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BA in History at VISVESWARAPURA EVENING COLLEGE OF ARTS & COMMERCE
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is History at VISVESWARAPURA EVENING COLLEGE OF ARTS & COMMERCE Bengaluru?
This History program at Visveswarapura Evening College of Arts and Commerce, affiliated with Bangalore University, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of human societies, cultures, and political systems across various periods, with a strong emphasis on Indian and Karnataka history. The program is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and research skills, crucial for deciphering the complexities of the past. In the Indian context, a deep understanding of history is vital for comprehending contemporary social, political, and economic developments, and for roles in heritage, archives, and public policy.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from 10+2 seeking entry into a career involving research, analysis, or cultural preservation. It also suits individuals with a keen interest in historical inquiry, social sciences, and humanities, who aim to contribute to understanding national and global heritage. Aspiring educators, researchers, civil service candidates, and those looking to work in museums or archives will find this specialization particularly beneficial, requiring a strong aptitude for reading, critical analysis, and detailed study.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as historians, archivists, museum curators, archaeologists, heritage managers, researchers, journalists, and educators. The analytical and critical thinking skills acquired are also highly valued in civil services, policy analysis, and content creation. Entry-level salaries in India can range from INR 2.5 Lakhs to 4.5 Lakhs annually, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in specialized fields or academia. The program provides a solid foundation for postgraduate studies and competitive exams.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Concepts and Chronology- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundational understanding of historical periods, key events, and personalities. Regularly review lecture notes, create detailed timelines, and use historical atlases to visualize geographical and chronological shifts. Participate in weekly study groups to discuss and clarify concepts.
Tools & Resources
NCERT History textbooks, historical atlases, online resources like Indian Culture portal, reputable academic history blogs
Career Connection
Essential for competitive exams (UPSC, KPSC), journalism, and teaching, where factual accuracy and broad historical knowledge are paramount.
Develop Critical Reading and Source Analysis- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate the ability to critically evaluate primary and secondary historical sources. Practice identifying biases, perspectives, and contexts in historical texts. Engage in discussions during tutorials, present analyses, and read beyond prescribed textbooks to compare different interpretations.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), reputable online archives, university library databases
Career Connection
Crucial for research roles, archival work, policy analysis, and content development, requiring robust analytical skills.
Engage in Heritage Walks and Local History Exploration- (Semester 1-2)
Connect theoretical knowledge with tangible historical sites and local heritage. Participate in organized heritage walks in Bengaluru, visit local museums and archaeological sites, and conduct small-scale projects on local historical landmarks or communities.
Tools & Resources
Local heritage organizations, State Archaeology Department, Bengaluru museums (e.g., Government Museum)
Career Connection
Builds practical experience for roles in heritage management, tourism, and museum curation, fostering an understanding of India''''s diverse cultural landscape.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Research Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Apply research methodology skills to specific historical topics. Select a topic of interest, formulate a research question, gather primary and secondary data, and write a short research paper. Seek guidance from faculty on methodology and historiography.
Tools & Resources
University library archives, online academic databases (e.g., JSTOR), research software for organization
Career Connection
Strengthens research capabilities for academic pursuits, think tanks, content writing, and positions requiring in-depth historical inquiry.
Participate in Inter-College Debates and Quizzes- (Semester 3-5)
Enhance public speaking, argumentation, and quick recall of historical facts. Join college societies focused on history or current affairs. Actively participate in debates, quizzes, and essay competitions that require historical knowledge and critical interpretation.
Tools & Resources
Debate clubs, general knowledge platforms, historical documentaries
Career Connection
Improves communication and presentation skills vital for teaching, journalism, public relations, and civil service interviews.
Explore Skill Enhancement Courses (SEC) and Open Electives (OEC)- (Semester 3-5)
Diversify skill set through interdisciplinary learning. Strategically choose SECs like ''''Archaeological Survey and Excavation'''' or ''''Museology'''' and OECs related to sociology, political science, or economics to broaden perspectives and acquire practical skills.
