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MA in Islamic History at University College, Thiruvananthapuram
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Islamic History at University College, Thiruvananthapuram Thiruvananthapuram?
This MA Islamic History program at University College, Thiruvananthapuram, affiliated with the University of Kerala, provides an in-depth exploration of Islamic civilization from its origins to the modern era. It covers political, social, economic, and cultural dimensions, offering a comprehensive understanding of historical processes and intellectual contributions. The program emphasizes critical analysis of sources and historiography, crucial for academic and research pursuits in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history enthusiasts, particularly those with a BA in Islamic History, History, Arabic, or a related field, seeking advanced knowledge and research skills. It also suits educators looking to specialize in medieval and modern Islamic studies, and individuals interested in cultural studies or public service careers where understanding historical contexts of diverse communities in India is vital.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue careers in academia as lecturers or researchers, work in cultural heritage management, archives, museums, or contribute to policy analysis focusing on minority affairs. In India, opportunities exist in universities, research institutes, and government bodies. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization. The program lays a strong foundation for M.Phil and PhD studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Historiographical Methods & Source Analysis- (Semester 1-2)
Focus deeply on methodology, understanding primary vs. secondary sources, and critical evaluation. Regularly attend library workshops on archival research and citation styles. Form study groups to discuss historical debates and interpretations to strengthen foundational knowledge.
Tools & Resources
University Library (physical archives, digital databases), JSTOR, academic journals, Zotero/Mendeley
Career Connection
Essential for any research-oriented career (academia, archives) or roles requiring strong analytical and evidence-based reasoning in public service, particularly in the Indian context.
Cultivate Language Proficiency (Arabic/Persian)- (Semester 1-2)
While not explicitly a core subject, proficiency in Arabic or Persian significantly enhances the study of Islamic History. Utilize university language departments or online courses to build foundational reading skills for historical texts and original sources.
Tools & Resources
University Language Centre, online language learning platforms (e.g., Al-Jazeera Learning), Arabic/Persian dictionaries
Career Connection
Opens doors to specialized research, translation work, and positions requiring access to original historical documents, which are highly valued in Indian academia and cultural institutions.
Engage with Early Islamic Texts and Modern Interpretations- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond lectures, read foundational texts (e.g., Ibn Ishaq''''s Sira, Tabari''''s History) and contemporary scholarly works. Participate in department seminars or reading clubs to discuss diverse perspectives and deepen understanding of historical narratives.
Tools & Resources
University Library, online academic databases, department reading lists, historical fiction
Career Connection
Develops a nuanced understanding of historical narratives, crucial for informed academic discourse, teaching, and writing, which are key career paths in Indian educational sectors.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize Through Electives and Focused Readings- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose electives that align with your research interests or potential career paths, such as Islamic Art or Muslims in India. Deep-dive into specific periods or themes by reading monographs and journal articles beyond prescribed texts to build expertise.
Tools & Resources
Elective course descriptions, faculty advisors, specialized library collections, online archives (e.g., Khuda Bakhsh Oriental Public Library)
Career Connection
Builds expertise for M.Phil/PhD specialization, making you a more attractive candidate for research grants or specific teaching roles in Indian universities and research institutes.
Attend National/International History Conferences & Workshops- (Semester 3)
Actively seek out and attend academic conferences, workshops, or webinars hosted by organizations like the Indian History Congress or international bodies. Present a paper if possible, even a short one based on a term paper, to gain experience and network.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards, academic mailing lists, conference websites, faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Crucial for networking with established historians, understanding current research trends, and building a professional profile, which is vital for academic career progression in India.
Initiate and Develop a Research Project (Dissertation Prep)- (Semester 3)
Begin thinking about dissertation topics early. Consult with faculty members, identify potential supervisors, and start preliminary literature reviews for your final project. Practice writing research proposals to hone your independent research skills.
Tools & Resources
Faculty consultation, research guides, university''''s research ethics committee guidelines, online academic databases
Career Connection
Directly prepares for the capstone project, a critical component for academic careers and demonstrates independent research capability to potential employers or PhD committees in India.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation Writing & Defense- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to your dissertation, working closely with your supervisor. Adhere to deadlines, meticulously refine arguments, sources, and formatting. Practice presenting your research findings clearly and concisely for the Viva Voce examination.
Tools & Resources
Supervisor feedback, university thesis guidelines, academic writing centers (if available), presentation software
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is paramount for M.Phil/PhD admissions and showcases advanced research skills, analytical rigor, and subject mastery to academic institutions and research bodies in India.
