Interested in Foreign language courses at Doon University, Dehradun? But aren’t quite sure what specific program to choose, and how to get the admission for the academic session 2020-2021? Let’s find out all the relevant information.
You’ve heard all the reasons why to learn foreign languages. Improved memory to highest-paid language jobs to going abroad for higher study, work, or travel, the advantages of studying languages is colossal.
A degree in major or masters in Foreign tongues offers varied career paths involving languages. Of all the choices, French, Japanese, Chinese, Spanish, and German are the five most in-demand foreign languages in India. Proficiency in these languages is an essential requirement for gaining various positions.
About Doon University
In the state of Uttarakhand, Doon University is a culturally rich and diverse University situated at the foothill of the Shivalik. While it may not have the popularity of JNU, DU, MU, PU, or BHU, however, it is an excellent place for language learners to embrace their enthusiasm.
The School of Languages (SoL) is the core center for language studies on campus, and home to the French, Spanish, German, Chinese, and Japanese programs. If you wish to seek degree courses in foreign languages, you can surely consider Doon University.
The School of Languages
Started in 2010, The School of languages is one of the few Universities in India that offers 5-year integrated programs in 5 different foreign tongues. Students have an option to exit after completing three years of graduation for a Bachelors’s language degree. It also runs a one-year Certificate course spread over two semesters, and one semester lasts for 45 hours.
The School of Languages has Memorandums of Understanding with many International educational institutions in Europe. The University has a state-of-art language multimedia laboratory, an ever-growing library, and research-oriented faculty.
Additionally, the University also provides exchange programs, scholarships to meritious students, and placement in various companies. The School of Languages at present comprises six departments, including five dedicated to learning foreign languages.
1. Department of Spanish studies
If you have already decided to learn Spanish in India, you may be wondering where to study? One compelling choice is Doon University. The Department of Spanish Studies, through the School of languages, began its academic sessions in 2010.
The Department of Spanish studies provides intensive Spanish language education, literature, culture, history, and civilization of Hispanic countries through a mosaic of workshops, forums, study circles, events, cultural activities, and academic programs.
The University offers a 1-year Certificate, 3-years BA, and 2-years MA in Spanish. The Department covers a wide range of subject areas and incorporated the latest Spanish teaching approaches for imparting quality Spanish education to students.
2. Department of French and Francophone studies
With over 30 Francophone nations, there are plenty of benefits of learning French. Studying French opens up a world of employment possibilities, and a French degree from Doon University is developed with your future firmly in mind.
The languages, literature, history, and cultures of the French-speaking countries (France, Belgium, Switzerland, Quebec in Canada, Africa, etc.) are the focus of teaching and research in the Department of French and Francophone studies through the School of languages.
Doon University runs the Bachelor of Arts (Hons.) and Master of Arts programs in French. Along with these degree courses, the Department of French and Francophone studies conducts a one-year part-time Certificate in French. The University also promotes learning of French and cultures through several extra-curricular activities such as workshops, the celebration of popular French festivals, and seminars.
3. Department of German studies
With a degree in the German language, you can explore endless career possibilities and the jobs that require German in a variety of professions.
Doon University’s Department of German studies, founded in 2010, is widely acknowledged as a prominent center for learning the German language. The Department is known for innovative cross-disciplinary research and a dynamic intellectual atmosphere.
Doon University is one of few Indian universities to offer both bachelor and master degree programs. Besides, students who cannot enroll for full-time degree programs can take a one-year Certificate Course in German.
4. Department of Japanese studies
Are you considering learning the Japanese language in India? But you are not sure where to study? One remarkable option in the Department of Japanese studies at Doon University.
Started in 2014, it is the only University in North India other than JNU that offers Bachelors’s programs in Japanese. Long term, Japanese Language Course, is available for students who wish to study 5 years (BA and MA) with a focus on Japanese language skills, culture, current affairs of Japan, history, and literature. You can also opt for a part-time 1-year certificate in Japanese.
While the first 3-years concentrates on Japanese language skills along with culture, and the history of Japanese, the last 2-years, i.e., MA in Japanese primarily emphasizes advanced interpretation and translation. If you’re looking for a fulfilling career as a Japanese expert, Doon University is the place to be!
