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BA-HONOURS in History at Sundarban Hazi Desarat College
South 24 Parganas, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is History at Sundarban Hazi Desarat College South 24 Parganas?
This BA Honours History program at Sundarban Hazi Desarat College, affiliated with the University of Calcutta, offers a profound exploration of human civilization across diverse temporal and spatial contexts. It emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and the interpretation of historical sources. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in Indian history from ancient to modern periods, alongside studies in European, American, and World history, crucial for understanding India''''s global position and its societal evolution.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in human societies, cultural heritage, and political evolution, seeking a career in academia, research, or public service. It also suits individuals passionate about unraveling the past to inform the present, including those aspiring for civil services (UPSC, WBCS) or journalism, where strong analytical and narrative skills are highly valued. A foundational interest in reading, writing, and critical inquiry is beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue various career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, archaeologists, journalists, content writers, and educators. Many also successfully clear competitive examinations like the UPSC Civil Services, state public service commissions, and banking exams, leveraging their strong general knowledge and analytical abilities. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential in specialized roles or through higher education.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historical Concepts & Terminology- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong vocabulary of historical terms, concepts (e.g., feudalism, colonialism, renaissance), and understanding the chronological framework. Utilize textbooks and recommended readings thoroughly to establish a solid knowledge base for advanced topics.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Recommended Reading Lists from CU Syllabus, College Library, Online History Glossaries
Career Connection
Forms the bedrock for advanced historical analysis and provides essential knowledge for competitive exams like UPSC, WBCS, and general knowledge components.
Develop Effective Research & Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Practice active reading of primary and secondary sources. Learn to identify main arguments, evaluate evidence, and take organized notes. Regularly visit the college library and University of Calcutta''''s digital resources to broaden your intellectual horizons.
Tools & Resources
College Library, University of Calcutta e-resources, Note-taking apps (Evernote, OneNote), Reputable online archives
Career Connection
Critical for academic essay writing, higher studies, and research-oriented careers. Enhances analytical abilities for competitive exams.
Engage in Peer Learning & Discussion Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex historical events, debates, and interpretations. Actively participate in classroom discussions and historical quizzes to enhance understanding and retention, exploring diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Online forums (if moderated by faculty), College discussion platforms
Career Connection
Fosters critical thinking, communication skills, and the ability to articulate arguments, valuable for group discussions in professional and civil service interview settings.
Intermediate Stage
Cultivate Analytical & Interpretative Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Move beyond rote memorization to analyze historical events, their causes and consequences, and critically evaluate different historical perspectives and historiographical debates. Practice writing well-structured analytical essays.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Historical monographs, Mentorship from faculty, Essay writing workshops
Career Connection
Sharpens the mind for advanced research, competitive examinations (especially essay and mains papers), and roles requiring critical assessment and problem-solving.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3-5)
Relate historical knowledge to other subjects like Political Science, Economics, Sociology, and Literature. Choose Generic Electives strategically to broaden your perspective and understand socio-economic structures and their historical evolution.
Tools & Resources
Interdisciplinary academic papers, Lectures from other departments, Cross-listed courses
Career Connection
Provides a holistic understanding of societal issues, beneficial for civil services, journalism, policy analysis, and diverse career paths requiring broad knowledge.
Seek Internships at Cultural & Heritage Institutions- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for opportunities to intern at local museums, archives, or heritage sites in West Bengal (e.g., Indian Museum Kolkata, National Library, State Archives). This provides practical exposure to historical preservation, documentation, and research.
Tools & Resources
College career cell, Online internship portals (Internshala, LinkedIn), Direct applications to institutions
Career Connection
Gains hands-on experience for careers in cultural management, archiving, curatorial roles, and provides valuable networking opportunities within the heritage sector.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 6)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for civil services exams (UPSC, WBCS) or other government job tests. Focus on general studies, essay writing, and potentially History as an optional subject, joining reputed coaching institutes or study circles.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/WBCS syllabus, Previous year question papers, Coaching institutes (e.g., Vajiram & Ravi, Chanakya IAS Academy), Online test series
Career Connection
Directly prepares for highly sought-after government positions, leveraging the program''''s strong foundation in general knowledge, analytical thinking, and writing skills.
