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B-A in English at SRM Institute of Science and Technology
Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is English at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This B.A. English program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on developing comprehensive linguistic, literary, and critical thinking skills. It blends traditional literary studies with contemporary media, communication, and digital humanities, reflecting the evolving demands of the Indian job market for versatile communicators and analysts. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing students for diverse professional roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a passion for language, literature, and critical analysis, seeking entry into fields like journalism, publishing, content creation, and education. It also benefits aspiring civil servants or those looking to pursue higher studies in humanities, providing a strong academic foundation. Students with a strong aptitude for reading, writing, and analytical thought are particularly well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including content writing, editing, journalism, public relations, teaching, and marketing communication. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program fosters critical thinking, effective communication, and research skills, essential for success in various industries and for pursuing postgraduate degrees or professional certifications like language proficiency tests.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Reading & Analytical Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Engage actively with prescribed literary texts and academic articles by critically analyzing themes, literary devices, and authorial intent. Maintain a reading journal to document insights and questions, and participate in classroom discussions.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Online literary databases (e.g., JSTOR, Project MUSE), Discussion forums with peers, Literary criticism websites
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and analytical skills essential for research, content analysis, and informed decision-making in any professional field.
Master Academic Writing & Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on refining academic essay writing, grammar, and formal communication. Seek feedback from professors on assignments and utilize the communication skills lab for regular practice in public speaking and group discussions.
Tools & Resources
Writing centers, Grammarly, Purdue OWL, SRMIST Communication Skills Lab, Toastmasters International (local chapters)
Career Connection
Crucial for all professional roles requiring clear, concise, and persuasive communication, including content writing, journalism, and corporate communication.
Explore Diverse Cultural Perspectives- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond the syllabus, read literature from different cultures and historical periods. Engage in discussions about cultural studies concepts and their application to contemporary Indian society and global contexts. Attend relevant cultural events or webinars.
Tools & Resources
Online cultural journals, Documentaries, University-organized cultural clubs, International film festivals
Career Connection
Enhances global awareness, empathy, and cross-cultural communication abilities, valuable in multinational companies and diverse work environments.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Practical Journalism & Media Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in the Journalism and Media Studies courses by contributing to college newsletters, blogs, or local community media initiatives. Practice news reporting, editorial writing, and photojournalism techniques.
Tools & Resources
College media clubs, Local newspapers/magazines, Online blogging platforms (e.g., WordPress, Medium), Basic photo editing software
Career Connection
Provides hands-on experience for roles in media, public relations, content creation, and digital marketing within the Indian media landscape.
Specialize in a Literary Area- (Semester 3-4)
Identify a specific literary period, genre, or theoretical framework that deeply interests you (e.g., Indian English Literature, Postcolonial Studies). Read extensively beyond the syllabus in this area and seek opportunities for research papers or presentations.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic journals, Literary society memberships, Advanced literature courses/workshops, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Builds expertise for academic careers, specialized content roles, or preparing for competitive exams that test in-depth literary knowledge.
Develop Digital Humanities Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Utilize the Digital Humanities Lab to learn tools for textual analysis, data visualization, and digital archiving. Apply these skills to a small personal project, such as creating an online literary archive or analyzing literary trends with software.
Tools & Resources
Specific software taught in the lab (e.g., AntConc, Voyant Tools), Online tutorials, Digital humanities communities
Career Connection
Prepares for emerging roles in digital content management, archival science, data analysis in humanities, and educational technology in India.
Advanced Stage
Pursue Internships & Mini-Projects- (Semester 5)
Actively seek internships at publishing houses, media organizations, content agencies, or NGOs in your final year. Apply classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios through the required Internship/Mini Project, focusing on practical outcomes and professional networking.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, LinkedIn, Internshala.com, Company websites, Faculty recommendations
Career Connection
Essential for gaining industry experience, building a professional network, and enhancing employability for immediate placements in diverse sectors across India.
Master Research & Thesis Writing- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant effort to the Major Project, developing a robust research question, conducting thorough literature review, applying appropriate methodologies, and writing a comprehensive thesis. Regularly consult with your faculty mentor for guidance.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Academic databases, Reference management software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley), Advanced writing workshops
Career Connection
Develops advanced research, analytical, and writing skills crucial for postgraduate studies, academic research, and high-level analytical roles in consulting or policy.
Prepare for Career Transitions & Higher Education- (Semester 6)
Begin preparing for competitive exams (UPSC, state civil services, NET/SET), job interviews, or entrance exams for postgraduate programs. Attend career counseling sessions, mock interviews, and workshops on resume building and personal branding.
Tools & Resources
Career services department, Online interview preparation platforms, Sample question papers, Alumni network
Career Connection
Directly supports successful entry into desired postgraduate programs, government services, or immediate employment, ensuring a smooth transition post-graduation in the Indian context.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 (or equivalent) with a minimum 50% aggregate marks from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 124 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21LEH101T | ENGLISH LANGUAGE USAGE | Core | 4 | Communication Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Effective Writing, Paragraph Writing, Sentence Structure |
| 21LEH102T | CULTURAL STUDIES | Core | 4 | Concepts of Culture, Ideology and Power, Representation and Media, Popular Culture Analysis, Identity and Difference, Cultural Practices |
| 21LEH103T | INTRODUCTION TO LITERARY STUDIES | Core | 4 | Literary Genres, Poetic Devices, Elements of Drama, Prose Forms, Critical Reading, Literary Terminology |
| 21LEH104L | COMMUNICATION SKILLS LAB | Lab | 2 | Listening and Speaking Skills, Presentation Techniques, Group Discussion, Interview Skills, Public Speaking Practice, Pronunciation Drills |
| 21BSC101T | ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE | Allied | 3 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Climate Change Impacts, Renewable Energy Sources, Sustainable Development, Environmental Ethics |
| 21LGS101T | TAMIL / HINDI / FRENCH / GERMAN | Allied | 3 | Basic Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading and Writing, Conversational Skills, Cultural Aspects, Elementary Composition, Pronunciation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21LEH201T | ACADEMIC WRITING | Core | 4 | Essay Writing, Research Paper Structure, Thesis Statements, Referencing Styles (MLA/APA), Avoiding Plagiarism, Academic Argumentation |
| 21LEH202T | BRITISH LITERATURE – I (From Chaucer to Eighteenth Century) | Core | 4 | Medieval English Literature, Renaissance Drama (Shakespeare), Metaphysical Poetry, Restoration Comedy, Augustan Age Literature, Enlightenment Writers |
| 21LEH203T | LITERARY THEORY AND CRITICISM | Core | 4 | Formalism and New Criticism, Structuralism and Post-structuralism, Deconstruction, Feminist Criticism, Post-colonial Theory, Reader-Response Criticism |
| 21LEH204L | RESEARCH SKILLS LAB | Lab | 2 | Literature Review Techniques, Data Collection Methods, Research Methodology, MLA/APA Citation, Academic Database Search, Project Report Preparation |
| 21BSC201T | ESSENCE OF INDIAN TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE | Allied | 3 | Indian Epistemology, Vedic Literature, Yoga and Ayurveda, Indian Art and Architecture, Traditional Sciences, Ethical Values in India |
| 21LGS201T | TAMIL / HINDI / FRENCH / GERMAN | Allied | 3 | Advanced Grammar and Syntax, Reading Literary Texts, Composition and Translation, Cultural Nuances, Advanced Conversational Practice, Language History |
