MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology is a postgraduate degree that explores the study of India's history, including historical occurrences, cultures, and artifacts from ancient periods. The course duration is usually 2 years; however, in a few institutions it is 3 years.
The eligibility criteria for the MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology is to have a Bachelor’s degree in Ancient Indian History & Archaeology or a related discipline such as History, Archaeology, or others.
The average course fee for studying an MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology ranges between INR 5,000-1,00,000. Some of the reputed institutions are Banaras Hindu University, K.J. Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies, St. Xavier’s College, University of Madras, University of Lucknow, Annamalai University, Vikram University, Awadhesh Pratap Singh University, Jiwaji University, and others.
MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology graduates can work as Archaeologists, Conservation Architects, Museum Curators, Heritage Managers, Writers, Archivists, History Teachers, and other roles. They can earn an average salary of INR 4-8 LPA, depending on the job role and experience.
- MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Course Highlights
- Why Study MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology?
- MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Eligibility Criteria
- MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Entrance Exams
- MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Colleges and Fees
- MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Admission 2025
- MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Syllabus
- MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Jobs and Salary
- MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology FAQs
MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Course Highlights
Given below are some of the basic course details for the MA in Ancient Indian History, culture, and archaeology:
Particulars | Details |
Course Name | Master of Arts in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology (MA AIHA) |
Level of Study | Master’s/P.G |
Duration | 2-3 years |
Eligibility Criteria | Passed a Bachelor’s degree in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology or a related discipline such as History, Archaeology, or others |
Entrance Exams | CUET-PG |
Admission Process | Merit-Based/Entrance-Based |
Average Course Fee | INR 5,000-1,00,000 |
Colleges | Banaras Hindu University, K.J. Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies, St. Xavier’s College, University of Madras, University of Lucknow, Annamalai University, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University, Sri Venkateswara University |
Average Salary | INR 4-8 LPA |
Job Roles | Museum Curator, Archaeologist, Conservation Architect, PGT History, Heritage Manager, Writer, Archivist |
Why Study MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology?
The benefits of studying an MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology are:
- This program provides a comprehensive understanding of India's diverse historical and cultural legacy.
- It equips students with the skills to analyze ancient manuscripts, inscriptions, and archaeological findings.
- The course enhances research abilities through practical experiences such as fieldwork and excavations.
- Enrolling in the MA AIAH opens up career pathways in academia, museums, heritage management, and archaeology.
- This program aids in the preservation and conservation of historic sites and artifacts.
- It fosters the development of analytical and critical thinking skills necessary for historical research.
- It supports interdisciplinary studies by merging history with anthropology and art history.
MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility criteria for doing an MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology are as follows:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Ancient Indian History & Archaeology or a related discipline, such as History, Archaeology, or other,s with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognised university.
- Few institutions also take candidates who have a Bachelor’s from any stream but have a diploma in Ancient Indian History & Archaeology or History.
- Candidates may have to qualify for entrance examinations depending on the selection criteria of the institution offering the course.
MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Entrance Exams
The entrance exam for doing an MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology is given below:
Entrance Exam | Level | Registration Date (Tentative) | Exam Date (Tentative) | Application Fee |
CUET-PG 2025 | National | Jan-Feb 2026 | Mar- Apr 2026 | INR 1400 (UR)
INR 1200 (OBC/EWS)
INR 1100 (SC/ST) |
MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Colleges and Fees
Some of the reputed institutions in India offering the MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology course are listed below:
College | Course Fee |
Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi | INR 5,120 |
K.J. Somaiya Institute of Dharma Studies, Mumbai | INR 1,00,000 |
St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai | INR 72,510 |
University of Madras, Chennai | INR 13,770 |
Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati | INR 16,320 |
University of Lucknow, Hasnaganj | INR 16,280 |
Vikram University, Ujjain | INR 8,500 |
Awadhesh Pratap Singh University, Rewa | INR 9,000 |
Jiwaji University, Gwalior | INR 14,580 |
Pt. Ravishanakar Shukla University, Raipur | INR 10,000 |
Annamalai University, Cuddalore | INR 8,500 |
Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University, Ayodhya | INR 10,900 |
MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Admission 2025
The admission process for the MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology at Banaras Hindu University is given below:
- Candidates must register for the CUET-PG entrance exam on the NTA website.
