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B-A-HONS in Tamil at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Tamil at University of Delhi Delhi?
This B.A. (Hons.) Tamil program at the University of Delhi focuses on a comprehensive study of Tamil language, literature, culture, and history. It delves into classical, medieval, and modern literary traditions, grammar, linguistics, and critical theories. The program prepares students for diverse roles in academia, media, cultural heritage, and administrative services, addressing a growing demand for linguistic and cultural experts in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a keen interest in Tamil language and literature, seeking a deep understanding of its rich heritage. It also caters to those aspiring to careers in teaching, research, journalism, translation, or cultural diplomacy. Students from a Humanities background, particularly those who have studied Tamil in school, will find this program a rewarding intellectual journey.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue career paths as Tamil language teachers, researchers, content writers, translators, journalists, or cultural officers. Entry-level salaries in these fields typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 8-15 LPA for experienced professionals. The program provides a strong foundation for higher studies, including M.A. and Ph.D. in Tamil.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Language Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate regular time to mastering Tamil grammar, vocabulary, and classical texts. Utilize online dictionaries, grammar guides, and read extensively from prescribed early texts. Form study groups with peers to discuss concepts and practice conversational Tamil.
Tools & Resources
Tamil lexicon online, grammar books, Sangam literature translations, DU library resources
Career Connection
A solid linguistic foundation is critical for all future literary analysis, research, and professional communication roles.
Engage with Interdisciplinary Electives- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in generic elective (GE) and value-added courses (VAC) from other disciplines (e.g., History, Psychology, Environmental Science). Understand how these subjects intersect with Tamil studies and broaden your perspective.
Tools & Resources
GE/VAC course materials, interdisciplinary seminars, general knowledge books
Career Connection
Develops a well-rounded academic profile, essential for competitive exams (UPSC, TNPSC) and roles requiring broader intellectual capabilities.
Initiate Cultural Immersion- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond academics, seek opportunities to engage with Tamil culture through films, music, classical dance forms, and community events in Delhi. This enriches understanding of the socio-cultural context of the literature.
Tools & Resources
Local Tamil associations, cultural festivals, Tamil cinema platforms, cultural events at DU
Career Connection
Enhances cultural literacy, vital for roles in cultural diplomacy, media, and heritage conservation.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Skill Enhancement- (Semester 3-5)
Actively choose Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) like Translation, Creative Writing, or Proofreading. Dedicate extra hours to practice these skills through workshops, online modules, or freelancing opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Online translation tools, creative writing platforms, specific software for editing, freelance platforms
Career Connection
Directly develops marketable skills for roles such as translator, content writer, editor, or media professional.
Explore Research and Critical Analysis- (Semester 3-5)
Begin exploring specific literary periods or authors for potential mini-research projects. Actively participate in departmental seminars, paper presentations, and debate sessions on critical theories. Consult with professors for guidance on research topics.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, JSTOR, research papers, academic journals, departmental research forums
Career Connection
Builds analytical and research skills crucial for academic careers, policy analysis, and advanced studies (M.A., Ph.D.).
Network with Tamil Scholars and Writers- (Semester 3-5)
Attend literary festivals, book launches, and guest lectures by prominent Tamil scholars, writers, and cultural figures. Engage in discussions and build professional contacts for future mentorship and career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Literary event announcements, professional associations, social media for academic networking
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internships, and potential job referrals within the Tamil literary and cultural ecosystem.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Major Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
For the final year, choose a significant research topic in Tamil studies, meticulously plan your methodology, conduct thorough research (fieldwork if applicable), and write a comprehensive dissertation under faculty supervision.
Tools & Resources
Research guides, academic writing software, statistical analysis tools, access to archives/field sites
Career Connection
Showcases in-depth expertise and independent research capabilities, highly valued for academic positions, policy research, and think tanks.
Prepare for Higher Education/Competitive Exams- (Semester 6)
Systematically prepare for entrance examinations for M.A. in Tamil, NET/JRF, or civil services exams (UPSC/TNPSC) which often have a strong humanities component. Focus on current affairs and general knowledge alongside subject-specific revision.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, coaching institutes (if opting), online test series, current affairs magazines
Career Connection
Directly facilitates entry into postgraduate studies or prestigious government administrative roles.
