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BA in History at University of Calicut
Malappuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is History at University of Calicut Malappuram?
This BA History program at University of Calicut focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of human societies through historical inquiry. Emphasizing critical thinking and research skills, it covers ancient to modern periods, with a strong focus on Indian and Kerala history, relevant for careers in civil services, academia, and cultural heritage in India. The program differentiates itself by integrating specialized areas like Gender Studies and Historiography.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for students passionate about unraveling the past, fresh graduates aspiring for UPSC/PSC examinations or entry into journalism, archives, and museums. It also suits individuals seeking to develop analytical and interpretive skills valuable across various sectors, preparing them for roles in historical research, content creation, or public policy analysis in India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, journalists, civil servants, or educators. Entry-level salaries range from INR 2.5 LPA to 5 LPA, with significant growth potential in government or specialized research roles. The rigorous academic training prepares students for higher studies, competitive exams, and careers in cultural heritage management.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historical Concepts and Methodology- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with lectures and readings for ''''Methodology of History'''' and ''''Ancient Indian History''''. Utilize online resources like NCERT history textbooks, Project Gutenberg for primary sources, and open-access academic journals to build a strong foundational understanding of historical inquiry and India''''s past. Form study groups to discuss complex theories and historical debates.
Tools & Resources
NCERT History Textbooks, Project Gutenberg, JSTOR (accessible through university library), Study Groups
Career Connection
A solid grasp of historical methodology and ancient Indian history is crucial for success in civil services exams, historical research, and any role requiring analytical thinking about societal evolution.
Enhance Academic English and Critical Reading- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on ''''Academic Writing'''' and ''''Literary Studies'''' to develop robust essay writing, critical reading, and communication skills. Practice summarizing complex historical texts, constructing arguments, and improving grammar. Participate in debates and presentations to refine oral communication, essential for academic and professional success.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL, University Writing Centers (if available), Debate Clubs
Career Connection
Strong academic writing and critical reading are indispensable for research, journalism, policy analysis, and effectively communicating historical insights in any professional setting.
Explore Local History and Heritage- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond classroom learning, visit local historical sites, museums, and archives in Malappuram and Kerala. Document observations, interact with local historians or guides, and attempt short research papers on local historical figures or events. This grounds theoretical knowledge in practical, tangible contexts.
Tools & Resources
Local Museums, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) websites, Kerala State Archives, Field Journals
Career Connection
Developing a connection with local history and heritage can open doors to careers in tourism, heritage conservation, archival management, and contribute to local community engagement.
Intermediate Stage
Deep Dive into Indian and World History- (Semester 3-4)
As you study ''''Medieval Indian History'''' and ''''History of the World'''', broaden your reading beyond textbooks. Engage with different historical interpretations and debates using scholarly articles and books. Participate in history quizzes and essay competitions to test and expand your knowledge base.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, EPW (Economic and Political Weekly), History journals, History Quiz Competitions
Career Connection
A nuanced understanding of diverse historical narratives is key for competitive exams (UPSC/PSC), academic pursuits, and becoming a well-rounded public intellectual or policy advisor.
Develop Specialized Research Skills- (Semester 3-4)
For courses like ''''Modern Indian History'''', focus on identifying primary and secondary sources. Learn basic archival research techniques and how to critically evaluate historical evidence. Consider starting small research projects, even if informal, to build a portfolio of your research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, Digital Library of India, University Library databases, Zotero/Mendeley for referencing
Career Connection
Proficiency in historical research is vital for roles in academia, think tanks, documentary filmmaking, and any field requiring meticulous data analysis and evidence-based reporting.
Engage with Interdisciplinary Perspectives- (Semester 3-4)
While studying history, critically analyze complementary subjects like Political Science or Economics from a historical lens. Actively seek connections between historical events and current social, economic, and political issues in India. Attend workshops or seminars on interdisciplinary topics.
Tools & Resources
TED Talks on history and social sciences, Documentaries, Public Lectures and Seminars
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary understanding is highly valued in civil services, journalism, policy making, and non-governmental organizations, enabling a holistic approach to complex challenges.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project- (Semester 5-6)
Utilize the ''''Project'''' course in Semester 6 to conduct an in-depth historical research. Choose a topic that aligns with your career interests (e.g., local history, gender history, constitutional history). Work closely with faculty, learn advanced research methods, and aim for publishable quality work or presentation at student conferences.
Tools & Resources
University Faculty Mentors, Statistical Software (for quantitative history, if applicable), Academic Style Guides (Chicago, MLA), Conference Calls for Papers
Career Connection
A strong final project is a cornerstone for postgraduate admissions, research positions, and demonstrates independent critical thinking and scholarly contribution to potential employers.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations and Higher Studies- (Semester 5-6)
Begin focused preparation for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, UGC NET, or state PSCs, which extensively test historical knowledge. Simultaneously, research and apply for Master''''s programs in History or related fields. Join relevant coaching centers or online platforms for guidance and mock tests.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/UGC NET study materials, Online test series, Coaching Institutes, University Career Counseling
Career Connection
Early and strategic preparation for competitive exams or postgraduate studies significantly boosts career prospects in government, academia, and specialized research roles.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 5-6)
Attend history conferences, seminars, and workshops in India. Connect with professors, senior researchers, and alumni working in fields like archives, museums, or policy. Seek mentorship to understand career trajectories and gain insights into the professional world of history.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional History Associations (e.g., Indian History Congress), University Alumni Network, Departmental Events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, job opportunities, and invaluable career guidance, helping you transition smoothly from academia to the professional sphere.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 120 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Semester 4
Semester 5
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HY6B09 | HISTORIOGRAPHY: THEORY AND PRACTICE | Core | 4 | What is History, What is Historiography, Major Schools of Historiography, Objectivity and Bias in History, Oral History and Local History, Historical Debates and Interpretations, Methods of Historical Research |
| HY6B10 | SOCIAL AND CULTURAL HISTORY OF INDIA | Core | 4 | Caste System and Social Stratification, Family, Marriage and Kinship, Education, Art, Architecture and Science, Religious Traditions and Movements, Popular Culture and Leisure, Social Reforms and Resistance |
| HY6B11 | INDIAN CONSTITUTIONAL HISTORY | Core | 4 | Constitutional Developments under British Rule, Government of India Acts (1909, 1919, 1935), The Constituent Assembly and its Debates, Framing of the Indian Constitution, Salient Features of the Constitution, Evolution of Indian Federalism |
| HY6B12.1 | ELECTIVE: HISTORY OF HUMAN RIGHTS | Elective | 3 | Philosophical Foundations of Rights, Historical Evolution of Human Rights, International Instruments and Declarations, Human Rights Movements in India, Challenges to Human Rights, Role of UN and NGOs |
| HY6B13 | PROJECT | Project | 4 | Topic Selection and Research Design, Literature Review and Data Collection, Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Documentation, Presentation and Viva Voce |
