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M-A in Political Science at Saint Girdhar College
Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Saint Girdhar College Vidisha?
This M.A. Political Science program at Saint Girdhar College, Vidisha, offers a rigorous academic journey into the core tenets of political theory, comparative politics, and international relations, deeply rooted in both Western and Indian perspectives. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking about governance, public policy, and socio-political dynamics, equipping students with a profound understanding of the complex political landscape in India and globally. It emphasizes an analytical approach to political science, making it highly relevant for various professional fields.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from humanities backgrounds, aspiring civil servants, professionals in journalism, public relations, social work, and those interested in policy analysis or political research. It also suits individuals seeking to upskill for roles in advocacy, non-governmental organizations, or those pursuing academic careers in political science.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to develop strong analytical and research skills, leading to diverse career paths. India-specific opportunities include roles in the civil services (UPSC/PSC), political consulting, journalism, policy think tanks, social advocacy, and teaching. Entry-level salaries can range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience in government or corporate sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Active Reading and Critical Analysis- (Semester 1-2)
Engage deeply with core texts in Western and Indian Political Thought. Don''''t just read, analyze arguments, identify biases, and form your own reasoned opinions. Utilize library resources and online academic journals for wider perspectives beyond textbooks.
Tools & Resources
College Library, JSTOR/Google Scholar for academic articles, Newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express)
Career Connection
This builds foundational analytical skills crucial for civil services, research, and any role requiring informed decision-making.
Current Affairs Integration and Discussion- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly follow national and international news, connecting theoretical concepts learned in class with real-world political events and policies. Actively participate in classroom discussions and departmental seminars to articulate your views and engage in constructive debate.
Tools & Resources
Reputable news channels and websites, Political Science Department seminars, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Develops informed perspectives vital for journalism, policy analysis, and effective public administration.
Build Strong Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on clarity, coherence, and evidence-based argumentation in all assignments. Seek feedback from professors on essay structure, citation styles, and critical expression. Mastering this early is crucial for higher academic performance.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL for citation guides, Professor''''s office hours
Career Connection
Essential for academic research, policy brief writing, and clear communication in any professional role.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Research Projects and Paper Writing- (Semester 3)
Initiate independent research projects, even small ones, beyond regular coursework. This includes selecting a relevant topic, conducting literature reviews, and learning basic research methodologies. Focus on writing research papers for academic submission.
Tools & Resources
Referencing software (Zotero, Mendeley), Statistical tools (if applicable, e.g., Excel for basic data), University research guidelines
Career Connection
Prepares for dissertation, doctoral studies, and research-oriented roles in think tanks or academia.
Internship with Government/NGOs/Think Tanks- (Semester 3 (during break or part-time))
Seek internships with local government bodies, non-governmental organizations, political campaigns, or public policy think tanks. Gaining practical experience in policy formulation, advocacy, or community engagement provides invaluable real-world exposure.
Tools & Resources
Online internship portals (Internshala, LetsIntern), College placement cell, Networking with faculty
Career Connection
Offers hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and a clear understanding of career paths in the public and social sectors.
Strategic Preparation for Civil Services/NET- (Semester 3 onwards)
If aspiring for civil services or academia, begin focused preparation. Identify relevant political science modules for competitive exams like UPSC, State PSCs, or UGC NET. Join study groups and solve previous year''''s papers.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC official websites for syllabus, Previous year question papers, Online coaching platforms
Career Connection
Directly enhances chances for coveted government jobs and provides a strong foundation for a career in teaching or research.
Advanced Stage
Focused Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Utilize the final semester''''s dissertation or project to specialize in an area of strong interest. This is an opportunity to conduct in-depth research, refine analytical skills, and produce a substantial academic work under faculty guidance. Aim for a topic with real-world implications.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated faculty supervisor, Advanced research databases, Thesis writing software (LaTeX, MS Word)
Career Connection
Showcases expertise, strengthens research credentials for higher studies or specialized roles, and acts as a strong portfolio piece.
Professional Networking and Mentorship- (Semester 4)
Actively network with alumni, political scientists, public policy experts, and civil servants through college events, LinkedIn, and professional conferences. Seek mentorship from experienced individuals to gain insights into career progression and industry trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Professional conferences/webinars
Career Connection
Opens doors to job opportunities, collaborative projects, and provides guidance for navigating complex career landscapes.
