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MA in Political Science at Maa Shanta Devi College of Management
Betul, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Maa Shanta Devi College of Management Betul?
This Political Science program at Maa Shanta Devi College of Management, affiliated with Barkatullah University, focuses on deep analytical and critical understanding of political systems, theories, and governance, with a strong emphasis on the Indian context. It prepares students for diverse roles in public service, research, and policy analysis, addressing the growing demand for skilled political analysts and administrators in India''''s dynamic political landscape. The program''''s strength lies in its comprehensive coverage of both classical and contemporary political thought, alongside practical aspects of public administration and policy.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from humanities and social sciences seeking entry into government, civil services, NGOs, or think tanks in India. It also caters to working professionals in related fields looking to enhance their theoretical understanding and analytical skills for career advancement. Individuals passionate about public service, policy-making, research, and contributing to democratic processes will find this program highly enriching. A strong academic background in Political Science or related disciplines is beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers in civil services (UPSC, MPSC), policy research, journalism, political consulting, and international organizations within India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals potentially earning INR 8-15 lakhs or more, depending on the sector and role. The analytical and critical thinking skills developed are highly valued in both government and private sectors, leading to significant growth trajectories in Indian organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core political theories (Indian and Western) and public administration principles from the syllabus. Actively participate in class discussions and form study groups to debate complex ideas and concepts. Regular revision of foundational texts will solidify your understanding for advanced topics.
Tools & Resources
Recommended textbooks from the official syllabus, Online academic journals (e.g., JSTOR, Economic and Political Weekly), University library resources, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A deep theoretical base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, state PSCs, and for critical analysis required in policy and research roles.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbooks, actively read and critically analyze current affairs, political analyses from reputable Indian newspapers (such as The Hindu, Indian Express), and academic journals. Practice writing analytical essays and summaries of political events, linking them to learned theories to enhance comprehension.
Tools & Resources
Quality Indian newspapers and their editorial sections, Academic articles on current political issues, Recordings of parliamentary debates, News analysis programs
Career Connection
Enhances your ability to articulate arguments clearly and concisely, which is a vital skill for civil services examinations, journalism, and policy drafting.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Leverage general foundation courses like Environmental Studies and Human Rights to understand the broader societal context of politics. Actively explore connections between Political Science, Sociology, Economics, and History to gain a holistic perspective on governance and societal challenges.
Tools & Resources
Cross-departmental seminars and workshops, Introductory texts from related social science disciplines, Documentaries and case studies on Indian social and environmental issues
Career Connection
Fosters a comprehensive understanding of governance challenges, making graduates more versatile and adaptable for diverse roles in public and social sectors across India.
Intermediate Stage
Master Research Methodology and Application- (Semester 3-4)
Actively engage with the Research Methodology course. Practice formulating research questions, designing studies, and analyzing political data using appropriate methods. If opportunities arise, volunteer for faculty research projects to gain hands-on experience in data collection, fieldwork, and interpretation.
Tools & Resources
Syllabus for Research Methodology, Basic statistical software tutorials (e.g., for R or Python in social sciences, or Excel for data organization), Online survey tools (e.g., Google Forms, SurveyMonkey), University library''''s research paper databases
Career Connection
This skill is essential for roles in policy analysis, academic research, think tanks, and for effectively completing dissertations or project reports required in professional settings.
Pursue Issue-Based Internships- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek and complete internships with local NGOs, government departments, media houses covering political news, or political consultancies during semester breaks. Focus on understanding public policy implementation, human rights advocacy, or political campaign strategies in action within the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
University career services department, Online internship platforms (e.g., Internshala, LetsIntern), Networking with alumni and faculty for recommendations
Career Connection
Provides practical exposure to the real-world application of political science, builds professional networks, and enhances understanding of political dynamics for better career readiness and opportunities in India.
Participate in Debates and Model Parliament Sessions- (Semester 3-4)
Actively join college debate clubs, participate in mock parliament sessions, or attend political discussions and seminars. This develops crucial public speaking, negotiation skills, and a deeper understanding of legislative processes and democratic discourse.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs and literary societies, Model United Nations (MUN) or Model Parliament simulations, Public speaking and communication workshops
Career Connection
Develops essential communication and advocacy skills, which are critical for roles in civil services, legal professions, journalism, political commentary, and leadership positions.
Advanced Stage
Strategic Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 3-4 onwards)
Begin focused and systematic preparation for competitive examinations like the UPSC Civil Services Examination, state Public Service Commissions (PSCs), or other government job tests. Integrate the MA Political Science syllabus topics directly into your study plans and rigorously practice essay writing and current affairs analysis.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks (relevant to social sciences), Standard reference books for UPSC/PSC exams, Online current affairs portals, Previous year''''s question papers, Mock tests from reputable coaching institutes (if feasible)
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for highly sought-after government and public sector administrative roles, which are considered prestigious and impactful career paths in India.
Develop Specialized Policy/Regional Expertise- (Semester 4 (for dissertation/project))
During your dissertation or project work in the final semester, choose a topic that aligns with specific policy areas (e.g., environmental policy, education policy, foreign policy) or a regional focus (e.g., South Asian politics, Madhya Pradesh governance). This in-depth study will help you create a specialized portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors and supervisors, Specialized research databases and academic libraries, Policy reports from Indian think tanks and government white papers
Career Connection
Positions graduates as specialists, highly desirable for policy analysis roles in NGOs, research organizations, academic institutions, and international relations bodies in India.
