Comprehensive Curriculum Structure for Masters Of Arts Program
The Masters Of Arts program at Mahathi Degree College Visakhapatnam is structured to provide students with a comprehensive academic journey that combines foundational knowledge with advanced specialization and research. The curriculum is designed to be flexible yet rigorous, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests while maintaining a strong foundation in their chosen field.
Course Structure Overview
The program is divided into 4 semesters, with each semester consisting of 6 courses including core subjects, departmental electives, science electives, and laboratory components. The total credit structure for the program is 60 credits, with each course carrying 3-4 credits depending on the nature of the subject and the required laboratory work.
First Semester Courses
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| MA-101 | Research Methodology in Humanities | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| MA-102 | Introduction to Contemporary Literary Theory | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| MA-103 | Academic Writing and Communication | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| MA-104 | Introduction to Cultural Anthropology | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| MA-105 | History of Ideas and Philosophical Approaches | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| MA-106 | Research Lab: Digital Humanities Tools | 0-0-3-1 | None |
Second Semester Courses
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| MA-201 | Advanced Literary Analysis and Criticism | 3-0-0-3 | MA-102 |
| MA-202 | Gender and Identity in Cultural Contexts | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| MA-203 | Comparative Religious Studies | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| MA-204 | Historiography and Historical Methodology | 3-0-0-3 | MA-105 |
| MA-205 | Media and Cultural Analysis | 3-0-0-3 | None |
| MA-206 | Research Lab: Ethnographic Methods | 0-0-3-1 | MA-104 |
Third Semester Courses
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| MA-301 | Special Topics in Digital Humanities | 3-0-0-3 | MA-101 |
| MA-302 | Advanced Research in Cultural Studies | 3-0-0-3 | MA-202 |
| MA-303 | Contemporary Issues in Gender Studies | 3-0-0-3 | MA-202 |
| MA-304 | Advanced Historical Research and Analysis | 3-0-0-3 | MA-204 |
| MA-305 | Research and Thesis Preparation | 3-0-0-3 | MA-101 |
| MA-306 | Research Lab: Data Analysis and Interpretation | 0-0-3-1 | MA-101 |
Fourth Semester Courses
| Course Code | Course Title | Credit Structure (L-T-P-C) | Prerequisites |
|---|---|---|---|
| MA-401 | Master's Thesis Proposal and Development | 3-0-0-3 | MA-305 |
| MA-402 | Advanced Seminar in Literary Theory | 3-0-0-3 | MA-201 |
| MA-403 | Special Topics in Cultural Anthropology | 3-0-0-3 | MA-204 |
| MA-404 | Research and Analysis in Comparative Religion | 3-0-0-3 | MA-203 |
| MA-405 | Thesis Research and Writing | 3-0-0-3 | MA-401 |
| MA-406 | Research Lab: Advanced Digital Humanities | 0-0-3-1 | MA-301 |
Advanced Departmental Elective Courses
Advanced departmental elective courses in the Masters Of Arts program at Mahathi Degree College Visakhapatnam are designed to provide students with in-depth knowledge and specialized skills in their chosen areas of interest. These courses are offered in the second and third semesters and are taught by faculty members with expertise in their respective fields.
Advanced Literary Analysis and Criticism (MA-201)
This course provides students with advanced tools and techniques for literary analysis and criticism. Students engage with complex literary texts from various periods and traditions, examining their formal properties, thematic content, and cultural contexts. The course emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills and the ability to construct sophisticated arguments about literary works.
The learning objectives include the ability to analyze literary texts using various critical approaches, understand the historical development of literary criticism, and engage with contemporary debates in literary studies. Students will also develop skills in academic writing and presentation, preparing them for advanced research and scholarly work.
Course content includes detailed study of major literary works, examination of critical methodologies, and exploration of contemporary theoretical approaches to literary analysis. Students will engage with primary sources, secondary literature, and critical essays to develop their analytical skills.
Gender and Identity in Cultural Contexts (MA-202)
This course explores the intersection of gender, identity, and cultural practices. Students examine how gender roles and identities are constructed, maintained, and transformed within different cultural contexts. The course emphasizes the importance of intersectionality in understanding complex social dynamics.
