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B-A-FUNCTIONAL-ENGLISH in General at ST. JOSEPH'S COLLEGE (AUTONOMOUS) DEVAGIRI
Kozhikode, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is General at ST. JOSEPH'S COLLEGE (AUTONOMOUS) DEVAGIRI Kozhikode?
This B.A. Functional English program at St. Joseph''''s College, Devagiri, focuses on equipping students with advanced English language proficiency and practical communication skills relevant to various professional domains. Rooted in the Choice Based Credit and Semester System (CBCSS) curriculum of the University of Calicut, it integrates linguistic theory, literary studies, and vocational applications. The program''''s emphasis on functional aspects addresses the significant demand for skilled communicators in India''''s booming media, IT, corporate, and education sectors, offering a unique blend of academic rigor and industry readiness.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a strong aptitude for English language and literature, seeking entry into dynamic fields requiring exceptional communication. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in journalism, content creation, advertising, public relations, teaching, and translation. Graduates aiming for postgraduate studies in linguistics, media studies, or literature will find a robust foundation here. Specific prerequisite backgrounds often include a 10+2 qualification with English as a primary subject, demonstrating analytical and expressive capabilities.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including content writer, copywriter, editor, journalist, PR executive, translator, corporate communication specialist, and English language trainer. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 to 4 LPA, with experienced professionals earning upwards of INR 7-10 LPA in Indian companies and MNCs. The program fosters critical thinking, effective communication, and media literacy, aligning with industry requirements for adaptable professionals. It also prepares students for competitive exams and higher education.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Linguistic Base- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with English Phonetics and Phonology, and Methodology & Perspectives of Functional English. Focus on mastering pronunciation, grammatical structures, and language theories. Utilize online resources like Cambridge Dictionary Pronunciation Guide and language learning apps.
Tools & Resources
IPA charts, Pronunciation apps, Online grammar exercises, Linguistics textbooks
Career Connection
Strong phonetic and grammatical knowledge is fundamental for clear communication, crucial for roles in content writing, journalism, and teaching English, enhancing employability.
Cultivate Extensive Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond prescribed texts, read widely across genres (fiction, non-fiction, news articles, academic journals) to enhance vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking. Participate in book clubs or literary discussions.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Online literary magazines, Project Gutenberg, Goodreads
Career Connection
Broad reading improves analytical skills and general knowledge, vital for content development, journalism, and effective communication in professional settings.
Enhance Public Speaking and Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in classroom discussions, debates, and college events requiring public speaking. Seek feedback on presentation style and content. Join a Toastmasters club or similar college societies.
Tools & Resources
TED Talks for inspiration, YouTube tutorials on public speaking, College debate clubs
Career Connection
Confident public speaking is a key differentiator in Indian workplaces, essential for interviews, corporate presentations, and leadership roles.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Practical Writing Skills through Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Apply academic writing, translation, and communication skills to practical projects. Seek opportunities to write for college magazines, departmental newsletters, or local community initiatives. Focus on clarity, conciseness, and audience awareness.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Microsoft Word, Style guides (MLA, APA), College media cells
Career Connection
Building a portfolio of written work is critical for securing internships and jobs in content creation, journalism, and PR firms across India.
Explore Digital Communication Platforms- (Semester 3-5)
Familiarize yourself with various digital communication tools and social media platforms. Experiment with creating engaging e-content, blogs, or podcasts. Understand the nuances of online audience engagement and digital ethics.
Tools & Resources
Canva, WordPress (for blogging), Audacity (for podcasts), LinkedIn for professional networking
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital communication is highly valued in modern Indian industries, opening doors to roles in digital marketing, social media management, and online content development.
Engage in Intercultural Communication Studies- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in discussions on texts related to gender, culture, and civilization. Seek opportunities for cross-cultural interactions (e.g., student exchange programs if available) to understand diverse communication styles and perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals on cultural studies, International student clubs, Documentaries on global cultures
Career Connection
Understanding intercultural communication is crucial for working in MNCs in India, global teams, or roles requiring interaction with diverse clients and stakeholders.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Industry-Relevant Internships- (Semester 6)
Seek internships in journalism, advertising, public relations, content writing, or corporate communication firms. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world projects and gain hands-on experience in the Indian market context.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn Jobs, Internshala, Naukri.com, College placement cell
Career Connection
Internships are paramount for practical exposure, networking, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting employability in competitive Indian job markets.