Build a Professional Portfolio- (Semester 6)
Compile a portfolio of your best academic papers, creative writing samples, translation works, or media content created during the program. Develop an online presence (e.g., LinkedIn, personal blog) to showcase your skills and achievements.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn profile, personal website/blog, online portfolio platforms
Career Connection
Essential for job applications, demonstrating practical skills and professional readiness to potential employers.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 or equivalent examination with a minimum aggregate of 45% marks. Admission typically through CUET, with preference for candidates having studied Tamil.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters), with optional 4th year for Research
Credits: 112 (for 6 semesters) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC1 | Contemporary Tamil Literature – Poetry and Prose | Core | 4 | Modern Tamil Poetry, Short Stories, Novels, Literary Movements, Social Themes, Critical Appreciation |
| DSC2 | History of Tamil Language and Literature - Early Period | Core | 4 | Origin of Tamil Language, Sangam Literature, Ethical Literature, Bhakti Literature, Historical Developments |
| AEC1 | Environmental Science | Ability Enhancement Course | 4 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues, Natural Resources Management, Sustainable Development |
| GE1 | Indian History: Delhi Through the Ages | Generic Elective | 4 | Ancient Delhi, Sultanate Period, Mughal Delhi, Colonial Delhi, Modern Urbanization |
| VAC1 | Constitutional Values & Fundamental Duties | Value Addition Course | 2 | Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Fundamental Duties, Preamble and Amendments |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC3 | Classical Tamil Literature – Sangam & Post-Sangam | Core | 4 | Akananuru and Purananuru, Tolkappiyam (Early Sections), Silappatikaram and Manimekalai, Classical Literary Forms, Themes and Poetics |
| DSC4 | Basics of Tamil Grammar | Core | 4 | Phonology (Ezhuthu), Morphology (Sol), Syntax (Thodar), Parts of Speech, Sentence Structure |
| AEC2 | English Language Communication | Ability Enhancement Course | 4 | Grammar and Vocabulary, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Oral Communication, Public Speaking |
| GE2 | Psychology: Introduction to Psychology | Generic Elective | 4 | History of Psychology, Research Methods, Sensation and Perception, Learning and Memory, Motivation and Emotion |
| VAC2 | Digital Empowerment | Value Addition Course | 2 | Digital Literacy, Online Tools and Applications, Cyber Security Basics, E-governance Services, Digital Payments and Ethics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC5 | Medieval Tamil Literature – Bhakti & Siddhar Poetry | Core | 4 | Alwars and Nayanmars, Periya Puranam, Tevaram and Tiruvachakam, Siddhar Philosophy, Mysticism and Devotional Literature |
| DSC6 | Folkloristics in Tamil | Core | 4 | Oral Traditions, Folk Narratives and Ballads, Riddles and Proverbs, Folk Arts and Performances, Cultural Significance of Folklore |
| DSC7 | Tamil Drama and Theatre | Core | 4 | Origin of Tamil Drama, Ancient and Modern Plays, Tamil Theatre Movements, Playwriting Techniques, Stagecraft and Performance |
| SEC1 | Translation and Interpreting | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | Principles of Translation, Types of Translation, Cultural Equivalence, Translation Tools and Technologies, Practical Translation Exercises |
| GE3 | Political Science: Indian Government and Politics | Generic Elective | 4 | Indian Constitution, Federalism and Union Government, State Government and Local Governance, Political Parties and Electoral System, Public Policy and Governance |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC8 | Literary Criticism and Theory (Tamil) | Core | 4 | Classical Tamil Literary Theories, Western Critical Approaches, Modern Critical Movements, Structuralism and Post-structuralism, Feminist and Dalit Criticism |
| DSC9 | Journalism and Mass Media in Tamil | Core | 4 | History of Tamil Journalism, Print and Broadcast Media, Digital Media Landscape, Reporting and Editing, Media Ethics and Regulations |
| DSC10 | Comparative Literature (Tamil & Other Languages) | Core | 4 | Theories of Comparative Literature, Influence and Reception Studies, Theme and Genre Analysis, Inter-Literary Connections, World Literature Perspectives |
| SEC2 | Creative Writing in Tamil | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | Short Story Writing, Poetry and Essay Writing, Screenplay Basics, Dialogue and Character Development, Editing and Style Techniques |
| GE4 | Economics: Principles of Microeconomics | Generic Elective | 4 | Demand and Supply, Consumer Behavior, Producer Behavior, Market Structures, Factor Markets and Welfare Economics |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC11 | Tamil Literary Movements and Ideologies | Core | 4 | Dravidian Movement, Self-Respect Movement, Progressive Writers, Dalit Literature, Women''''s Literature, Post-Modernism in Tamil |
| DSC12 | Introduction to Research Methodology in Tamil Studies | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Fieldwork and Archival Research, Data Analysis Techniques, Thesis Writing and Citation Styles |
| DSE1 | Epigraphy and Paleography | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Ancient Tamil Scripts, Inscriptions and Manuscripts, Dating Techniques, Historical Interpretation, Conservation and Documentation |
| DSE2 | Tamil Diaspora Literature | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Tamil Migration Patterns, Diaspora Writers and Themes, Identity and Nostalgia, Cultural Preservation, Global Tamil Literary Landscape |
| SEC3 | Proofreading and Editing in Tamil | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | Copyediting Principles, Grammar and Syntax Checks, Style Guides and Manuals, Publication Process, Digital Editing Tools |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC13 | Principles of Poetics and Aesthetics in Tamil | Core | 4 | Rasa and Dhvani Theory, Alankara and Rhetoric, Literary Beauty and Emotion, Philosophical Underpinnings, Aesthetics of Classical Texts |
| DSC14 | Modern Tamil Novel and Short Story | Core | 4 | Evolution of Genres, Major Novelists and Short Story Writers, Thematic Concerns and Trends, Narrative Techniques, Social Impact and Reception |
| DSE3 | Tamil Cinema and Culture | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | History of Tamil Cinema, Social Impact and Representation, Film Theory and Criticism, Scriptwriting Basics, Director Studies and Genres |
| DSE4 | Functional Tamil for Administration/Business | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Official Correspondence, Report Writing, Administrative Terminology, Business Communication Skills, Public Relations in Tamil |
| SEC4 | Digital Humanities for Tamil Studies | Skill Enhancement Course | 3 | Text Digitization and Archiving, Corpus Linguistics for Tamil, Digital Tools for Literary Analysis, Online Resources for Tamil Studies, Data Visualization and Presentation |
