

M-A in Urdu at University of Delhi


Delhi, Delhi
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Urdu at University of Delhi Delhi?
This M.A. Urdu program at the University of Delhi focuses on a comprehensive study of Urdu language and literature, encompassing its historical evolution, diverse literary forms, and critical theories. It delves into classical and modern Urdu poetry, prose, and critical thought, with a strong emphasis on foundational linguistic principles and literary research. The program prepares students for advanced academic pursuits and culturally sensitive roles, addressing the significant demand for Urdu scholars and professionals in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in Urdu who seek to deepen their understanding of the language and literature. It also caters to individuals passionate about pursuing research, teaching, or careers in cultural preservation and media. Professionals in education, journalism, or publishing looking to specialize in Urdu literature will find this program beneficial, enhancing their linguistic and critical analysis skills for higher career trajectories.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including teaching at universities and colleges, journalism, content creation, translation, and cultural heritage management. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience to INR 8-15 LPA in academic or media roles. The program fosters critical thinking, research acumen, and a deep appreciation for Urdu''''s rich cultural tapestry, aligning with roles in government cultural bodies and educational institutions.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Classical Texts and Grammar- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate ample time to understanding foundational classical Urdu texts, poetry, and prose, alongside rigorous grammar exercises. Utilize online resources like Rekhta.org for classical works and practice translations to solidify comprehension.
Tools & Resources
Rekhta.org, Urdu Dictionary apps, Grammar textbooks
Career Connection
A strong foundation in classical literature and grammar is essential for academic research, teaching, and advanced translation roles, which are prevalent in the Indian job market.
Engage in Literary Discussions and Seminars- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental seminars, literary society meetings, and discussions. Present your perspectives on literary works and critical theories to enhance analytical and communication skills. Seek feedback from professors and peers.
Tools & Resources
Departmental workshops, Literary club meetings, Peer study groups
Career Connection
These activities build confidence for academic presentations, teaching roles, and critical commentary often required in journalism or media.
Cultivate Regular Reading Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond prescribed texts, make it a habit to read a wide range of Urdu literature including contemporary works, literary journals, and critical essays. This expands your vocabulary, understanding of diverse styles, and keeps you updated with current trends.
Tools & Resources
Urdu literary journals, Online libraries, Book reviews
Career Connection
Extensive reading is crucial for developing a holistic understanding of literature, vital for becoming a well-rounded scholar, writer, or critic.
Intermediate Stage
Develop Research and Critical Analysis Skills- (Semester 3)
Focus on developing strong research methodologies and critical analysis techniques. Practice writing research papers and critical essays, paying close attention to citation styles and academic integrity. Utilize university library resources for in-depth studies.
Tools & Resources
Jstor, Research methodology guides, University library database
Career Connection
Proficiency in research and critical writing is indispensable for pursuing M.Phil/Ph.D., becoming an academician, or working as a content specialist in research-oriented organizations.
Explore Interdisciplinary Connections- (Semester 3)
Look for connections between Urdu literature and other fields like history, sociology, philosophy, or cultural studies. This broadens your perspective and allows for unique research topics. Attend guest lectures from other departments.
Tools & Resources
Interdepartmental seminars, Online courses on related subjects
Career Connection
An interdisciplinary approach enhances analytical depth, making graduates suitable for diverse roles in cultural studies, policy research, and media analysis.
Participate in National Level Competitions- (Semester 3)
Engage in national-level essay writing competitions, poetry recitations, or literary quiz contests in Urdu. These platforms offer exposure, networking opportunities, and a chance to test your knowledge against peers from other institutions.
Tools & Resources
University notice boards for competition announcements, Literary associations
Career Connection
Such participations build a strong CV, enhance public speaking and competitive skills, and create networking opportunities with prominent figures in the Urdu literary circle.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation- (Semester 4)
Choose a research topic early, conduct exhaustive literature review, and dedicate significant time to your dissertation. Seek regular guidance from your supervisor, ensuring original thought and rigorous academic standards.
Tools & Resources
Research labs, Specialized software for bibliography, Supervisor meetings
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is the cornerstone for a successful academic career, paving the way for further research, fellowships, and faculty positions in Indian universities.