5. Department of Chinese studies
Chinese is the most spoken mother tongue in the world. Despite being recognized as one of the hardest languages to learn, the acquisition of the Mandarin language in India can open a wide range of employment opportunities. If you fancy becoming a Chinese language expert, you should undoubtedly consider the Department of Chinese studies at Doon University.
The Chinese BA and MA course aim to provide students with a professional level of Mandarin Chinese in its language and literature. The Department of Chinese studies, through the School of Languages at Doon University, offers a five-year MA Integrated program in Chinese, as well as one-year certificate classes in Mandarin.
Besides, the Department encourages students to take part in a host of extra-curriculum activities like workshops, lectures, seminars, academic discussions on different topics, events to enrich campus-learning experience.
Admission Procedure
Let’s explore the eligibility criteria, 2020 – 2021 entrance exam, syllabus, sample papers, total seats, dates, and fees.
1. Eligibility Criteria
Candidates appearing for Doon University admission must have completed (10+2) or equivalent examination with a minimum of 50% marks. The applicants, due to appear in the qualifying examination, can also apply.
For master’s programs, the minimum eligibility criteria is the graduation in any stream with a minimum of 50% marks. Besides, applicants also need the corresponding language as one of the elective subjects or Diploma from the recognized educational institutions.
2. Entrance exam
Every year in May-June, Doon University conducts an entrance exam. The test is a gateway to get admission in its offered programs. Since it is a state University, thus, 50% of the total seats are reserved for students from Uttarakhand.
The entrance test is an online computer-mode at authorized centers of Dehradun, Delhi, Lucknow, Haridwar, Nainital, Haldwani, and Patna. In addition to the written test, the University also takes the interview for the master’s program. The weight age of the written test and the interview is 70% and 30%, respectively.
3. Total seats
For BA and MA, the total number of seats for each language is 25 (As of 1st January 2020), whereas the total number of seats for the certificate course is 30.
4. Syllabus for the entrance test
The syllabus for BA entrance would cover Questions concerning general knowledge, general English, elementary information on the culture and civilization of the languages/country involved, and aptitude for language abilities. You can check the sample paper — LINK.
For MA, Question Paper based on proficiency in the concerned language. The knowledge equivalent to the level of BA /Advanced Diploma or B2 of the international language test is a prerequisite to crack the entrance test.
5. Dates and Fees
Doon University usually kick-starts the admission process in April-May every year. They conduct the entrance test wherever applicable in June, and then they declare the final merit list within two weeks after the examination. The fees are not as low as some central Universities like JNU or BHU. However, it is still quite affordable.
Final Words
If you’re looking for a full-fledged career in foreign languages, then degree level foreign language courses at Doon University is an outstanding option. If you have any questions, let me know in the comment section below.
I want to learn a foreign language, but I am confused between German and Spanish. Can you please help me out knowing which language has a better career option? Also, can you let me know about the placements of the students studying a foreign language?
Both are good choices. You can pick as per your interest, goal, and understanding. Doon University does offer some placement but most students have to find jobs on their own.
Sir, I am B.com final year student. My exam will be held in June, and the result will be declared in October. I want to pursue the Spanish language. 1) I want to ask if I have to repeat the bachelor program? 2) I am from Uttrakhand. Is there any entrance for students from Uttrakhand?
1) Yes. Without prior knowledge in Spanish (equivalent to BA/Advanced Diploma in Spanish or DELE B2), you have to repeat the BA course. 2) While 45% of seats are reserved for SC/ST from Uttarakhand, all applicants are required to appear in the entrance test. Moreover, since your result will be declared in Oct. Thus, the last date for submitting the qualifying exam result may not last by then. You can contact the admission department for the same.
Greetings!
Is there a possibility to teach at this university in Italian?
Doon University does not offer any Italian course, but you can contact them if there is any such possibility.
Sir, I m graduated (BBA), but I want to pursue BA German from Doon university. 1) Is it worth it? 2) Am I eligible for the entrance of Doon university? 3) How is the placement of Doon university in the German department? Please help me with a genuine answer. I am very much confused, sir.
1) Yes, but you have to repeat the bachelor program. 2) 12th Passed 3) Some placement to meritorious students. Not all students get the job.
Dear Sir, I am a student at DU and pursuing an adv. diploma in French. After completion, I want to study an MA in French. Is there any vacancy in govt depts for French specialist? Please revert.
There are limited employment possibilities in the Government departments. You can explore opportunities in MNC and Indian companies.