BA Malayalam: Admission 2025, Syllabus, Eligibility, Subjects, Colleges

• Updated on  Jul 29, 2025, by Pallavi Dubey

A BA Malayalam, is a 3-year graduate course that is divided into 6 semesters. It focuses on the Malayalam language, literature, grammar, history and cultural traditions of Kerala. The curriculum includes classical and modern texts, poetry, drama, criticism and linguistics. The main BA Malayalam subjects include the Common Course (English), Additional Common Course (Malayalam) - Poetics, History of Malayalam Literature, and many more. The course also creates skills in translation, creative writing and effective communication.

 

To be eligible, students will have to pass 10+2 or related exams from a recognized board, with at least 50% of marks. Applicants of any stream- Arts, Science, or Commerce- may apply. Entrance qualification may be merit-based or involve an entrance test or an interview. Some can also assess Malayalam language proficiency during college selection. Few institutions offering this syllabus include C.H.M.K.M. Government Arts and Science College, Kannur University, and University of Calicut. The course fee varies from the type of institution, private or government.

 

Some of the career options include teaching, journalism, translation, publication, or material construction. The graduates may find job opportunities as a Malayalam Teacher, Content Writer, Sub Editor, Content Editor, and many more. With higher education or experience, graduates can explore broader roles in media, research, or civil services.

 

Table of Contents

  1. BA Malayalam Key Highlights
  2. What is BA Malayalam?
  3. Why Study BA Malayalam?
  4. Who Should Study BA Malayalam?
  5. BA Malayalam Eligibility Criteria
  6. BA Malayalam Entrance Exams 2025
  7. BA Malayalam Colleges in India
  8. BA Malayalam Admission Process 2025
  9. BA Malayalam Syllabus
  10. BA Malayalam Job Opportunities in India
  11. BA Malayalam vs BA History
  12. BA Malayalam FAQs

 

BA Malayalam Key Highlights

Below are the key highlights of the BA Malayalam course:

Particulars

Details

Course Name

Bachelor of Arts in Malayalam

Course Level

Undergraduate Course

Duration

3 years (6 semesters)

Course Type

Full-Time

Admission Process

Entrance-Based (CUET UG, NPAT), merit basis 10+2

Eligibility Criteria

Qualified 10 + 2 from a recognized board with minimum 50% of marks

Colleges

C.H.M.K.M. Government Arts and Science College, Kannur University, University of Calicut, Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU), Sreenarayanaguru Open University

Subjects Covered

Common Course (English), Additional Common Course (Malayalam) – Poetics, History of Malayalam Literature, Journalism & Mass Communication, Malayalam Literary Criticism, Translation Theory, Kerala Culture, Theatre Studies

Job Profiles

Malayalam Teacher, Content Writer, Sub Editor, Content Editor, Academic Counsellor, PHD Research Scholar, Customer Support Associate, Telecaller

Job Opportunities At

School of India,T John College, Schoolnet India, St. Marys Convent School, MakeMyTrip, Amazon, Upwork, Oneindia Malayalam, ETV Network, Concentrix Corporation, upGrad, Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University, Tech Mahindra, Accenture, Wipro, PolicyBazaar

Average Salary in India

INR 1 - 8 LPA

 

What is BA Malayalam?

The BA Malayalam is a bachelor's degree focusing on the study of the Malayalam language, literature, and culture. This includes classical texts, modern work, linguistics and literary criticism.

  • The course helps students to develop analytical and communication skills in Malayalam. It is ideal for people who are passionate about regional language and writing.
  • It develops a strong foundation for further studies in linguistics or regional literature.
  • The program also includes the cultural history and folk traditions of Kerala. Graduates can pursue a career in areas related to teaching, journalism, translation or publication.
  • It maintains a balance between literary depth and useful usage of language. This course also encourages creativity through essays, poetry, and literary analysis.

 

Why Study BA Malayalam?

The BA Malayalam course is a UG program which focuses on studying the Malayalam language's, literature, and cultural traditions, and many more. This course prepares students for roles in content writing, translation, publication, and career in regional media. This degree suits people who are passionate about the language, enjoy reading and writing, and are interested in Kerala's literary heritage.

  • A BA in Malayalam is beneficial to Kerala in maintaining and promoting the Malayalam language and culture, which not only promotes a strong sense of community but also forms a connection in the community.
  • The course provides in-depth knowledge of both classical and contemporary Malayalam literature, which enhances the understanding of the regional ideas and expression.
  • It builds skills in fields of reading and analyzing ancient scripts and texts, which are important for archival and translation work.
  • It nurtures creative writing in Malayalam, guiding students to a career in fiction, screenplay and poetry.
  • Students gain the experience of cultural content for museums, programs and literary archives.

 

Who Should Study BA Malayalam?

