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MA in History at Sri K. Puttaswamy First Grade College
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is History at Sri K. Puttaswamy First Grade College Mysuru?
This MA History program at Sri K. Puttaswamy First Grade College offers a comprehensive study of historical periods, events, and interpretations, with a strong emphasis on Indian history, including Karnataka. It delves into historiography, socio-economic developments, and global contexts, preparing students for careers in academia, research, and cultural heritage management, crucial fields within the evolving Indian landscape. The curriculum fosters critical thinking and analytical skills.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history enthusiasts, fresh graduates with a background in arts or social sciences seeking to deepen their historical knowledge and analytical prowess. It also suits individuals aspiring for competitive exams like UPSC/KPSC, those interested in museum curation, archival work, or teaching, and working professionals looking to transition into cultural preservation or historical research roles in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, educators, researchers, content developers, and civil servants. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in government or private sectors. The program aligns with the growing demand for expertise in cultural preservation and historical consultancy, offering vital contributions to India''''s cultural sector.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Historiography & Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding different schools of historical thought, source criticism, and basic research methodologies taught in the first semester. Actively participate in discussions, seek clarification on complex historical theories, and start developing a critical perspective on historical narratives and evidence.
Tools & Resources
University library''''s history section, online academic databases (e.g., JSTOR), peer study groups, mentorship from senior students
Career Connection
Strong foundational skills are crucial for all history-related careers, from academic research to competitive exams, ensuring accurate interpretation and evidence-based analysis.
Engage with Regional History & Heritage- (Semester 1-2)
Leverage the program''''s focus on Karnataka history by visiting local historical sites, museums (like Mysore Palace, Jaganmohan Palace Art Gallery), and archives. Participate in college-organized heritage walks or create small projects documenting local historical narratives and their significance.
Tools & Resources
Local heritage societies, Karnataka State Archives, oral history interviews with elders, Mysore District Gazetteer
Career Connection
Practical engagement with regional history can open doors to local heritage management, cultural tourism, and research positions specific to Karnataka''''s rich and diverse past.
Develop Strong Academic Writing & Presentation- (Semester 1-2)
Pay meticulous attention to essay writing, term papers, and presentation skills. Seek constructive feedback from professors, practice structuring arguments logically, and cite sources accurately according to academic standards. Join campus literary or debate clubs to hone public speaking abilities.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, online grammar and style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), peer review sessions
Career Connection
Excellent communication and writing skills are indispensable for publishing research, preparing reports for government bodies, teaching, and excelling in civil service examinations.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Historical Research Mini-Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Proactively identify topics of interest from the syllabus and undertake mini-research projects, even if not formally assigned. This could involve deep dives into specific historical figures, movements, or socio-economic aspects, utilizing both primary and secondary sources to build research acumen.
Tools & Resources
University archives, digital archives (e.g., National Archives of India portal), specialized academic journals, consultation with faculty advisors, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management
Career Connection
This builds a strong research portfolio, essential for higher studies (PhD), research assistant roles, and positions in think tanks or governmental research departments.
Seek Internships at Cultural Institutions- (Semester 3-4)
Actively look for internship opportunities at museums, archaeological survey offices, archives (e.g., Karnataka State Archives), or heritage conservation organizations during semester breaks. This provides invaluable hands-on experience and crucial industry exposure in real-world settings.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell (if available for arts), direct outreach to institutions, online internship platforms (Internshala), networking with faculty and alumni
Career Connection
Internships are critical for gaining practical experience, building a professional network, and often lead directly to job offers in the cultural and heritage sectors within India.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 3-4)
For those aspiring to civil services (UPSC, KPSC) or NET/SET for lectureship, start dedicated preparation. Focus on general studies, current affairs, and history optional papers, linking syllabus topics to exam patterns. Form study groups with like-minded peers for collaborative learning and discussion.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, standard reference books for competitive exams, online coaching platforms, news analyses (The Hindu, Indian Express), government publications
Career Connection
This serves as a direct pathway to prestigious government jobs (IAS, KAS, IES) or academic careers as assistant professors in colleges and universities across India.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Research for Dissertation- (Semester 3-4)
Leverage the dissertation/project work in Semester 4 to delve deep into a chosen specialization within history. Work closely with your faculty supervisor, refine your research question, conduct extensive data collection, and produce a high-quality academic thesis that showcases your expertise.
Tools & Resources
Advanced research methodologies, statistical analysis software (if applicable to quantitative history), specialized primary sources, regular consultations with supervisor, academic writing workshops
Career Connection
A well-researched dissertation demonstrates independent research capabilities, critical for PhD admissions, advanced research roles, and publishing academic papers in reputable journals.
Network with Historians & Academics- (Semester 3-4)
Attend history conferences, seminars, and workshops (online or offline) organized by universities or historical associations. Actively engage with established historians and researchers. Building professional relationships can open doors to collaborations, mentorship, and future job opportunities in the field.
