By Daksh kapoor on 26 Jun 2023
18 mins read
Hello students! Are you thinking about what to study in college? Maybe you're considering a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree but aren't sure what it's all about. Don't worry! This blog is here to help you.
A Bachelor of Arts degree isn't just about painting or writing poems like some people think. It's much more than that. You can study lots of different subjects like Sociology (which is about society), Economics (money and business), Psychology (how the mind works), Literature (books and writing), History (the past), and Political Science (government and politics).
In this blog, we'll talk about all the different courses you can take for a BA degree. We'll explain what they're about, what jobs you can get from them, and why they could be a great choice for you. We'll make it easy to understand, so you won't feel confused, but excited about all the possibilities.
So, whether you're a student who loves to learn or just someone who wants to know more about BA courses, you've come to the right place. Ready to explore and learn more? Let's start your journey toward a BA degree!
Download Virohan myCareer App for Paramedical Courses
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree has long been a popular choice for students after completing their 12th grade. This versatile degree offers a broad foundation of knowledge, allowing students to explore a wide range of subjects such as languages, literature, history, sociology, psychology, and more. The flexibility of a BA course can serve as an excellent launchpad for a variety of career paths.
However, the academic landscape is evolving, and nowadays, students with an arts background in 12th grade have a multitude of other exciting options to consider. One such promising field is the world of paramedical courses. The healthcare industry is expanding rapidly, and the demand for skilled paramedical professionals is on the rise.
Paramedical courses offer a direct entry into the healthcare sector, providing practical skills and vocational training in various specialized areas. These can range from medical lab technology to radiology, from physiotherapy to dialysis technology, and more. The beauty of these courses is that they are designed to equip students with job-oriented skills, leading to substantial employment opportunities right after completion.
Take, for instance, Virohan Institute. It welcomes students from all streams, including arts, and offers an array of paramedical courses. This makes it a feasible and attractive option for those looking to merge their passion for helping others with a stable and rewarding career.
While the BA course continues to be a reliable and beneficial path, the emergence of institutions like Virohan, offering comprehensive paramedical courses, has opened up a new horizon for students after 12th arts. By identifying your interests, evaluating your career goals, and exploring these diverse opportunities, you can make an informed decision about the right course for you after 12th grade. The future is diverse and bright; all it takes is a step in the right direction!
Checkout Paramedical Courses after 12th from any Stream:
| Particulars | Details |
| BA Full Form | Bachelor of Arts |
| BA Course Duration | 3 Years |
| BA Course Eligibility | 50% in class 12th |
| BA Course Admission | Merit-Based and Entrance Exam Based |
| BA Course Fees | INR 10,000 to INR 1,00,000 |
| Bachelor of Arts Courses | BA History, BA English, BA Hindi, BA economics, BA Sociology etc |
| Bachelor of Arts Jobs | Psychiatrist, Historian, Sociologist, Author, Writer etc |
A Bachelor of Arts, often abbreviated as BA, is a type of undergraduate degree program that typically takes three to four years to complete, depending on the country and the specific course of study. "BA Courses" refer to the individual subjects or modules that make up this degree program.
BA degrees are often associated with fields in the humanities, social sciences, liberal arts, fine arts, and other similar disciplines. This can encompass a wide range of subjects.
BA courses typically involve a mix of lectures, seminars, and tutorials. Assessment methods can include written examinations, essays, presentations, and sometimes practical or project work. The purpose of these courses is to provide a broad, well-rounded education, developing critical thinking skills, creativity, and a deep understanding of the human experience.
The choice of BA courses often allows for flexibility and personalization in one's studies. Students might choose to specialize in one area (known as their "major") while also studying other subjects of interest. This can provide a varied and multidisciplinary educational experience.
After graduation, students with a BA degree can pursue a wide variety of careers, or they may choose to continue their studies with a Master's or Doctoral degree. The skills learned in a BA program, such as communication, problem-solving, and analysis, are highly valued in many different fields.
Checkout the Best Courses after 12th Stream Wise:
Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) course can offer a multitude of benefits to students, cultivating a broad skill set and providing a comprehensive understanding of various fields. Here are a few reasons why one might choose to study a BA course:
Diversity and Flexibility: BA courses cover a wide range of subjects such as literature, history, philosophy, sociology, and more. This diversity allows students to explore different fields of interest or focus on a single area, providing both breadth and depth in education.
