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MA in History at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is History at University of Delhi Delhi?
This MA History program at the University of Delhi focuses on a comprehensive understanding of historical processes, narratives, and methodologies across diverse periods and regions. It emphasizes critical analysis of primary and secondary sources, fostering advanced research skills. With a strong foundation in both Indian and global history, the program prepares students for academic pursuits and various roles demanding nuanced historical perspective. The interdisciplinary approach and extensive elective options allow for specialization within broader historical themes.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history graduates seeking advanced academic training, aspiring researchers, and those aiming for careers in heritage management, archival sciences, journalism, or public policy. It attracts fresh graduates with a passion for historical inquiry and working professionals looking to deepen their expertise. Candidates with a strong background in humanities and social sciences, particularly history, will find the curriculum engaging and rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, educators, and policy analysts. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience and specialization. Many also pursue M.Phil. or Ph.D. degrees to enter academia. The program develops critical thinking, research, and communication skills highly valued across various sectors in India.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Critical Reading and Historiography- (Semester 1)
Focus on core historiographical concepts and theories introduced in Semester 1. Develop rigorous critical reading skills for both primary and secondary sources. Actively participate in discussions on different historical schools of thought.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks, Academic journals via university library, Discussions with faculty, Peer study groups, Online resources like Jstor
Career Connection
Essential for building analytical foundations, crucial for any research-oriented role or academic pursuit.
Cultivate Foundational Academic Writing- (Semester 1)
Develop clear, structured, and evidence-based writing for assignments. Pay close attention to citation styles and proper referencing from the outset. Seek feedback on initial essays to refine your argumentative skills.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, Academic style guides (e.g., Chicago Manual of Style), Feedback from professors, Grammarly
Career Connection
Strong written communication is fundamental for all professional careers, especially in academia, journalism, and policy drafting.
Explore Diverse Historical Perspectives- (Semester 1)
Attend open lectures and seminars beyond your immediate coursework to gain exposure to various research areas and methodologies within history. This early exposure helps in identifying potential areas of specialization later.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminar schedules, University event calendars, Interaction with senior students and faculty
Career Connection
Broadens intellectual horizons, helps identify specific interests for future research or career paths, and fosters interdisciplinary thinking.
Intermediate Stage
Strategically Choose Electives and Begin Focused Reading- (Semesters 2-3)
Select elective courses in Semester 2 and 3 that align with your emerging research interests or career aspirations. Start reading extensively in your chosen areas, going beyond prescribed texts to build specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Faculty advisors for guidance, Specialized books and journals, Inter-library loan services, Online academic databases
Career Connection
Develops expertise in specific domains, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized research projects, museum roles, or journalistic beats.
Engage with Primary Source Material- (Semesters 2-3)
Seek opportunities to work with primary sources, whether through course assignments, independent projects, or internships. Understand the nuances of archival research, oral histories, and material culture.
Tools & Resources
National Archives of India, Delhi State Archives, University''''s rare manuscript sections, Relevant digital archives, Research assistantships
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical experience for careers in archives, museums, historical research, and documentary filmmaking.
Participate in Academic Presentations and Discussions- (Semesters 2-3)
Actively participate in class discussions and volunteer for presentations. If possible, present a research paper at an internal departmental seminar or a student history conference to refine your public speaking and critical feedback skills.
Tools & Resources
Departmental forums, Student history clubs, Faculty guidance, Peer review
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, argumentation, and intellectual networking skills, beneficial for academic, teaching, and public-facing roles.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Major Research Project- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to your final dissertation or major research project. This is your opportunity to conduct original research, synthesize complex information, and present a coherent argument under faculty supervision.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated research time, Regular meetings with supervisor, Advanced statistical/qualitative analysis software (if applicable), Extensive library and archival resources
Career Connection
A strong dissertation is crucial for pursuing M.Phil./Ph.D., showcases independent research capabilities for think tanks, and demonstrates analytical rigor for various professional roles.
Network for Career and Higher Studies- (Semester 4 and beyond)
Intensify networking with faculty, alumni, and professionals in your target fields (academia, heritage, civil services, media). Attend career fairs, departmental alumni events, and professional association meetings. Seek mentorship for post-MA pathways.
Tools & Resources
University career services, LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Indian History Congress), Informational interviews
Career Connection
Direct pathway to internships, job opportunities, research collaborations, and admission to advanced degree programs in India and abroad.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 4 and Post-Graduation)
If aiming for academia or civil services, begin focused preparation for examinations like UGC NET/JRF (for teaching/research) or UPSC Civil Services Exam. Leverage your MA History knowledge for optional papers and general studies.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes, Previous year question papers, Mock tests, Study groups, Guidance from successful alumni
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for highly competitive and prestigious careers in university teaching, research, or top-tier government administrative services in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. (Hons.) History from University of Delhi OR B.A. from University of Delhi with at least 45% marks in aggregate or 50% marks in History. OR B.A. (Hons.) from any other recognized University with at least 50% marks in aggregate or 60% marks in History.
