieval India, Contemporary Issues in Gender and Development |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-XI | Public History and Tourism | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Introduction to Public History, Museums, Archives, and Heritage Management, History in Media and Popular Culture, Historical Tourism and its Impact, Oral History and Community Engagement, Role of Historians in Public Sphere |
| DSC-XII | Environmental History | Discipline Specific Core (History) | 4 | Human-Environment Interaction through Ages, Resource Utilization and Depletion, Forests, Water, and Land in Historical Perspective, Impact of Industrialization on Environment, Rise of Environmental Movements in India, Climate Change: Historical Dimensions |
| DSE-IV (Example) | History of Ideas | Discipline Specific Elective (History) | 3 | Major Philosophical Currents (e.g., Rationalism, Empiricism), Political Ideas (e.g., Monarchy, Democracy, Socialism), Social Thought and its Evolution, Religious Ideas and Reform Movements, Impact of Science on Intellectual Thought, Concept of Progress and Modernity |
| DISS | Dissertation / Project Work | Project / Research | 8 | Research Methodology and Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Writing and Citation, Presentation Skills, In-depth study of a historical topic, Contribution to historical discourse |