Development of Transferable Skills: BA courses encourage critical thinking, effective communication, problem-solving, and creativity. These skills are highly transferable and are sought after in many professions, making BA graduates versatile in the job market.
Cultural Understanding: Subjects in the humanities and social sciences, often part of BA courses, encourage understanding of different cultures, societies, and human behaviors. This can foster empathy, cultural awareness, and a global perspective, which are valuable in our increasingly interconnected world.
Preparation for Advanced Studies: A BA degree can serve as a solid foundation for further academic pursuits, such as a Master's or Doctoral degree. It equips students with research skills and in-depth knowledge that can be beneficial for advanced study.
Personal Growth: The exploratory nature of BA courses can contribute to personal growth. They encourage independent thinking, ethical understanding, and appreciation for diverse viewpoints, all of which can enrich one's personal life as much as their professional career.
Career Opportunities: BA degrees can lead to a wide array of career paths, from education, journalism, and law, to business, social work, and the arts. The broad education BA courses provide can open up many doors in the job market.
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree can be an excellent choice for a wide range of individuals. It may particularly appeal to those who:
Have Diverse Interests: Since a BA degree covers a wide array of disciplines, it can be an excellent choice for individuals who have varied interests in humanities, arts, and social sciences. If you enjoy learning about different cultures, historical periods, societal structures, or if you love reading literature or exploring philosophical concepts, a BA might be right for you.
Value Critical Thinking and Creativity: BA courses often focus on developing skills like critical thinking, analysis, and creativity. If you enjoy problem-solving, debating ideas, thinking outside the box, or creating original work, a BA degree could provide an environment that fosters these abilities.
Enjoy Communication: Many BA courses require a good deal of reading, writing, and discussion. If you enjoy expressing your thoughts, engaging in dialogue, and constructing well-articulated arguments, a BA degree can provide ample opportunities to refine these skills.
Are Unsure of Their Career Path: If you're uncertain about your career path, a BA can be a good option. Its broad curriculum can expose you to a variety of fields, potentially helping you discover an area of interest you hadn't considered before. Furthermore, the transferable skills you'll gain are applicable to many careers.
Plan on Further Study: For students who are planning on pursuing higher education such as a master's degree or a PhD, a BA can provide a strong foundational knowledge base. This is particularly true if your goals involve areas typically covered in a BA, like humanities, social sciences, or arts.
Desire a Well-rounded Education: If you value a holistic educational experience that encourages not only the acquisition of specific knowledge but also the development of a well-rounded worldview and diverse skill set, a BA could be a great fit.
Checkout Short term Courses after 12th:
In India, a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree is typically a three-year undergraduate program. It can be pursued as a full-time course or a part-time course, such as through correspondence or distance education, depending on the university.
Moreover, distance learning or part-time BA programs may take longer to complete, as the course work is spread over a longer period to accommodate students who may be working or managing other commitments alongside their studies. It's always best to check the specific duration with the institution you are planning to enroll in, as the structure may vary.
Always be sure to check the specific guidelines of the university or college you are planning to attend for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Checkout Other Courses after 12th Arts:
The cost of pursuing a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of institution (public or private), the specific course or specialization, the country and even the city where the institution is located.
In India, for instance, the fee for a BA course can range anywhere from INR 5,000 to INR 1,00,000 per annum in different colleges. Government or public colleges tend to have lower fees compared to private institutions. Premier institutions may have a higher fee structure due to the quality of education, infrastructure, and opportunities they provide.
It's important to note that these fees typically cover tuition only. Other expenses, such as accommodation, meals, books and supplies, transportation, and other personal expenses, may also need to be factored into the total cost of education.
Scholarships, grants, and financial aid programs are often available to help students manage the cost of a BA degree. These can be based on financial need, academic merit, or other criteria.
Again, for the most accurate and specific information, it's recommended to check directly with the institutions you're interested in attending.
Checkout Fees for other Courses:
Eligibility criteria for a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree can vary somewhat between universities and specific programs. However, the general eligibility requirements in most cases are as follows:
Educational Qualification: Candidates must have completed their 10+2 level of education or equivalent from a recognized educational board. The 10+2 schooling should be in any stream - Science, Commerce, or Arts.
Minimum Marks: Some universities require a minimum percentage of marks at the 10+2 level for admission to a BA course. This percentage can vary between institutions but is typically around 50%.
