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MA in Urdu at University of Delhi
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is Urdu at University of Delhi Delhi?
This MA Urdu program at University of Delhi focuses on the comprehensive study of Urdu language, literature, and criticism. Rooted in rich South Asian heritage, it explores classical and modern poetic and prose forms, literary movements, and linguistic evolution. The program aims to foster advanced research skills and critical understanding of Urdu''''s cultural significance, catering to a niche yet vital academic and cultural demand in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for graduates with a strong background in Urdu who seek to deepen their academic and critical engagement with the language. It attracts aspiring researchers, educators, literary critics, and cultural historians. Working professionals in media, translation, or cultural institutions aiming for advanced knowledge and career progression in Urdu-centric fields also find significant value.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including academia (professors, researchers), media (journalists, content writers), translation services, and cultural organizations. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-5 lakhs annually, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities exist in government bodies, publishing houses, and international cultural exchange programs.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Classical Texts and Genres- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with core classical Urdu poetry and prose texts. Form study groups to analyze literary devices, historical contexts, and critical interpretations. Utilize online archives and university library resources for older editions and commentaries.
Tools & Resources
University Library, Rekhta.org, Digital Library of India
Career Connection
A strong foundation in classics is crucial for advanced research, teaching, and literary criticism, forming the bedrock for expertise in Urdu literature.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing clear, concise academic writing. Practice writing critical essays and short research papers on topics covered in literary criticism and history. Seek feedback from professors and peers on structure, argumentation, and referencing.
Tools & Resources
Research Methodology workshops, Academic writing guides, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic writing is essential for higher studies, publishing scholarly articles, and careers in research or content development.
Build a Strong Linguistic Base- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the history and linguistic features of Urdu. Practice transcription, phonetics, and understanding the nuances of different dialects. Engage in discussions about language evolution and its impact on literary forms.
Tools & Resources
Linguistic textbooks, Urdu dictionaries (Feroz-ul-Lughat), Online linguistic resources
Career Connection
A solid linguistic understanding is invaluable for translation, lexicography, language teaching, and advanced philological research.
Intermediate Stage
Explore Modern Literary Movements and Theories- (Semester 3-4)
Actively participate in seminars and discussions on modern literary movements and critical theories. Apply various critical lenses (Marxist, Feminist, Post-colonial) to analyze contemporary Urdu texts. Read widely beyond the prescribed syllabus.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, Literary theory journals, Critical anthologies
Career Connection
Developing critical thinking and theoretical application skills enhances analytical capabilities, crucial for literary research, journalism, and academic roles.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Studies- (Semester 3-4)
Look for opportunities to connect Urdu literature with other disciplines like history, sociology, philosophy, or cultural studies. This broadens perspective and offers unique research avenues. Consider taking relevant generic elective courses if available.
Tools & Resources
Inter-departmental lectures, Online courses on related subjects, Multidisciplinary journals
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary knowledge makes graduates more versatile, opening doors to diverse roles in cultural heritage management, policy research, and comparative literature.
Participate in Literary Events and Competitions- (Semester 3-4)
Attend Urdu Mushairas, literary festivals, book launches, and workshops organized by the university or other cultural bodies. Participate in literary competitions (essay writing, poetry recitation) to hone creative and expressive skills.
Tools & Resources
University cultural societies, Urdu academies, Literary magazines
Career Connection
Active participation builds networks, boosts confidence, and provides practical exposure to the literary world, valuable for publishing and media careers.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Dissertation or Project Work- (Semester 4)
For DSE-8 or similar opportunities, choose a research topic aligned with your interests and career goals. Work closely with a faculty mentor to conduct original research, develop a robust methodology, and write a high-quality dissertation or project report.
Tools & Resources
Research advisors, Academic databases, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
A strong dissertation demonstrates research aptitude, essential for PhD admissions, academic positions, and high-level research roles in cultural institutions.
Develop Professional Communication and Translation Skills- (Semester 4)
Focus on enhancing both written and oral communication in Urdu, especially in formal and professional contexts. If opting for translation studies, engage in practical translation projects (English to Urdu and vice versa) for diverse content.
