Established on January 1, 2015, the Department of History & Philosophy (DHP), a cornerstone of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS), is dedicated to the cultivation of intellectual rigor and ethical leadership at North South University (NSU). Since its inception, the department has played a transformative role in the academic journey of the undergraduate student body through its comprehensive General Education (GED) curriculum. By bridging the lessons of the past with the critical inquiries of the present, DHP nurtures a profound understanding of human values and societal progress, ensuring that students are equipped with a strong moral and intellectual framework.
The department’s academic scope is built upon two foundational pillars designed to provide students with a truly global perspective. Our historical studies emphasize the rich tapestry of national culture and heritage, the historic emergence of Bangladesh, and the broader trajectories of world civilizations. Complementing this, the philosophy cluster focuses on developing visionary thinking, exploring the intricacies of human psychology, and instilling a robust framework for business and professional ethics. Together, these disciplines empower students to navigate the complexities of the modern world with critical clarity and integrity.
In a significant expansion of its scholarly mission, the department launched the Master of Arts in History & Asian Studies (MAHAS) in Spring 2023. This interdisciplinary graduate program offers a sophisticated examination of South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia, and the Middle East. The MAHAS curriculum is specifically designed to connect diverse disciplines including regional history, political economy, geopolitics, gender studies, and urbanization which analyzes these critical themes through a global lens to prepare students for the rising demands of international affairs and regional expertise.
DHP is home to a vibrant community of scholars who are actively engaged in groundbreaking research and the continuous creation of knowledge in their respective fields. This academic environment is further enriched by a diverse faculty body, which has historically included distinguished international professors who bring a wealth of global experience to the university. Collectively, the faculty promotes a culture of inquiry that encourages students to think critically, act ethically, and contribute meaningfully to the global landscape, solidifying the department's role as a center for academic excellence.
The department is currently chaired by Professor Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, former Chair of the Department of Political Science and Sociology at North South University.
The Department of History and Philosophy aspires to be the Centre of Excellence based on historical and philosophical knowledge and research activities within Bangladesh and across South Asia.
Current course offerings:
In Spring 2026, the Deaprtment of History & Philosophy is offering eleven (11) undergraduate courses and 5 graduate courses in 183 sections run by 17 full-time and 36 part-time faculty members. The undergraduate GED, school core and elective courses currently offered by the department are as follows:
For further information, contact this number 01736494614 of the Department of History & Philosophy.
1. Dr. A.K.M. Shahnawaz [ASz]
Ph.D. Jadavpur University, India
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
2. Dr. Shamim F. Karim [SFK]
Ph.D. Agra University, India
M.Sc. University of Strathclyde, UK
Supernumerary Professor, University of Dhaka
3. Dr. Abul Hossain Ahmed Bhuiyan [AHB]
Ph.D. Central Queensland University, Australia
M.A. Queen’s University at Kingston, Canada
Professor, Bangladesh Open University
4. Dr. Mostofa Nazmul Mansur [MtN4]
Ph.D. University of Calgary, Canada
M.A. Memorial University of Newfoundland, Canada
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
5. Dr. Jasim Uddin [JsU]
Ph.D. New South Wales, Australia
Professor, University of Dhaka
6. Dr. Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan [Krl]
Ph.D. of Cardiff University, UK
M.A. Safia University, Bulgaria
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
7. Dr. Md. Munir Hossain Talukder [MnT]
Ph.D. National University of Singapore, Singapore
