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B-A in Optional English at Sri Sharada Women's College
Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Optional English at Sri Sharada Women's College Dakshina Kannada?
This B.A. Optional English program at Sri Sharada Women''''s College, affiliated with Mangalore University, focuses on developing a deep understanding of literature, critical thinking, and communication skills. The curriculum encompasses a broad spectrum of literary periods, genres, and critical theories, with a strong emphasis on Indian, British, and American literature. This specialization is highly relevant in India''''s growing content creation, media, and education sectors, where strong linguistic and analytical abilities are in high demand, fostering well-rounded and articulate graduates.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring educators, content writers, journalists, editors, and anyone passionate about critical analysis of texts and effective communication. It suits fresh graduates seeking entry into diverse fields requiring strong language proficiency. It also benefits those considering competitive examinations or further studies in literature, linguistics, or humanities, providing a robust academic foundation.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths such as content writing, teaching (after B.Ed.), journalism, public relations, technical writing, and publishing. Entry-level salaries in India typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The analytical and communication skills gained offer excellent growth trajectories in Indian companies across various sectors, preparing students for roles in both corporate and academic environments.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with prescribed texts and proactively read diverse literary works beyond the syllabus. Utilize the college library and online resources like Project Gutenberg for free classics. Join a college book club or start one to discuss interpretations and broaden perspectives.
Tools & Resources
College Library, Project Gutenberg, Goodreads, Literary Magazines (e.g., Indian Literature by Sahitya Akademi)
Career Connection
Enhances comprehension, critical analysis, and vocabulary, foundational for any career in content, research, or communication.
Master Academic Writing & Communication- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing clear, concise, and well-structured academic essays. Seek feedback from professors regularly. Practice public speaking and presentation skills through classroom discussions, debates, and college events like ''''Lit Fests''''.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), College Debate Club, Toastmasters (if available)
Career Connection
Essential for professional communication, report writing, and delivering impactful presentations in any industry.
Understand Literary Basics and Context- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to literary terms, forms, and the historical/cultural context of the texts. Create flashcards for key concepts and timelines for literary movements. Form study groups to clarify doubts and engage in peer learning sessions to reinforce understanding.
Tools & Resources
Oxford Companion to English Literature, SparkNotes/Litcharts (for analysis), Study Group Platforms (e.g., WhatsApp groups)
Career Connection
Forms the bedrock for advanced literary analysis and equips for roles in academia, research, and specialized content creation.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Critical Theories- (Semester 3-5)
Actively explore and apply various critical theories (feminism, Marxism, postcolonialism) to different texts. Participate in departmental seminars and workshops focusing on literary criticism. Start building a personal archive of critical essays and articles.
Tools & Resources
Internet Archive, JSTOR (through institutional access), Academic Journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly)
Career Connection
Develops sophisticated analytical skills, crucial for research, editorial roles, and nuanced content development in India''''s diverse cultural landscape.
Explore Creative Writing & Journalism- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in creative writing workshops and contribute to the college magazine or local newspapers/blogs. Learn basic journalistic ethics and techniques. Experiment with different forms like poetry, short stories, and articles.
Tools & Resources
College Literary Club, Local Newspapers/Magazines, Online Writing Platforms (e.g., Medium, Wattpad)
Career Connection
Opens doors to careers in content creation, journalism, digital marketing, and publishing in India''''s booming media industry.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 3-5)
Attend lectures by visiting faculty and industry experts. Connect with alumni working in relevant fields. Seek guidance from professors on career paths and further studies. Build a professional network on platforms like LinkedIn, focusing on Indian professionals.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni Network Portal, Departmental Mentorship Programs
Career Connection
Provides insights into career opportunities, internship leads, and valuable professional connections within the Indian job market.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Research Projects & Internships- (Semester 6-8)
Identify a research area of interest and work on a minor or major project, preferably with a faculty mentor. Actively seek internships in publishing houses, media agencies, NGOs, or educational institutions to gain practical experience and build a portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (e.g., Shodhganga for Indian theses), Internshala, Naukri.com for internships
Career Connection
Provides practical industry exposure, develops research skills, and significantly enhances resume for placements and higher education.
Prepare for Higher Education & Competitive Exams- (Semester 6-8)
For those aiming for M.A., B.Ed., or civil services, begin focused preparation for entrance exams (e.g., NET/SET, UPSC, KPSC). Dedicate time to general knowledge, analytical reasoning, and in-depth subject revision. Enroll in relevant coaching or online test series.
Tools & Resources
UGC NET/SET study materials, UPSC/KPSC exam guides, Online coaching platforms
Career Connection
Crucial for admission to postgraduate programs and securing coveted positions in government or public sector in India.
Develop Specialized Digital Skills- (Semester 6-8)
Acquire skills in digital content creation, editing, and content management systems. Learn basic SEO for online writing. Explore tools for creating podcasts or video essays related to literature. This enhances employability in the digital economy.