Network with Alumni and Professionals- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek out and connect with alumni of Maa Shanta Devi College and Barkatullah University who are working in various political science-related fields. Attend career fairs, webinars, and workshops where industry and government professionals share insights. These connections can lead to mentorship, internships, and potential job opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, Alumni association events (if available), University career services cell, Professional associations related to political science or public administration
Career Connection
Opens doors to unadvertised opportunities, provides invaluable career guidance, and helps in understanding industry expectations for smoother transitions into the professional world in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. with Political Science as a subject with 45% marks or 50% for other Arts/Social Science Graduates.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: Minimum 100 credits (as per University guidelines) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-101 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 5 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Manu, Kautilya), Medieval Indian Political Thought (Barani, Abul Fazl), Modern Indian Political Thought (Ram Mohan Roy, Gandhi), Nehru, Ambedkar, Savarkar, Dharma, Danda, State and Society |
| CC-102 | Public Administration | Core | 5 | Introduction to Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Administrative Behaviour (Decision Making, Motivation), Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Good Governance |
| DSE-1 | International Relations | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 5 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism, Marxism), Cold War and Post-Cold War era, International Law and Diplomacy, International Organizations (UN, WTO, Regional Groupings), Foreign Policy Analysis, Globalization and State Sovereignty |
| CFC-1 | Environmental Studies | Core (Compulsory Foundation Course) | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Natural Resources Management, Environmental Pollution, Global Environmental Issues (Climate Change, Ozone Depletion), Environmental Ethics, Environmental Protection Acts in India |
| VAC-1 | Basics of Computer and Information Technology | Elective (Value Added Course) | 2 | Fundamentals of Computer, Operating System Concepts, MS-Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Internet and E-mail Communication, Cyber Security Basics, Digital Literacy |
| OE-1 | Open Elective 1 | Elective (Open Elective) | 2 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-201 | Western Political Thought | Core | 5 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli and Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau, Hegel and Marx, Gramsci and Arendt, Contemporary Western Political Thinkers |
| CC-202 | Political Sociology | Core | 5 | Political Culture and Socialization, Political Participation and Mobilization, Elites and Masses, State and Civil Society, Social Movements and Revolution, Power and Authority |
| DSE-2 | Public Policy | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 5 | Public Policy Process and Models, Policy Formulation and Implementation, Policy Evaluation and Analysis, Role of State and Non-State Actors in Policy, Governance and Public Policy in India, Policy Instruments |
| CFC-2 | Human Rights | Core (Compulsory Foundation Course) | 2 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in India (Constitutional Provisions), National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), International Human Rights Law and Institutions, Contemporary Human Rights Challenges |
| VAC-2 | Entrepreneurship Development | Elective (Value Added Course) | 2 | Concept of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Entrepreneurial Motivation and Traits, Small Business Management, Business Plan Preparation, Government Schemes for Entrepreneurs in India, Marketing and Finance for Start-ups |
| OE-2 | Open Elective 2 | Elective (Open Elective) | 2 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-301 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 5 | Constitutional Development in India, Fundamental Rights, Duties and Directive Principles, Union Executive, Legislature and Judiciary, State Government and Administration, Federalism in India, Electoral System and Party Politics |
| CC-302 | Political Ideologies | Core | 5 | Liberalism and Conservatism, Socialism and Marxism, Nationalism and Fascism, Feminism and Ecologism, Postmodernism and Multiculturalism, Anarchism |
| DSE-3 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 5 | Meaning and Scope of Research, Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Methods of Data Collection (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Research Ethics |
| CFC-3 | Yoga and Meditation for Health and Well-being | Core (Compulsory Foundation Course) | 2 | Introduction to Yoga and its Philosophy, Various Asanas and their Benefits, Pranayama (Breathing Techniques), Meditation Techniques and Mindfulness, Stress Management through Yoga, Holistic Health Concepts |
| VAC-3 | Digital Marketing | Elective (Value Added Course) | 2 | Introduction to Digital Marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Media Marketing, Email Marketing Strategies, Content Marketing, Web Analytics and Performance Measurement |
| OE-3 | Open Elective 3 | Elective (Open Elective) | 2 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-401 | International Organizations | Core | 5 | Evolution of International Organizations, United Nations (UN) and its Organs, Regional Organizations (EU, SAARC, ASEAN, AU), Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), International Non-State Actors, Challenges to International Cooperation |
| CC-402 | Political Economy | Core | 5 | Theories of Political Economy (Mercantilism, Liberalism, Marxism), State, Market and Society, Globalization and its Impact on Developing Countries, International Financial Institutions (IMF, World Bank, WTO), Development Models and Challenges in India, Neo-liberalism and its Critics |
| DSE-4 | Human Rights in India | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 5 | Constitutional Provisions for Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and State HRCs, Role of Judiciary in Protecting Human Rights, Rights of Women, Children, Minorities, Rights of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, Human Rights Movements in India |
| DSE-5 | Dissertation / Project Work / Internship | Elective (Discipline Specific) | 5 | Research Topic Selection and Problem Formulation, Extensive Literature Review, Methodology Design and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation, Field Experience/Practical Application |
| CFC-4 | Value Education | Core (Compulsory Foundation Course) | 2 | Concept and Significance of Values, Types of Values (Moral, Ethical, Social, Spiritual), Role of Education in Value Inculcation, Universal Human Values, Value Crisis in Contemporary Society, Developing a Value-Based Personality |
| VAC-4 | Tourism and Hospitality Management | Elective (Value Added Course) | 2 | Introduction to Tourism Industry, Types of Tourism (Eco-tourism, Cultural Tourism), Hospitality Industry Operations (Hotel, Resorts), Travel Agency and Tour Operations Management, Sustainable Tourism Practices, Impact of Tourism on Economy and Society |
| OE-4 | Open Elective 4 | Elective (Open Elective) | 2 |
