Department of Literary and Cultural Studies
Course Structure
for
M.A. English (Semesters I – IV)
Academic Session 2025–2027
This document outlines the comprehensive syllabus and course structure for the Master of Arts (M.A.) in English programme at the Department of Literary and Cultural Studies, Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab. The curriculum is designed to provide rigorous academic training in literature, cultural theory, and interdisciplinary approaches to English Studies.
The course spans four semesters and integrates:
• Core literature papers across traditional, modern, and contemporary periods
• Critical and cultural theory modules
• Research methodology and academic writing components
• Interdisciplinary and elective courses
• Seminar, project, and dissertation requirements
The programme emphasizes critical thinking, research depth, theoretical grounding, and engagement with global as well as Indian literary and cultural frameworks, aligned with contemporary academic and NEP standards.
Programme: M.A. English
Duration: Four Semesters (Two Years)
Proposed Seats: 40
Eligibility : Merit based on UG course
About RGNUL
The Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law (RGNUL), Punjab, was established by the State Legislature of Punjab by passing the Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab Act, 2006 (Punjab Act No. 12 of 2006). The University is committed to promoting legal education and research, to advance and disseminate “instructional, research, and extension facilities in the teaching of English and Literatures in India” as well as “to take appropriate measures for interdisciplinary studies and research in Literary and Cultural Studies, and to develop critical intercultural understanding of civilizations. providing a platform for intellectual exchange, and contributing to national development through its academic initiatives. Accredited with an ‘A’ grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), RGNUL is among the top-ranked law schools in India. The University remains steadfast in its mission to provide an environment conducive to innovative research and quality legal education.
Vision of Department
The Department, as a part of national institution with a global outlook, aspires to achieve excellence in the humanities, with a special focus on languages, literatures, and cultures.
Mission of Department
The University believes in advancing knowledge through innovative training, research and education in English, in the fields of teacher education and production of pedagogic materials, literature, language sciences, philosophy, and interdisciplinary humanities that includes collaboration with institutions of international excellence. The long-term goals of the University encompass the development of language proficiency tests and the promotion of critical intercultural understanding of civilizations. The University is committed to providing students with opportunities for holistic development, creating a gender-sensitive, differently-abled friendly environment, and promoting a sense of social responsibility among students. The objectives of the University are to bring quality education in the disciplines and subdisciplines of English within the reach of all Indian and international students.
Objectives
● To provide instruction on par with international standards in the humanities to enable students to compete nationally and globally.
● To train language teachers in methods and approaches appropriate to the Indian and global contexts.
● To produce innovative teaching and learning materials in both print and electronic media.
● To upgrade and promote research and knowledge of the faculty by providing opportunities for improvement, and by the extension of logistic support.
● To provide international exposure to students through exchange programmes, collaborative research projects, and joint degrees with leading foreign universities.
● To create an able and skilled workforce for the industry and research talent for the country.
● To facilitate a holistic development of students through curricular and extracurricular activities including interaction with eminent personalities.
● To create a gender-sensitive environment.
● To create a conducive environment for the differently-abled.
● To inculcate social responsibility in students through extension activities and participation in community life.
● To expand its outreach globally through Open Educational Resources. To offer consultancy services along with attractive and innovative curricular programmes.
● To harness digital technologies in academic programmes and in administration, in tune with the changing times.