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M-A in Political Science at Government College, Baktara
Sehore, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Government College, Baktara Sehore?
This M.A. Political Science program at Government College, Baktara, Sehore focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and governance with an emphasis on the Indian context. It delves into historical and contemporary political thought, public administration, international relations, and the Indian Constitution, preparing students for analytical roles in a dynamic socio-political environment. The program aims to foster critical thinking about global and local political challenges, crucial for informed citizenship and public service in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences or humanities seeking entry into public service, policy analysis, or academic research within India. It also suits working professionals in government, NGOs, or media who aim to deepen their understanding of political processes and governance for career advancement. Individuals passionate about societal issues, public policy, and a career in shaping public discourse would find this program highly enriching for contributing to Indian society.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths including civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), political consulting, journalism, policy analysis in think tanks, and roles in NGOs focusing on advocacy and development. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience into positions like policy advisors or senior administrators in various sectors across India. The strong theoretical foundation also prepares students for further academic pursuits like M.Phil. or Ph.D. at Indian universities.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Base- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core political theories, thinkers, and constitutional concepts from ancient to modern perspectives. Regularly read prescribed texts, engage actively in classroom discussions, and make detailed notes to clarify complex ideas from subjects like Ancient Indian Political Thought and Western Political Thought.
Tools & Resources
University library, online academic journals (JSTOR, EPW), discussion forums, peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical foundation is crucial for cracking competitive exams like the civil services and for securing analytical roles in policy research or academia.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice analyzing political phenomena and arguments from multiple perspectives, going beyond mere memorization. Strive to understand the ''''why'''' and ''''how'''' of political events, systems, and public administration in India. Regularly write short analytical essays on contemporary Indian political issues to refine your argumentation and perspective.
Tools & Resources
Reputable Indian newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), current affairs magazines, debates and discussions with professors
Career Connection
Essential for roles requiring policy analysis, journalism, or any field demanding informed decision-making and nuanced understanding of political dynamics.
Engage with Indian Governance Realities- (Semester 1-2)
Supplement theoretical knowledge of the Indian Constitution and Public Administration by consistently following current political developments, major government policies, and administrative challenges specific to India. Actively participate in college-level debates and seminars on Indian political issues and governance.
Tools & Resources
Lok Sabha TV, Rajya Sabha TV, government policy documents (e.g., NITI Aayog reports), local and national news analysis
Career Connection
Provides practical context for understanding the Indian administrative and political landscape, highly beneficial for civil services examinations and public policy roles in India.
Intermediate Stage
Specialized Research and Methodology Application- (Semester 3-4)
Apply the research methodology learned in Semester 2 to specific areas of interest within International Relations, Human Rights, or Indian Political Economy. Identify a potential topic for your dissertation early and begin preliminary literature review and data gathering for your research project.
Tools & Resources
University library''''s research databases, guidance from academic supervisors, workshops on qualitative/quantitative research methods, plagiarism checker tools
Career Connection
Strengthens research capabilities, vital for roles in think tanks, academia, and advanced policy analysis, and demonstrates independent academic rigor.
Network and Professional Engagement- (Semester 3-4)
Attend workshops, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the department or university related to contemporary political thought or international affairs. Proactively connect with professors, alumni, and visiting experts to explore potential career paths and identify internship opportunities in relevant organizations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, university career services (if available), departmental notice boards for event announcements, professional associations
Career Connection
Expands your professional contacts, potentially leading to valuable internships, mentorship, and future job referrals in political organizations, NGOs, or government.
Participate in Inter-Collegiate Competitions/Conferences- (Semester 3-4)
Present research papers or actively participate in essay writing competitions, quiz contests, and mock parliamentary debates at inter-collegiate or university levels. This enhances your public speaking, critical thinking, and presentation skills in a competitive environment.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, academic societies, university events calendar, online platforms for academic writing
Career Connection
Builds confidence, showcases academic prowess, and adds valuable experiences to your resume, making you a more attractive candidate for future employment or higher studies.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to completing your dissertation (Paper XV) in Semester 4. Choose a relevant and impactful topic, conduct rigorous research, critically analyze your findings, and present a well-structured academic paper. Seek regular and constructive feedback from your supervisor.
Tools & Resources
University library, subject-specific online databases, statistical software (if applicable), academic writing guides, faculty supervisors
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation is a strong portfolio piece, demonstrating independent research capability, which is crucial for academic careers, research roles, and for excelling in civil services interviews.
