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B-A-HONS in History at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is History at University of Delhi Delhi?
This History (Honours) program at the University of Delhi focuses on a comprehensive and critical understanding of Indian, European, and World History. It delves into socio-economic structures, political formations, and cultural evolutions across diverse periods. The curriculum emphasizes analytical thinking, research skills, and a nuanced perspective on historical events, aligning with the growing demand in India for expertise in public policy, heritage management, and journalism.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates passionate about historical inquiry and critical analysis. It caters to individuals aspiring to careers in academia, civil services, archival research, museum curation, and cultural heritage preservation. Students with a strong aptitude for reading, writing, and interpreting complex narratives will find this specialization particularly rewarding, preparing them for intellectually stimulating roles in India''''s dynamic cultural and public sectors.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum professionals, educators, journalists, and civil servants. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals. The analytical and research skills developed are highly valued, opening doors to advanced studies, policy analysis, and roles requiring strong critical thinking across various Indian industries.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Historical Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in ancient Indian and world history by thoroughly reading prescribed texts and primary sources. Actively participate in tutorials and discussion groups to clarify concepts and develop argumentative skills.
Tools & Resources
DU library resources, NCERT History textbooks (for foundational clarity), Reliable online academic journals (e.g., JSTOR via DU network), Peer study groups
Career Connection
Strong foundational knowledge is crucial for civil services exams, academic research, and effective historical communication, providing a robust base for future careers.
Develop Critical Reading and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice analyzing historical texts, identifying biases, and constructing coherent arguments through essays and assignments. Seek feedback from professors and peers to refine academic writing style and citation methods.
Tools & Resources
DU Writing Centre, Academic style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), Online platforms for essay feedback, Historical essay exemplars
Career Connection
Essential for any research-oriented career, journalism, policy analysis, and advanced academic pursuits requiring clear and persuasive communication.
Engage with Delhi''''s Historical Landscape- (Semester 1-2)
Actively visit historical sites, museums, and archives in and around Delhi. Participate in history walks, seminars, and lectures organized by the university or external cultural bodies to bring classroom learning to life.
Tools & Resources
National Museum, National Archives of India, Red Fort, Humayun''''s Tomb, DU History Department events, Local heritage groups
Career Connection
Direct exposure to primary sources and heritage sites enhances practical understanding for roles in museum studies, archaeology, and heritage management in India.
Intermediate Stage
Cultivate Research and Archival Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Begin exploring specific research interests by identifying potential topics and consulting primary source materials in libraries and archives. Learn to navigate archival collections, document research, and formulate research questions effectively.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, Nehru Memorial Museum & Library, Delhi University Library System, Specialized historical databases
Career Connection
Indispensable for postgraduate studies, academic research, and positions requiring in-depth investigative work in think tanks or policy analysis.
Participate in Academic Debates and Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Actively contribute to classroom discussions, present research findings, and attend departmental seminars. This builds confidence in articulating historical arguments and engaging with diverse perspectives within the academic community.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, Inter-college history fests, National/international history conferences (as attendees or student presenters), Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, critical thinking, and networking abilities, which are highly valuable for careers in academia, media, and diplomatic services.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3-5)
Leverage Generic Elective courses and interdisciplinary projects to understand history''''s intersections with other fields like political science, sociology, economics, and environmental studies. This broadens analytical frameworks and perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Elective course offerings, Inter-departmental research collaborations, Workshops on interdisciplinary research methods, Guest lectures from other fields
Career Connection
Prepares for roles requiring a holistic understanding, such as policy formulation, development sector work, and international relations, by connecting diverse knowledge domains.
Advanced Stage
Undertake an Independent Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Apply accumulated knowledge and research skills to complete a substantial research paper or dissertation under faculty guidance. This showcases specialized expertise and contributes to scholarly discourse, refining analytical capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Faculty supervisors, Advanced research methodologies workshops, Thesis writing guides, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is a key credential for academic positions, fellowships, and competitive postgraduate programs, demonstrating superior research and analytical capability.
Prepare for Higher Education and Civil Services- (Semester 6)
Actively research postgraduate programs (MA, PhD) in History or related fields, both in India and abroad. For civil services aspirants, dedicate time to understanding the syllabus and practicing answer writing, leveraging historical knowledge.
Tools & Resources
University career counseling, Alumni network, UPSC/other competitive exam preparation materials, Mock interviews, Faculty guidance on personal statements
Career Connection
Directly targets career goals in academia, research, or highly coveted government positions in India, providing a structured approach to competitive examinations.
Network with Professionals and Seek Internships- (Semester 6)
Attend history conclaves, professional society meetings, and alumni events. Seek internships at museums, archives, media houses, think tanks, or NGOs working in cultural heritage to gain practical experience and professional contacts.
