MGU BA (History) FAQs
Ques. Is History as a subject in Plus Two required for admission to BA History at MGU?
Ans. No, having History as a subject in Plus Two is not a mandatory requirement for admission to BA History at MGU-affiliated colleges. Admission is based on overall Plus Two marks through the CAP process. Students from both Science and Humanities streams can apply. However, students who have studied History or Social Science at the Plus Two level will find the transition to degree-level History studies smoother, as the course builds on foundational historical knowledge.
Ques. What career options are available after BA History from MGU?
Ans. Graduates of BA History have a wide range of career options. The most popular path is civil services - History is one of the most chosen optional subjects for UPSC Civil Services Mains, and BA History provides a strong foundation. Other options include teaching in schools (after B.Ed and K-TET/CTET), college lecturing (after MA History and UGC NET), archaeology and museum curation, journalism, and research. Graduates can also work in heritage tourism, archival services, and cultural organizations.
Ques. Can I pursue MA History at MGU after completing BA History from an affiliated college?
Ans. Yes, BA History graduates from MGU-affiliated colleges are eligible to apply for MA History at MGU's School of Social Sciences or through affiliated PG colleges. The eligibility typically requires a minimum of 50% marks in Part III (core) subjects in the BA degree. Admission to MA History at MGU is through the CAT-MGU entrance examination conducted by the university each year. After MA History, graduates can pursue PhD in History or appear for UGC NET to become college lecturers.
Ques. Is BA History a good choice for UPSC Civil Services preparation?
Ans. Yes, BA History is widely considered one of the best undergraduate choices for UPSC Civil Services aspirants. History is the most popular optional subject in UPSC Mains, and the BA History curriculum at MGU covers ancient, medieval, and modern Indian history in depth, which directly overlaps with the UPSC History optional syllabus. Students should supplement their degree studies with standard UPSC reference books and current affairs preparation. Many successful IAS officers have had a History background.
Ques. What is the scope of archaeology and heritage management after BA History from MGU?
Ans. After BA History, students can pursue MA in Archaeology or Heritage Management from institutions like Deccan College (Pune), Banaras Hindu University, or Jawaharlal Nehru University. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) recruits Junior Research Fellows and Assistant Archaeologists through competitive examinations. Kerala has a rich archaeological heritage, and the Kerala Council for Historical Research (KCHR) also offers research opportunities. Students interested in this field should also consider appearing for the UPSC Combined Geo-Scientist and Geologist Examination.
Ques. How does the BA History programme at MGU differ from BA Political Science or BA Sociology?
Ans. BA History focuses on the study of past events, civilizations, and their impact on the present, with a strong emphasis on primary sources, historiography, and chronological analysis. BA Political Science, on the other hand, focuses on political systems, governance, international relations, and political theory. BA Sociology studies society, social institutions, and human behavior. While all three are popular choices for civil services aspirants, History is particularly valued for its analytical and narrative writing skills, which are crucial for UPSC Mains essay and GS papers. Students should choose based on their interest and the optional subject they plan to take in competitive exams.
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