Entrance Exams: While many colleges admit students based on their marks in the 10+2 examinations, some universities might conduct entrance exams for admission to their BA courses. The nature of these exams can vary greatly from one university to another.
Age Limit: While most universities do not specify an upper age limit for BA admissions, some may have regulations around the minimum age, often requiring candidates to be at least 17 years of age at the time of admission.
Remember, the exact eligibility criteria may vary based on the university and the specific BA program. Always refer to the specific guidelines provided by the particular university or college you are interested in to confirm their eligibility criteria.
The admission process for a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree can vary from one institution to another. However, here is a general idea of what the process may look like in most universities, especially in the context of India:
Eligibility Check: The first step is to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the BA course you're interested in. As mentioned earlier, this usually means that you've completed your 10+2 schooling and obtained the required minimum marks.
Application: Once you've confirmed your eligibility, you'll need to fill out the university's application form. This can often be done online through the university's website. The application will generally ask for your personal details, academic records, and perhaps your areas of interest or reasons for wanting to pursue a BA course.
Entrance Exam: Some universities require students to take an entrance exam as part of the admission process. This could be a general aptitude test or a subject-specific test, depending on the university and the course. You'll need to prepare for and take this exam if it's required.
Counseling and Interview: After the results of the entrance exam are declared, some universities may conduct counseling sessions or interviews for prospective students. This is usually the final step before admissions are confirmed.
Admission Confirmation: If you're selected for admission, you'll receive a notification from the university, after which you'll need to confirm your admission by paying the required fees.
Document Verification: After the admission is confirmed, universities usually have a process for document verification where you need to submit copies of necessary documents like your 10+2 marksheet, school leaving certificate, etc.
Again, it's important to note that the exact process can vary between different universities and courses. Always check the specific admission process for the university and BA course you're interested in.
While many colleges and universities admit students to Bachelor of Arts (BA) programs based on their performance in their 10+2 examinations, several institutions, particularly in India, also conduct entrance exams. These exams evaluate the aptitude, reasoning skills, and subject knowledge of the applicants. Here are a few notable ones:
Checkout Detailed Information on Entrance Exam after 12th:
Preparing for a Bachelor of Arts (BA) entrance exam can feel like a daunting task, but with the right strategy and consistent effort, you can put yourself in a strong position to succeed. Here are some general tips to guide your preparation:
Understand the Exam Pattern: Each entrance exam has its own specific pattern, including the types of questions asked, the duration of the exam, and the subjects covered. Understanding this will help you know what to expect and how to structure your study plan.
Review the Syllabus: Before you begin studying, make sure to review the exam's syllabus thoroughly. This will give you an idea of the topics you need to cover and can help you prioritize your study time effectively.
Develop a Study Schedule: Once you understand the scope of the exam, create a study schedule that allows you to cover all the necessary topics. Try to stick to your schedule as closely as possible, but also allow for flexibility in case you need more time on certain subjects.
Practice Past Papers: One of the best ways to prepare for an entrance exam is to practice past papers or sample questions. This not only helps you familiarize yourself with the exam format but also allows you to practice under timed conditions.
Focus on Weak Areas: As you study and practice, pay attention to any areas where you're struggling and spend extra time on these topics.
Stay Current: If the exam includes a section on general knowledge or current affairs, make a habit of reading newspapers or following reliable news sources daily.
Take Care of Your Health: Good physical health is crucial during exam preparation. Be sure to eat a balanced diet, get plenty of sleep, and take regular breaks during your study sessions to avoid burnout.
Join Coaching or Study Groups: If possible, consider joining a coaching class or a study group. They can provide additional resources, guidance, and motivation to help in your preparation.
Revise Regularly: Regular revision is key to remembering what you've learned. Try to revise your topics frequently and thoroughly.