Tools & Resources
Course catalogs, faculty advisors for guidance on relevant SEC/OEC choices
Career Connection
Provides tangible skills for specialized roles in heritage, archaeology, archives, and complements a career in civil services or journalism with broader contextual knowledge.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation and Internship- (Semester 6-8)
For Honours students, meticulously plan and execute the final year dissertation, utilizing primary sources and advanced historiographical methods. Seek internships at museums, archives, heritage sites, or historical research organizations.
Tools & Resources
Research mentors, archival institutions (e.g., Karnataka State Archives), museum internship programs, thesis writing guides
Career Connection
Direct pathway to academic research, curatorial roles, and specialized historical consultancy. An internship provides crucial real-world experience and networking.
Prepare for Post-Graduate Studies and Competitive Exams- (Semester 6-8)
Align academic focus with future career aspirations. Begin preparing for MA entrance exams (e.g., JNU, DU, HCU) or civil service examinations (UPSC, KPSC). Engage in mock tests, current affairs reading, and specialized coaching if required.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, online coaching platforms, reputable current affairs magazines, study groups
Career Connection
Essential for entry into academia, civil services, and other government sector roles that require advanced knowledge and competitive examination performance.
Network with Historians and Professionals- (Semester 6-8)
Build connections within the historical and cultural community. Attend history seminars, conferences, and workshops. Connect with faculty alumni, and guest speakers. Join professional historical associations (e.g., Indian History Congress).
Tools & Resources
Conference announcements, LinkedIn, university alumni network, professional association websites
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, collaborative research, job opportunities, and staying updated with new developments and trends in the field of history and heritage management.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Pre-University Course) or equivalent from a recognized board, as per Bangalore University general admission rules.
Duration: 8 semesters (4 years)
Credits: 160 credits (as per NEP 2020 framework) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 1.1 | History of India – I (From Pre-History to 1206 AD) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian History, Pre-Historic Cultures & Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic Age & Mahajanapada Period, Rise of Jainism and Buddhism, Mauryan & Post-Mauryan Age (Satavahanas, Kushanas), Gupta & Post-Gupta Eras (Vardhanas, Pallavas, Chalukyas) |
| AECC | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (Language: English/MIL) | Compulsory | 2 | Grammar and Composition, Reading Comprehension, Communication Skills, Literary Analysis (if applicable), Creative Writing |
| SEC 1.1 | Art of Writing History | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Understanding Historical Writing, Research Question Formulation, Source Identification and Evaluation, Structure of Historical Essays, Referencing and Citation Styles |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 1.2 | History of India – II (1206 AD – 1757 AD) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Sources of Medieval Indian History, Delhi Sultanate (Founders, Khaljis, Tughlaqs), Vijayanagara and Bahamani Kingdoms, Mughal Empire (Babur to Aurangzeb), Maratha Ascendancy (Shivaji, Peshwas), Advent of European Trading Companies |
| AECC | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (Language: English/MIL) | Compulsory | 2 | Advanced Grammar and Usage, Essay Writing, Public Speaking, Technical Communication, Critical Reading |
| SEC 1.2 | Guide and Tourism | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Principles of Tourism, Role of a Tourist Guide, Historical Sites and their Significance, Communication Skills for Guides, Tourism Ethics and Regulations |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 2.1 | History of Modern Europe (1789-1945 AD) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | French Revolution and its Impact, Age of Napoleon Bonaparte, Congress of Vienna & European Concert, Revolutions of 1830 and 1848, Unification of Italy and Germany, World Wars I and II, League of Nations |
| DSC 2.2 | History of Karnataka – I (From Pre-History to 1700 AD) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Sources for Karnataka History, Pre-historic and Iron Age Karnataka, Early Dynasties (Satavahanas, Kadambas, Gangas), Chalukyas of Badami and Kalyana, Rashtrakutas and Hoysalas, Vijayanagara Empire and its Legacy |