Develop a Professional Portfolio and Resume- (Semester 6)
Compile your best written work, projects, and achievements into a well-structured professional portfolio. Tailor your resume and cover letter for specific job applications, highlighting functional English skills and industry relevance.
Tools & Resources
Canva for portfolio design, Resume builders, LinkedIn profile optimization guides, College career services
Career Connection
A strong portfolio and a professional resume are essential for making a positive impression on recruiters during placements and job interviews.
Focus on Research and Academic Publishing Skills- (Semester 6)
Hone your research methodology skills through your final project. Aim to present your research at college seminars or even attempt to publish a short paper in a student journal. Understand the basics of academic ethics and publishing processes.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, JSTOR, University research databases, Reference management tools (e.g., Zotero)
Career Connection
Strong research and publishing skills are beneficial for academic careers, content development roles requiring evidence-based writing, and for pursuing higher studies like MA or M.Phil.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per University of Calicut UG Admission Regulations (typically 10+2 pass in any stream)
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN1A01T | Literary Explorations | Common Course I - English | 4 | Understanding Prose and Poetry, Literary Devices and Forms, Appreciation of Short Stories, Introduction to Literary Criticism, Rhetoric and Stylistics |
| XX1A02T | Common Course II (Additional Language - e.g., Malayalam/Hindi/Arabic) | Common Course II - Additional Language | 4 | Basic Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Introduction to Cultural Texts, Simple Translation Skills, Everyday Communication |
| FEN1B01T | Methodology & Perspectives of Functional English | Core Course | 4 | Language and Communication, Theories of Language Acquisition, Sociolinguistics and Psycholinguistics, Pedagogical Grammar, Models of Communication, Role of English in India |
| FEN1C01T | History of English Literature - I | Complementary Course | 4 | Old and Middle English Periods, The Renaissance and Elizabethan Age, Jacobean and Caroline Literature, Key Authors and Works, Historical Contexts, Early Drama and Poetry |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN2A03T | Texts and Contexts | Common Course I - English | 4 | Cultural Studies Introduction, Critical Reading and Analysis, Media Literacy and Representation, Discourse and Power, Intercultural Communication, Social Issues and Texts |
| XX2A04T | Common Course II (Additional Language - e.g., Malayalam/Hindi/Arabic) | Common Course II - Additional Language | 4 | Advanced Grammar and Syntax, Creative Writing in Additional Language, Oral Communication and Presentation, Reading Cultural Narratives, Professional Language Use |
| FEN2B02T | English Phonetics & Phonology | Core Course | 4 | Organs of Speech and Sound Production, Description of English Sounds (Vowels & Consonants), Phonetic Transcription (IPA), Word Stress and Rhythm, Intonation Patterns, Received Pronunciation (RP) |
| FEN2C02T | History of English Literature - II | Complementary Course | 4 | Augustan Age and Neoclassicism, The Romantic Movement, Victorian Literature, Pre-Raphaelites and Aestheticism, Early 20th Century Modernism, Significant Authors and Literary Trends |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN3A05T | Culture and Civilization | Common Course I - English | 4 | Concepts of Culture and Civilization, Cultural History of England, Influence of Colonialism, Globalization and Cultural Exchange, Forms of Cultural Expression, Identity and Representation |
| FEN3B03T | Introduction to Linguistics | Core Course | 4 | Language vs. Speech and Writing, Levels of Linguistic Analysis (Phonetics, Phonology), Morphology and Word Formation, Syntax and Sentence Structure, Semantics and Pragmatics, Historical Linguistics and Language Change |
| FEN3B04T | Communication Skills | Core Course | 4 | Principles of Effective Communication, Verbal and Non-Verbal Communication, Listening Skills and Feedback, Presentation Techniques, Group Discussion Strategies, Interview Skills |
