

B-A-HONOURS in Urdu at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur


East Singhbhum, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Urdu at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur East Singhbhum?
This B.A. Honours Urdu program at The Graduate School College for Women, Jamshedpur, focuses on a comprehensive study of Urdu language, literature, and culture. It delves into classical and modern poetry, prose, drama, literary criticism, and linguistics, providing a deep understanding of Urdu''''s rich heritage. The program is vital for preserving and promoting Urdu in India, meeting the demand for linguists, writers, and educators.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a keen interest in Urdu literature and language, aspiring writers, poets, journalists, and academicians. It also suits individuals seeking careers in cultural preservation, translation, or media sectors where proficiency in Urdu is valued. Students from diverse backgrounds passionate about exploring the nuances of Indo-Persian culture and its literary expressions will thrive here.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including content writing, journalism, translation, teaching, and civil services. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 4.5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. Growth trajectories include becoming senior editors, acclaimed writers, university professors, or cultural attachés. The program aligns with UGC NET/JRF for higher education and various government job requirements.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Urdu Script and Basic Grammar- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to perfect Nasta''''liq script and fundamental Urdu grammar. Utilize online resources like Rekhta.org for script practice and refer to standard grammar books. Consistent reading of simple Urdu texts and daily writing exercises are crucial for building a strong base.
Tools & Resources
Rekhta.org (website/app), Basic Urdu Grammar books, Urdu dictionaries
Career Connection
A solid foundation in script and grammar is essential for all future academic pursuits and any professional role involving Urdu writing, editing, or communication.
Engage with Classical Poetry and Prose- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond syllabus, actively listen to and read classical Ghazals, Nazms, and prose works. Attend local Mushairas or literary discussions in Jamshedpur. Form a study group to discuss the nuances of poets like Mir, Ghalib, and Iqbal, enhancing comprehension and appreciation.
Tools & Resources
YouTube channels for Mushairas, Literary magazines (e.g., ''''Shabkhoon''''), College literary society
Career Connection
Deep understanding of classics enriches analytical skills, provides cultural context for journalism/writing, and is vital for academic and research careers.
Develop Foundational Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Start practicing basic research by writing short essays on literary figures or themes using library resources. Learn to cite sources properly and differentiate between primary and secondary information. Participate in college-level essay competitions to refine writing and research abilities.
Tools & Resources
College library, Jstor (if available through college), Grammarly
Career Connection
Early research practice builds critical thinking, vital for higher studies, content creation, and any role requiring information synthesis and presentation.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Translation and Journalism Opportunities- (Semester 3-5)
Seek out minor translation projects for local NGOs or college publications, translating Urdu content to English/Hindi and vice-versa. Intern with local Urdu newspapers or online news portals to gain practical experience in reporting, editing, and news gathering, focusing on regional stories.
Tools & Resources
Local Urdu newspapers/magazines, Translation apps/software (e.g., Google Translate for initial understanding), Professional translators as mentors
Career Connection
Hands-on experience in translation and journalism opens doors to media, publishing, and government translation jobs in India.
Participate in Literary Debates and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Actively join college debates, poetry recitations, and seminars related to Urdu literature and contemporary issues. Present papers on topics of interest, even if informal, to enhance public speaking and academic presentation skills. Network with professors and guest lecturers.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, Inter-college literary festivals, Public speaking clubs
Career Connection
Improves communication, analytical reasoning, and networking, beneficial for academic, teaching, and public relations roles.
Build a Personal Digital Portfolio- (Semester 3-5)
Start a personal blog or social media page dedicated to Urdu literature, where you post your own creative writing, critical reviews, or translations. This creates an online presence and showcases your skills to potential employers or academic institutions.
Tools & Resources
WordPress/Blogger, Instagram/Facebook for literary content, Canva for visual design
Career Connection
A strong digital portfolio is crucial for roles in content creation, digital journalism, and even attracting publishing opportunities in the Indian market.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Mini-Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Collaborate with a faculty mentor to work on a small research project or a dissertation on a specialized Urdu literary topic, even if not mandatory. This deepens your understanding of research methodology and prepares you for postgraduate studies or independent academic work.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, Academic journals in Urdu, Research software (e.g., Zotero for citation management)
Career Connection
Essential for pursuing M.A., M.Phil., or Ph.D. in Urdu, and for research-oriented roles in government and non-profit organizations.
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
Begin focused preparation for competitive exams like UPSC (Civil Services), Jharkhand PSC, or UGC NET/JRF, if pursuing academia. Dedicate specific hours to general studies, language proficiency, and optionally, Urdu as an optional subject, utilizing relevant study materials and coaching.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC official websites for syllabus, Previous year question papers, Online coaching platforms
Career Connection
Directly enables entry into highly sought-after government jobs, civil services, and makes you eligible for university-level teaching and research positions.