- While filling up the CUET-PG form, make sure to select BHU and appear in the test for the PG programs of BHU.
- Candidates who will qualify for the entrance exam as per the cut-off will be shortlisted for interview.
- The final selection will be based on the performance of the candidates in the interview, marks scored in CUET-PG, and past academic performance.
- The selected candidates will have to go through document verification after which only they will be allowed to register for the MA course.
- During the registration process at BHU, candidates will be required to pay the registration fee or admission fee as instructed by the institution.
- After paying the fee, the seat will be finally allotted to the candidate, and they can start their academic journey at BHU when the new session begins.
MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Syllabus
The syllabus for the MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology at Banaras Hindu University is given below:
Semester-1 | Semester-2 |
Political History of India (Circa 600 B.C. - 300 A.D.) | Political History of North India (Circa 750 A.D. - 12th Century A.D.) |
Political History of India (Circa 300 A.D.- 750 A.D.) | Political History of South India (Circa 750 A.D. - 13th Century A.D.) |
Historical Geography of Ancient India | Main Currents of Ancient Indian History |
Cultural Heritage of Varanasi | Indian Culture and Human Values |
History and Elements of Indian Archaeology | Protohistoric and Early Historic Cultures of India |
Prehistoric Cultures of India | Survey of Archaeological Remains |
Semester-3 | Semester-4 |
Ancient Indian Religions: Vedic and Purānic Religion | Ancient Indian Social Life and Institutions |
Ancient Indian Religions: Śramanic-Jainism and Buddhism | Ancient Indian Economic Life and Institutions |
History of Ancient Indian Literature | Cultural Anthropology |
History of the Museum and Collection | Museum Administration & Management |
Museum Education and Public Relations | Practical |
Semester-5 | Semester-6 |
Early Indian Art and Architecture (From Beginning to Gupta Period) | Ancient Indian Polity and Administration |
Art and Architecture of Early Medieval India | Ancient Indian Palaeography and Epigraphy |
Concept and Methods of History Writing in Ancient India | Ancient Indian Numismatics |
India's Cultural Contact with the Outside World | Ancient Civilizations (Bronze Age to Iron Age) |
Early History of India (From the Origin of Man to the Development of Jana and Janapadas) | Principles and Methods of Archaeology |
Legal Institutions in Ancient India | History of Science and Technology in Ancient India |
A History of Indian Philosophical Thought | A History of Western Philosophical Thought |
MA Ancient Indian History and Archaeology Jobs and Salary
A few of the jobs and salaries available on job portals like Indeed and Naukri.com for MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology graduates are listed below:
Job Title | Recuiter | Experience | Average Salary |
Museum Curator | House of MG | 1-2 years | INR 3-4 LPA |
PGT History | Lotus Petal Foundation | 2-3 years | INR 4-6 LPA |
Archaeologist | ASI | 3-4 years | INR 5-8 LPA |
Conservation Architect | Shri Sai Enterprises | 3-4 years | INR 6-7 LPA |
MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology FAQs
What are the main skills acquired from an MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology course?
This program cultivates research, analytical, and interpretative abilities by examining historical documents, inscriptions, and artifacts. It also improves practical skills through archaeological digs and site evaluations.
What type of hands-on training or fieldwork is included in an MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology course?
The program features archaeological field surveys, excavations, and practical experience in artifact conservation. Students may also engage in museum documentation and site visits for experiential learning.
Are there chances for research projects during the MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology program?
Yes, students are encouraged to pursue independent research projects often related to archaeological discoveries or historical documents. Many universities also provide opportunities for dissertation work that is based on primary sources.
Is prior knowledge of ancient languages necessary for the MA in Ancient Indian History and Archaeology course?
Some universities incorporate languages like Sanskrit, Prakrit, or Brahmi into the curriculum to assist in understanding inscriptions and texts. However, previous knowledge is not always essential, as introductory training is offered.