| FEN3C03T | History of English Literature - III | Complementary Course | 4 | Postmodernism in Literature, Contemporary Literary Trends, Commonwealth Literature, Indian English Literature, Diaspora Writings, Literary Theory in the 20th/21st Century |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN4A06T | Readings in Gender | Common Course I - English | 4 | Introduction to Gender Studies, Feminist Theories and Perspectives, Masculinity Studies, Queer Studies and LGBTQ+ Narratives, Gender and Media Representation, Social Construction of Gender |
| FEN4B05T | Translation Studies | Core Course | 4 | Theories and Approaches to Translation, Types of Translation (Literary, Technical), Cultural and Linguistic Equivalence, Machine Translation and CAT Tools, Interpreting (Simultaneous, Consecutive), Ethics and Challenges in Translation |
| FEN4B06T | Academic Writing | Core Course | 4 | Fundamentals of Academic Discourse, Essay and Research Paper Writing, Referencing and Citation Styles (MLA/APA), Developing Arguments and Evidence, Writing Literature Reviews, Avoiding Plagiarism |
| FEN4C04T | History of English Literature - IV | Complementary Course | 4 | American Literature: Key Movements and Authors, African American Literature, Canadian Literature, Australian Literature, Caribbean Literature, Postcolonial Perspectives |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEN5B07T | Digital Culture and Communication | Core Course | 4 | Introduction to New Media, Social Media Platforms and Impact, Digital Storytelling and Content Creation, Cyberculture and Online Identity, Online Journalism and Blogging, Digital Marketing Fundamentals |
| FEN5B08T | English for Professional Communication | Core Course | 4 | Business Correspondence (Emails, Memos, Letters), Report Writing and Proposals, Meeting Etiquette and Minutes, Public Relations and Corporate Communication, Cross-Cultural Communication in Business, Resume Writing and Job Applications |
| FEN5B09T | Journalism: Principles and Practice | Core Course | 4 | Fundamentals of News Reporting, News Writing and Editing, Feature Writing and Opinion Pieces, Media Ethics and Laws, Photojournalism and Visual Storytelling, Introduction to Broadcast and Digital Journalism |
| FEN5B10T | Research Methodology | Core Course | 4 | Introduction to Research Design, Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods, Data Collection Techniques (Surveys, Interviews), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Writing a Research Proposal, Ethics in Research |
| FEN5D01 | Open Course (e.g., English for Competitive Examinations) | Open Course (Elective) | 3 | Vocabulary Building and Usage, Grammar for Competitive Exams, Reading Comprehension Strategies, Error Detection and Sentence Correction, General English for Public Service Exams, Verbal Ability |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FEN6B11T | Advanced English Grammar & Usage | Core Course | 4 | Complex Sentence Structures and Clause Analysis, Advanced Tenses and Aspect, Modal Verbs and Conditional Sentences, Phrasal Verbs and Idioms, Punctuation and Stylistics, Discourse Markers and Cohesion |
| FEN6B12T | Advertising & Public Relations | Core Course | 4 | Principles of Advertising, Advertising Strategies and Media Planning, Brand Management and IMC, Foundations of Public Relations, PR Campaigns and Crisis Communication, Digital PR and Social Media Marketing |
| FEN6B13T | E-Content Development & Academic Publishing | Core Course | 4 | Principles of Instructional Design, Creating Multimedia Content for E-learning, Learning Management Systems (LMS), Academic Writing for Publication, Peer Review Process and Editorial Ethics, Copyright and Plagiarism Issues |
| FEN6B14T | Creative Writing | Core Course | 4 | Elements of Storytelling (Plot, Character, Setting), Writing Poetry and Poetic Devices, Scriptwriting for Stage and Screen, Dialogue and Narrative Techniques, Writing Short Fiction and Non-Fiction, Developing a Unique Voice |
| FEN6E01T | Elective Course (e.g., Communicative English) | Elective Course | 3 | Interpersonal Communication Skills, Public Speaking and Elocution, Group Discussion and Debate, Negotiation Skills, Effective Email and Online Communication, Cultural Nuances in Communication |
| FEN6B15P | Project | Core Course | 1 | Project Proposal Development, Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Documentation, Presentation Skills, Viva Voce Preparation |
