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B-A-HONOURS in History at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur
East Singhbhum, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is History at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur East Singhbhum?
This B.A. (Honours) History program at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of human civilization, social structures, political developments, and cultural evolution across various epochs and geographies. With a strong emphasis on Indian history, including regional insights into Jharkhand, this program equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills highly valued in India''''s diverse academic and public service sectors. The curriculum is designed to foster a deep appreciation for historical inquiry and its relevance to contemporary issues.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in humanities, social sciences, and a desire to explore the past. It attracts students aspiring for careers in teaching, research, archaeology, archives, museums, journalism, and civil services. Individuals who possess strong analytical abilities, a curious mind, and a passion for understanding societal transformations will find this specialization deeply rewarding. It also appeals to those seeking a solid foundation for postgraduate studies in history or related fields.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, heritage managers, teachers, lecturers, and civil servants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 Lakhs to 4.5 Lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential up to INR 8-12 Lakhs for experienced professionals in academia, government, or research. The critical analysis and research skills developed are highly transferable, opening doors to various professional fields and competitive examinations like UPSC and JPSC.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Research & Writing Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing core academic skills. Attend workshops on academic writing, citation styles (e.g., Chicago, MLA), and basic research methodologies. Practice structuring essays, using evidence, and formulating arguments. Regularly read historical articles and primary sources.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Online academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Writing centers, Peer review groups
Career Connection
Essential for all academic and professional roles requiring clear communication and evidence-based reasoning, including civil services exams and research.
Explore India''''s Diverse Historical Narratives- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbooks, actively engage with diverse historical perspectives, especially those related to regional and local history (Jharkhand). Visit local historical sites, museums, and participate in cultural events. Read historical fiction and non-fiction beyond the curriculum to broaden understanding.
Tools & Resources
Local museums, Historical societies, Public libraries, Online documentaries (e.g., Rajya Sabha TV historical series), Regional history books
Career Connection
Develops a nuanced understanding crucial for roles in heritage management, tourism, cultural journalism, and civil service administration within India.
Cultivate Critical Thinking through Debates & Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex historical events and theories. Participate actively in classroom discussions and departmental seminars. Practice analyzing different interpretations of history and defending your viewpoints with evidence.
Tools & Resources
Peer study groups, Departmental seminars, Online academic forums, Debating clubs
Career Connection
Enhances analytical and argumentative skills, vital for roles in law, journalism, policy analysis, and any profession requiring informed decision-making.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Primary Source Analysis Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to work with primary sources (historical documents, artifacts, oral histories). Attend workshops on deciphering old scripts, analyzing archival material, and understanding historical context. Proactively ask faculty for opportunities to assist with their research.
Tools & Resources
College archives (if available), State archives, Online digital archives (e.g., National Archives of India digital library), Specialized workshops
Career Connection
Directly prepares for roles in archaeology, archival management, academic research, and history-based journalism.
Network with Historians & Academics- (Semester 3-5)
Attend history conferences, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the department or other institutions. Connect with faculty members, visiting scholars, and professionals in related fields. Join relevant academic associations or online professional groups.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notices, University event calendars, LinkedIn, Academic associations like the Indian History Congress
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, research collaborations, postgraduate study opportunities, and potential job leads in academia or research institutions.
Develop Digital Humanities Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Learn basic digital tools for historical research, such as data visualization (e.g., Tableau Public), geographic information systems (GIS) for historical mapping, or digital archiving software. This adds a valuable layer to traditional historical methods.
Tools & Resources
Free online tutorials (Coursera, edX), Open-source GIS software (QGIS), Digital archive platforms
Career Connection
Positions graduates competitively in emerging fields like digital archiving, data journalism, and tech companies working with historical data, a growing trend in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Guided Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6-8)
Work closely with a faculty mentor to identify a research topic, develop a proposal, conduct original research using primary and secondary sources, and write a comprehensive dissertation. Present your findings at college-level or regional conferences.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors, University research grants (if available), Academic writing tools
Career Connection
Provides hands-on experience vital for a research career, enhances analytical abilities for civil services, and offers a strong portfolio for postgraduate admissions.
Target & Prepare for Civil Services/Post-Graduation- (Semester 6-8)
If aspiring for civil services (UPSC/JPSC), start focused preparation. Enroll in coaching, join study circles, and practice mock tests. For postgraduate studies, identify target universities/programs, prepare for entrance exams (e.g., NET, JRF), and refine your statement of purpose.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes, Online test series, Previous year question papers, Career counseling services, University admission portals
Career Connection
Direct pathway to high-impact administrative roles in India''''s government or advanced academic careers as historians and professors.
Pursue Internships in Heritage/Archival Institutions- (Semester 6-7 (during breaks or alongside studies))
Actively seek internships at national/state archives, museums (e.g., Indian Museum, National Museum), historical societies, or cultural heritage NGOs. Gain practical experience in preservation, cataloging, exhibition development, or educational outreach.