M.A. Linkoping University, Sweden
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
8. Dr. Md. Lutfor Rahman [LfR]
Ph.D. University of Chittagong, Bangladesh
M.A. McMaster University, Canada
Professor, Jagannath University
9. Dr. Mohammad Mozahidul Islam [Mzd]
Ph.D. University of New South Wales, Australia
M.A. University of Tsukuba, Japan
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
10. Dr. A. K. M. Rezaul Karim [ARK3]
Ph.D. Kanazawa University, Japan
Professor, University of Dhaka
11. Dr. Taiabur Rahman [TRh]
Ph.D. City University of Hong Kong
M.Phil. University of Bergen, Norway
Professor, University of Dhaka
12. Dr. S. M. Ali Reza [SAR3]
Ph.D. Osaka University, Japan
LLM. Tohoku University, Japan
Professor, University of Dhaka
13. Dr. Ashit Boran Paul [ABP1]
Ph.D. Deccan Post Graduate & Research University, India
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
14. Dr. Kazi Maruful Islam [KFI]
Ph.D. University of Bonn, Germany
M.A. University of Bergen, Norway
Professor, University of Dhaka
15. Dr. Abul Kalam Azad [Klm]
Ph.D. University of Aix-Marseille III, France
M.A. Dalhousie University, Canada
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
16. Prof. Md. Zakir Hossain [ZkH1]
M.A. Linkoping University, Sweden
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
17. Dr. Md. Humayun Kabir [HyK1]
Ph.D. Jawaharlal Nehru University, India
Professor, University of Dhaka
18. Dr. Md. Masood Imran [MDI1]
Ph.D. Hiroshima University, Japan
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
19. Dr. Md. Manzoor Elahee [MmEe]
Ph.D. University of Sofia, Bulgaria
M.A. University of Sofia, Bulgaria
Professor, Jahangirnagar University
20. Dr. Most. Aeysha Sultana [MAS1]
Ph.D. Flinders University, Australia
Professor, University of Dhaka
21. Dr. Mohammad Golam Rabbani [MGRn]
Ph.D. Jawaharlal Nehru University, India
Professor, Janangirnagar University
22. Dr. Ahmed Jamal Anwar [AJA]
Ph.D. University of Dhaka
M.A. Dalhousie University, Canada
Professor (Retd.), University of Dhaka
23. Dr. A H M Zehadul Karim [HzK]
Ph.D. & M.A. Syracuse University, USA
Professor (Retd.), University of Rajshahi
24. Dr. Tofail Ahmed [TfA]
Ph.D. & M.Sc. University of Wales, UK
Professor [Retd.], University of Chittagong
25. Dr. Md. Reazul Haque [RHU]
Ph.D. Flinders University of South Australia, Australia
M.A. ISS the Netherlands, Netherland
Professor, University of Dhaka
26. Dr. Md. Faruk Shah [Fkh]
Ph.D. University of Auckland, New Zealand
Professor, University of Dhaka
27. Dr. Akib Ul Huque [Abq1]
Ph.D. University Manchester, UK
Associate Professor, University of Dhaka
28. Dr. Abdus Samad [AbS3]
Ph.D. University of Delhi, India
Professor, Jagannath University
29. Major Gen. Dr. Md. Sarwar Hossain [SwH1]
Ph.D. University of Dhaka
M.A. Osmania University, India
Adjunct Associate Professor, DHP
30. Dr. M. Saiful Islam [MSIa]
Ph.D. National University of Singapore, Singapore
M.Phil. Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Associate Professor, University of Dhaka
31. Mr. Aynul Islam [Aym]
M.A. Antwerp University, Belgium
PGD. UMass Amherst, USA
Associate Professor, University of Dhaka
32. Dr. M. Atique Rahman [AqR1]
Ph.D. Ghent University, Belgium
M.Law. University of Turin, Italy
Associate Professor, University of Dhaka
33. Mr. Mohammad Abul Kawser [MAKs]
M.Phil. University of Oslo, Norway
Associate Professor, University of Dhaka
34. Dr. Kazi A.S.M. Nurul Huda [KIS]
Ph.D. University of Oklahoma, USA
M.A. University of Oklahoma, USA
Associate Professor, University of Dhaka
35. Dr. H M Saidur Rahaman [HSR]
Ph.D. University of Leuven, Belgium
Professor, Jagannath University
36. Dr. Mollika Roy [MRo]
Ph.D. Monash University, Malaysia
Associate Professor, University of Dhaka
37. Dr. Syed Moynul Alam Nizar [SYN]
Ph.D. The University of Canterbury, New Zealand
M.Sc. & B.A. The University of Manchester, UK
Associate Professor, Jahangirnagar University
38. Dr. Naima Nigar [NMG]
Ph.D. University of Nottingham, UK
M.Sc. University College London (UCL), UK
Assistant Professor, University of Dhaka
39. Mr. M. Ashique Rahman [MAR2]
M.A. Boston University, USA
Research Fellow, BIISS
40. Barrister Kazi Tamrin Rashed [KTR]
Bar-at-Law, Lincoln’s Inn, UK
P.G.D.L. City University, UK
LLB. University of London, UK
Adjunct Lecturer, DHP
41. Barrister Ridma Khan [Rdn]
LLM. UCL & Queen Mary University of London, UK