Prepare for NET/JRF Examination- (Semester 4)
Alongside your final semester studies, start preparing for the UGC NET/JRF examination, which is mandatory for lectureship and provides fellowship for Ph.D. in India. Focus on syllabus revision and mock tests.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Online coaching platforms, Study guides
Career Connection
Cracking NET/JRF is a critical step for securing teaching positions in colleges and universities and funding for advanced research in India.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Network- (Semester 4)
Compile your best research papers, essays, and creative writing pieces into a portfolio. Actively network with professors, alumni, and industry professionals. Attend job fairs and placement workshops organized by the university.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn profiles, Professional networking events, University career cells
Career Connection
A well-curated portfolio and strong professional network are vital for showcasing your abilities and securing desirable roles in academia, media, or cultural organizations in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. with Urdu as a subject (Elective/Main) or B.A. (Hons.) Urdu (10+2+3 scheme). OR B.A. (Hons.)/B.Com (Hons.)/B.Sc. (Hons.) or any other Hons. degree from University of Delhi or any other recognized Indian University with at least 50% marks in aggregate and 3/4 papers of Urdu or equivalent thereof.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 101 | Qadeem aur Jadeed Urdu Marsia (قدیم اور جدید اردو مرثیہ) | Core | 4 | Marsia ki Tareef, Marsia ke Ibtida-o-Irteqa, Qadeem Marsia Nigari, Jadeed Marsia Nigari, Marsia ka Fun aur Ahmiyat |
| 102 | Urdu Novel (اردو ناول) | Core | 4 | Novel ki Tareef, Urdu Novel ka Aghaz, Azeem Novel Nigar, Jadeed Urdu Novel, Novel ke Funni Taqazay |
| 103 | Lisaniyat aur Urdu Zuban (لسانیات اور اردو زبان) | Core | 4 | Lisaniyat ki Tareef, Urdu Zuban ka Aghaz, Urdu ki Mukhtalif Shaklein, Hindustan ki Lisani Surat-e-Haal, Urdu ke Boliyan |
| 104 | Urdu Tanqeed (اردو تنقید) | Core | 4 | Tanqeed ki Tareef, Urdu Tanqeed ka Aghaz, Tanqeed ke Mukhtalif Dabistan, Jadeed Tanqeed, Tanqeed aur Tahqeeq |
| 105 | Nazm-o-Ghazal ki Tanqeed (نظم و غزل کی تنقید) | Elective (Choice 1 of 2) | 4 | Ghazal ki Tareef, Ghazal ka Fun, Nazm ki Tareef, Nazm ke Anwaa, Ghazal aur Nazm ki Tanqeed |
| 106 | Urdu ki Mukhtalif Asnaaf (اردو کی مختلف اصناف) | Elective (Choice 2 of 2) | 4 | Afsana Nigari, Drama Nigari, Inshaiya Nigari, Safar Nama Nigari, Khud Nawisht Nigari |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 201 | Urdu Qasida aur Masnavi (اردو قصیدہ اور مثنوی) | Core | 4 | Qasida ki Tareef, Urdu Qasida ka Aghaz, Saudah aur Zauq, Masnavi ki Tareef, Mir Hasan aur Naseem |
| 202 | Urdu Drama aur Afsana (اردو ڈراما اور افسانہ) | Core | 4 | Drama ki Tareef, Urdu Drama ka Aghaz, Imtiaz Ali Taj, Afsana ki Tareef, Premchand aur Manto |