Network for Academic & Research Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Leverage your academic networks (professors, fellow students, conference contacts) for information on PhD programs, research assistantships, or teaching positions. Attend career fairs focused on social sciences and humanities to explore pathways.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university alumni network, departmental contacts, academic job portals (e.g., UGC notices)
Career Connection
Direct pathway to post-MA opportunities, including teaching at colleges (after clearing NET/SET) or securing research grants for further studies in India, crucial for career advancement.
Develop Pedagogical Skills for Teaching- (Semester 4)
For those aspiring to teach, volunteer for teaching assistant roles, offer peer tutoring, or participate in workshops on teaching methodologies. Start preparing for national eligibility tests like NET/SET if aspiring for college lecturer positions in India.
Tools & Resources
Departmental teaching opportunities, online teaching resources, previous year NET/SET question papers, coaching centers (if opted)
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for the competitive academic job market in India, where a combination of subject expertise and teaching aptitude is highly valued by educational institutions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- As per University of Kerala''''s MA Admission Regulations (typically a Bachelor''''s Degree in Islamic History or a related subject)
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 66 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS 511 | Methodology of Islamic History & Historiography | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of History, Islamic Historiography Tradition, Primary and Secondary Sources, Research Methods and Approaches, Critical Analysis of Historical Texts, Challenges in Islamic Historiography |
| HIS 512 | Main Currents of Islamic History upto 750 CE | Core | 4 | Pre-Islamic Arabia and Its Conditions, Rise of Islam and Prophetic Period, Rashidun Caliphate and Conquests, Umayyad Caliphate: Administration & Culture, The Abbasid Revolution, Social and Economic Formations |
| HIS 513 | History of Science & Technology in Medieval Islam | Core | 4 | Islamic Contributions to Science, Developments in Medicine and Surgery, Advancements in Astronomy and Optics, Innovations in Mathematics and Algebra, Technology: Engineering and Architecture, Scientific Institutions and Patronage |
| HIS 514 | Cultural Heritage of Islam (Elective - Example) | Elective | 4 | Islamic Art and Architecture, Sufism: Mysticism and Orders, Education and Learning Institutions, Islamic Calligraphy and Miniatures, Music and Literature Traditions, Customs and Social Practices |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS 521 | Main Currents of Islamic History 750 CE to 1258 CE | Core | 4 | Abbasid Golden Age and Decline, Emergence of Regional Dynasties, Fatimid Caliphate and Culture, The Seljuks and Political Landscape, The Crusades: Impact and Response, Mongol Invasions and Fall of Baghdad |
| HIS 522 | History of Islamic Political Thought | Core | 4 | Early Islamic Political Concepts, Caliphate and Imamate Theories, Political Thought of Al-Farabi, Ibn Khaldun''''s Cyclical Theory, Modern Islamic Political Movements, State and Sovereignty in Islam |
| HIS 523 | Medieval Islamic Economy & Society | Core | 4 | Agrarian Systems and Land Tenure, Trade Routes: Land and Maritime, Urban Centers and Daily Life, Social Hierarchy and Guilds, Economic Institutions: Waqf and Banking, Revenue Systems and Taxation |
| HIS 524 | History of Muslims in India upto 1707 CE (Elective - Example) | Elective | 4 | Arab Invasions and Early Settlements, Establishment of Delhi Sultanate, Mughal Empire: Rise and Consolidation, Sufi Movements and Bhakti Tradition, Art, Architecture and Literature, Administration and Economy under Mughals |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIS 531 | Main Currents of Islamic History 1258 CE to 1924 CE | Core | 4 | Rise of Ottoman Empire, Safavid Empire of Persia, Later Mughal Period in India, European Imperialism in Muslim Lands, Decline of Islamic Empires, Emergence of Modern Muslim States |
| HIS 532 | Islamic Art and Architecture | Core | 4 | Principles of Islamic Art, Mosque Architecture and Typology, Palaces and Residential Buildings, Funerary Architecture and Tombs, Decorative Arts: Calligraphy and Illumination, Miniature Painting Traditions |
| HIS 533 | Islamic Culture and Civilization in South Asia | Core | 4 | Impact of Islam on Indian Culture, Development of Urdu and Persian Languages, Islamic Education System in India, Customs, Festivals and Social Life, Inter-Religious Dialogue and Synthesis, Cultural Contributions of Muslim Rulers |
| HIS 534 | Muslim Reform Movements (Elective - Example) | Elective | 4 | Modern Islamic Thought and Challenges, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan and Aligarh Movement, Jamaluddin Afghani and Pan-Islamism, Muhammad Abduh and Salafiyya, Wahhabism and Islamic Revivalism, Reformers in South Asia |