| SEC 2.1 | Archaeological Survey and Excavation | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Introduction to Archaeology, Methods of Archaeological Survey, Principles of Excavation, Dating Methods in Archaeology, Conservation of Archaeological Remains |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC 2.3 | History of India – III (1757 – 1947 AD) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | British Expansion and Consolidation (Mysore, Maratha Wars), Administrative, Social & Economic Policies of British, Revolt of 1857 and its Aftermath, Rise of Indian Nationalism & Moderate-Extremist Phase, Gandhian Era & Freedom Struggle, Partition of India & Independence |
| DSC 2.4 | History of Karnataka – II (1700 AD – 1956 AD) | Discipline Specific Core (DSC) | 4 | Wodeyar Dynasty of Mysore, Hyder Ali and Tipu Sultan, British Administration in Karnataka, Social and Religious Reforms in Karnataka, Freedom Struggle in Karnataka, Unification and Formation of Karnataka State |
| SEC 2.2 | Museology and Archival Studies | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Introduction to Museology, Museum Administration and Management, Archival Preservation and Documentation, Care of Museum Objects, Exhibition Design and Interpretation |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE 3.1A | Social and Cultural History of India | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Caste System and Social Stratification, Family, Marriage and Status of Women, Education, Literature and Art, Religious Movements and Bhakti-Sufi Traditions, Architecture and Sculpture, Science and Technology in Ancient and Medieval India |
| DSE 3.2A | World Civilizations | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Mesopotamian and Egyptian Civilizations, Greek and Roman Civilizations, Feudalism in Europe, Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Enlightenment and Scientific Revolution, Industrial Revolution and Imperialism |
| SEC 3.1 | Heritage Management | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Concept of Heritage, Types of Heritage (Cultural, Natural), Conservation and Preservation Techniques, Role of UNESCO and ASI, Sustainable Heritage Tourism |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSE 3.3A | Historiography | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of History, Sources and Historical Criticism, Ancient Indian Historiography (Itihasa-Purana Tradition), Medieval Indian Historiography (Persian, Regional), Modern Schools of History (Colonial, Nationalist, Marxist, Subaltern), Objectivity and Bias in Historical Writing |
| DSE 3.4A | History of Modern East Asia (1839-1949 AD) | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Opium Wars and unequal treaties in China, Taiping and Boxer Rebellions, Meiji Restoration in Japan and Modernization, Rise of Japanese Imperialism, Russo-Japanese War and its impact, Rise of Nationalism and Communism in China |
| SEC 3.2 | Museum Studies | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | History and Philosophy of Museums, Collections Management and Documentation, Exhibition Development and Design, Audience Engagement and Education, Preventive Conservation |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HCR 4.1 | Research Methodology and Historiography (Honours Core Research) | Honours Core Research (HCR) | 4 | Nature of Historical Research, Types of Historical Sources and Data Collection, Internal and External Criticism of Sources, Oral History and Interview Techniques, Ethics in Historical Research, Major Debates in Historiography |
| HCR 4.2 | Dissertation Writing – I (Honours Core Research) | Honours Core Research (HCR) | 4 | Identifying Research Topic and Question, Extensive Literature Review, Formulating Hypothesis/Arguments, Structuring the Dissertation, Selecting Primary and Secondary Sources, Chapterization and Timeline Planning |
| HCE 4.1 | History of Science and Technology in India (Honours Core Elective) | Honours Core Elective (HCE) | 4 | Ancient Indian Contributions to Science, Medieval Innovations and Cross-Cultural Exchange, Traditional Technologies and Crafts, Colonial Impact on Indian Science, Post-Independence Scientific Development, Challenges and Future of S&T in India |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HCR 4.3 | Dissertation Writing – II (Honours Core Research) | Honours Core Research (HCR) | 4 | In-depth Data Analysis and Interpretation, Drafting Chapters and Introduction, Conclusion and Summary of Findings, Editing, Proofreading and Formatting, Presentation of Research Findings, Preparation for Viva-Voce Examination |
| HCR 4.4 | Internship / Project Work (Honours Core Research) | Honours Core Research (HCR) | 4 | Practical Application of Historical Knowledge, Fieldwork and Data Collection, Report Writing and Documentation, Engagement with Heritage Institutions/Archives, Skill Development through Practical Exposure, Presentation of Project Outcomes |
| HCE 4.2 | Environmental History of India (Honours Core Elective) | Honours Core Elective (HCE) | 4 | Human-Environment Interaction in Ancient India, Forests and Wildlife through History, Water Management and Agriculture, Colonial Environmental Policies, Environmental Movements in Independent India, Contemporary Environmental Challenges |