Undertake Research Projects & Dissertations- (Semester 6)
Work closely with faculty mentors on independent research projects, potentially culminating in a dissertation or thesis in the final semester. This hones advanced research methodologies, critical analysis, and academic writing skills.
Tools & Resources
Faculty guidance, University research guidelines, Access to academic databases (JSTOR, Project MUSE), Referencing tools (Zotero, Mendeley)
Career Connection
Essential for pursuing postgraduate studies (MA, M.Phil, PhD) in History, academic careers, or research-intensive roles in think tanks and NGOs.
Network with Historians & Alumni- (Semester 6)
Attend seminars, workshops, and historical conferences organized by the University of Calcutta or other academic bodies. Connect with alumni who have excelled in various fields to gain insights, mentorship, and explore diverse career pathways and higher education opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Professional associations (Indian History Congress), Alumni events, LinkedIn, Academic conferences
Career Connection
Builds professional connections, offers career guidance, opens doors to opportunities in academia, government, and the cultural sector, facilitating informed career planning.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination. For Honours, 50% aggregate with 45% in History (or related subject) at 10+2 level OR 55% in History (or related subject) OR 50% aggregate if History was not studied at 10+2. (As per University of Calcutta norms)
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: For 6-credit papers: Internal Assessment (Tutorial/Continuous Assessment) 40%, Semester End Examination 60%. For 2-credit papers (AECC/SEC): Internal Assessment 20%, Semester End Examination 80%., External: For 6-credit papers: Semester End Examination 60%. For 2-credit papers (AECC/SEC): Semester End Examination 80%.
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-1 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Language and Communication, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Grammar and Vocabulary, Presentation Skills |
| CC-1 | History of Ancient India I | Core | 6 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-historic Cultures, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Age, Janapadas and Mahajanapadas, Mauryan Empire |
| CC-2 | Social Formations and Cultural Patterns of the Ancient World | Core | 6 | Evolution of Humankind, Paleolithic and Mesolithic Cultures, Neolithic Revolution, Bronze Age Civilizations (Mesopotamia, Egypt), Early Iron Age, Greek and Roman Civilizations |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective I (Choose from other disciplines like Political Science, Economics, etc.) | Generic Elective | 6 | Varies by chosen discipline (e.g., Introduction to Political Theory, Principles of Microeconomics) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AECC-2 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Multidisciplinary Nature of Environmental Studies, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution, Human Population and Environment |
| CC-3 | History of Ancient India II | Core | 6 | Post-Mauryan Developments, Gupta Age, Vardhanas and Regional Kingdoms, Early Medieval India, Social and Economic Structures, Cultural Developments (Art, Religion) |
| CC-4 | Transformations in the Early Modern Europe I (C. 15th to 18th Century) | Core | 6 | Renaissance, Reformation and Counter-Reformation, Age of Exploration and Discovery, Growth of Absolute Monarchies, Scientific Revolution, Enlightenment |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective II (Choose from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | Varies by chosen discipline |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-5 | History of Medieval India I (C. 750-1206 AD) | Core | 6 | Early Medieval Dynasties (Palas, Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas), Rise of Rajputs, Arab Conquest of Sindh, Ghaznavid and Ghurid Invasions, Foundation of Delhi Sultanate, Social and Cultural Life |
| CC-6 | Rise of Modern West I | Core | 6 | Transition from Feudalism to Capitalism, Commercial Revolution, Mercantilism, Emergence of Modern State Systems, Religious Conflicts and Wars, Colonial Expansion |
| CC-7 | History of USA I: C. 1776 - 1860s | Core | 6 | American Revolution, Formation of the Republic, Jeffersonian Democracy, Westward Expansion, Industrialization and Social Change, Sectionalism and Slavery |