Tools & Resources
Canva, WordPress, Basic SEO tutorials (e.g., Google''''s Digital Garage), Podcast editing software (e.g., Audacity)
Career Connection
Makes graduates highly competitive for roles in digital marketing, social media management, content strategy, and e-learning platforms in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in PUC (10+2) or equivalent examination from a recognized board.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: Approx. 176-180 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENGC101 | Introduction to Literary Studies | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Understanding Literature, Elements of Poetry, Elements of Drama, Elements of Prose, Literary Devices |
| BAAECC101 | Indian Constitution | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Constitutional History, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Union & State Government, Constitutional Amendments |
| BAOE101 | Open Elective - 1 (e.g., General Kannada / Hindi / History / Economics) | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENGC201 | British Literature: Early to 18th Century | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Old & Middle English Literature, Renaissance Period, Restoration & Neoclassical Age, Major Poets & Playwrights, Rise of the Novel |
| BAAECC201 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Ecosystems & Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources, Environmental Ethics, Sustainable Development |
| BAENGSE201 | Academic Writing | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Basics of Academic Writing, Paragraph & Essay Structure, Research & Referencing, Report Writing, Summarizing & Paraphrasing |
| BAOE201 | Open Elective - 2 (e.g., Sociology / Political Science / Psychology) | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENGC301 | British Literature: 19th Century | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Romanticism, Victorian Age Poetry, Victorian Novel, Social & Cultural Contexts, Major Literary Figures |
| BAENGSE301 | Communication Skills in English | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Verbal Communication, Non-Verbal Communication, Listening & Speaking Skills, Reading Comprehension, Professional Etiquette |
| BAOE301 | Open Elective - 3 (e.g., Economics / History / Journalism) | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENGC401 | Indian Writing in English | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Early Indian English Writers, Indian English Novel, Indian English Poetry, Indian English Drama, Contemporary Voices |
| BAENGSE401 | Creative Writing | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Elements of Creative Writing, Writing Short Fiction, Poetry Writing, Scriptwriting Basics, Editing & Revision |
| BAOE401 | Open Elective - 4 (e.g., Public Administration / Human Rights / Film Studies) | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENGC501 | American Literature | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Colonial & Early American Literature, Romanticism & Transcendentalism, Realism & Naturalism, Modern American Literature, Postmodern & Contemporary Voices |
| BAENGC502 | Literary Criticism | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Classical Criticism, Romantic & Victorian Criticism, New Criticism, Formalism & Structuralism, Reader-Response Theory |
| BAENGDE501 | Discipline Specific Elective - 1 (e.g., Postcolonial Literatures / European Classics in Translation) | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 3 | Postcolonial Theory, African & Caribbean Literature, Subaltern Studies, Translation Theories, Cultural Exchange |
| BAOE501 | Open Elective - 5 (e.g., Entrepreneurship / Tourism / Public Relations) | Open Elective | 3 |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENGC601 | Women''''s Writing / Gender Studies in Literature | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Feminist Literary Theory, Women''''s Poetry & Fiction, Representation of Gender, Queer Studies, Patriarchy & Resistance |
| BAENGC602 | Modern Critical Theory | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Psychoanalytic Criticism, Marxist Criticism, Deconstruction, Cultural Studies, Eco-criticism |
| BAENGDE601 | Discipline Specific Elective - 2 (e.g., Theatre & Performance Studies / Popular Culture Studies) | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 3 | History of Theatre, Elements of Drama, Performance Theory, Indian Theatre Traditions, Media & Popular Culture |
| BAOE601 | Open Elective - 6 (e.g., Disaster Management / Human Resource Management) | Open Elective | 3 | |
| BAENGPR601 | Internship/Project | Project/Practical | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Project Management |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENGC701 | Research Methodology in English Studies | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Introduction to Research, Research Design & Ethics, Data Collection & Analysis, Literary Research Tools, Thesis Writing & Formatting |
| BAENGC702 | World Literatures | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | European Literatures, Latin American Literatures, African Literatures, East Asian Literatures, Indigenous Literatures |
| BAENGDE701 | Discipline Specific Elective - 3 (e.g., Digital Humanities / English Language Teaching (ELT)) | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 3 | Digital Tools for Literature, Textual Analysis, Corpus Linguistics, ELT Methodologies, Material Development for ELT |
| BAENGDE702 | Discipline Specific Elective - 4 (e.g., Linguistics & Phonetics / Technical Writing) | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 3 | Introduction to Linguistics, Phonetics & Phonology, Morphology & Syntax, Semantics & Pragmatics, Principles of Technical Writing |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENGC801 | Advanced Literary Theory | Core (Discipline Specific Core - DSC) | 4 | Ecocriticism & Environmental Humanities, Disability Studies in Literature, Trauma Theory, Affect Theory, Posthumanism |
| BAENGDE801 | Discipline Specific Elective - 5 (e.g., Film & Literature / Translation Studies) | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective - DSE) | 3 | Film Adaptations, Narrative Structures in Film, Auteur Theory, History of Translation, Theories of Translation |
| BAENGPR801 | Dissertation / Major Project | Project | 6 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review, Methodology & Data Analysis, Thesis Writing & Editing, Oral Presentation & Viva |