Skill Development for Specific Career Paths- (Semester 4)
Identify specific skills required for your target career (e.g., data analysis for policy research, public speaking for advocacy, content creation for political communication) and enroll in relevant workshops or online courses to build them. This could include courses on public policy analysis, quantitative methods, or communication strategies.
Tools & Resources
Coursera, edX, NPTEL for online courses, Departmental workshops, Public speaking clubs
Career Connection
Makes you more employable by directly addressing skill gaps identified for specific job roles, giving a competitive edge.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline with Political Science as one subject, or with 50% marks in Graduation for those who have not studied Political Science in Graduation from a recognized university.
Duration: 2 years (4 Semesters)
Credits: 88 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS101C | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Revolution, Machiavelli: Human Nature, Statecraft, John Locke: Natural Rights, Social Contract, J.J. Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, J.S. Mill: Liberty, Representative Government |
| MAPS102C | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Kautilya: State, Dhamma, Manu: Social Order, Dharma, Kabir: Social Harmony, Equality, Sir Syed Ahmed Khan: Muslim Nationalism, Raja Ram Mohan Roy: Reforms, Modernity, M.K. Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, B.R. Ambedkar: Social Justice, Dalit Emancipation, V.D. Savarkar: Hindutva, Nationalism, M.N. Roy: Radical Humanism |
| MAPS103C | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature, Scope and Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Political Development and Political Modernization, Electoral Systems: Plurality, Proportional Representation, Federalism and Unitary System, Globalisation and its Impact on Developing Countries |
| MAPS104DE-A | Public Administration | Discipline Elective | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization: Scientific Management, Human Relations, Principles of Organization: Hierarchy, Span of Control, Public Policy: Formation and Implementation, Financial Administration: Budget, Auditing, Bureaucracy: Weber''''s Model, Types, Good Governance: Concept and Elements |
| MAPS105SEC-A | Human Rights | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Concept and Classification of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission, Role of NGOs in Human Rights Protection |
| MAPS106VE-A | Panchayati Raj in India | Vocational Elective | 2 | Concept of Local Self Government, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Structure and Functions of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Role of Gram Sabha, Challenges to Panchayati Raj |
| MAPS107FPI | Field Project/Internship/Apprenticeship | Project/Internship | 2 | Identification of Research Problem, Data Collection Methods: Survey, Interview, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Fieldwork |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS201C | Modern Political Theory | Core | 4 | Liberalism: Classical and Contemporary, Socialism: Utopian, Scientific, Democratic, Marxism: Neo-Marxism, Critical Theory, Feminism: Waves, Key Concepts, Post-Modernism: Power, Discourse, Democracy: Deliberative, Participatory, Rights: Types, Theories, Justice: Procedural, Distributive |
| MAPS202C | International Relations | Core | 4 | Realism vs. Liberalism, Cold War and its Aftermath, Non-Alignment Movement: Objectives, Relevance, United Nations: Organs, Functions, Reforms, Disarmament and Arms Control, Globalisation: Impact on State Sovereignty |
| MAPS203C | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Development in India, Federalism: Centre-State Relations, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Parliamentary System: President, Prime Minister, Parliament, Judiciary: Supreme Court, Judicial Review, Party System: National and Regional Parties |
| MAPS204DE-A | Geopolitics | Discipline Elective | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Geopolitics, Classical Geopolitical Theories: Mackinder, Spykman, Critical Geopolitics, Geopolitical Regions: South Asia, Middle East, India''''s Geopolitical Interests and Challenges |
| MAPS205SEC-A | Research Methodology | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Meaning and Importance of Research, Types of Research: Qualitative, Quantitative, Formulation of Research Problem and Hypothesis, Methods of Data Collection: Primary, Secondary, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing: Structure and Referencing |