The learning objectives include understanding the theoretical foundations of gender studies, analyzing the relationship between gender and culture, and examining contemporary issues in gender and identity. Students will also develop skills in critical analysis and research methodology.
Course content includes study of feminist theory, gender and power relations, cultural representations of gender, and contemporary debates in gender studies. Students will engage with diverse theoretical perspectives and apply them to real-world examples and case studies.
Comparative Religious Studies (MA-203)
This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of major religious traditions and their interactions. Students examine the historical development of religious systems, their philosophical foundations, and their contemporary relevance. The course emphasizes comparative methodology and critical analysis.
The learning objectives include understanding the major religious traditions of the world, analyzing religious practices and beliefs, and examining the role of religion in contemporary society. Students will also develop skills in cross-cultural analysis and comparative research.
Course content includes study of major religious traditions, analysis of religious texts and practices, and examination of contemporary issues in religious studies. Students will engage with primary and secondary sources to develop their understanding of religious phenomena.
Historiography and Historical Methodology (MA-204)
This course introduces students to the methods and approaches used in historical research and writing. Students examine the development of historical scholarship, the interpretation of historical sources, and the construction of historical narratives. The course emphasizes critical analysis and the evaluation of historical evidence.
The learning objectives include understanding the principles of historical research, analyzing historical sources, and constructing coherent historical arguments. Students will also develop skills in academic writing and research methodology.
Course content includes study of historical methodology, analysis of primary sources, and examination of major historical debates. Students will engage with various historical periods and develop their skills in historical analysis and interpretation.
Media and Cultural Analysis (MA-205)
This course explores the role of media in shaping cultural narratives and social discourse. Students examine the relationship between media technologies, cultural production, and social change. The course emphasizes contemporary issues including digital media, globalization, and the impact of social media on cultural expression.
The learning objectives include understanding media and cultural relationships, analyzing contemporary media practices, and examining the impact of digital technologies on cultural expression. Students will also develop skills in media literacy and critical analysis.
Course content includes study of media theory, analysis of cultural texts, and examination of contemporary media practices. Students will engage with various media formats and develop their skills in media analysis and cultural interpretation.
Special Topics in Digital Humanities (MA-301)
This course provides students with advanced training in digital humanities methodologies and tools. Students learn to apply computational methods to literary analysis, historical research, and cultural studies. The course emphasizes the integration of traditional humanities approaches with digital technologies.
The learning objectives include understanding digital humanities methodologies, applying computational tools to research, and developing digital scholarship skills. Students will also develop skills in data analysis and interpretation.
Course content includes study of digital humanities tools, application of computational methods to humanities research, and development of digital projects. Students will engage with various digital platforms and develop their skills in digital research and scholarship.
Advanced Research in Cultural Studies (MA-302)
This course provides students with advanced training in cultural studies research methods and approaches. Students examine contemporary cultural phenomena and develop research skills for analyzing complex cultural dynamics. The course emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and critical analysis.
The learning objectives include understanding cultural studies methodologies, analyzing contemporary cultural phenomena, and developing research skills for cultural analysis. Students will also develop skills in academic writing and presentation.
Course content includes study of cultural theory, analysis of contemporary cultural practices, and examination of cultural research methodologies. Students will engage with diverse cultural contexts and develop their skills in cultural analysis and interpretation.
Contemporary Issues in Gender Studies (MA-303)
This course examines contemporary debates and issues in gender studies. Students explore current developments in gender theory, policy, and practice. The course emphasizes the application of gender studies concepts to contemporary social issues.
The learning objectives include understanding contemporary gender issues, analyzing gender policy developments, and applying gender theory to practical contexts. Students will also develop skills in research and critical analysis.
Course content includes study of contemporary gender debates, analysis of gender policy, and examination of gender issues in various contexts. Students will engage with current research and develop their skills in gender analysis and critical thinking.
Advanced Historical Research and Analysis (MA-304)
This course provides students with advanced training in historical research and analysis. Students engage with complex historical sources and develop skills for conducting original historical research. The course emphasizes the development of independent research skills and scholarly writing.
