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M-A in History at Sree Siddeshwara Jagadguru College
Ballari, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is History at Sree Siddeshwara Jagadguru College Ballari?
This M.A. History program at Sree Siddeshwara Jagadguru College, affiliated with VSKU, Ballari, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of Indian and World History, with a significant emphasis on Karnataka''''s rich past. The curriculum delves into historical methods, diverse historiographical traditions, socio-political formations across different eras, and cultural developments, fostering critical thinking and research skills essential for academic and public service careers in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history enthusiasts, fresh graduates with a background in arts or social sciences, and aspiring researchers or educators. It caters to individuals keen on exploring India''''s ancient to modern historical narratives, understanding societal evolution, and contributing to the academic discourse. It also attracts those preparing for competitive examinations like UPSC, KPSC, or UGC NET, where a strong foundation in history is crucial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, heritage managers, and academicians. The program also serves as an excellent foundation for civil services, journalism, and cultural tourism. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 8-10 LPA in academic or government sectors, offering significant growth trajectories in India''''s booming cultural and educational industries.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Historical Concepts & Methods- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with lectures on historiography, historical theories, and research methodologies. Form study groups to discuss complex historical perspectives and practice source analysis. Utilize VSKU library resources and online academic journals to broaden understanding beyond textbooks.
Tools & Resources
VSKU Library, JSTOR (through university access), Indian History Congress proceedings
Career Connection
Develops analytical and critical thinking, crucial for research roles, academic writing, and competitive exams requiring deep historical insight.
Strengthen Core Subject Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in Indian and World History by thoroughly studying all core papers. Regularly review historical timelines, socio-political movements, and economic developments. Participate in quizzes and presentations to reinforce learning and improve articulation.
Tools & Resources
Standard History textbooks (e.g., NCERT, IGNOU materials), Historical atlases, Online history platforms like History Today
Career Connection
Essential for clearing UGC NET/SET, KPSC/UPSC exams, and for effective teaching and research in subsequent stages.
Cultivate Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice writing structured essays and research papers, adhering to academic integrity. Seek feedback from professors on assignments to refine argumentative capabilities and citation styles. Start compiling notes and summaries for efficient revision.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), Grammarly, Mendeley for referencing
Career Connection
Prepares students for dissertation writing, academic publications, and articulate communication in any professional setting.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini Research Projects- (Semester 3)
Identify a specific historical topic of interest and conduct a small-scale research project, even if not formally assigned. This could involve exploring local history, oral traditions, or underrepresented narratives, using primary and secondary sources available in Ballari.
Tools & Resources
District Archives, Ballari, Local libraries, Interview techniques for oral history
Career Connection
Develops practical research skills, preparing for the final dissertation and future academic endeavors or historical documentation roles.
Engage with Elective Specializations- (Semester 3-4)
Deep dive into the chosen elective papers (e.g., Economic History, Subaltern Studies) through extensive reading and discussions. Participate in department seminars or workshops related to these specialized fields. Look for interdisciplinary connections.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic books and journals, Online courses (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera) related to specific historical fields
Career Connection
Allows for focused expertise development, highly valuable for targeted career paths in research, policy analysis, or specialized historical consultancy.
Network and Attend Conferences- (Semester 3-4)
Connect with faculty, visiting scholars, and peers. Attend history conferences, symposia, or workshops organized by VSKU or other regional institutions. This fosters intellectual exchange and exposure to current historical debates and research trends in India.
Tools & Resources
VSKU academic events calendar, History department notices, LinkedIn for professional networking
Career Connection
Builds professional networks, opens doors to collaborative research, and provides insights into job opportunities and academic pathways.
Advanced Stage
Initiate Dissertation Research Early- (Semester 4)
Begin conceptualizing your dissertation topic, identifying a research gap, and consulting with potential supervisors at the start of the final year. Dedicate significant time to literature review, data collection, and methodological planning to ensure a high-quality thesis.
Tools & Resources
University research guides, Supervisor mentorship, Reference management software like Zotero
Career Connection
Crucial for a strong academic record, which is vital for Ph.D. admissions, research fellowships, and high-level analytical roles.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 4)
Integrate preparation for UGC NET, KPSC, or UPSC Civil Services exams into your final year study plan. Utilize the comprehensive MA History syllabus as a framework, supplementing with mock tests and previous year papers. Join study circles focusing on these exams.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET/KPSC/UPSC previous year papers, Online coaching platforms, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Directly enhances employability for teaching positions (Assistant Professor), research, and various government sector jobs in India.