Adjunct Lecturer, DHP
The Department of History & Philosophy (DHP), North South University, hosted an Eid Reunion on 11 April 2026, bringing together faculty members in a warm and shared setting to celebrate the spirit of Eid. The gathering provided an opportunity for reflection, renewed connections, and strengthening of the department’s academic community. The session was chaired by Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, Chair of the DHP, who led discussions on key departmental priorities, and Dr. Rizwanul Islam, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS), was also present at the event. Deliberations
focused on the upcoming BSS campaign, enhancing the promotion of the MAHAS program, strengthening the department’s digital presence, and initiating new academic and professional programs. With a forward-looking agenda emphasizing outreach, student engagement, and academic innovation, the Department reaffirmed its commitment to advancing excellence and expanding its visibility within and beyond the university.
Students of the MA in History & Asian Studies (MAHAS) program, Department of History & Philosophy (DHP), North South University, participated in a study tour to Sylhet from 11–13 April 2026. The tour was conducted under the guidance of the Chair of the Department, Dr. Mahbubur Rahman. The visit offered students an opportunity to explore the rich historical and cultural landscape of Sylhet, connecting academic learning with lived experience. Through site visits and discussions, students engaged with the interplay of memory, place, and historical inquiry beyond the classroom. The study tour reflects the Department’s commitment to experiential learning, fostering deeper understanding through direct engagement with heritage and history.
The Department of History & Philosophy (DHP), North South University, in collaboration with Jagannath University, organized a seminar titled “Operation Searchlight and the Beginning of the Liberation War of Bangladesh,” centered on the theme “In Search of Authentic Narratives of History.” The event fostered a rigorous academic dialogue on one of the most critical moments in Bangladesh’s history. The seminar featured Dr. Salimullah Khan, Professor, DHP, as the keynote speaker, whose thought-provoking address set the tone for the discussion. Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, Chair of DHP, participated as the Discussant, offering critical reflections and scholarly insights. MAHAS Student Ambassadors from North South University represented the Department at Jagannath University, accompanying the Chair and actively engaging in the academic exchange. The program highlighted the importance of inter-university collaboration in advancing historical inquiry and critical discourse.
A special seminar titled “Implementing the July Charter: Constitutional Reform or Amendment?” was successfully held at North South University on 22 April 2026 at the PSS Conference Room. The event brought together academics and students for a meaningful exchange of ideas on pressing constitutional questions. The session featured an insightful keynote address by Dr. Syed Serajul Islam, Professor of Political Science at Lakehead University, Canada, who offered expert perspectives on constitutional transformation. The program was further enriched by the discussant's engaging remarks, Nafiz Ahmed. The seminar commenced with a welcome address by Dr. Md. Rizwanul Islam, while Dr. Mahbubur Rahman served as the moderator. The session concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Rizwan Khair. The event
underscored the importance of critical academic dialogue in addressing contemporary constitutional challenges.
The Department of History & Philosophy (DHP), North South University, successfully conducted the admission test for its graduate program, M.A. in History & Asian Studies (MAHAS), Summer 2026, on Friday, 24 April 2026. The Department was honored by the presence of Professor Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer of North South University, and Professor Md. Rizwanul Islam, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS), visited the examination hall during the test. The Department extends its sincere appreciation to all applicants for their participation and wishes them success in the admission process.
