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PG-DIPLOMA in Epigraphy at University of Mysore
Mysuru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Epigraphy at University of Mysore Mysuru?
This PG Diploma in Epigraphy program at the University of Mysore focuses on the scientific study of ancient inscriptions, a cornerstone for reconstructing India''''s rich historical and cultural past. It delves into deciphering ancient scripts, understanding paleography, and interpreting the socio-political contexts of historical records. The program uniquely leverages the abundant inscriptional wealth of South India, providing unparalleled practical exposure vital for preserving and understanding regional heritage.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for history enthusiasts, archaeology graduates, and language scholars seeking specialized knowledge in deciphering ancient texts. It also caters to museum professionals, archivists, and cultural heritage managers looking to enhance their expertise in documentation and preservation of epigraphical records. Individuals interested in historical research, particularly those focusing on ancient Indian history and culture, will find this diploma highly enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as epigraphists, archaeologists, research assistants in history departments, or curators in museums and archives across India. They can contribute significantly to state archaeology departments, universities, and cultural institutions involved in heritage conservation. While specific salary ranges vary, entry-level roles can start from INR 3-5 lakhs annually, growing significantly with experience in research and field projects.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Immerse in Paleography Practice- (Semester 1)
Dedicate regular time to practice drawing and recognizing various ancient scripts like Brahmi, Gupta, and early Kannada-Telugu from facsimiles. Utilize online resources and printed copies of inscriptions.
Tools & Resources
Epigraphia Indica volumes, Official Archaeological Survey reports, Online digital archives of inscriptions (e.g., Dasa Sahitya Project, ASI portals)
Career Connection
This builds fundamental transcription skills, crucial for any epigraphist, making you proficient in reading source materials directly, which is essential for research and field roles.
Form an Inscription Study Group- (Semester 1)
Collaborate with peers to decipher and discuss challenging inscriptions. Present findings to each other, fostering critical analysis, shared learning, and problem-solving approaches.
Tools & Resources
Group discussions, Shared digital copies of inscriptions, Reference books on Indian scripts and historical grammar
Career Connection
Develops teamwork, analytical thinking, and presentation skills vital for collaborative research projects in archaeology, history, and cultural heritage management.
Visit Local Archaeological Sites & Museums- (Semester 1)
Regularly visit nearby historical sites with inscriptions (e.g., Hampi, Talakad, Belur, Halebidu in Karnataka) and museums (e.g., Mysore Palace Museum, State Archaeology Museum) to observe inscriptions firsthand.
Tools & Resources
Local travel and site guides, Museum curators for expert discussions, Official ASI site information
Career Connection
Provides practical context to classroom learning, enhancing understanding of in-situ epigraphy and museum conservation practices, highly valued in field archaeology and curation roles.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects on Specific Dynasties- (Early Semester 2)
Select a specific South Indian dynasty (e.g., Gangas, Hoysalas, Vijayanagara) and extensively study their inscriptions using primary and secondary sources. Analyze their contributions.
Tools & Resources
University library archives, Historical journals, Epigraphia Carnatica volumes, Research databases like JSTOR or Shodhganga
Career Connection
Develops independent research skills, critical source analysis, and specialized knowledge, preparing for advanced academic roles, field research, or heritage consultancy.
Engage in Numismatics Collection and Study- (Mid Semester 2)
If permitted, volunteer at a local museum or a numismatic society to handle, classify, and study ancient Indian coins, complementing epigraphical knowledge with numismatic insights.
Tools & Resources
Numismatic society publications, Museum volunteer programs, Standard books on Indian coinage (e.g., The Coinage of India)
Career Connection
Broadens historical data interpretation skills, making you a more versatile historian or archaeologist with knowledge of multiple primary sources, enhancing job prospects.
Participate in Departmental Seminars & Workshops- (Throughout Semester 2)
Actively attend and, if possible, present findings from your project work or research on Epigraphy and Research Methodology. Engage in discussions with faculty and visiting scholars.
Tools & Resources
Departmental notice boards, University academic calendars, Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Google Slides)
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, academic discourse, and networking abilities, crucial for a career in academia, research, or presenting findings in professional heritage forums.