Duration: 4 semesters/ 2 years
Credits: 56 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 1 | HISTORIOGRAPHY | Core | 4 | Nature of History, Objectivity and Bias, Historical Causation, Postmodernism and History, Theories of History |
| CC 2 | MODERN WORLD: THE EIGHTEENTH CENTURY | Core | 4 | Enlightenment and Absolutism, American and French Revolutions, Industrial Revolution, Global Transformations, Empire and Colonialism |
| CC 3 | INDIA FROM THE 17TH TO THE MID-19TH CENTURY: SOCIETY, ECONOMY AND POLITY | Core | 4 | Mughal Decline and Regional Powers, Emergence of British Rule, Agrarian and Commercial Economy, Social Formations, Early Colonial Administration |
| EC 1 (Any one) | Pre-Modern Economy and Society OR Science, Technology and Environment in History OR Culture and Society in Ancient India OR India’s Past and Its Memory OR Gender and History | Elective | 4 | Ancient/Medieval Economic Structures, Scientific Thought in History, Early Indian Social Systems, Public History and Heritage, Feminist Historiography |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 4 | THE TWENTIETH CENTURY WORLD (1914-1991) | Core | 4 | World Wars and Interwar Period, Rise of Ideologies (Fascism, Communism), Cold War and Decolonization, Economic Depressions and Recovery, Post-Cold War Global Order |
| CC 5 | ASPECTS OF MODERN INDIAN HISTORY: COLONIALISM, NATIONALISM AND PARTITION (MID-19TH-MID-20TH CENTURY) | Core | 4 | Colonial State and Institutions, Growth of Indian Nationalism, Gandhian Movements, Communalism and Partition, Paths to Independence |
| CC 6 | INDIA FROM MID-19TH TO THE MID-20TH CENTURY: SOCIETY, ECONOMY AND POLITY | Core | 4 | Colonial Economy and its Impact, Agrarian Changes and Industrialization, Social Reform Movements, Education and Cultural Change, Political Mobilization and Resistance |
| EC 2 (Any one) | Social and Cultural History of Early Modern India (1500-1750) OR Archaeology: History and Theory OR History of South East Asia: Ancient and Medieval Period OR The Making of Contemporary India (1947-2000s) OR History of Latin America | Elective | 4 | Mughal Society and Culture, Archaeological Methods, Early Southeast Asian States, Nation-Building in India, Latin American Colonialism |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 7 | PERSPECTIVES ON INDIAN CULTURAL HISTORY: FROM THE ANCIENT TO THE EARLY MODERN PERIOD | Core | 4 | Religious Traditions of India, Philosophical Schools, Art, Architecture and Sculpture, Literary Traditions, Cultural Exchanges and Syncretism |
| EC 3 (I) (Any one) | History of the Global South: Themes and Perspectives OR The Making of Modern West Asia OR Urbanization in Indian History OR Themes in the History of Science in India OR India and the World OR History of Modern East Asia | Elective | 4 | Decolonization in Global South, West Asian Nationalism, Urban Development in India, Indigenous Scientific Knowledge, India''''s Foreign Relations, Modern East Asian Transformations |
| EC 3 (II) (Any one) | Themes in Early Indian History: Society, Economy, and Polity (upto c. 600 CE) OR Themes in Medieval Indian History: Society, Economy, and Polity (c. 600-1750 CE) OR Themes in Modern Indian History: Society, Economy, and Polity (c. 1750-1950 CE) OR History of South Asia: Regionalism and Federalism OR Culture, State and Society in Early Modern Europe OR History of Russia (1850s to 1991) | Elective | 4 | Harappan and Vedic Age, Delhi Sultanate and Mughals, Colonialism and Nationalism, South Asian Regionalism, Renaissance and Reformation, Russian Revolutions and Soviet Era |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC 8 | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND SOURCES OF HISTORY | Core | 4 | Historical Research Design, Source Criticism and Analysis, Archival and Oral History, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Thesis Writing and Ethics |
| EC 4 (I) (Any one) | History of Ideas: A Global Perspective OR History of Religions in India OR Ancient Indian Art and Architecture OR Medieval Indian Art and Architecture OR Modern Art and Architecture in India (c. 1750-2000 CE) OR History of Capitalism | Elective | 4 | Global Intellectual Traditions, Religious Diversity in India, Buddhist and Temple Architecture, Islamic and Mughal Art, Colonial and Modern Indian Art, Evolution of Capitalism |
| EC 4 (II) (Any one) | Themes in Ancient and Medieval Indian History OR Aspects of Modern Indian History OR History of the United States of America OR History of China (1800 to 1949) OR History of Modern Europe (1870-1945) OR History of Africa | Elective | 4 | Early Indian State Formation, Colonialism and Nationalism in India, American Civil War and Expansion, China''''s Republican Revolution, World Wars in Europe, African Colonialism and Decolonization |