Tools & Resources
DU Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Indian History Congress), Departmental alumni interactions, Career fairs
Career Connection
Crucial for gaining real-world experience, building a professional network, and securing entry-level positions post-graduation in India''''s competitive job market, bridging academic and professional worlds.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 examination from a recognized board with the minimum aggregate percentage as per the University Admission Bulletin for the academic year 2024-25.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 112 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 1 | History of India – I (From earliest times up to C. 300 BCE) | Core | 4 | Reconstructing Ancient Indian History, Pre-Harappan and Harappan Civilizations, Vedic Age, Janapadas and Mahajanapadas, Rise of Magadha, Emergence of Jainism and Buddhism |
| DSC 2 | Social Formations and Cultural Patterns of the Ancient World | Core | 4 | Bronze Age Civilizations (Mesopotamia, Egypt, China), Nomadic Pastoralists and their Role, Greek Polis: City-States and Empire, Roman Republic and Empire, Early Empires in China: Qin and Han Dynasties, Slave Societies and Gender |
| GE 1 | An Introduction to Archaeology | Generic Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Archaeology, Methods of Archaeological Exploration and Excavation, Dating Methods in Archaeology, Major Archaeological Sites in India, Interpreting Archaeological Data, Heritage Management and Conservation |
| AEC 1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Course | 4 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Natural Resources and their Management, Environmental Pollution and Control, Climate Change and Global Environmental Issues, Environmental Ethics and Legislation, Sustainable Development |
| VAC 1 | Constitutional Values and Fundamental Duties | Value Addition Course | 2 | Philosophy of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles of State Policy, Fundamental Duties of Citizens, Institutions of Democracy, Constitutionalism and Rule of Law |
| SEC 1 | Digital Fluency | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Basics of Digital Literacy, Internet Ethics and Safety, Cybersecurity Fundamentals, Digital Tools for Communication and Collaboration, Data Management and Privacy, Introduction to Cloud Computing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 3 | History of India – II (c. 300 BCE to 600 CE) | Core | 4 | Mauryan Empire: Administration, Economy, Society, Post-Mauryan Developments: Indo-Greeks, Kushanas, Satavahanas, Guptas and their Successors: State and Culture, Economy and Society in Early Historic India, Religion and Philosophy: Buddhism, Jainism, Vaishnavism, Shaivism, Art and Architecture of the Period |
| DSC 4 | Rise of Modern West – I (c. 15th to 17th Centuries) | Core | 4 | Renaissance and Humanism, Reformation and Counter-Reformation, Consolidation of Monarchy and Nation-States, European Expansion and Colonialism, Commercial Revolution and Early Capitalism, Emergence of Modern Science |
| GE 2 | Public Administration | Generic Elective | 4 | Introduction to Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Public Policy Formulation and Implementation, Bureaucracy and its Role, Accountability and Control in Administration, E-Governance |
| AEC 2 | English Language Communication | Ability Enhancement Course | 4 | Grammar and Vocabulary Building, Reading Comprehension Strategies, Effective Writing: Paragraphs, Essays, Reports, Oral Communication Skills: Presentations, Discussions, Listening Skills, Non-Verbal Communication |
| VAC 2 | Ethics and Values in Ancient Indian Traditions | Value Addition Course | 2 | Ethical Concepts in Vedas and Upanishads, Buddhist Ethics: Eightfold Path, Middle Way, Jain Ethics: Ahimsa, Anekantavada, Dharma, Karma, Moksha, Nyaya-Vaisheshika School of Thought, Yoga and Samkhya Philosophy |
| SEC 2 | Understanding India | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Unity in Diversity: Languages, Religions, Cultures, Indian Society: Caste, Class, Gender, Cultural Heritage: Art, Architecture, Music, Dance, Indian Constitution: Values and Principles, Contemporary Challenges in India, India''''s Role in the World |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 5 | History of India – III (c. 600 CE to 1200 CE) | Core | 4 | Major Dynasties: Palas, Rashtrakutas, Gurjara-Pratiharas, Regional Kingdoms and Political Fragmentation, Debate on Indian Feudalism, Agrarian Structure and Trade Networks, Religious and Cultural Developments: Bhakti Movement, Temples and Temple Economy |
| DSC 6 | History of India – IV (c. 1200-1550) | Core | 4 | Establishment and Consolidation of Delhi Sultanate, Khaljis and Tughlaqs: Expansion and Administration, Sayyids and Lodis: Decline of the Sultanate, Emergence of Regional Kingdoms: Vijayanagar and Bahmani, Economy, Society, and Culture under the Sultanate, Sufi and Bhakti Movements |
| DSC 7 | Rise of Modern West – II (c. 17th to 18th Centuries) | Core | 4 | Scientific Revolution and its Impact, The Enlightenment: Ideas and Thinkers, English Revolution and Glorious Revolution, Rise of Absolutist States (e.g., France), Intellectual and Cultural Transformations, Seeds of Revolutions: American War of Independence |
