BA in English Syllabus (2025–26): All Semester Subjects List in India

A BA in English specialization helps aspiring students delve deeper into linguistics, English literature, and language. The three-year undergraduate program offered by leading universities is ideal for students seeking to develop advanced skills in writing, analysis, and communication.

The program helps students explore various literary genres, periods, and cultural contexts, allowing them to delve into both ancient and modern literature. Learn all you need to know about the complete BA English syllabus in this detailed guide. 

This blog provides a comprehensive list of subjects covered across all six semesters of the three-year program. Read on to know more.        

BA in English 1st Year Syllabus (Sem 1 & 2 Subjects)

Year 1 of the online BA English courses is an ideal opportunity for students to develop foundational skills in literature, including prose, poetry, and drama across different eras. BA English subjects in the 1st year, during semesters 1 and 2, also cover literary history and language skills. This enables them to develop robust communication and critical-thinking skills.   

BA in English 1st Year Course Overview & Structure

• 1st Year BA Subject List in English: Communicative English, Introduction to Sociology, World Literature, Political Theory, and Environmental Studies, among others.
• Learning Objectives: Develop basic language skills and introduce elementary literary elements, including character, plot, and genre. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and analytical skills to transition from basic grammar concepts to complex literary themes. 
• Skills Learned By Students: Critical Thinking, Literary Analysis, Research, Interpersonal Skills, Oral Communication, Active Listening, and more. 

BA in English 1st & 2nd Semester Subjects

The BA English syllabus in the 1st year focuses more on developing foundational concepts in English literature, helping aspiring learners gain a basic understanding of literary concepts. The table below shares the list of subjects covered in the 1st semester and the BA 2nd sem English syllabus for a better understanding of what the course entails in the first year: 

Semesters	Subjects
1st Semester	Indian English Literature Communicative English Foundations of Political Science Introduction to Sociology Natural Science
2nd Semester	World Literature Functional English Political Theory Sociology in India Environmental Studies

BA in English 2nd Year Syllabus (Sem 3 & 4 Subjects) 

The 2nd year of the BA English program comprises 2 semesters: semester 3 and semester 4. The BA 3rd sem English syllabus and that of the 4th sem also emphasize deeper analysis of literature. It also delves into the history of literature, enabling students to develop specialized communication and language skills.  

BA in English 2nd Year Course Overview & Structure

• BA 2nd Year English Syllabus: Essays and Poetry, Comparative Political Analysis, Digital Fluency, New Literature in English, Women Writing in English, Urban Sociology 
• Learning Objectives: Develop an in-depth understanding of literary history and various genres, equip students with analytical abilities, and improve their communication skills.
• Skills Learned by Students: Proficiency in written communication, research skills, logical reasoning, empathy, emotional intelligence, advanced critical thinking and analysis, and more.

BA in English 3rd & 4th Semester Subjects

The table below highlights the BA degree English syllabus for the second year, with a breakdown for 3rd and 4th semesters, respectively:

Semesters	Subjects
3rd Semester	Essays and Poetry Universal Human Values Comparative Political Analysis Rural Sociology Digital Fluency
4th Semester	New Literature in English Literary Terms, Forms, and Movements Women Writing in English Classical Indian Political Thought Urban Sociology

BA in English 3rd Year Syllabus (Sem 5 & 6 Subjects)

The third-year BA in English syllabus is designed to enable students to delve deeper into advanced literary studies. Students are encouraged to apply the skills they have learned in practice to gain more hands-on experience with theoretical concepts.  

BA in English 3rd Year Course Overview & Structure

• Key BA in English Subjects in 3rd Year: Victorian and Modern Literature, Children’s Literature, Social Problems in India, American Literature, Novels and Short Stories, and Sociology of Change and Development, among others.
• Learning Objectives: Providing in-depth analysis of literary work and honing their communication skills – both verbal and written.
• Skills Learned by Students: Communication, Creative Writing, Linguistics, Critical Thinking and Analysis, Research, etc.
• Internships and Projects: Students can apply for internships in Media, Content Writing, Research, and Digital Marketing. Third-year student projects help them bridge theory and practice. 

BA in English 5th & 6th Semester Subjects     

The table below shares the complete 5th sem and BA 6th sem English syllabus offered by Sikkim Manipal University on the Online Manipal platform. The university offers the course entirely online.

Semesters	Key Subjects
5th Semester	Victorian and Modern Literature Poetry: Evolution, Elements, and Genres Children’s Literature Human Rights Social Problems in India
6th Semester	American Literature One-Act Plays: Introduction & Studies Novels and Short Stories United Nations and Global Conflicts Sociology of Change and Development

Useful Read: Career Options after BA English

FAQs

1. How many subjects are there in a BA in English program?

BA English courses comprise 30 subjects. The 3-year program comprises 6 semesters, with each semester including five subjects.

2. What is the syllabus of the BA English first year?

Year 1 of the BA English course includes 2 semesters, including the following subjects:

1st Semester

• Indian English Literature
• Communicative English
• Foundations of Political Science
• Introduction to Sociology
• Natural Science

2nd Semester

• World Literature
• Functional English
• Political Theory
• Sociology in India
• Environmental Studies

3. Do all universities follow the same BA in English syllabus and subject list?

No, not all universities offer the same syllabus and subjects for BA English courses. Institutions may have different curricula depending on various factors.

4. What is the starting salary after completing a BA in English?

Entry-level graduates of a BA in English, such as a Content Strategist, may earn approximately INR 7 LPA. However, this may vary from one professional to another.

Source: Glassdoor

5. Is BA English 4 years now?

BA programs are generally for 3 years. However, some institutions are offering 4-year BA Honors as per the National Education Policy (NEP) in India.

6. What are the eligibility criteria for a BA in English degree?

Students applying for BA English programs must complete a 10+2 from a recognized national or state board institution or a 10+3 Diploma from a recognized national or state institute.

7. What is the scope of a BA in English?

Students completing a BA in English course can apply for suitable job opportunities in varied fields such as:

• Academia
• Consulting 
• Journalism 
• Public Relations
• Advertising