BA Malayalam is a graduate program focused on the Malayalam language, literature and culture. It suits students interested in writing, teaching, media and translation. Below are a few pointers related to the best-fit candidates who should pursue this course:

  • Students passionate about Malayalam literature can explore poetry, prose, and drama through this syllabus. It helps in creating strong analytical and literary interpretation skills.
  • Those who aim to teach Malayalam in schools or colleges should study this course. It provides the foundation required for academic and teaching careers.
  • Students willing to work in Malayalam journalism can get a strong language command here. This course trains the students for roles in reporting and content creation.
  • Any person who wants to become a translator or interpreter can carry forward with this course. It provides bilingual and translation skills in official roles.
  • Students who want to work in Malayalam publications or editing can pursue this course. It trains in grammar, syntax and quality of the content.

 

BA Malayalam Eligibility Criteria

To pursue a BA Malayalam, the applicant is required to meet certain criteria, without which admission into this course may be difficult. The following are a few eligibility criteria for pursuing the course:

  • Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their class 12 or an equivalent examination from a recognized educational board.
  • Minimum marks: A minimum total score of 50% in 10+2 level is usually required, with a relaxation of 5% for OBC/SC/ST candidates in some institutions.
  • Language proficiency: Candidates should have a basic understanding and proficiency in Malayalam, and some universities may provide preference to those candidates who studied Malayalam in their previous academic session.

 

BA Malayalam Entrance Exams 2025

Students should meet the requirements provided by the concerned institute or college to be eligible for a BA Malayalam. While some colleges might conduct an entrance exam, majority admission is earned in 12th grade. In some situations, the selection process may additionally involve qualification testing or an interview.

Exam Name

Application Date

Exam Date

Application Fee

CUET UG (2026)

4th week of February, 2026 (tentative)

2nd week of May, 2026 (tentative)

INR 1000 - General (UR)

 

INR 900 - OBC-(NCL)-EWS

 

INR 800 - SC/ ST/ PwBD/ Third Gender

 

INR 4500 - Centre Outside India

NPAT (2026)

1st week of December, 2025 (tentative)

4th week of May, 2026 (tentative)

INR 2000 - 7000

 

BA Malayalam Colleges in India

Here are some of the top colleges that offer this course.

College Name

Mode Of Delivery

Location

Total Course Fees (Approx.)

Admission Process

C.H.M.K.M. Government Arts and Science College

Regular

Kozhikode, Kerala

-

Based on 10+2 examination

Kannur University

Regular

Kannur, Kerala

INR 5,925

Based on the marks obtained in 10+2

University of Calicut

Regular, Online, Distance

Thenhipalam, Kerala

INR 4,620

Based on the marks obtained in 10+2

Mahatma Gandhi University (MGU)

Regular and Online

Kottayam, Kerala

INR 5,775

Based on the marks obtained in 10+2

Sreenarayanaguru Open University

Distance Learning

Kureepuzha, Kerala

INR 17,630

Based on merit

 

BA Malayalam Admission Process 2025

The following procedures are a part of the admission process to pursue a BA in Malayalam course at Kannur University:

 

Step 1: Go to the admission portal: Visit to the official website admission.kannuruniversity.ac.in. This is the entry point for all UG entry activities.

 

Step 2: Choose UG Entrance: Click on the "UG Admission" section on the homepage. This will direct you to the options of the graduation program.

 

Step 3: Apply now: Choose "Apply now" under the program. This starts your application process for the course.

 

Step 4: Registration: Enter all the required details, including your name, email address, and mobile number. You will get an application number and password after this step.

 

Step 5: Login: Use the provided credentials to log in to the entrance portal. This application will reach the form.

 

Step 6: Fill the application form: Enter the exact individual, educational and contact details. Make sure all the information is verified before proceeding.

 

Step 7: Upload the document: Upload all the scanned copies of your photo, signature and relevant documents. Including your age proof and educational certificates as required.

 

Step 8: Pay registration fee: Pay the online application fee using SBI Epay Payment Gateway. Keep the payment receipt for the future reference.

 

Step 9: Submit and print: Re-check the filled form, then submit it online, and print a copy of the form. This will act as proof of your application submission.

 

Required Documents

  • Fee Payment Proof
  • Qualifying Exam Mark Sheets
  • Date of Birth Proof
  • Transfer Certificate
  • Conduct Certificate
  • Nativity Proof
  • Passport-size Photographs (6 copies)
  • ID Proof

The admission process may vary according to colleges.

 

BA Malayalam Syllabus

Colleges offering BA in Malayalam usually follow a common academic structure with slight variations. The program typically includes Malayalam literature, grammar, linguistics, literary criticism, and cultural studies, providing a broad understanding of the language and its heritage.

 

Some of the BA Malayalam subjects that are covered under the curriculum by Kannur University are as follows:

Semester I

Semester II

Common Course (English) I

Common Course (English) III

Common Course (English) II

Common Course (English) IV

Additional Common Course (Malayalam) - Literary Forms

Additional Common Course (Malayalam) - Poetics

Core - Malayalam - History of Malayalam Literature - Ancient to Medieval

Core - Malayalam - History of Malayalam Literature - Modern Period

Complementary - Malayalam - Linguistics - Theory - Part I - Introduction to Linguistics

Complementary - Journalism & Mass Communication

 