Stay Positive and Confident: Finally, maintain a positive mindset. Confidence plays a crucial role in exam performance, so believe in your abilities and stay focused on your goals.
| BA English Syllabus | ||
| English Literature | Concurrent – Discipline Centered | Anglo-American Writing from 1930/ Literary Theory/ Women’s Writing of the Nineteenth and Twentieth Centuries/ Modern European Drama |
| Twentieth-Century Indian Writing | Contemporary Literature | Nineteenth-Century European Realism/ Classical Literature/ Forms of Popular Fiction |
| Concurrent – Qualifying Language | - | - |
| BA Political Science Syllabus | ||
| Constitutional Government and Democracy in India | Generic Elective | Indian Political Thought |
| Understanding Political Theory | Language - MIL/ English Environmental Science | Classical Political Philosophy |
| Political Process in India | Introduction to Comparative Government & Politics | Modern Political Philosophy |
| Political Theory-Concepts and Debates | Environmental Science Language - MIL/ English | Modern Indian Political Thought |
| Ability Enhancement Course | Pol. Process & Inst. in Comparative Perspective | Ability Enhancement Course |
| Perspectives on International Relations | Perspectives on Public Administration | Public Policy and Administration in India |
| Generic Elective | Global Politics | - |
| BA History Syllabus | ||
| History of India | Social Formations and Cultural Patterns of the Ancient World | Generic Elective (Interdisciplinary Any Four): Environmental Issues In India, Research Methodology in History, Making of Contemporary India, Delhi: Ancient, Delhi: Medieval, Delhi: Modern or Issues in the Contemporary World Any Two: Understanding Heritage/ Art Appreciation: An Introduction to Indian Art/ Archives and museums/ Understanding Popular Culture |
| Social Formations and Cultural Patterns of the Medieval World | Rise of Modern West | History of Modern East Asia |
| History of Modern Europe | History Of Southeast Asia: 19th Century | - |
| BA Philosophy Syllabus | ||
| Indian Philosophy | Logic | Philosophy of Language (Indian & Western) |
| Greek Philosophy | Ethics | Philosophy of Religion (Indian & Western) |
| Western Philosophy: Descartes to Kant | Social & Political Philosophy: Indian and Western | Truth Functional Logic |
| Applied Ethics | Text of Indian Philosophy | Continental Philosophy |
| Text of Western Philosophy | Analytic Philosophy | - |
| BA Economics Syllabus | ||
| Introductory Microeconomics | Mathematical Methods for Economics | Discipline-Specific Elective |
| Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | Generic Elective | Development Economics |
| Introductory Macroeconomics | Mathematical Methods for Economics | Development Economics |
| Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | Intermediate Microeconomics | Indian Economy |
| Statistical Methods for Economics | Skill Enhancement Course | Indian Economy |
| Intermediate Microeconomics & Macroeconomics | Introductory Econometrics | Skill Enhancement Course |
| BA Archeology | ||
| Methodology and Perspectives of Social Science | History of Art and Architecture in India | Making of Modern Kerala |
| Basics of Archeology | Introduction to Sociology | Development of Sociological Theory |
| Cultural Transition in Pre-Modern Kerala | Methods of Archeology | History of Folklore |
| BA Sociology Syllabus | ||
| Methodology and Perspectives of Social Science | History of Art and Architecture in India | Introduction to Archives and Records |
| Basics of Archeology | Introduction to Sociology | Archival Conservation and Reprography |
| Cultural Transition in Pre-Modern Kerala | Methods of Archeology | Growth of Indian Archeology |
| History of Folklore | Development of Sociological Theory | Archeological Sites and Monuments in India |
| Making of Modern Kerala | Informatics | Governmental Machinery and Processes |
| Basics of Indian Numismatics | Introduction to Political Science | Development of Numismatics in India |
| Understanding the Past | Early Societies in India | - |
| BA Anthropology Syllabus | ||
| Introduction to Social Anthropology | Introduction to Biological Anthropology | Fundamental of Human Origins and Evolution |
| Archeological Anthropology-I & II | Technical Writing & Communication in English/ Computational Skills | Anthropology In Practice |
| Anthropology of Kinship | Biostatistics and Data Analysis | Field work dissertation |
| Theories of Culture and Society | Human Genetics | Genomic Diversity in Human Populations |
| Primate Biology / Cell Biology-I | Molecular Biology-I & II | Genetics & Genomics |
| Tribes and Peasants in India | Anthropology of religion, politics & economy | Human Ecology: Social and Cultural Dimensions |
| Biodiversity & Indigenous Knowledge / Cell Biology II | Anthropology of India | Biological Diversity in Human Populations |
| Human Ecology: Biological Dimensions | - | - |
| BA Rural Studies | ||
| Elements of Rural Development | Rural Development Policies and Programmes | Indian Rural Social Scene |
| Indian Rural Economic Scene | - | - |
| BA Psychology Syllabus | ||
| Introduction to Psychology | Statistical Methods for Psychological Research-I | Health Psychology |
| Environmental Science | General Psychology | Counseling Psychology |
| Psychology for Health and Well-being | Understanding Psychological Disorders | Community Psychology |
| English Communication | Youth, Gender and Identity | Organizational Behavior |
| Development of Psychological | Psychological Research | Positive Psychology |
| Psychology of Individual Differences | Biopsychology | Developmental Psychology |
| Social Psychology | Emotional Intelligence | Human Resource Management |
| Psychology at Work | Stress Management | Dealing with Psychological Disorders |
| Statistical Methods for Psychological Research-II | Applied Social Psychology | - |
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree can open up a multitude of career opportunities in various fields. The kind of job you can pursue after earning a BA degree largely depends on the specific major or concentration you chose during your study. However, here are some common job roles that BA graduates may consider:
Journalist: If your BA degree focused on areas like English, Journalism, or Mass Communication, you might be well-suited to a career in journalism. This could involve reporting, writing, editing, or other tasks related to news production.