Network with Industry Professionals and Alumni- (Semester 6)
Attend workshops, seminars, and alumni meets to connect with professionals working in journalism, publishing, education, and cultural sectors. Seek guidance, mentorship, and potential internship/job leads. Leverage LinkedIn to build a professional network within the Urdu literary and media fraternities in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Professional literary bodies (e.g., Sahitya Akademi events)
Career Connection
Networking is paramount for job placements, mentorship, and staying updated on industry trends and hidden job opportunities in the Indian professional landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 Pass from a recognized board in any stream
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URDU-CC-1 | Classical Poetry (Qaseeda, Marsiya, Masnawi) | Core | 6 | Study of Qaseeda and its evolution, Analysis of Marsiya and its elements, Understanding Masnawi as a poetic form, Key poets of classical Urdu poetry, Literary analysis and criticism |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Ecosystems and biodiversity, Environmental pollution and control, Natural resources and their management, Environmental ethics and issues, Sustainable development |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URDU-CC-2 | Classical Poetry (Ghazal) | Core | 6 | Origin and development of Ghazal, Structure and thematic elements of Ghazal, Prominent Ghazal poets and their styles, Impact of Ghazal on Urdu literature, Critical appreciation of Ghazals |
| URDU-CC-3 | Non-Fictional Prose | Core | 6 | Evolution of Urdu non-fictional prose, Essay writing and its forms, Biography and autobiography, Travelogue and reportage, Journalism and media writing |
| AECC-2 | Rastriya Bhasha (Hindi/Bengali/English) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Official language and its importance, Basic grammar and composition, Letter writing and official correspondence, Translation skills, Communication techniques |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URDU-CC-4 | Fiction (Dastan, Novel, Afsana) | Core | 6 | Genesis and evolution of Dastan, Development of Urdu Novel, Art of Afsana (short story), Major Dastan, Novel, Afsana writers, Themes and techniques in Urdu fiction |
| URDU-CC-5 | Urdu Drama | Core | 6 | History of Urdu Drama, Different forms of Urdu Drama, Prominent playwrights and their works, Theatrical techniques and elements, Adaptation and contemporary drama |
| URDU-CC-6 | Literary Criticism and Research Methodology | Core | 6 | Principles of literary criticism, Different schools of criticism, Concept of research in Urdu, Methods of data collection and analysis, Thesis writing and documentation |
| SEC-1 | Translation Practice | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Theories of translation, Types of translation, Practice in translating literary texts, Translation of administrative documents, Challenges in translation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URDU-CC-7 | Study of Sufi and Bhakti Poetry | Core | 6 | Introduction to Sufi poetry, Mystical themes in Urdu literature, Bhakti movement and its impact, Integration of Sufi and Bhakti traditions, Key poets and their philosophical contributions |
| URDU-CC-8 | Urdu Criticism | Core | 6 | History of Urdu criticism, Classical and modern critics, Theoretical approaches to criticism, Practical application of critical methods, Impact of Western criticism on Urdu |
| URDU-CC-9 | Linguistic and Philology | Core | 6 | Fundamentals of linguistics, Phonetics and phonology of Urdu, Morphology and syntax of Urdu, Historical linguistics and language evolution, Sociolinguistics and dialectology |
| SEC-2 | Urdu Journalism | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | History of Urdu journalism, Principles of news writing, Editing and reporting techniques, Digital journalism and social media, Ethical considerations in journalism |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URDU-CC-10 | Development of Urdu Language and Literature | Core | 6 | Origin and evolution of Urdu language, Different periods of Urdu literature, Major literary movements and trends, Contribution of various regions to Urdu, Contemporary Urdu literary scene |
| URDU-CC-11 | Poetics and Prosody | Core | 6 | Fundamentals of Urdu poetics, Elements of poetic expression, Science of prosody (Arooz), Different meters and rhymes, Application in composing and appreciating poetry |
| DSE-1 | Special Study of a Classical Poet (e.g., Mir Taqi Mir) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Life and times of Mir Taqi Mir, His poetic style and themes, Contribution to Urdu Ghazal and Marsiya, Critical analysis of his selected works, Influence on subsequent poets |
| DSE-2 | Special Study of a Modern Poet (e.g., Faiz Ahmad Faiz) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Life and political thought of Faiz, Themes of revolution and humanism in his poetry, Stylistic innovations and imagery, Analysis of selected poems, Faiz''''s impact on progressive literature |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| URDU-CC-12 | Study of Modern Urdu Prose | Core | 6 | Evolution of modern Urdu prose, Essays and literary criticism, Short stories and novels of the modern era, Prominent modern prose writers, Contemporary trends and experimental forms |
| URDU-CC-13 | Indian Literary Theory and Poetics | Core | 6 | Key concepts of Indian Poetics (Rasa, Dhvani, Alankara), Influence of Sanskrit aesthetics on Urdu, Comparative study of Eastern and Western theories, Application of Indian literary theories, Critical appreciation from an Indian perspective |
| DSE-3 | Special Study of a Modern Novelist (e.g., Premchand) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Life and social context of Premchand, Realism and social commentary in his novels, Study of selected major novels, Themes of rural life, poverty, and exploitation, Premchand''''s legacy in Urdu and Hindi literature |
| DSE-4 | Special Study of a Dramatist (e.g., Imtiaz Ali Taj) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Life and contributions of Imtiaz Ali Taj, His famous plays and their dramatic elements, Themes of romance, history, and social issues, Stagecraft and theatrical impact, Taj''''s role in the development of Urdu drama |