Title: Introduction to Mass Communication

Semester III

Semester IV

Common Course (English) V

Common Course (English) VI

Additional Common Course (Malayalam) - Environmental Studies

Additional Common Course (Malayalam) - Regional Literature

Core - Malayalam - Malayalam Literary Criticism

Core - Malayalam - Travel Literature

Core - English - Creative Writing

Core - Malayalam - Drama - Modern Theatre

Complementary - Journalism & Mass CommunicationTitle: Print Media Practice

Complementary - Malayalam Studies

Semester V

Semester VI

Translation Studies

Folklore

Travel Literature

Media Studies

Novel Literature

Comparative Literature

Contemporary Poetry and Criticism

Translation Theory

Kerala Culture

Project

Theatre Studies

-

Elective

First Complementary Elective : Malayalam

Second Complementary Elective ; Journalism & Mass Communication

Generic Elective Course : History

 

BA Malayalam Job Opportunities in India

Graduates can work in teaching, publication, media, translation and cultural research. Schools, publication homes, media channels and many more hire them. This course creates a deep understanding of the Malayalam language, literature and heritage, which strengthens both analytical and linguistic skills.

Job Title

Experience Level

Recruiters

Average Salary

Malayalam Teacher

-

School of India,T John College, Schoolnet India, St. Marys Convent School

INR 1 - 4 LPA

Content Writer

-

MakeMyTrip, Amazon, Upwork

INR 4 - 5 LPA

Sub Editor

1 - 3 years

Oneindia Malayalam

INR 2 - 4 LPA

Content Editor

1 - 5 years

ETV Network, Concentrix Corporation

INR 2 - 4 LPA

Academic Counsellor

1 year

upGrad

INR 5 - 8 LPA

PHD Research Scholar

-

Thunchath Ezhuthachan Malayalam University

INR 2 - 3 LPA

Customer Support Associate

0 - 5 years

Tech Mahindra, Accenture, Wipro

INR 2 - 5 LPA

Telecaller

-

PolicyBazaar

INR 2 - 5 LPA

 

BA Malayalam vs BA History

BA in Malayalam focuses on the study of Malayalam language, literature, and cultural expression, making it ideal for careers in teaching, publishing, and media. However, BA History is more analysis-driven, exploring past civilizations, events, and historical patterns, making it better suited for roles in research, archaeology, and civil services.

Parameter

BA Malayalam

BA History

Focus

Language, literature, and cultural heritage of Kerala

Study of historical events, civilizations, and timelines

Core Subjects

Malayalam grammar, poetry, drama, literary criticism, linguistics

Ancient, medieval, and modern Indian/world history, historiography

Approach

Literary and language-based

Analytical and research-based

Skill Emphasis

Communication, interpretation, translation, and writing skills

Critical thinking, analysis, research, and documentation skills

Career Paths

Teaching, publishing, media, translation, content writing

Civil services, teaching, research, museum and archival work

Job Opportunities

Journalist, translator, editor, language teacher, content writer

Historian, archivist, researcher, history teacher, government roles

Average Salary

Moderate; depends on writing, teaching, or media roles

Varies; can be higher in civil services or academic research

Use of Language

Malayalam (primary medium of study)

English and regional languages for source analysis and writing

 

BA Malayalam FAQs

Is a BA Malayalam useful for the Civil Services?

Yes, the course is useful, especially for those candidates who opt for Malayalam literature as an optional subject in UPSC or State Civil Services. The program creates strong analytical and writing skills. Knowledge of regional language is also beneficial in the roles of local administration.

Can a candidate pursue an MA after completing a BA Malayalam?

Yes, it is possible to pursue an MA in Malayalam or related subjects such as cultural studies, comparative literature, or linguistics. A career in teaching, research and academics has all been made possible with MA. For research and expertise, many students choose this.

What is the medium of instruction in BA Malayalam?

The primary medium of instruction is Malayalam, especially in regional colleges. Some theoretical parts can be explained in English on the basis of the institution. Assignments and examinations are usually in Malayalam.

What are the BA Malayalam jobs that the graduates can opt for?

The candidates have the opportunity to work as a news presenter, reporter, screenwriter, Network editor, lecturer, researcher, and content creator on the Malayalam Televisions, radio, newspapers, and the online media.

Which are the BA Malayalam government jobs that the graduates can get?

The BA Malayalam graduates have an opportunity to work in both school and colleges as teaching staff, the government departments as administrative staff, cultural organizations and in the posts where fluency in the language Malayalam is the mandatory qualification particularly in Kerala.

Can I opt for the BA Malayalam distance education?

Yes, there are various colleges that offer online course. The flexible method of studying the BA Malayalam distance education will enable a learner to complete a degree in the field of Malayalam language and literature of the distance learning University without the need to attend regular course in a University campus. The advantage of it is that it lets the candidates learn at their speed, irrespective of location.

Can a non-Malayalam speaker apply for the BA in Malayalam course?

Technically, yes, but it is only recommended when the student has a basic understanding of Malayalam. The coursework includes reading and analyzing complex literary texts. Lack of language proficiency can lead to facing challenges.

Does a BA Malayalam require computer knowledge?

Basic computer skills are beneficial for typing, research, and online submissions. Some universities offer alternative courses in Digital Malayalam or Media Tools. It increases employment in the media and publication.

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