BA (Hons.) - History

The BA (Hons.) History program offered by UPES School of Liberal Studies is a comprehensive four-year undergraduate course designed to provide students with a profound understanding of the History of Modern and Contemporary South Asia, Global History, Intellectual Histories of the South, and the History and Philosophy of Science, Medicine, and Technology. The curriculum is carefully structured to ensure that graduates emerge with a specialised knowledge of South Asian pasts and possess the academic rigour required to produce innovative research.

The BA (Hons.) History program places a strong emphasis on holistic training in empirical historical research practices, preparing students for diverse career paths such as researchers, academics, administrators, and policymakers. Encompassing ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary periods, the curriculum offers hands-on training to equip students with the skills necessary for their future roles. A unique aspect of the program is its commitment to fostering a 'just and sustainable future' through the exploration of public and applied histories.

To enhance the linguistic capabilities of students, the program requires them to learn one modern Indian language and one European language. This language proficiency is a valuable asset for those pursuing a second major in an allied discipline. The faculty members leading the program are renowned academics with global standing in their respective subjects. These educators, trained at leading universities worldwide, bring a wealth of expertise to the classroom, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education. Additionally, the program recognizes the evolving landscape of historical studies and places importance on imparting skills in heritage conservation and policymaking, preparing graduates for the challenges of the changing world of history.

• The BA (Hons.) History program emphasizes evidence-based research practices, providing students with a solid foundation in historical methodologies.
• A specialised mentoring program assists students applying for MA and PhD programs in the world's top 250 universities, aligning with application deadlines and ensuring comprehensive guidance.
• Faculty collaboration with UPES career services ensures continuous mentorship for students not pursuing academia, assisting them in securing industry-specific roles.
• The BA (Hons.) History program culminates in a fourth-year original archival-field-based research thesis, followed by an industry fellowship, leading to an internationally recognized BSc degree.
• Eighth-semester placements in Vidhan Sabhas, State Archives, NGOs, Embassies, Thinktanks, and Museums provide students practical experience in various sectors.
• The Archival Ideation Lab at UPES offers specialised training in original research methods, and housing documents from the eighteenth century to contemporary times, providing unique resources not available elsewhere.

The BA (Hons.) History program offers graduates a comprehensive understanding of Indian History, emphasizing empirical research methodologies and the ability to connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications. Through multilingual training and exposure to diverse data sets and archival sources, students are prepared for research on multilingual South Asian histories. This program fosters a comparative orientation, enabling graduates to address socio-political and economic challenges with insightful solutions. Equipped with the skills to conduct applied history research and teach within academia, as well as engage in public history for the broader community, students completing the BA (Hons.) History program are well-positioned for diverse and impactful career opportunities in the field of history.

The BA (Hons.) History program at the School of Liberal Studies opens up diverse career opportunities for students. Praxis and solution-based learning prepare them for roles in the private sector, industry, policy-based government, and non-governmental think tanks. With hands-on training and faculty mentoring, graduates can secure MA/PhD positions globally. The program's in-depth focus on South Asian history makes it an excellent choice for aspiring civil servants. Students are equipped for archival research roles in public and private sector institutions, journalism, media houses, and research-driven policy organizations. Language training in Indian and European languages fosters global citizenship, making graduates suitable for international institutions like the UN, UNICEF, World Bank, and those focused on emerging economies. Historians trained in this program are well-suited for employment in future-oriented private sector institutions specialising in archiving and repositories.

The BA (Hons.) History program offered by UPES provides students with a unique and comprehensive academic experience, preparing them for diverse career opportunities. The university's strong emphasis on practical exposure and industry relevance ensures that students are well-equipped with the skills needed in the real world. With a dedicated placement cell, UPES facilitates excellent placement opportunities for its History graduates. The program's curriculum is designed to instill critical thinking, research, and analytical skills, making graduates highly sought after in various sectors such as education, research, journalism, and cultural organizations. UPES's strong industry connections and collaborative approach with leading organizations contribute to a high placement rate, showcasing the program's success in preparing students for successful and fulfilling careers in the field of history.

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Interested students must fulfill the prescribed minimum eligibility requirements for BA (Hons.) History: 50% in 10th & 12th Any Stream.

The criteria for selecting students interested in enrolling in the BA (Hons.) History program at UPES relies on the individual's performance in Personal Interview/ Valid SAT Score /CUET.

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