Overview 

The discipline of History has been one of the most dynamic and evolving ones in the last quarter of a century. There has been a shift towards an interdisciplinary approach which has led to the development of new, richer understanding of the past and the present it shapes and informs around us. History and historical research have been enhanced by integrating knowledge and methods from other specialized disciplines like anthropology, sociology, political science, public policy, economics and developmental studies. This approach, which transcends single subject theories and methodologies, fosters innovation and a more informed study of our past and its various political, cultural, economic and social processes at large.

The efficacy of multidisciplinary approach has led students of History to not only go on to research and teach their subject but also develop transferable skills that can be used in diverse fields like public sector governance and policymaking, civil services, law, journalism, development sector, marketing, communications, publishing and media among others. With the knowledge, skills and competencies acquired by students of History, they have gone on to work as researchers, educators, archivists, curators and as civil servants, lawyers, policy professionals, copyeditors, communication managers, HR specialists, marketing experts and entrepreneurs.

Teaching and Learning

The Department uses innovative methods of teaching- learning to cover complexities and different aspects of History. This includes experiential and participative learning through group discussions, field trips, project presentations, dissertations and research papers. The department follows a robust tutorial system where the students are expected to attend their weekly discussions with their tutors to develop a more in- depth understanding of the subject. As part of the requirements of the UGCF- NEP 2022, Continuous Assessment of the students forms an integral part of the teaching learning process, whereby tutorial discussions, presentations, and student seminars have become essential. The use of the audiovisual-based learning media has been an established practice to enhance the classroom experience of the students. In addition to the classroom teaching, students are also encouraged to participate in the activities of the History Society. They organize walks around various historical monuments and localities in Delhi city. The Department and the Society also organize annual field trips to places and sites of historical significance around the country. The History Society also hosts seminars and talks by eminent scholars and experts.

Through efficient lectures, regular classroom interactions, rigorous tutorial discussions, and all- round and sensitive mentoring, the department endeavors to prepare its students with historical knowledge and skills, along with an inclusive perspective, civic sense and social responsibility. Since the founding of St Stephen’s College in 1881, its History Department has drawn from, as well as contributed to, the core values and long-standing ethos of the institution. We strive to pursue excellence and sound learning while abiding and upholding the values of equality, social justice, fellowship and service. With a dedicated teaching faculty that is committed to research and publications in a wide range of areas, and an impressive group of alumni who are high achievers in all walks of life, the department offers a welcoming, nurturing environment for its students to grow as scholars and humane citizens of the world.

Course Structure

The Department of History follows the UGCF four- year program as stipulated by the University of Delhi. The department aims to cater to the varying degrees of interest of the students as well as offer courses that will help in their comprehensive intellectual and skill development. Along with the traditional core history courses that span time and space- both geographical and mental, the department offers specialized courses based on interdisciplinary themes such as gender, urban and area studies, popular culture and ethics. The past is explored in different ways as demonstrated by the historical approaches and source materials used in the lecture and tutorial discussions which combine themes and practices of various disciplines. History is viewed through the lens of politics, culture, society and economy. Many Skill enhancement courses are offered that foster skills useful in their professional lives- such as Understanding Archives and Museums, Manuscriptology, Ancient Indian Gastronomy and a course on Personality Development and Communication through which they can develop effective communication techniques and interpersonal skills necessary for their future professional roles. A choice of Generic Elective and Value Addition courses is offered for students from other disciplines where they can learn certain fundamental principles of history and appreciate its utility in their lives. These courses range from those dealing with the history of Delhi, twentieth century world, Gandhian thought, Ethics in values in ancient Indian civilization and fundamental duties and constitutional values.

The papers offered in the first three years of study prepare students interested in writing undergraduate and dissertations/ academic projects/Entrepreneurship// translation in the fourth year. Students are encouraged to discuss with faculty members and develop their areas of interest. A course on Research Methodology where fundamentals of historical methods are taught to students helps prepare them for what lies ahead.

Career Progression/Scope

The History Department at St Stephen’s College seeks to provide the theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for our students to mature into historysensitive scholars and individuals who can take their place as responsible citizens in our society. As one of the founding departments of the college, it is also one of the largest in the institution. Those who have graduated from this department have excelled in their chosen fields and have become leaders in our society, be it in academia, politics, bureaucracy, media and sports. Particularly, our alumni over the decades have kept the long-standing tradition of excelling in the Civil Services. They have regularly received prestigious scholarships and fellowships like Rhodes, INLAKS, Felix and Commonwealth to pursue path-breaking research in universities like Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Princeton, Chicago, Leiden, Heidelberg etc.