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BA-HONS in Persian at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Persian at University of Delhi Delhi?
This BA (Hons) Persian program at the University of Delhi focuses on comprehensive language proficiency, classical and modern literature, grammar, and literary criticism of Persian. It offers a deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of Iran and the Indian subcontinent''''s historical ties with Persian. The program is designed to develop advanced linguistic skills and a nuanced understanding of Persian thought and society, making graduates valuable in India''''s growing diplomatic and cultural exchange sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for high school graduates with a keen interest in languages, history, and diverse cultures. It suits individuals aspiring to careers in translation, interpretation, academia, cultural diplomacy, or international relations. Students with a background in humanities or those seeking to expand their linguistic repertoire and cross-cultural understanding will find this specialization particularly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as Persian language experts, translators in government bodies (like the Ministry of External Affairs), interpreters, content writers, or researchers. They can pursue higher education in Persian Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, or become cultural attachés. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning INR 8-15 LPA in specialized roles within the cultural and diplomatic sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master the Fundamentals of Persian Language- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on acquiring a strong base in Persian script, basic grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. Regularly practice reading, writing, and speaking simple sentences. Engage with language learning apps and online resources beyond classroom hours.
Tools & Resources
Rosetta Stone for Persian, Pimsleur, www.persianlanguage.ir for grammar exercises, local Persian language conversation groups
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for all advanced studies and professional roles like translation or interpretation.
Immerse in Persian Culture and Media- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbooks, immerse yourself in Persian culture by watching Iranian films with subtitles, listening to Persian music, and exploring online Persian news portals. This helps in understanding cultural nuances and contemporary language usage.
Tools & Resources
YouTube channels for Persian news (e.g., BBC Persian), Iranian movie platforms, Spotify/Apple Music for Persian artists, cultural events at Iran Culture House in Delhi
Career Connection
Develops cultural competency essential for diplomatic, cultural exchange, and international business roles.
Cultivate Effective Study Habits and Peer Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a consistent study routine, revise regularly, and form study groups with peers. Practice translating passages and discussing literary concepts together. Seek feedback from professors on assignments and language skills.
Tools & Resources
Google Docs for collaborative translation, university library resources for supplementary readings, departmental common rooms for study groups, professor office hours
Career Connection
Enhances academic performance, critical thinking, and teamwork skills, valuable for any professional environment.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Advanced Persian Literary Texts- (Semester 3-4)
Start reading simplified versions of classical Persian prose and poetry, gradually moving to original texts. Focus on understanding literary devices, historical context, and the philosophical underpinnings of the works.
Tools & Resources
University library''''s collection of Persian literature, critical editions of works by Rumi, Saadi, Hafez, online literary analysis platforms for Persian, literary workshops
Career Connection
Essential for pursuing higher studies in literature, becoming a literary translator, or a scholar of Persian.
Develop Specialized Translation and Interpretation Skills- (Semester 3-4)
Practice translating diverse texts including news articles, official documents, and literary excerpts from Persian to English and vice-versa. Explore techniques for simultaneous and consecutive interpretation. Look for opportunities to translate for departmental events.
Tools & Resources
Online Persian-English dictionaries (e.g., Vajehyab), translation software (e.g., SDL Trados, if available through university), participation in workshops by professional translators
Career Connection
Directly prepares for roles as professional translators, interpreters, or language specialists in various sectors.
Network with Persian Scholars and Practitioners- (Semester 3-4)
Attend seminars, workshops, and lectures organized by the Department of Persian or other institutions. Connect with faculty members, guest speakers, and senior students to gain insights into career paths and research opportunities.
Tools & Resources
University career services, LinkedIn for professional networking, departmental events calendar, national/international conferences on Persian studies
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internship opportunities, and awareness of niche career fields in Persian studies.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Research Project or Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Identify an area of interest within Persian language, literature, or culture and undertake an in-depth research project. This involves literature review, data collection, analysis, and writing a comprehensive report or dissertation under faculty guidance.