| 203 | Tareekh-e-Adab-e-Urdu (تاریخ ادب اردو) | Core | 4 | Urdu Adab ke Mukhtalif Ahd, Dakan mein Urdu Adab, Delhi aur Lucknow ke Dabistan, Fort William College, Sir Syed Tehreek |
| 204 | Tahqeeq aur Tadween (تحقیق اور تدوین) | Core | 4 | Tahqeeq ka Mafhoom, Tahqeeq ke Usool, Maakhiz ki Talash, Tadween ka Fun, Tehqeeqi Maqala Nigari |
| 205 | Jadeed Urdu Nazm (جدید اردو نظم) | Elective (Choice 1 of 2) | 4 | Jadeed Nazm ka Aghaz, Hali aur Iqbal, Faiz aur Meeraji, N.M. Rashid, Urdu Nazm mein Jadeed Rujhanat |
| 206 | Urdu mein Ghair Afsanvi Adab (اردو میں غیر افسانوی ادب) | Elective (Choice 2 of 2) | 4 | Inshaiya, Safar Nama, Khud Nawisht, Khaka, Maktoobat |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 301 | Urdu Ghazal (اردو غزل) | Core | 4 | Ghazal ki Tareef, Ghazal ka Irtiqa, Meer Taqi Meer, Ghalib, Faiz Ahmad Faiz |
| 302 | Dastanen aur Dabistan (داستانیں اور دبستان) | Core | 4 | Dastan ki Tareef, Urdu Dastan ka Aghaz, Sab Ras aur Fasana-e-Ajaib, Dabistan-e-Delhi, Dabistan-e-Lucknow |
| 303 | Taraqqi Pasand Tehreek aur Jadeediyat (ترقی پسند تحریک اور جدیدیت) | Core | 4 | Taraqqi Pasand Tehreek ka Pas Manzar, Ahdaaf aur Numainda Shu''''ara, Jadeediyat ka Tasawwur, Jadeediyat aur Urdu Adab, Tehreekon ka Asar |
| 304 | Ilm-e-Urooz aur Balaghat (علم عروض اور بلاغت) | Core | 4 | Ilm-e-Urooz ki Tareef, Bahr aur Uske Anwaa, Qafiya aur Radif, Ilm-e-Balaghat, Mukhtalif Sana''''i Bada''''i |
| 305 | Urdu Shairi mein Tanz-o-Mizah (اردو شاعری میں طنز و مزاح) | Elective (Choice 1 of 2) | 4 | Tanz-o-Mizah ki Tareef, Urdu Shairi mein Tanz-o-Mizah, Akbar Allahabadi, Rasa Chughtai, Patras Bukhari |
| 306 | Urdu ki Clasiki Nasr (اردو کی کلاسیکی نثر) | Elective (Choice 2 of 2) | 4 | Clasiki Nasr ka Aghaz, Fort William College ki Nasr, Ghalib ke Khutoot, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan, Azad aur Hali |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 401 | Urdu Adab mein Sufiyana Rujhanat (اردو ادب میں صوفیانہ رجحانات) | Core | 4 | Tasawwuf ka Mafhoom, Sufiyana Shairi ka Aghaz, Sufi Shu''''ara, Meer Dard, Khwaja Mir Dard |
| 402 | Mir Anis aur Mirza Dabeer (میر انیس اور مرزا دبیر) | Core | 4 | Marsia Navesi ka Fun, Anis ki Marsia Nigari, Dabeer ki Marsia Nigari, Dono ka Taqabuli Mutala, Urdu Marsia mein Maqam |
| 403 | Iqbal aur Unki Fikr (اقبال اور ان کی فکر) | Core | 4 | Iqbal ki Shairi, Fikr-e-Iqbal, Khudi ka Tasawwur, Millat ka Tasawwur, Iqbal ka Falsafa |
| D/P | Dissertation/Project (ڈیزرٹیشن/پروجیکٹ) | Project (Primary Option) | 20 | Research Methodology, Topic Selection, Literature Review, Data Collection, Thesis Writing, Presentation |
| 405 | Urdu mein Ilmi wa Tahqeeqi Idaray (اردو میں علمی و تحقیقی ادارے) | Elective (Alternative to Dissertation - Choice 1 of 2) | 4 | Ilmi Idaron ki Ahmiyat, Delhi University Department of Urdu, Anjuman Taraqqi-e-Urdu, Ghalib Institute, Maujooda Urdu Ilmi Idaray |
| 406 | Urdu Sahafat aur Iblagh (اردو صحافت اور ابلاغ) | Elective (Alternative to Dissertation - Choice 2 of 2) | 4 | Sahafat ki Tareef, Urdu Sahafat ka Aghaz, Jadeed Sahafat, Iblaghi Media, Radio, TV, Social Media |




