MA History (MAH) Distance Mode
MA History (MAH) Distance Mode
(Master of Arts in History)
Earning a postgraduate degree in History in distance mode from Jamia Millia Islamia gives you the flexibility to study from home while building a recognised qualification. Whether you are a working professional, a recent graduate, or someone returning to academics, the MA History in distance mode fits around your schedule without giving up your current commitments.
This guide covers everything you need to know: course structure, eligibility, syllabus, fees, and top universities offering this program in India.
MA History Course Overview
MA History (MAH) is a two-year postgraduate program offered through Open Distance Learning (ODL) and online modes by several UGC-recognised universities across India. The program builds your understanding of historical thought, research methodology, Indian history, and global history across different time periods.
The program covers ancient civilisations, medieval periods, modern movements, and research methodologies. It suits graduates from Arts, Humanities, or Social Sciences backgrounds, as well as graduates from other disciplines who have an interest in historical studies.
All distance mode MA History programs are governed and approved by the University Grants Commission Distance Education Bureau (UGC-DEB). You can verify the recognition status of any distance program at the official UGC-DEB portal:
Highlights
- Program Name: MA History (MAH)
- Mode: Open Distance Learning (ODL) / Online Learning (OL)
- Program Type: Postgraduate Degree
- Duration: 2 Years (Minimum), 4 Years (Maximum)
- Structure: 4 Semesters
- Medium of Instruction: English / Hindi (varies by university)
- Recognition: UGC-DEB, Government of India
- Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university
Learning Approach
Distance mode MA History programs follow a structured self-study model. Universities deliver learning through:
- Self-Learning Material (SLM) sent to enrolled students
- Semester-end assignments for internal assessment
- Academic counselling sessions held at regional study centers
- Workshops and seminars for practical exposure
- A research dissertation or project in the final semester
Universities including Jamia Millia Islamia provide support to students through counseling sessions, career guidance, and study material, with resources accessible 24/7 as per the comfort of the student.
MA Education Course Duration & Eligibility
Duration
- Minimum Duration: 2 Years
- Maximum Duration: 4 Years (up to 5 years at select universities)
- Structure: 4 Semesters (2 per year)
The duration of the course is 2 years, but universities provide flexibility to complete it in a maximum of 4 years. This lets you manage education alongside work or personal responsibilities.
Eligibility
- A Bachelor’s degree (10+2+3 pattern) in any discipline from a UGC-recognized university
- Candidates need a bachelor’s degree in any field from a recognized university with at least 45% to 50% marks.
- No prior background in History is mandatory at most universities
- Graduates from Arts, Science, Commerce, or any other stream are eligible to apply
- There is no age limit for applying, making it accessible to both fresh graduates and working professionals.
MA History Course Syllabus
The MA History syllabus covers Indian history, world history, historiography, research methods, and specialised topics. Core subjects include Medieval Indian History, Ancient Indian History, Modern Indian History, Historiography, World History, and Research Methodology. The exact paper titles differ across universities, but the broad structure is consistent.
Below is a representative semester-wise syllabus based on the curriculum followed by major open universities:
| SEMESTER I | SEMESTER II | SEMESTER III | SEMESTER IV |
|---|---|---|---|
| Historiography and Philosophy of History | History of India: Modern Period | History of Europe: Modern Period | Contemporary World History (Post-1945) |
| History of India: Ancient Period | History of the World: 19th and 20th Century | Colonialism and Nationalism in India | Regional History of India |
| History of India: Medieval Period | Economic and Social History of India | History of Ideas and Intellectual Traditions | Advanced Historiography |
| History of the World: Early Modern Period | History of South Asia | Elective Paper II (specialization area) | Elective Paper III (specialization area) |
| Research Methodology in Historical Studies | Elective Paper I (varies by university) | Dissertation Synopsis Preparation | Dissertation Submission and Viva-Voce |
Important Notes:
- Each semester carries theory papers with external and internal assessment components
- Most papers follow a 75 (external exam) + 25 (internal assignment) evaluation pattern
- The dissertation in Semester IV requires original research under a supervisor assigned by the university
- Some universities offer a choice of specialization in areas such as Ancient Indian History, Modern European History, or South Asian Studies
MA History Course Fees
The fee structure of MA History distance programs is budget-friendly and affordable. Fees vary across universities. The table below gives an approximate range based on current data:
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | Rs. 7,200 to Rs. 15,000 per year |
| Total Program Fee | Rs. 14,400 to Rs. 30,000 (approx.) |
| Application / Registration Fee | Rs. 300 to Rs. 1,000 |
Additional charges such as exam fees, late fees, or study material charges may apply. Always check the latest prospectus on the official university website before paying any fee.
Top Universities Offering MA History (Distance Mode)
| University Name | Location | Approx. Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) | New Delhi | Rs. 8,000 per year (Source: IGNOU Samarth Portal) |
| Delhi University School of Open Learning (DU SOL) | New Delhi | Rs. 6,000 to Rs. 12,000 per year |
| Netaji Subhas Open University (NSOU) | Kolkata, West Bengal | Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 10,000 per year |
| Karnataka State Open University (KSOU) | Mysuru, Karnataka | Rs. 14,500 (approx.) per year |
| Tamil Nadu Open University (TNOU) | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Rs. 2,025 to Rs. 7,300 per year |
| Annamalai University, Directorate of Distance Education | Annamalainagar, Tamil Nadu | Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 11,000 per year |
| Vardhman Mahaveer Open University (VMOU) | Kota, Rajasthan | Rs. 12,100 to Rs. 18,000 per year |
| Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Open University (BRAOU) | Hyderabad, Telangana | Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 8,000 per year |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pursue MA History in distance mode without a History background at the undergraduate level?
Yes. Most UGC-DEB approved universities do not require a prior background in History. The basic eligibility is a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 50% marks in any stream from a recognized university. Graduates from Commerce, Science, or any Arts subject are eligible to apply.
Is the MA History distance degree valid for civil services preparation?
Yes. Most MA subjects overlap with the UPSC syllabus, making the degree useful for civil services preparation. You study core areas such as Indian history, world history, and administrative thought that directly support General Studies and optional papers in competitive exams.
What career options are available after MA History through distance mode?
Graduates qualify for teaching positions in schools and colleges, civil service positions in archaeological departments and cultural ministries, and research roles in specialized historical fields. Other career paths include working in museums and cultural heritage, journalism and content writing, government and civil services, archives, and research organizations.
Is there an entrance exam for admission to MA History in distance mode?
There is no entrance exam to qualify for enrollment at most open universities. Admission is done solely based on merit, considering your graduation marks. Some universities do accept CUET PG scores and give preference to CUET candidates, though merit-based seats remain available.
Can I pursue a PhD after completing MA History in distance mode?
Yes. After completing an MA History program, students can pursue a PhD in related disciplines. You also become eligible to appear for the UGC NET (History), which is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and is required for college-level teaching positions.