Tools & Resources
University research databases, academic journals for Persian studies, referencing software (e.g., Zotero, Mendeley), faculty supervisors
Career Connection
Builds research acumen, critical thinking, and academic writing skills, crucial for M.A., Ph.D., and research-oriented careers.
Prepare for Higher Education and Career Examinations- (Semester 5-6)
Start preparing for entrance examinations for MA programs in Persian, Civil Services exams (if opting for language-based options), or specific language proficiency tests. Focus on general knowledge, analytical skills, and advanced Persian.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, coaching institutes (if applicable), career counseling cell, mock interviews for government jobs
Career Connection
Directly supports entry into postgraduate studies or competitive job markets requiring specialized language skills.
Seek Internship or Project Opportunities- (Semester 5-6)
Actively seek internships with cultural organizations, diplomatic missions, publishing houses, or NGOs working with Persian-speaking communities. Apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects and build a professional portfolio.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, online internship portals (e.g., Internshala, LinkedIn), direct applications to embassies or cultural centers, faculty recommendations
Career Connection
Gains practical experience, enhances employability, and helps in establishing professional contacts for future career prospects.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- An applicant must have passed the Class XII examination of any Board/University Examination in any stream recognized by the University of Delhi. Admissions are based on the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) scores.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 148 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (for theory courses), External: 75% (for theory courses)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
Semester 2
Semester 3
Semester 4
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PER-DSC-10 | History of Persian Literature upto 12th Century A.D. | Core | 6 | Pre-Islamic and Early Islamic Periods, Emergence of New Persian Literature, Major Poets: Rudaki, Ferdowsi, Ghaznavid and Seljuk Dynasties'''' Influence, Literary Movements and Genres |
| PER-DSC-11 | Intermediate Persian Composition & Translation | Core | 6 | Advanced Essay Writing, Official Correspondence and Report Writing, Technical and Scientific Translation, Literary Translation Challenges, Cross-Cultural Communication Strategies |
| PER-DSE-01 | Persian Language and Literature in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Persian in Delhi Sultanate and Mughal India, Indo-Persian Poets and Writers, Amir Khusrau and Mirza Ghalib''''s Persian Works, Influence on Regional Indian Languages, Contribution of Indian Scholars to Persian |
| PER-DSE-02 | Persian Letters | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Evolution of Epistolary Art in Persian, Famous Historical and Royal Letters, Literary Correspondence and its Significance, Formal and Informal Letter Writing Styles, Biographical and Autobiographical Letters |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PER-DSC-12 | History of Persian Literature from 13th to 18th Century A.D. | Core | 6 | Mongol Invasion and its Literary Impact, Safavid Era Literature and Patrons, Prominent Poets: Saadi, Hafez, Jami, Development of Prose Forms and Histories, Indian Style (Sabk-e Hindi) in Persian Poetry |
| PER-DSC-13 | History of Persian Literature from 19th Century to till date | Core | 6 | Constitutional Movement and its Literary Impact, Modern Persian Prose and its Evolution, Nima Yooshij and Modern Persian Poetry, Contemporary Iranian Writers and Themes, Tajik and Afghan Persian Literature |
| PER-DSC-14 | Persian Literary Criticism | Core | 6 | Theories and Principles of Literary Criticism, Classical Persian Critics and Their Works, Modern Approaches to Persian Criticism, Poetic Devices: Metaphor, Simile, Allusion, Rhetoric, Stylistics, and Aesthetics |
| PER-DSE-03 | Persian Short Story | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Evolution of Short Story in Persian Literature, Pioneers of Modern Persian Short Story, Prominent Short Story Writers and Their Works, Thematic Analysis of Short Stories, Narrative Techniques and Literary Devices |
| PER-DSE-04 | Sufism and Persian Literature | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Origins and Principles of Sufism, Sufi Mysticism and Philosophy, Influence of Sufism on Persian Literature, Major Sufi Poets: Rumi, Attar, Sana''''i, Symbolism and Allegory in Sufi Poetry |