Seek Internships or Volunteer Work- (Semester 4)
Look for internships or volunteer opportunities at museums, archival centers, NGOs working on heritage preservation, or educational institutions. This practical exposure helps apply theoretical knowledge, build a professional portfolio, and understand the practical aspects of historical work.
Tools & Resources
National Museum, Bengaluru, Karnataka State Archives, NGOs focused on cultural heritage
Career Connection
Provides valuable real-world experience, making graduates more competitive for placements in cultural, heritage, and government organizations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree (B.A./B.Sc./B.Com./B.B.A./B.C.A.) from a recognized university with a minimum of 45% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST/Cat-I candidates). Preference may be given to candidates with History as an optional subject in their Bachelor''''s degree.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 68 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS 1.1 | History and Historical Method | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of History, History and Allied Disciplines, Types of Historical Sources, Historical Research Methodology, Scientific History Writing |
| HIS 1.2 | History of India (c. 1206-1761 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire: Polity and Administration, Vijayanagara Empire: Society and Economy, Rise of Maratha Power, Decline of Mughal Empire |
| HIS 1.3 | History of Karnataka (Earliest times to c. 1565 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Sources for Early Karnataka History, Kadambas and Gangas: Political and Cultural Contributions, Chalukyas of Badami and Kalyana, Rashtrakutas and Hoysalas, Vijayanagara Rule in Karnataka |
| HIS 1.4 | Contemporary World (c. 1945 - 2000 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Origins and Phases of Cold War, Decolonization and Emergence of Third World, United Nations Organization (UNO) and Regional Organizations, Non-Aligned Movement, End of Cold War and New World Order |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS 2.1 | Historiography | Core | 4 | Conceptualization of Historiography, Orientalist and Utilitarian Historiography, Nationalist and Imperialist Schools, Marxist and Subaltern Historiography, Postmodernism and its Critique |
| HIS 2.2 | History of India (c. 1757-1947 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Consolidation of British Rule in India, Colonial Administration and Policies, Socio-Religious Reform Movements, Emergence of Indian Nationalism, Towards Independence and Partition |
| HIS 2.3 | History of Karnataka (c. 1565-1956 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Post-Vijayanagara Karnataka, Mysore Wodeyars and Hyder Ali, Tipu Sultan and Anglo-Mysore Wars, British Rule and Reforms in Mysore, Integration of Karnataka |
| HIS 2.4 | History of USA (c. 1776-1945 A.D.) | Core | 4 | American War of Independence, Making of the American Constitution, Civil War and Reconstruction, Industrialization and Rise of USA as World Power, USA in World Wars I and II |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS 3.1 | State and Society in Ancient India | Core | 4 | Harappan Civilization: Society and Administration, Vedic and Later Vedic Polity, Mauryan State and Administration, Gupta Age: Polity, Society and Economy, Social Stratification and Institutions |
| HIS 3.2 | State and Society in Medieval India | Core | 4 | Political Structures of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal State and Institutions, Agrarian Relations in Medieval India, Urbanization and Trade, Bhakti and Sufi Movements |
| HIS 3.3 A | Economic History of India (c. 1757-1947 A.D.) | Elective | 4 | Pre-Colonial Indian Economy, Colonial Exploitation and De-industrialization, Land Revenue Settlements (Permanent, Ryotwari, Mahalwari), Commercialization of Agriculture and Famines, Rise of Modern Industry |
| HIS 3.4 A | History of Indian National Movement (c. 1885-1947 A.D.) | Elective | 4 | Early Indian Nationalism and Moderates, Rise of Extremism and Revolutionary Terrorism, Gandhian Era: Non-Cooperation, Civil Disobedience, Quit India, Growth of Communalism, Partition of India and Independence |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS 4.1 | State and Society in Modern India | Core | 4 | Colonial State and its Ideologies, Agrarian Structure and Peasant Resistance, Industrialization and Working Class Movements, Caste System and Anti-Caste Movements, Social Reform in Modern India |
| HIS 4.2 | Art and Architecture in India (Earliest Times to c. 1800 A.D.) | Core | 4 | Harappan Art and Mauryan Art, Buddhist and Jain Art Forms, Temple Architecture: Nagara, Dravida, Vesara Styles, Indo-Islamic Architecture, Mughal and Rajput Painting |
| HIS 4.3 A | History of Subaltern Studies in India | Elective | 4 | Conceptual Framework of Subalternity, Critique of Nationalist and Elite Historiography, Subaltern Agency in Freedom Struggle, Peasant and Tribal Movements, Dalit Perspectives in Indian History |
| HIS 4.4 | Dissertation and Viva-voce | Project | 8 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review and Methodology, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Oral Defense of Dissertation |
