.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-A in Persian at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Persian at University of Delhi Delhi?
This M.A. Persian program at the University of Delhi offers a rigorous and comprehensive study of Persian language, literature, culture, and civilization. It systematically covers historical literary periods, modern prose and poetry, and emphasizes the rich Indo-Persian literary tradition, acknowledging its deep roots and influence within the Indian subcontinent. The program is meticulously designed to cultivate advanced linguistic proficiency and a critical, nuanced understanding of Persianate cultural heritage, preparing specialized individuals for diverse sectors both within India and on the global stage.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideally suited for fresh graduates holding a B.A. with Persian as a subject or those with a B.A. (Hons.) in Persian, as well as individuals who have acquired proficiency through advanced diplomas. It caters to those seeking entry into academia, cultural diplomacy, translation, and interpretation roles. Additionally, it appeals to passionate learners of historical languages and cultures, aiming to contribute significantly to India''''s cultural and historical research landscape, or pursuing careers in foreign language education and international relations, leveraging their linguistic expertise.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can anticipate a variety of impactful career paths within India, including roles as Persian language lecturers in universities, professional translators and interpreters for government bodies (e.g., Ministry of External Affairs), cultural attachés, and specialized researchers in historical and literary fields. Opportunities also exist in media houses and cultural institutions involved in international relations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, with substantial growth potential with experience, particularly in highly specialized translation, diplomatic services, or academic research, contributing significantly to India''''s burgeoning global engagements.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Intensive Language Immersion for Core Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant daily effort to mastering classical and modern Persian grammar, expanding vocabulary, and practicing script. Utilize online language learning platforms like FarsiLand or Memrise for structured vocabulary building, and regularly read simplified Persian short stories or news articles to build foundational fluency and comprehension. Actively participate in peer conversation groups to enhance practical speaking and listening skills.
Tools & Resources
FarsiLand, Memrise, Online Persian Dictionaries (e.g., Aryanpur), Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
Strong linguistic fundamentals are the bedrock for all advanced studies and professional roles such as translation, interpretation, teaching, and cultural diplomacy, ensuring effective communication and understanding.
Engage with Classical Persian Texts Critically- (Semester 1-2)
Move beyond superficial reading of foundational texts like Shahnameh, Gulistan, or Bostan. Actively participate in classroom discussions, seek regular guidance from professors on classical literary criticism, and delve into scholarly articles to understand the profound historical, cultural, and philosophical contexts. Begin building a personal lexicon of essential classical Persian terms and literary figures.
Tools & Resources
University Library Resources, JSTOR/Project MUSE (accessible via DU library subscription), Professor Office Hours and departmental seminars
Career Connection
Develops sophisticated analytical and critical thinking skills, which are indispensable for research, academic careers, and the nuanced understanding required for effective cultural interpretation and cross-cultural communication.
Explore India''''s Indo-Persian Heritage- (Semester 1-2)
Leverage Delhi University''''s unique location and focus on Indo-Persian studies by visiting local historical sites featuring Persian inscriptions (e.g., Red Fort, Humayun''''s Tomb, Qutub Minar), exploring rare manuscripts at institutions like the National Museum or Raza Library, and attending relevant cultural events or seminars. This hands-on engagement significantly enhances contextual understanding of Persian''''s deep impact on Indian culture and history.
Tools & Resources
Delhi''''s Historical Monuments (with guided tours), National Museum, Raza Library Rampur, IGNCA (Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts) cultural events
Career Connection
Provides a distinctive specialization for roles in cultural preservation, heritage management, historical research, and contributes to India-specific expertise in international relations and diplomacy.
Intermediate Stage
Specialized Translation and Interpretation Workshops- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in departmental translation workshops or seek external opportunities to translate and interpret various genres—literary, academic, journalistic, and technical—between Persian, English, and Hindi. Focus intensely on understanding cultural nuances, idiomatic expressions, and subject-specific terminology to develop high-quality, professional translation and interpretation skills.
Tools & Resources
Advanced Bilingual Dictionaries, Translation Memory software (e.g., MemoQ, Trados - learn basic concepts), Online translation communities (Proz.com, TranslatorsCafe.com for practice)
Career Connection
Directly prepares for highly sought-after roles as professional translators or interpreters in government agencies, media organizations, international bodies, and private companies, which are crucial for India''''s global outreach.