The learning objectives include understanding advanced historical research methods, analyzing complex historical sources, and developing original research skills. Students will also develop skills in academic writing and historical interpretation.
Course content includes study of advanced historical methodologies, analysis of primary sources, and examination of historical research practices. Students will engage with various historical periods and develop their skills in historical research and scholarship.
Research and Thesis Preparation (MA-305)
This course prepares students for the research and thesis components of their Masters Of Arts program. Students develop research proposals, conduct literature reviews, and begin the process of original research. The course emphasizes the development of research skills and the preparation of scholarly work.
The learning objectives include developing research skills, preparing research proposals, and beginning original research. Students will also develop skills in academic writing and presentation.
Course content includes study of research methodologies, development of research proposals, and preparation for thesis writing. Students will engage with various research approaches and develop their skills in scholarly research and writing.
Project-Based Learning Philosophy
The Masters Of Arts program at Mahathi Degree College Visakhapatnam embraces a strong project-based learning philosophy that emphasizes the development of practical research skills and the application of theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts. This approach recognizes that effective learning occurs when students engage actively with their subject matter and develop skills that are directly applicable to their future careers.
The program's approach to project-based learning is structured around both mini-projects and a comprehensive final-year thesis. Mini-projects are undertaken in the second and third semesters, providing students with opportunities to apply their learning to specific research questions and develop their analytical and methodological skills.
The final-year thesis represents the culmination of the student's academic journey, requiring them to conduct original research on a topic of their choosing under the guidance of a faculty mentor. The thesis process involves extensive research, critical analysis, and the presentation of findings to the academic community.
Mini-Projects Structure
Mini-projects in the Masters Of Arts program are designed to be manageable yet substantial research experiences that allow students to develop their skills in a supportive environment. These projects are typically completed in the second semester and involve a focused investigation of a specific topic or question.
Each mini-project is assigned a credit value of 3 credits and requires students to demonstrate their understanding of research methodology, critical analysis, and academic writing. Students work under the guidance of faculty mentors who provide supervision and feedback throughout the project process.
The scope of mini-projects is carefully defined to ensure that students can complete them successfully while gaining meaningful research experience. Projects typically involve a combination of primary research, literature review, and analysis of relevant sources.
Final-Year Thesis/Capstone Project
The final-year thesis represents the most significant component of the Masters Of Arts program's project-based learning approach. Students are expected to conduct original research on a topic of their choosing, demonstrating their ability to engage with complex scholarly issues and contribute original insights to their field.
The thesis process begins in the third semester with the development of a research proposal and continues through the fourth semester with the completion and defense of the final thesis. Students work closely with faculty mentors throughout this process, receiving guidance on research design, methodology, and academic writing.
Thesis topics are selected in consultation with faculty mentors and must align with the student's area of specialization and research interests. The thesis must demonstrate originality, scholarly rigor, and significant contribution to knowledge in the student's field.
Evaluation Criteria
Project-based learning in the Masters Of Arts program is evaluated using a comprehensive set of criteria that assess both the process and the final product. For mini-projects, evaluation focuses on the quality of research, the clarity of analysis, and the effectiveness of communication.
For the final-year thesis, evaluation criteria include the originality of the research, the rigor of the methodology, the depth of analysis, and the quality of academic writing. Students are also evaluated on their ability to present their work effectively and respond to questions from faculty members.
Project Selection and Faculty Mentorship
Students select their mini-projects and thesis topics in consultation with faculty mentors who provide guidance on appropriate research questions and methodologies. The selection process ensures that students choose topics that align with their interests and expertise while also meeting academic standards and research requirements.
Faculty mentors play a crucial role in the project-based learning process, providing ongoing support and supervision throughout the research process. Mentors help students develop their research skills, provide feedback on their work, and ensure that students meet academic standards and deadlines.
The program maintains a strong faculty mentorship system that ensures students receive the support they need to succeed in their research projects. Faculty members are selected based on their expertise in relevant areas and their commitment to student mentorship and guidance.