The Department of History & Philosophy (DHP), North South University, organized an RDS Training Session on the New Grade Submission System on Thursday, 26 February 2026, from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM at the SHSS Dean Conference Room (NAC 1024). The session was led by S. M. Faisal Mamun, Director (In-Charge) of IT. The training was conducted by Ashraful Haq Sarker, Deputy System Manager, IT, while Ishmam Haque Bhuiyan, Software Engineer responsible for updating the RDS system, was also present. The Chair of the Department, Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, along with core and adjunct faculty members and office staff, attended the session. The training focused on the updated grade submission procedures, system enhancements, and practical navigation of the revised RDS platform to ensure accuracy and efficiency in academic record management.
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Spring 2026 Orientation Program of the MAHAS Program
On 19 January 2026, the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), North South University, successfully hold its Spring 2026 Orientation Program at the SHSS Conference Room. The event marked a warm and inspiring beginning for the newly admitted students of the Master of Arts in History and Asian Studies (MAHAS) Program. The session was graced by the presence of Professor Dr. Md. Rizwanul Islam, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS), and Professor Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, Chair of Department of History and Philosophy (DHP). Faculty members of the department were also present to extend their heartfelt welcome to the new cohort.
The Data Handover Ceremony titled “Historical Ethnography of 1971: Documentations of 2300 Villages in Naogaon by Professor Afsan Chowdhury, eminent Bangladeshi Liberation War researcher and Bangla Academy Award recipient took place at the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), North South University.
The Liberation War Research Center (LRC) under the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), North South University, organized the formal handover of a significant research data on Wednesday, 3 December 2025, at 03:30 PM at the SHSS Dean Conference Room (NAC1024). The ceremony, titled “Historical Ethnography of 1971: Documentations of 2300 Villages in Naogaon,” marked an important academic occasion dedicated to the preservation and advancement of Liberation War research. The dataset was officially handed over by Professor Afsan Chowdhury, eminent Bangladeshi Liberation War researcher and Bangla Academy Award recipient, whose scholarly contributions to the study of the Liberation War are widely recognized. Professor Abdur Rob Khan attended the program as the special guest, while the event was moderated by Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, Professor and Chair of the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP).
Special Lecture on “The July Charter” by Dr. Sumit Bisarya, Head of Mission and Constitution Building Program at the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), The Hague, Netherlands Explores Constitutional Reforms at North South University.
The Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), North South University hosted a Special Lecture titled “The July Charter: Understanding the Political Reforms in Comparative Perspective” on Monday, 27 October 2025, at the Syndicate Hall. Dr. Sumit Bisarya, Head of Mission and Constitution Building Program at the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (International IDEA), The Hague, Netherlands, served as the keynote speaker. Professor Md. Rizwanul Islam, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, delivered opening remarks. The event was chaired by Professor Abdur Rob Khan and moderated by Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, Professor and Chair of the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), concluding with an engaging Q&A session.
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NSU Observes Mental Health Day 2025 with High-Impact Session on “Stress Management & Healthy Living” North South University (NSU) marked World Mental Health Day 2025 with a focused program on “Stress Management & Healthy Living,” hosted by the Department of History & Philosophy on October 14, 2025. The event brought together students, faculty members, and guest speakers for two insightful sessions: “Stress Management Techniques” by Engr. Pranjit Lal Shil, Meditation and Positive Lifestyle Coach at Quantum Foundation, and “Scientific Food Habits” by Dr. Moniruzzaman, Coordinator, Quantum Heart Club. Dr. Md. Rizwanul Islam, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, offered a vote of thanks and warmly welcomed the new cohort of students. The program was moderated by Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, Professor and Chair of DHP, and concluded with closing remarks from Professor Abdur Rob Khan, Treasurer and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (In-Charge). |
Fall 2025 Orientation Program of the MAHAS Program
On 25 September 2025, the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), North South University, successfully hold its Fall 2025 Orientation Program at the SHSS Conference Room. The event marked a warm and inspiring beginning for the newly admitted students of the Master of Arts in History and Asian Studies (MAHAS) Program. The session was graced by the presence of Professor Dr. Md. Rizwanul Islam, Dean of the School of Humanities and Social Sciences (SHSS), and Professor Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, Chair of Department of History and Philosophy (DHP). Faculty members of the department were also present to extend their heartfelt welcome to the new cohort.