Tools & Resources
Internship portals (e.g., Internshala, government job portals), Direct contact with institutions, Departmental internship coordinators
Career Connection
Provides invaluable real-world experience, builds professional networks, and significantly boosts employability in heritage, cultural, and government sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 or equivalent from a recognized board, typically with a minimum of 45% aggregate marks (40% for SC/ST categories) as per Kolhan University norms.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: 176 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ1 | History of Ancient India (up to C. 700 CE) | Major Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-history and Proto-history, Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Age and Post-Vedic Period, Janapadas and Mahajanapadas, Rise of Magadha, Mauryan and Post-Mauryan Period |
| MN | Minor Course I | Minor | 3 | |
| MDC1 | Multidisciplinary Course I | Multidisciplinary | 3 | |
| AEC1 | Ability Enhancement Course I (e.g., English Communication / MIL) | Ability Enhancement | 2 | Basic English Grammar and Composition, Reading Comprehension, Letter Writing and Paragraph Development, Introduction to Oral Communication |
| VAC1 | Value Added Course I | Value Added | 2 | |
| SEC1 | Skill Enhancement Course I | Skill Enhancement | 3 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ2 | History of India (C. 700 CE to 1206 CE) | Major Core | 4 | Major Dynasties of Early Medieval India (Palas, Gurjara-Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas), Chola Empire: Administration and Culture, Rise of Feudalism in India, Arab Invasion of Sindh, Turkish Invasions: Mahmud of Ghazni, Muhammad Ghori |
| MN | Minor Course II | Minor | 3 | |
| MDC2 | Multidisciplinary Course II | Multidisciplinary | 3 | |
| AEC2 | Ability Enhancement Course II (e.g., English Communication / MIL) | Ability Enhancement | 2 | Advanced Communication Skills, Public Speaking and Presentation, Report Writing and Official Correspondence, Interpersonal Communication |
| VAC2 | Value Added Course II | Value Added | 2 | |
| SEC2 | Skill Enhancement Course II | Skill Enhancement | 3 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ3 | History of India (C. 1206 CE to 1707 CE) | Major Core | 4 | Establishment and Consolidation of Delhi Sultanate, Khalji and Tughlaq Dynasties: Reforms and Challenges, Mughal Empire: Babur to Aurangzeb, Mughal Administration, Economy and Society, Sufi and Bhakti Movements, Rise of Provincial Kingdoms |
| MN | Minor Course III | Minor | 3 | |
| MDC3 | Multidisciplinary Course III | Multidisciplinary | 3 | |
| SEC3 | Skill Enhancement Course III | Skill Enhancement | 3 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ4 | History of India (C. 1707 CE to 1950 CE) | Major Core | 4 | Decline of the Mughal Empire and Rise of Regional Powers, Advent of European Powers and British Expansion, British Colonial Administration and Policies, Revolt of 1857 and its Impact, Indian National Movement and Gandhian Era, Partition of India and Independence |
| MN | Minor Course IV | Minor | 3 | |
| SEC4 | Skill Enhancement Course IV | Skill Enhancement | 3 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ5 | World History (C. 15th to Mid-18th Century) | Major Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Exploration and Discoveries, Emergence of Nation States and Absolutism, Mercantilism and Colonialism, Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment |
| MJ6 | History of Jharkhand (Ancient to 1833) | Major Core | 4 | Sources of Jharkhand History, Pre-historic and Ancient Jharkhand, Medieval Period: Mughal Rule and Impact, Advent of the British in Jharkhand, Early Resistance Movements (e.g., Chero, Paharhiya, Kol Rebellion up to 1833) |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ7 | World History (Mid-18th to Mid-20th Century) | Major Core | 4 | Industrial Revolution and its Impact, American and French Revolutions, Rise of Nationalism and Imperialism, World War I: Causes and Consequences, Russian Revolution and Inter-War Period, World War II: Causes and Consequences |
| MJ8 | History of Jharkhand (1833 to 2000 CE) | Major Core | 4 | Administrative Changes Post-1833, Major Tribal Uprisings (Santhal, Munda, Tana Bhagat Movement), Jharkhand in Indian National Movement, Post-Independence Jharkhand Politics and Economy, Movement for Separate Jharkhand State and its Formation |
| INT | Internship / Apprentice / Project | Internship | 2 | Practical work experience in relevant organizations, Project development and execution, Report writing and presentation of findings |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ9 | History of Modern East Asia (C. 1840-1949) | Major Core | 4 | China: Opium Wars and Treaty System, Taiping and Boxer Rebellions, Revolution of 1911 and Republic of China, Rise of Communism in China, Japan: Meiji Restoration and Modernization, Japanese Imperialism and Rise as a World Power |
| MJ10 | Historiography & Historical Methods | Major Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Schools of Historical Thought (e.g., Positivist, Marxist, Subaltern), Sources of History and their Critical Analysis, Objectivity, Bias, and Interpretation in History, Historical Research Methodology, Role of Archives and Museums |
| MJ11 | History of Modern Europe (C. 1789-1919) | Major Core | 4 | French Revolution and Napoleonic Era, Congress of Vienna and Concert of Europe, Revolutions of 1848, Unification of Italy and Germany, Imperialism and European Powers, Causes and Consequences of World War I |
| MJ12 | History of the USA (C. 1776-1945) | Major Core | 4 | American Revolution and Formation of the USA, Early Republic and Constitutional Development, Slavery, Civil War, and Reconstruction, Industrialization and Progressive Era, Great Depression and New Deal, USA''''s Role in World War I and II |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MJ13 | History of Modern India (C. 1950-2000) | Major Core | 4 | Consolidation of the Indian Nation-State, Nehruvian Era: Planning and Foreign Policy, Indira Gandhi''''s Era: Politics and Emergency, Economic Reforms and Coalition Politics, Social Movements and Identities Post-Independence |
| MJ14 | History of Contemporary World (C. 1945-2000) | Major Core | 4 | Cold War: Origins, Phases, and End, Decolonization and Rise of the Third World, Arab-Israeli Conflict, Globalization and New World Order, Regional Conflicts and Peace Efforts |
| RPD | Research Project / Dissertation | Research Project | 8 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review and Data Collection, Analytical Writing and Argumentation, Dissertation Structure and Formatting, Presentation and Defense of Research |