Engage Proactively with Persian Media and Contemporary Culture- (Semester 3-4)
Regularly follow Persian news channels (e.g., BBC Persian, Iran International), listen to diverse Persian podcasts, and watch contemporary Iranian/Tajik films and documentaries. This practice not only significantly improves listening comprehension and modern vocabulary but also provides invaluable insights into contemporary Persian-speaking societies, politics, and culture, which is crucial for communication and media-related roles.
Tools & Resources
BBC Persian, Iran International, YouTube channels for Persian films/documentaries, Persian news apps and online journals
Career Connection
Essential for successful careers in international journalism, foreign service, cultural diplomacy, and media analysis, bridging strong language skills with real-world geopolitical and socio-cultural understanding.
Network Extensively with Scholars and Practitioners- (Semester 3-4)
Actively attend seminars, conferences, and guest lectures organized by the Department of Persian, other universities, and cultural centers across Delhi. Proactively connect with professors, senior researchers, and established professionals in fields related to Persian studies. This strategic networking builds a robust professional circle and opens up vital avenues for future collaboration, mentorship, and career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Departmental Notice Boards and email lists, University Event Calendars, LinkedIn professional networking platform
Career Connection
Crucial for academic career advancement, securing research grants and positions, and gaining insider insights into diverse career paths and evolving industry demands within Persian studies and related fields.
Advanced Stage
Refine Research and Dissertation Writing Skills- (Semester 3-4 (ongoing from intermediate, intensifying in advanced))
Collaborate closely with your dissertation supervisor from the project''''s inception. Focus intently on developing a robust research question, employing meticulous data collection methodologies (e.g., comparative textual analysis, manuscript study, ethnographic research), and demonstrating rigorous academic writing with scholarly contributions. Aim for originality and publication-quality work.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for efficient citation management, Access to DU Library''''s extensive databases, University-provided plagiarism check software (e.g., Turnitin)
Career Connection
Provides essential preparation for pursuing M.Phil./Ph.D. programs, academic publications, and advanced research positions in reputable think tanks, government bodies, or cultural institutions.
Explore Teaching Methodologies and ICT Integration- (Semester 4)
If teaching is a career interest, actively take elective courses or attend specialized workshops focusing on Teaching Persian as a Foreign Language (TPFL). Gain expertise in modern pedagogies, curriculum development, effective material design, and critically, how to integrate Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) seamlessly into language instruction. Seek out opportunities for teaching assistantships or peer tutoring.
Tools & Resources
Course materials for TPFL, Online teaching platforms (e.g., Google Classroom, Moodle, Zoom), Language learning applications for pedagogical insights
Career Connection
Directly qualifies graduates for rewarding teaching positions in schools, colleges, language institutes, and online platforms, both within India and internationally, addressing the growing demand for foreign language educators.
Strategic Professional Portfolio and Career Planning- (Semester 4)
Systematically compile a compelling professional portfolio showcasing your strongest academic papers, exemplary translation samples, and significant research work. Develop a clear and strategic career plan, whether it involves academia, foreign service, specialized translation, or cultural liaison. Actively attend career counseling sessions offered by the university and meticulously tailor your CV, cover letter, and interview skills to target specific roles and employers.