| GE 3 | Indian Political Thought | Generic Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought: Kautilya, Arthashastra, Medieval Political Ideas: Barani, Abul Fazl, Modern Indian Political Thought: Rammohan Roy, Gandhi, Nationalism and Liberalism in India, Socialism and Marxism in Indian Context, Ambedkar and Dalit Politics |
| SEC 3 | Academic Writing and Composition | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Principles of Academic Writing, Structuring Essays and Research Papers, Referencing and Citation Styles (MLA/APA/Chicago), Developing Arguments and Evidence-based Reasoning, Avoiding Plagiarism, Critical Thinking in Writing |
| VAC 3 | Yoga and Meditation: Ancient Indian Practices | Value Addition Course | 2 | Introduction to Yoga Philosophy, Asanas: Postures and their Benefits, Pranayama: Breathing Techniques, Dhyana: Meditation Techniques, Yoga for Stress Management, Holistic Health and Well-being |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 8 | History of India – V (c. 1550-1750) | Core | 4 | Consolidation of Mughal Rule: Akbar''''s Policies, Mughal Administration and Land Revenue System, Society, Economy, and Culture under the Mughals, Aurangzeb and His Policies, Emergence of Regional Powers: Marathas, Rajputs, Decline of the Mughal Empire |
| DSC 9 | History of India – VI (c. 1750-1857) | Core | 4 | British Expansion and Consolidation, Colonial Administration and Policies, Economic Impact of Colonialism, Social and Cultural Impact: Reforms and Reactions, Resistance Movements before 1857, The Revolt of 1857: Causes and Consequences |
| DSC 10 | History of Modern Europe – I (c. 1780s-1939) | Core | 4 | French Revolution and Napoleonic Era, Industrial Revolution and its Social Impact, Rise of Nationalism in Europe, Unification of Germany and Italy, World War I: Causes, Course, and Consequences, Russian Revolution and its Aftermath |
| GE 4 | Introduction to Psychology | Generic Elective | 4 | Nature and Scope of Psychology, Research Methods in Psychology, Biological Basis of Behavior, Sensation and Perception, Learning and Memory, Personality and Intelligence |
| SEC 4 | Art and Culture in India | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Ancient Indian Art and Architecture (Harappan, Mauryan, Gupta), Medieval Architecture (Temple, Indo-Islamic), Classical Dance Forms of India, Traditional Music: Hindustani and Carnatic, Folk Arts and Crafts, Performing Arts and Theatre |
| VAC 4 | Financial Literacy | Value Addition Course | 2 | Basics of Personal Finance, Budgeting and Saving, Investment Fundamentals: Stocks, Bonds, Mutual Funds, Banking and Digital Payments, Insurance and Risk Management, Understanding Credit and Debt |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 11 | History of India – VII (c. 1857-1950) | Core | 4 | Rise of Indian Nationalism, Early Nationalists and Moderates, Extremist Phase and Revolutionary Nationalism, Gandhian Movements and Mass Mobilization, Constitutional Developments (1909-1947), Partition of India and its Aftermath |
| DSC 12 | History of the World – I (20th Century) | Core | 4 | Inter-War Period and the Great Depression, Rise of Fascism and Nazism, World War II: Causes, Course, and Consequences, The Cold War: Origins, Phases, and Impact, Decolonization in Asia and Africa, Formation of the United Nations |
| DSE 1 | History of the United States of America | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Colonial America and American Revolution, Formation of the United States: Constitution and Early Republic, Slavery and the American Civil War, Industrialization and Urbanization, The Roaring Twenties and the Great Depression, Civil Rights Movement and Modern America |
| DSE 2 | Environmental History of India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Environment in Ancient and Medieval India, Colonial Environmental Policies and Forest Management, Impact of Industrialization on Environment, Water Scarcity and River Management, Environmental Movements in Post-Independence India, Sustainable Development Debates |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 13 | History of India – VIII (1950s onwards) | Core | 4 | Nation Building and Nehruvian Era, Economic Development: Planning and Reforms, Social Changes and Movements, India''''s Foreign Policy and Non-Alignment, Emergency and Coalition Politics, Contemporary Challenges and Developments |
| DSC 14 | History of the World – II (20th-21st Century) | Core | 4 | End of the Cold War and New World Order, Regional Conflicts and Peace Efforts, Rise of Economic Blocs and Globalization, Emergence of China and India as Global Powers, Digital Revolution and its Impact, Global Challenges: Terrorism, Climate Change, Migration |
| DSE 3 | Cultural History of India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Ancient Indian Art, Architecture, and Literature, Medieval Bhakti-Sufi Traditions and Syncretic Culture, Colonial Influence on Indian Culture and Education, Modern Indian Art, Cinema, and Performing Arts, Food Culture and Fashion History in India, Heritage Conservation and Cultural Policy |
| DSE 4 | History of Historiography | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Greek and Roman History Writing, Medieval Chronicles and Religious Histories, Enlightenment Historians and Rationalism, Nationalist and Imperialist Historiography in India, Marxist and Subaltern Studies Approaches, Postmodernism and New Trends in History |