| MAPS206VE-A | Human Values & Ethics | Vocational Elective | 2 | Concept of Values and Ethics, Moral Development Theories, Professional Ethics: Media, Public Service, Ethical Dilemmas and Decision Making, Social Responsibility and Accountability |
| MAPS207CES | Community Engagement & Service | Community Engagement | 2 | Understanding Community Needs, Planning and Organizing Social Service Activities, Awareness Campaigns: Health, Education, Environment, Documentation and Report Preparation, Impact Assessment of Community Initiatives |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS301C | Ancient Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian Political Thought, Brahmanical Tradition: Vedas, Dharmashastras, Buddhist Tradition: Sangha, Governance, Kautilya''''s Arthashastra: Saptanga Theory, Mandala Theory, Shukra Niti: Statecraft, Administration, Mahabharata (Shanti Parva): Rajadharma, Danda Niti |
| MAPS302C | Contemporary Political Theory | Core | 4 | John Rawls: Theory of Justice, Original Position, Robert Nozick: Entitlement Theory, Minimal State, Jürgen Habermas: Communicative Action, Public Sphere, Charles Taylor: Politics of Recognition, Michael Walzer: Complex Equality, Communitarianism: Rights, Community, Multiculturalism: Diversity, Inclusion |
| MAPS303C | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Culture: Civic Culture, Political Participation, Political Socialization: Agents, Impact, Elites: Theories, Types, Political Parties: Functions, Typology, Pressure Groups: Types, Role, Social Movements: Characteristics, New Social Movements |
| MAPS304DE-A | Decentralization & Local Governance | Discipline Elective | 4 | Concept and Importance of Decentralization, Local Self-Government: Evolution, Significance, Rural Local Bodies: Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, Zila Parishad, Urban Local Bodies: Municipal Corporation, Municipality, Nagar Panchayat, State Election Commission and State Finance Commission |
| MAPS305SEC-A | Cyber Politics | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Introduction to Cyber Security, Cyber Crime: Types, Prevention, E-governance: Models, Challenges, Social Media and Political Mobilization, Digital Divide and Political Inclusion |
| MAPS306VE-A | Constitutional Literacy | Vocational Elective | 2 | Preamble of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Constitutional Amendments: Major Changes, Basic Structure Doctrine |
| MAPS307ESI | Entrepreneurship/Start-up/Innovation | Entrepreneurship | 2 | Concept of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Idea Generation and Validation, Business Plan Development, Sources of Funding: Angel Investors, Venture Capital, Marketing and Branding Strategies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS401C | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Regionalism: Linguistic, Ethnic, Socio-economic, Language Politics and Reorganization of States, Caste and Politics: Role in Electoral Process, Political Economy of Indian States, Coalition Politics and its Impact on State Governance |
| MAPS402C | India and the World | Core | 4 | Evolution of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement: Principles and Contemporary Relevance, India-China Relations: Border Dispute, Economic Ties, India-Pakistan Relations: Conflicts, Diplomacy, India-US Strategic Partnership, SAARC and BIMSTEC: Regional Cooperation, BRICS and India''''s Role in Global Governance |
| MAPS403C | Theory of International Relations | Core | 4 | Classical Realism: Morgenthau, Carr, Neo-Realism: Waltz, Offensive, Defensive, Liberalism: Neo-Liberal Institutionalism, Constructivism: Social Construction of Reality, Critical Theory: Gramsci, Cox, Globalization: Debates, Dimensions |
| MAPS404DE-A | Human Rights & Humanitarian Law | Discipline Elective | 4 | International Bill of Rights: UDHR, ICCPR, ICESCR, Protection of Vulnerable Groups: Women, Children, Minorities, International Humanitarian Law: Geneva Conventions, Refugee Law and Asylum, International Criminal Court: Jurisdiction, Role |
| MAPS405SEC-A | Media and Politics | Skill Enhancement | 2 | Role of Media in Democratic Politics, Media Ethics and Accountability, Social Media and Political Communication, Media Bias and Agenda Setting, Public Opinion and Media Influence |
| MAPS406VE-A | Disaster Management | Vocational Elective | 2 | Types of Disasters: Natural, Man-made, Disaster Management Cycle: Mitigation, Preparedness, Response and Recovery Strategies, Role of Government and NGOs in Disaster Management, Community Based Disaster Risk Reduction |
| MAPS407DIS | Dissertation/Project | Dissertation/Project | 2 | Selection of Research Topic, Literature Review and Research Questions, Research Methodology: Data Collection, Analysis, Ethical Guidelines for Research, Thesis Writing and Viva-Voce |