NSU’s seminar on “জুলাই গণঅভ্যুত্থানে ছাত্র শিক্ষকদের সমন্বিত ভূমিকা”
North South University (NSU), in collaboration with Jahangirnagar University (JU), organized a seminar on “জুলাই গণঅভ্যুত্থানে ছাত্র শিক্ষকদের সমন্বিত ভূমিকা”on 11 August 2025 at the Faculty of Arts auditorium, JU. Professor Dr. Salimullah Khan (Department of History & Philosophy, NSU) delivered the keynote address, with Professor Dr. Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan, Vice-Chancellor of JU, as Chief Guest. The session was presided over by Dr. Md. Munir Hossain Talukder and attended by the Chairman of DHP, Professor Dr. Mahbubur Rahman (NSU) along with faculty, researchers, and students from both universities.
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Seminar on “Remembering Eqbal Ahmad: Revolution and Counterrevolution in the Age of Late Colonialism” by Dr. Salimullah Khan, Professor, NSU, on 14 July 2025
Seminar on “জুলাই গণঅভ্যুত্থানঃ কাজী নজরুলের উত্তরাধিকার” on 02 July 2025. Guest Speakers Professor Salimullah Khan, DHP, NSU, and Poet Abdul Hai Shikder, Editor, Daily Jugantor. Session Chair of the seminar Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor, NSU.
On 2 July 2025, the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), North South University organized a special discussion titled “জুলাই গণঅভ্যুত্থান: কাজী নজরুেলর উত্তরািধকার” at AUDI 801, marking the observance of Nazrul Jayanti. The program brought together faculty members, students, and cultural practitioners to honor the revolutionary ideals of the National Poet. The session was presided over by Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor of North South University. The event was graced by the presence of Dr. Salimullah Khan, Professor of the Department of History & Philosophy, North South University who joined the discussion as the principal discussant. Poet Abdul Hai Shikder Editor of The Daily Jugantor attended the program as a distinguished guest. The program also featured poetry recitation by Nasim Ahmed, National Award–winning recitation artist from the Nazrul Institute, and Nazrul Sangeet performed by teachers and students of North South University. Faculty members and students actively participated in the event, making it a meaningful academic and cultural observance.
Day-long Conference on “Ambassador Sirajul Islam's Vision of Empowering Bangladesh: Leadership, Unity and Growth, Diplomacy and Governance for the Country's Transformation” on 19 April 2025
Empowerment Bangladesh, in collaboration with the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), North South University, organized a discussion titled “Ambassador Sirajul Islam’s Vision of Empowering Bangladesh: Leadership, Unity and Growth, Diplomacy and Governance for the Country’s Transformation” on 19 April 2025 at AUDI 801. The program was chaired by Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor, North South University. Distinguished participants included Mr. Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury, Member of the BNP Standing Committee; Ms. Shama Obayed, Organizing Secretary, BNP; and Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad, General Secretary of the AB Party, among others. Mr. Salehuddin Ahmed, Economic Adviser to the Interim Government, delivered a video message during the session.
Seminar on “What if Socrates had Constitutional Rights?” by Mr. Nafiz Ahmed, Lecturer of Law, NSU, on 06 March 2025
The Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), North South University organized its Monthly Seminar titled “What if Socrates Had Constitutional Rights?” on Thursday, 6 March 2025, at the SHSS Conference Room (NAC 1024). The seminar was presented by Mr. Nafiz Ahmed, Lecturer, Department of Law, North South University. The session introduced the historical context of Socrates’ trial and explained how citizen participation shaped the Athenian tribunal.