Tools & Resources
University Career Services and Placement Cells, Optimized LinkedIn Profile and professional networking tools, Industry-specific CV/Resume Templates and interview preparation guides
Career Connection
Ensures comprehensive readiness for the competitive job market, enabling you to effectively articulate and showcase your unique skills and experiences to prospective employers across diverse and demanding sectors.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. (Hons.) in Persian from a recognized university OR B.A. with Persian for at least 2 years/4 semesters from a recognized university OR M.A./B.A. in any other subject with an Advanced Diploma in Modern Persian/Diploma in Persian from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PERC-101 | History of Persian Language and Literature (From Ancient to Pre-Sufi Age) | Core | 4 | Origin and Development of Persian, Ancient Iranian Languages, Early Persian Prose (Samani, Ghaznavi, Saljuqi), Early Persian Poetry (Rudaki, Firdausi, Sanai), Pre-Sufi Literary Forms (Qasida, Ghazal) |
| PERC-102 | Classical Persian Prose | Core | 4 | Prose Texts Analysis (Qabus Nama, Siyasat Nama, Chahar Maqala), Stylistic Features of Classical Prose, Historical and Social Context, Narrative Techniques, Literary Significance |
| PERC-103 | Classical Persian Poetry (From Rudaki to Rumi) | Core | 4 | Major Poets (Rudaki, Firdausi, Sanai, Attar, Rumi), Epic Poetry (Shahnameh), Mystical Poetry (Mathnavi), Qasida and Ghazal Forms, Thematic Evolution in Classical Poetry |
| PERC-104 | Literary Criticism and Rhetoric (Classical and Modern) | Core | 4 | History of Literary Criticism (Arabic & Persian), Rhetorical Devices (Balaghat, Bayan, Badi''''), Prosody (Aruz), Modern Critical Theories, Poetic Forms and Structures |
| PERE-XXX/PERO-XXX | Generic Elective Course / Open Elective Course | Elective | 4 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PERC-201 | History of Persian Literature (Post-Sufi Age to Modern) | Core | 4 | Post-Sufi Period (Sa''''di, Hafez), Indian Style (Sabk-e Hindi), Safavid Period, Qajar Period, Constitutional Revolution Era, Modern Persian Literature |
| PERC-202 | Modern Persian Prose | Core | 4 | Short Story (Jamalzadeh, Hedayat), Novel (Chubak, Al-e Ahmad), Playwriting, Literary Journalism, Modern Prose Styles and Themes |
| PERC-203 | Modern Persian Poetry | Core | 4 | Nima Yoshij and Modernism, Contemporary Poets (Shamloo, Forough Farrokhzad), Free Verse, Political and Social Themes, Evolution of Poetic Forms |
| PERC-204 | Applied Persian Grammar and Composition | Core | 4 | Advanced Grammar Structures, Sentence Construction, Paragraph Writing, Essay Writing, Translation Techniques (Persian to English/Hindi), Practical Communication |
| PERE-XXX/PERO-XXX | Generic Elective Course / Open Elective Course | Elective | 4 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PERC-301 | Indo-Persian Literature | Core | 4 | Persian in Indian Subcontinent, Major Indo-Persian Poets (Amir Khusrau, Ghalib, Iqbal), Historical Context of Indo-Persian, Literary Contribution of India, Persian Influence on Indian Languages |
| PERC-302 | Iranian Culture and Civilization | Core | 4 | Ancient Iran, Islamic Iran, Arts & Architecture, Calligraphy, Music, Customs & Traditions, Socio-Cultural Aspects of Iran |
| PERC-303 | Translation Studies (Theory and Practice) | Core | 4 | Theories of Translation, Types of Translation (Literary, Technical), Translation Ethics, Cultural Nuances in Translation, Practical Translation Exercises (Persian to English/Hindi and vice-versa) |
| PERD-304 | Dissertation / Project | Project | 4 | Research Methodology, Topic Selection, Literature Review, Data Collection & Analysis, Academic Writing, Presentation Skills |
| PERD-XXX | Discipline Specific Elective Course | Elective | 4 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PERC-401 | Central Asian Persian Literature | Core | 4 | Persian in Central Asia, Bukharan and Samarkandian Literary Tradition, Major Poets & Writers, Influence of Turkic Languages, Cultural Exchange |
| PERC-402 | Persian Media and Communication | Core | 4 | Media Landscape in Persian-speaking countries, Journalism in Persian, Broadcast Media, Digital Media, Communication Strategies, Media Ethics |
| PERC-403 | Teaching of Persian as a Foreign Language (TPFL) | Core | 4 | Methodologies of Language Teaching, Curriculum Design, Material Development, Assessment Techniques, Classroom Management, ICT in Language Teaching |
| PERD-404 | Dissertation / Project (Continuation from Sem 3) | Project | 4 | Advanced Research, Data Refinement, Thesis Writing, Defense Preparation, Scholarly Communication, Independent Research |
| PERD-XXX | Discipline Specific Elective Course | Elective | 4 |