Teacher: Many BA graduates go on to become teachers, particularly in the subjects they majored in. This generally requires additional certification, such as a B.Ed degree in India.
Social Worker: If your studies focused on areas like sociology, psychology, or social work, you might pursue a career in social services. This could involve working with nonprofits, government agencies, or other organizations to help people in need.
Public Relations Specialist: If your studies included subjects like communications, business, or media studies, you might be well-suited to a career in public relations, where you could manage the public image of various organizations.
Human Resources Professional: A BA in subjects like psychology, sociology, or business can lead to a career in human resources, where you'd be responsible for recruiting, training, and managing an organization's staff.
Marketing or Sales Manager: BA graduates with a background in subjects like economics, psychology, sociology, or business might find roles in marketing or sales, developing strategies to promote products or services and boost revenue.
Content Writer/Editor: With a strong foundation in language and literature, BA graduates can venture into content writing or editing for various industries, including advertising, publishing, digital marketing, and more.
Counselor: BA graduates with a specialization in psychology or sociology can work as counselors in schools, colleges, or various other organizations.
Civil Services: Many BA graduates in India aim for the civil services, taking exams such as the UPSC exam to secure positions in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS), Indian Police Service (IPS), among others.
The salary for a Bachelor of Arts (BA) graduate can vary widely depending on the specific field, the individual's level of experience, the location, and the specific position. Here is a rough estimate of average annual salaries for some common jobs that BA graduates might pursue in India:
| Job Role | Avg Annual Salary |
| Content Writer | 2,00,000 - 4,00,000 |
| Public Relations Specialist | 2,50,000 - 5,00,000 |
| Human Resources Professional | 3,00,000 - 6,00,000 |
| Teacher (Secondary School) | 2,40,000 - 4,80,000 |
| Marketing Manager | 5,00,000 - 10,00,000 |
| Social Worker | 2,00,000 - 4,00,000 |
| Sales Manager | 4,00,000 - 9,00,000 |
| Journalist | 2,50,000 - 5,00,000 |
| Civil Servant | 4,00,000 - 10,00,000+ |
| Counselor | 2,00,000 - 4,00,000 |
Please note that these are average figures and actual salaries can be lower or higher based on various factors mentioned above. The figures are just to give a ballpark estimate and may not accurately represent the exact pay scale. Always conduct thorough research or consult with industry professionals for the most accurate information.
Explore High Salary Courses after 12th:
A Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree is a flexible and comprehensive undergraduate program that offers a vast array of career opportunities in various sectors. From teaching to journalism, from social work to marketing, the doors that a BA degree can open are many and varied. The course duration, affordability, and the fact that it caters to a broad spectrum of interests make it a popular choice among students.
Whether you are someone with a flair for creativity and languages, a passion for understanding societal dynamics, or an aspiration to serve in the public sector, a BA course offers something for everyone. With the right preparation for entrance exams, making an informed decision about the right specializations, and the will to work hard, a BA degree can be a stepping stone to a promising career. Remember, the journey does not end with graduation; lifelong learning and skills enhancement are essential to advance in your chosen career path.
The BA course, thus, is not merely a degree; it's a launchpad to countless possibilities and fulfilling careers. Your passion, when combined with the knowledge and skills acquired during this course, can pave the way for a successful future. Choose wisely, study diligently.