Seminar on “ভাষা আন্দোলন ও বাংলাদেশের অভ্যুদয়: স্মৃতিকথা ও আত্মজীবনীর আলোকে” by Poet Abdul Hye Sikder, Editor, Daily Jugantor, on 19 February 2025
The Liberation War Research Center (LRC), under the Department of History & Philosophy (DHP) organized a thought-provoking seminar titled, “The Language Movement and the Emergence of Bangladesh: Reflections Through Memoirs and Autobiographies.”
Seminar on “Visa Politics: During Post Partition and Present Day” by Mr. Mohammad Afzalur Rahman, Lecturer, DHP, NSU, on 06 February 2025
Special Program Honoring Professor Mahmud Shah Qureshi, jointly organized by the Department of History & Philosophy (DHP) and NSU Central Library on 29 January 2025
The Department of History & Philosophy (DHP) and the Central Library of NSU jointly organized a special event at the Bangladesh Corner to honor Professor Mahmud Shah Qureshi, Former Director General of Bangla Academy, for his generous contribution to the NSU Library from his personal collection.
Seminar on “বিজয় ’৭১: আমাদের গৌরব গাঁথা” by Professor Afsan Chowdhury and Major General (Retd.) Dr. Md. Sarwar Hossain on 24 December 2024
A day-long program on “Mental Health in the Workplace” on 20 October 2024
The Liberation War Research Centre (LRC) at North South University, established under the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP), is dedicated to preserving the historical legacy and collective memory of Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War. The Centre serves as a hub for research, documentation, and education on the nation’s struggle for independence, one of the most remarkable liberation movements in modern history.
Through archiving rare documents, collecting oral histories, and promoting scholarly research, the LRC seeks to bridge the gap in historical knowledge and foster critical understanding of Bangladesh’s liberation and its ongoing relevance to global justice and human rights.
The Centre functions as a multidisciplinary platform, engaging academics, students, freedom fighters, and the wider community in research, dialogue, and public outreach. It also aims to build strong collaborations with national and international institutions to advance comparative studies on liberation movements, displacement, and human resilience across South Asia and beyond.
Vision:
To become the leading academic hub for research, learning, and dissemination of knowledge on liberation struggles, nurturing an informed, enlightened, and justice-driven generation.
Mission:
The Liberation War Research Centre is committed to collecting, preserving, and sharing authentic knowledge about Bangladesh’s Liberation War. It strives to foster scholarly inquiry, promote education in history and human rights, and encourage dialogue on freedom, identity, and justice in both national and global contexts.
BACHELOR OF SOCIAL SCIENCE IN HISTORY AND GLOBAL STUDIES (HGS)
The DHP is planning to offer this program from 2026
Master of Arts in History and Asian Studies (MAHAS)
Overview of the Program:
The Program will lead to the receiving of Masters of Arts (MA) Degree by the students. It offers three components: a distinctive focus on Bangladesh and South Asia, a broader Asian perspective (South East and Far East), and a chance to specialize in either history or develop skills in regional area studies. Courses would draw on the insights offered by disciplines such as History, Political Science, Philosophy, and Environmental Studies and apply them in Bangladesh and Asian contexts. Secondly, students would be able to interact and exchange ideas with some of the leading South, Southeast, and East Asian specialists within the larger framework of the History and Asian Studies Program. Thirdly, in order to understand the complex and often contradictory social and cultural realities, students would acquire the necessary knowledge in bridging successful Asian experiences in the regional context.
Academic Calendar:
The program will maintain the following academic calendar:
|
Semester |
Duration |
|
Spring |
January to April |
|
Summer |
May to August |
|
Fall |
September to December |
Program Modules/Courses:
The MAHAS Program will offer a wide range of courses from different aspects of History and Asian Studies with a particular focus on South Asian studies. There are two formats of the program. Students who will qualify for format-1 must take mandatory six core courses and four elective courses out of eight offered courses (subjective to availability). Those who will not qualify for Format-1 must take six core courses and six elective courses out of eight offered courses.