| SEC-1 | Skill Enhancement Course I (e.g., Museum & Archival Practices) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Introduction to Museums, Types of Archives, Preservation and Conservation, Documentation and Cataloguing, Exhibition Planning, Heritage Management |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective III (Choose from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | Varies by chosen discipline |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-8 | History of Medieval India II (C. 1206-1757 AD) | Core | 6 | Delhi Sultanate (Expansion, Administration, Economy), Vijayanagara and Bahmani Kingdoms, Mughal Empire (Foundation, Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan), Religious Movements (Bhakti, Sufi), Decline of Mughal Empire, Marathas and Regional Powers |
| CC-9 | Rise of Modern West II | Core | 6 | The Enlightenment, French Revolution and its Aftermath, Napoleonic Era, Industrial Revolution, European Nationalism and Nation-States, Imperialism and Colonialism |
| CC-10 | History of USA II: C. 1860s - 1945 | Core | 6 | Reconstruction Era, Gilded Age and Progressive Era, Rise to World Power, World War I, Great Depression and New Deal, World War II |
| SEC-2 | Skill Enhancement Course II (e.g., Understanding Heritage) | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Concept of Heritage (Tangible and Intangible), Cultural and Natural Heritage, Heritage Tourism, Conservation Challenges, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Legal Frameworks for Heritage Protection |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective IV (Choose from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 | Varies by chosen discipline |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-11 | History of Modern India I (C. 1757 - 1857) | Core | 6 | British Expansion in India, Colonial Administration, Economic Impact of Colonialism, Social and Religious Reform Movements, Revolt of 1857, Decline of Princely States |
| CC-12 | History of Modern Europe I (C. 1780 - 1939) | Core | 6 | French Revolution and Europe, Napoleonic Wars and Congress of Vienna, Rise of Nationalism and Liberalism, Unification of Italy and Germany, Imperialism and Scramble for Africa, Causes and Consequences of World War I |
| DSE-1 | Discipline Specific Elective I (Choose ONE from options like History of China & Japan C. 1840-1949 OR History of Modern South East Asia (18th Century to 1945) OR Aspects of Ancient Indian History: Social & Economic Formations) | Elective | 6 | Varies by chosen option (e.g., Opium Wars, Meiji Restoration, Chinese Revolution for China/Japan), Colonialism in Southeast Asia, Anti-Colonial Movements (for South East Asia), Social stratification, Economic activities, Trade routes, Urbanization (for Ancient Indian History) |
| DSE-2 | Discipline Specific Elective II (Choose ONE from options like History of Modern East Asia: C. 1840-1949 OR History of China & Japan C. 1840-1949 OR Aspects of Ancient Indian History: Social & Economic Formations) | Elective | 6 | Varies by chosen option (e.g., Western impact on China and Japan, Modernization efforts), Agrarian relations, Land revenue systems, Urban centers, Trade and commerce (for Ancient Indian History) |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-13 | History of Modern India II (C. 1857 - 1964) | Core | 6 | Indian Nationalism and Freedom Struggle, Gandhian Era, Partition of India, Making of the Constitution, Nehruvian Era, Post-Independence Challenges |
| CC-14 | World History I (C. 1945 - 2000) | Core | 6 | Cold War and Bipolar World, Decolonization and Third World, Rise of Superpowers, Globalization, International Organizations (UN, Non-Aligned Movement), Post-Cold War World Order |
| DSE-3 | Discipline Specific Elective III (Choose ONE from options like Economic History of India (18th-20th Century) OR History of Environment in India OR History of Science & Technology in India) | Elective | 6 | Varies by chosen option (e.g., Colonial economy, Agriculture, Industry, Trade, Famines for Economic History), Environmental degradation, Forest policies, Water management, Conservation movements (for Environmental History) |
| DSE-4 | Discipline Specific Elective IV (Choose ONE from options like History of Bengal (c. 1757-1947) OR History of Subaltern Studies OR History of Women in India) | Elective | 6 | Varies by chosen option (e.g., British rule in Bengal, Plassey, Socio-economic changes for History of Bengal), Gender roles, Women''''s movements, Feminist historiography, Legal rights (for History of Women) |