Tools & Resources
Conference schedules of historical societies (e.g., Indian History Congress), university department notices, LinkedIn for professional networking, academic newsletters
Career Connection
This is crucial for academic careers, securing post-doctoral positions, and gaining visibility within the historical community for future collaborations and employment.
Develop Public History & Communication Skills- (Semester 3-4)
With courses like Public History, focus on translating academic research into engaging content for a wider audience. Practice creating accessible historical narratives for documentaries, museum exhibits, blogs, or public lectures, making history relevant and understandable to all.
Tools & Resources
Online content creation tools, public speaking workshops, blogging platforms, collaboration with media students or local media outlets, participation in heritage awareness programs
Career Connection
Prepares graduates for roles in media, journalism, content writing, museum education, and heritage interpretation, effectively bridging the gap between academia and public engagement in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. Degree with History as a Major/Optional/Minor subject securing not less than 45% marks in aggregate (40% for SC/ST/Cat-I candidates) or any other degree considered equivalent thereto.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MHH C 1.1 | Historiography and Historical Method | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Relationship with Social Sciences, Approaches to History, Major Schools of Historiography, Historical Method and Source Criticism, Bias in History and Ethics |
| MHH C 1.2 | History of Ancient Karnataka | Core | 4 | Sources for Ancient Karnataka History, Pre-History and Early Dynasties (Gangas, Kadambas), Chalukyas of Badami, Rashtrakutas and Hoysalas, Socio-Economic and Cultural Aspects, Art and Architecture |
| MHH C 1.3 | History of Medieval India (1206-1707 AD) | Core | 4 | Delhi Sultanate, Vijaynagar and Bahamani Kingdoms, Mughal Empire, Administration and Economy, Society, Art and Architecture, Sufism and Bhakti Movement |
| MHH C 1.4 | History of Modern India (1707-1857 AD) | Core | 4 | Decline of Mughals and Rise of Regional Powers, Advent of Europeans and British Expansion, Reforms of Cornwallis and Wellesley, Social-Religious Reform Movements, Causes and Nature of 1857 Revolt |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MHH C 2.1 | Indian Nationalist Movement (1858-1947 AD) | Core | 4 | Aftermath of 1857, Rise of Indian Nationalism, Moderate and Extremist Phases, Gandhian Era and Mass Movements, Constitutional Developments, Partition and Independence |
| MHH C 2.2 | Socio-Economic History of Modern Karnataka (1800-2000 AD) | Core | 4 | Integration of Mysore State and Wodeyars, Socio-Economic Reforms, Industrialization and Land Reforms, Linguistic Reorganization, Caste Movements and Social Changes, Political Developments in Modern Karnataka |
| MHH C 2.3 | History of the Modern World (1453-1945 AD) | Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Industrial and Scientific Revolutions, Age of Enlightenment, American and French Revolutions, Imperialism and Colonialism, World Wars I and II |
| MHH O 2.4 | Human Rights: Theory and Practice | Elective (Open Elective) | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, International Human Rights Instruments, Challenges to Human Rights |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MHH C 3.1 | History of Pre-Colonial South India | Core | 4 | Early South Indian Dynasties (Cholas, Pandyas, Pallavas), Administration and Society, Economy and Trade, Cultural Contributions and Temple Architecture, Rise and Fall of Empires, Interaction with Other Regions |
| MHH C 3.2 | Principles of Archaeology | Core | 4 | Definition and Scope of Archaeology, Methods of Exploration and Excavation, Dating Methods in Archaeology, Archaeological Ethics and Conservation, Types of Sites and Artefacts, Role of Archaeology in Historical Reconstruction |
| MHH C 3.3 | History of USA (1776-1945 AD) | Core | 4 | American Revolution and Constitution, Civil War and Reconstruction, Industrialization and Progressive Era, Rise as a World Power, Great Depression and New Deal, United States in World War I and II |
| MHH O 3.4.1 | History of Education in India | Elective (Optional) | 4 | Ancient Indian Education Systems, Medieval Education under Islamic Rule, British Education Policy, Modern Education System and Reforms, Major Commissions and Committees, Challenges and Universalization of Education |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MHH C 4.1 | History of Modern Europe (1945-2000 AD) | Core | 4 | Post-World War II Europe, Cold War and Division of Europe, Decolonization and European Integration, Fall of Communism and Reunification of Germany, Rise of European Union, Social and Cultural Changes in Post-War Europe |
| MHH C 4.2 | Gender Studies | Core | 4 | Concept of Gender and Patriarchy, Gender and Society, Gender Roles and Stereotypes, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender Inequality and Empowerment, Feminist Theories and Perspectives |
| MHH P 4.3 | Dissertation/Project Work | Project | 4 | Research Question Formulation, Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Academic Writing and Citation, Presentation of Research Findings, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| MHH O 4.4.1 | Public History | Elective (Optional) | 4 | Concept and Scope of Public History, Museums, Archives and Heritage Sites, Oral History and Community Engagement, Historical Memory and Commemoration, Role of Historians in Public Sphere, Digital History and Outreach |