MAHAS Program Plan: Format 1 (with Thesis)
|
Year/ Semester |
1st Year |
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|
1st Semester |
Core Course 03 credits |
Core Course 03 credits |
Core Course 03 credits |
Elective-1 03 credits |
|
2nd Semester |
Core Course 03 credits |
Core Course 03 credits |
Core Course 03 credits |
Elective-2 03 credits |
|
3rd Semester |
Elective-3 03 credits |
Elective-4 03 credits |
Master’s Dissertation Writing (Prerequisite: HAS506) 06 Credits |
|
MAHAS Program Plan: Format 2 (without Thesis)
|
Year/ Semester |
1st Year |
||||
|
1st Semester |
Core Course 03 credits |
Core Course 03 credits |
Core Course 03 credits |
Elective-1 03 credits |
|
|
2nd Semester |
Core Course 03 credits |
Core Course 03 credits |
Core Course 03 credits |
Elective-2 03 credits |
|
|
3rd Semester |
Elective-3 03 credits |
Elective-4 03 credits |
Elective-5 03 credits |
Elective-6 03 credits |
|
List of Courses:
|
Core Courses |
||
|
Course Code |
Course Title |
Credits |
|
HAS501 |
Pre-Modern History of South Asia |
3 Credits |
|
HAS502 |
History of Modern South Asia |
3 Credits |
|
HAS503 |
Contemporary East Asia |
3 Credits |
|
HAS504 |
Urbanization in Modern Asia |
3 Credits |
|
HAS505 |
History of Independent Bangladesh |
3 Credits |
|
HAS506 |
Historiography and Research Methodology |
3 Credits |
|
Elective Courses (Any Four/Six) |
||
|
HAS507 |
Heritage, Museology & Archival Studies |
3 Credits |
|
HAS508 |
Economic History of Asia |
3 Credits |
|
HAS509 |
History of the Middle East |
3 Credits |
|
HAS510 |
Gender in Asian History |
3 Credits |
|
HAS511 |
History of Science & Technology |
3 Credits |
|
HAS512 |
Modern China, Japan, and Malaysia |
3 Credits |
|
HAS513 |
Traditions in Asian Philosophy |
3 Credits |
|
HAS514 |
Development in South Asia |
3 Credits |
|
HAS515 |
Master’s Dissertation |
6 Credits |
Target Groups:
Entry Requirements and How to Apply:
Students are required to fulfill the following conditions in order to be admitted to the degree program in History and Asian Studies:
Selection criteria/additional info:
Selection of students is based on previous academic achievements and the following criteria:
Tuition and Financial Assistance:
Tuition and other program expenditures will be based on existing North South University’s graduate tuition structure. Financial assistance will be available for meritorious and deserving students.
Career Prospects:
Graduates of the program will have not just historical and contemporary knowledge of the region as a whole, but also the crucial transnational and cross-cultural competencies that are required for working as part of a team in international organizations that are expanding their work with and inside Asia. Graduates will find positions not only in academic institutes, government agencies, Asia related organizations, foreign embassies, or diplomatic missions but also in consultancy firms, media houses, and the tourism industry. Those planning to pursue a career in academia through Ph.D. research can also benefit from the structure and courses of the program.
It is my great privilege to welcome you to the Liberation War Research Centre (LRC) at North South University.
The Liberation War of 1971 is not only the defining moment in our nation’s history but also a profound testament to the enduring human spirit, the pursuit of justice, dignity, and freedom. At the LRC, our mission is to honor this legacy through research, documentation, and education. We aim to preserve the memories and sacrifices of those who fought for independence while promoting critical reflection on liberation struggles in Bangladesh and beyond.
Through our archives, oral history projects, publications, and international collaborations, we aspire to make the Centre a living repository of history, one that connects the past with the present and inspires future generations to uphold the values of truth, resilience, and humanity.