Tools & Resources
Translation software/tools (e.g., professional dictionaries for Urdu, specific translation memory software if introduced), Workshops on professional writing
Career Connection
Excellent communication and translation skills are highly sought after in media, journalism, government, international relations, and cultural exchange programs.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 4)
Connect with alumni, established scholars, writers, and professionals in Urdu-related fields. Attend conferences, webinars, and utilize platforms like LinkedIn. Seek mentorship for career guidance, research opportunities, and publishing advice.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Urdu Academy), Alumni network events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, job opportunities, collaborations, and provides crucial insights into the evolving demands of the industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. with Urdu (Hons./Elective/Main) or equivalent oriental degree with specified marks. Detailed criteria available in University of Delhi PG admission bulletin.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 48 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-1 | Classical Urdu Poetry (A) | Core | 4 | Classical Qaseeda, Classical Masnavi, Classical Marsiya, Classical Ghazal, Early Nazm |
| CC-2 | Classical Urdu Prose | Core | 4 | Early Urdu Prose, Dastan Writing, Fort William College Contribution, Sir Syed Movement, Classical Prose Writers |
| CC-3 | Modern Urdu Poetry | Core | 4 | Modern Ghazal Trends, Modern Nazm Forms, Progressive Poetry, Halqa-e Arbab-e Zauq, Post-Independence Poetry |
| CC-4 | Modern Urdu Prose (A) | Core | 4 | Modern Urdu Short Story, Urdu Novel (20th Century), Urdu Drama, Progressive Prose Writers, Post-Independence Prose |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-5 | Literary Criticism | Core | 4 | Fundamentals of Criticism, Eastern Literary Theories, Western Literary Theories, Indian Poetics Concepts, Modern Critical Approaches |
| CC-6 | History of Urdu Language | Core | 4 | Origin Theories of Urdu, Development Stages of Urdu, Linguistic Features, Dialectal Influences, Evolution of Script |
| CC-7 | History of Urdu Literature (Early Period) | Core | 4 | Deccan Literary Tradition, Delhi & Lucknow Schools, Fort William College Era, Early Poetic Genres, Socio-Cultural Context |
| CC-8 | Modern Urdu Prose (B) (Research Methodology & Literary Terminology) | Core | 4 | Research Principles, Thesis Writing, Literary Terms Analysis, Translation Theory, Editing & Proofreading |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-9 | History of Urdu Literature (Modern Period) | Core | 4 | Aligarh Movement Influence, Progressive Writers'''' Movement, Halqa-e Arbab-e Zauq, Post-1947 Literature, Contemporary Literary Trends |
| DSE-1 | Literary Genres (Drama & Novel) | Elective | 4 | History of Urdu Drama, Major Playwrights, Urdu Novel Development, Significant Novelists, Narrative Techniques |
| DSE-2 | Literary Genres (Short Story & Ghazal) | Elective | 4 | Urdu Short Story Evolution, Prominent Short Story Writers, Ghazal Poetic Form, Major Ghazal Masters, Thematic Nuances |
| DSE-3 | Literary Genres (Marsiya & Masnavi) | Elective | 4 | Marsiya as a Genre, Master Marsiya Writers, Masnavi Poetic Form, Key Masnavi Poets, Classical Narrative Poetry |
| DSE-4 | Literary Genres (Nazm & Qasida) | Elective | 4 | Development of Nazm, Major Nazm Poets, Qasida Poetic Form, Prominent Qasida Writers, Rhetorical Aspects |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-10 | Study of Modern Urdu Prose (Selected Texts) | Core | 4 | Analysis of Modern Short Stories, Contemporary Urdu Novels, Critical Essays, Autobiographical Narratives, Travel Literature |
| DSE-5 | Literary Movements & Theories (Special Study of Criticism) | Elective | 4 | Marxist & Feminist Criticism, Psychoanalytic Approaches, Structuralism & Post-structuralism, Post-colonial Theories, Contemporary Critical Thought |
| DSE-6 | Urdu Journalism & Mass Communication | Elective | 4 | Evolution of Urdu Journalism, News Reporting & Editing, Feature & Column Writing, Broadcast Media, Digital Urdu Platforms |
| DSE-7 | Translation Studies | Elective | 4 | Translation Theories, Types & Approaches, Cultural & Linguistic Challenges, Equivalence in Translation, Practical Translation Exercises |
| DSE-8 | Project Work / Dissertation | Elective | 4 | Research Proposal Development, Comprehensive Literature Review, Empirical Research Methods, Data Interpretation, Dissertation Writing |