Advanced Stage
Publish a Research Paper or Project Report- (Post-diploma / During final project)
Refine your project work or dissertation into a publishable paper for a national/regional history or archaeology journal. Seek mentorship from faculty for this process.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Journal submission guidelines, Faculty mentors
Career Connection
Demonstrates research capability and academic rigor, significantly boosting your profile for higher studies (M.Phil/Ph.D.) or specialized research positions in India.
Pursue an Internship with Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)- (After Semester 2)
Seek out and apply for internships at ASI circles or state archaeology departments. Gain hands-on experience in excavation, conservation, or epigraphical surveys.
Tools & Resources
ASI official website for internship announcements, Networking with faculty and alumni, Professional resume and cover letter
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical experience, industry contacts, and a strong resume builder, often leading to contract work or direct recruitment opportunities with premier heritage bodies.
Develop Digital Humanities Skills for Epigraphy- (Throughout/After Semester 2)
Learn basic digital tools for documentation, transcription, and analysis of epigraphical data (e.g., photo editing for estampages, basic database management, GIS for site mapping).
Tools & Resources
Online tutorials (e.g., Photoshop basics, QGIS for beginners), Workshops on digital humanities, Relevant software (open-source where possible)
Career Connection
Positions you at the forefront of modern epigraphical research, making you highly valuable for projects that require digital preservation and accessibility of historical records in India and globally.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A./B.Sc./B.Com./B.B.M./B.C.A. (with 40% aggregate) or an equivalent degree from the University of Mysore or any other recognized University.
Duration: 1 Year (2 Semesters)
Credits: 32 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30% (for theory papers), 30% (for practical/project papers - calculated from 15/50 marks), External: 70% (for theory papers), 70% (for practical/project papers - calculated from 35/50 marks)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EPG 101 | Epigraphy: General Principles & Paleography of Brahmi | Core Theory | 4 | Introduction to Epigraphy, Definition and Scope of Epigraphy, Tools and Methods of Epigraphist, Discovery and Decipherment of Inscriptions, Paleography: Origin and Development of Brahmi Script, Regional Variations of Brahmi |
| EPG 102 | Indian Scripts - I (Gupta, Siddhamatrika & Kannada-Telugu) | Core Theory | 4 | Origin and Development of Gupta Script, Characteristics of Siddhamatrika Script, Evolution of Early Kannada-Telugu Script, Geographical Distribution of Scripts, Study of Select Inscriptions in these Scripts, Scriptal Transitions and Chronology |
| EPG 103 | Indian Scripts - II (Grantha, Nagari & Nandinagari) | Core Theory | 4 | Origin and Development of Grantha Script, Pallava Grantha and Chola Grantha Variations, Development of Nagari Script, Nandinagari Script and its Features, Comparative Study of Scripts, Major Inscriptions in Grantha, Nagari and Nandinagari |
| EPG 104 | South Indian Inscriptions - I (Pre-Chalukyan & Chalukyan Dynasties) | Core Theory | 4 | Inscriptions of Kadambas, Epigraphs of Gangas, Records of Badami Chalukyas, Inscriptions of Western Gangas, Early Hoysala Records, Analysis of Historical and Cultural Content in Inscriptions |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EPG 201 | South Indian Inscriptions - II (Later Dynasties & Administration) | Core Theory | 4 | Inscriptions of Rashtrakutas, Epigraphs of Later Chalukyas, Hoysala and Vijayanagara Inscriptions, Records of Nayakas and Marathas, Administrative Terminology in Inscriptions, Revenue System and Justice as Revealed in Epigraphs |
| EPG 202 | Numismatics | Core Theory | 4 | Introduction to Numismatics, Origin of Coinage in India, Punch-Marked Coins, Dynastic Coins: Indo-Greek, Kushana, Gupta, South Indian Coinage, Minting Techniques and Coin Symbolism |
| EPG 203 | Research Methodology | Core Theory | 4 | Introduction to Research: Types and Approaches, Research Design and Problem Formulation, Data Collection Methods: Fieldwork and Survey Techniques, Sources of Historical Data, Report Writing and Documentation, Ethics and Plagiarism in Research |
| EPG 204 | Project Work / Dissertation / Inscriptional Studies | Core Project/Practical | 4 | Selection of Inscriptional Study Topic, Field Study and Data Collection (Impression Taking), Critical Analysis of Inscriptions, Interpretation of Historical Context, Dissertation/Report Preparation, Presentation of Findings |
