Relevance of a BA Literature degree for Gen Z

Literature not just teaches learners about themselves but also connects them to their past, besides expanding their worldview and cultivating respect for diversity

As technology deepens its impact on people all over the globe, a great deal hinges on how we work as a society. The stakes are even higher for the youngsters – their capacity to discern the truth; to appreciate and create beauty; to identify with the thoughts and feelings of others so as to contemplate their own original thoughts, forms the basis of our shared future. Academicians emphasise that the study of the literature can enhance learners’ analytical and critical thinking skills as they examine and analyse ancient cultures and engage with their world in thoughtful and productive ways.

Literature, it is said, is a reflection of the human self. It contains an entire spectrum of human sentiments and emotions within its realms. It is a gateway for learners to understand the human mind and deepen their understanding of events that changed the world. It is meant to create empathy in the learners for those who are different from them. In most cultures, literature is used to teach, discover, express, inform, question, and even heal. 

Literature also plays a large role in the development of a nation’s identity. The early Greek youth are said to have derived morals and political ideologies from the epics of Homer. The Indian epics – the Ramayana and The Mahabharata – form the very backbone of our culture, chronicling our past and steering us toward our duties as conscientious human beings. 

Although we live in a technological age where most youngsters are glued to their digital reading devices, reading classics still holds out the promise of engaging the mind and transporting readers from enjoying the mediocre to embracing the excellent.

School of Liberal Studies at UPES aims to expose young learners to ancient and medieval texts, both Indian and global, and attune them to philosophical thinking. Students shall gather skills with which to investigate the society and develop an awareness of the deeper questions that concern them and the world at large. 

To study BA in Literature at UPES, applicants would need to secure at least 50% marks in 10+2 from any stream. They would also have to take an aptitude test to qualify for a seat at the school. 

Progression

After the 3 years of undergraduate studies at SoLS, students will be able to exercise one of two choices: (a) enter the job market or (b) move on to higher studies. The third year of the program will have specific courses for students to hone their skills for each of the two end-of-program objectives.

Individual Mentoring

One important aspect of the undergraduate program at SoLS is the mentoring students will receive from the faculty, to conduct their own research projects. These could be on specific issues in their own discipline for those who want to move on to higher studies or, on projects that will give them a deeper understanding of the contexts in which they will pursue their professional careers.

Equipped with a BA Literature degree, learners can combine creativity and communication skills, to explore careers in journalism, publishing, advertising, film-making, teaching, and a whole host of areas where their reading, writing and critical thinking skills can be put to good use.