I invite scholars, students, and citizens alike to join us in this important endeavor of remembrance and discovery. Together, we can ensure that the lessons and spirit of 1971 continue to guide our collective journey toward a more just and enlightened future.
Director, Liberation War Research Centre (LRC)
North South University
Professor Norman K. Swazo of the Department of History & Philosophy (DHP), North South University, has published a research article titled “The Prescience of D. F. Jones’s Colossus: Anticipating the Artificial Intelligence Threat for Nuclear Weapons Command and Control” in Peace Research: The Canadian Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, Volume 56, Number 2 (2024), pp. 93–132. The article examines the implications of artificial intelligence for nuclear command and control systems, drawing on D. F. Jones’s Colossus to explore emerging risks and ethical challenges in contemporary security discourse.
Two recent publications have highlighted the intellectual legacy and scholarly contributions of Professor Salimullah Khan of the Department of History & Philosophy (DHP), North South University. The book “Salimullah Khan in Bangla Literature: Poet, Theorist, Translator—Deconstruction, Modernity and Intellectual Controversy” by Professor Dr. Milton Biswas critically examines Professor Khan’s multifaceted role in Bangla literature and intellectual discourse. In addition, “Biography of Salimullah Khan: Philosophy, Psychology, History and Critical Theory” by S. M. Nazmuz Sakib offers a comprehensive account of his life, thought, and scholarly engagement across multiple disciplines. These publications underscore Professor Khan’s significant influence on contemporary literary and intellectual traditions in Bangladesh.
Dr. Saleh Md. Shahriar, Assistant Professor of the Department of History & Philosophy (DHP), North South University, has published a paper titled “Changing Dynamics of Bangladesh-India Border Relations” in the Q1-ranked journal, Geopolitics. The publication in a leading international journal reflects the Department’s continued commitment to high-quality research and scholarly contributions in the field of political geography and regional studies. The article critically examines the evolving dynamics of Bangladesh–India border relations, offering important insights into contemporary geopolitical developments in South Asia. The Department congratulates Dr. Shahriar on this significant academic achievement.
Welcome to the Department of History and Philosophy (DHP) at North South University. At DHP, we go beyond teaching history and philosophy; we inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning. We encourage our students to ask profound questions: Why do societies change? How do ideas shape the world? What responsibilities do we hold as individuals and communities? Exploring these questions helps connect the past with the present and equips students to face the challenges of tomorrow with purpose.
We currently offer the Master of Arts in History and Asian Studies (MAHAS), which provides advanced regional and global perspectives, preparing graduates for careers in academia, government, diplomacy, NGOs, media, and international organizations. Looking ahead, we are excited to launch the Bachelor of Social Science (BSS) in History and Global Studies, designed to foster global awareness, analytical depth, and strong ethical foundations.
Alongside these programs, our GED courses, including Emergence of Bangladesh, Business Ethics, World History & Civilizations, Philosophy, and Psychology, equip all NSU students with essential knowledge that complements their main studies and nurtures well-rounded intellectual development.
The heart of DHP lies in its faculty, scholars trained at internationally recognized institutions who bring passion, expertise, and mentorship into the classroom. Beyond coursework, our vibrant community of seminars, workshops, and dialogues links knowledge to real-world issues and nurtures both intellectual and personal growth.
At DHP, education is not just preparation for a career, it is preparation for a meaningful life. We strive to cultivate graduates who think clearly, act responsibly, and contribute positively to society. I invite you to join us in this journey of discovery, where your ideas can take flight and your potential can be realized.
Dr. Mahbubur Rahman
Professor & Chair DHP
Rifa Sanjida
Assistant Officer (Contractual)
Email: rifa.sanjida@northsouth.edu
Phone: 02-55668200; Ext.:6366
Office: NAC 1047
Department of History and Philosophy
North South University
Bashundhara R/A, Block B, Dhaka 1229, Bangladesh