Civil Services/Placement Preparation- (Semester 4)
Begin focused and intensive preparation for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services or State PSCs, leveraging the comprehensive knowledge gained in subjects such as Indian Constitution, Public Administration, and International Relations. Alternatively, refine your resume and prepare rigorously for interviews for roles in NGOs, media, or research organizations.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institutes, online test series, previous year''''s question papers, university career counseling cell (if available), mock interview sessions
Career Connection
Directly prepares you for desired career paths in public service or related fields, significantly maximizing your chances of securing a position immediately after graduation.
Advanced Policy Analysis and Current Affairs Engagement- (Semester 4)
Deepen your understanding of contemporary Indian politics and foreign policy by engaging with advanced analytical articles, policy briefs, and expert commentaries. Formulate your own informed opinions and solutions on pressing national and international issues, participating in high-level discussions.
Tools & Resources
Think tank publications (e.g., ORF, IDSA), government white papers, foreign policy journals, live panel discussions and expert analyses on news channels
Career Connection
Develops the specialized knowledge and analytical edge required for high-level policy advisory roles, strategic analysis, and leadership positions in government or private sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation in any discipline, preferably B.A. with Political Science, with minimum 45% marks (40% for SC/ST/OBC as per university norms).
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS101 | Ancient Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Nature of Indian Political Thought, Manu: Theory of Kingship & Danda, Kautilya: Saptanga Theory, Dandaniti, Sukra: Rajadharma, Statecraft, Buddhist Political Thought |
| MAPS102 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Revolutions, Machiavelli: Morality, Statecraft, Hobbes: Social Contract, Sovereignty, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty |
| MAPS103 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning & Scope of Public Administration, Principles of Organization: Hierarchy, Span of Control, Theories of Organization: Scientific Management, Human Relations, Bureaucracy: Max Weber''''s concept, Financial Administration: Budgeting, Audit |
| MAPS104 | Indian Constitution | Core | 4 | Making of the Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights & Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive: President, Prime Minister, Union Legislature: Parliament, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, State Executive & Legislature |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS201 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Raja Ram Mohan Roy: Liberalism, Gokhale & Tilak: Moderates & Extremists, Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Nehru: Socialism, Secularism, Ambedkar: Social Justice, Constitutionalism, Savarkar: Hindutva |
| MAPS202 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Nature & Scope of Political Sociology, Political Culture & Socialization, Elites, Masses, Leadership, Pressure Groups & Interest Groups, Political Participation, Revolution |
| MAPS203 | Principles of International Relations | Core | 4 | Nature & Scope of International Relations, Approaches: Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Cold War: Origins, Phases, End, Non-alignment Movement, United Nations: Organs, Role |
| MAPS204 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Scientific Method in Social Sciences, Research Design: Types & Steps, Data Collection: Primary & Secondary Sources, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis & Report Writing |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS301 | Theories of International Relations | Core | 4 | Systems Theory & Decision Making Approach, Dependency Theory, World Systems Theory, International Political Economy, Globalisation & World Order, Disarmament & Arms Control |
| MAPS302 | Contemporary Political Thought | Core | 4 | Liberalism: Rawls, Nozick, Socialism: Modern perspectives, Marxism: Neo-Marxism, Critical Theory, Feminism: Types, Debates, Environmentalism, Post-Modernism |
| MAPS303 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept & Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), International Covenants on Human Rights, Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) |
| MAPS304 | Political Economy of India | Core | 4 | State & Economy in India, Economic Reforms: Liberalization, Privatization, Globalization, Agrarian Crisis & Rural Development, Poverty, Inequality & Employment, Public Sector & Private Sector in India |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS401 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Nature of State Politics in India, Regionalism & Regional Parties, Caste, Religion & Language in State Politics, Coalition Politics & Party System in States, Centre-State Relations: Issues & Debates |
| MAPS402 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-alignment & its relevance, India''''s Relations with USA & Russia, India''''s Relations with China & Pakistan, India & SAARC, ASEAN, BRICS |
| MAPS403 | Dissertation/Project | Core | 4 | Identification of Research Problem, Literature Review & Theoretical Framework, Research Design & Methodology, Data Analysis & Interpretation, Report Writing & Presentation |
| MAPS404A | Local Self Government in India (Optional) | Elective | 4 | Evolution of Local Self Government, 73rd & 74th Constitutional Amendments, Panchayati Raj Institutions: Structure, Functions, Urban Local Bodies: Municipal Corporations, Councils, Local Finance & Administration |
