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MA in Political Science at Abhay Balika Mahavidyalaya
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Abhay Balika Mahavidyalaya Prayagraj?
This MA Political Science program at Abhay Balika Mahavidyalaya focuses on equipping students with an in-depth understanding of political theories, systems, and governance in both Indian and global contexts. It emphasizes critical analysis of political phenomena, public administration, international relations, and research methodologies. The program aligns with the growing demand for skilled political analysts, policy researchers, and public service professionals in India''''s dynamic socio-political landscape, preparing graduates for impactful careers.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Political Science or related humanities disciplines, seeking entry into government services, policy research, or academia. It also caters to working professionals in NGOs, media, or public sector looking to upskill their analytical and research capabilities. Individuals passionate about public service, social justice, and understanding complex political dynamics will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in civil services (UPSC, State PCS), policy think tanks, journalism, advocacy, and education. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in policy consulting or senior government roles. The program fosters critical thinking and research skills, crucial for growth trajectories in Indian political institutions and contributes to a robust understanding of national development.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Theoretical Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on understanding the core concepts of Western and Indian Political Thought, and Political Theory. Create detailed notes, participate actively in class discussions, and use supplementary readings from recommended authors to gain diverse perspectives. This will lay a robust intellectual base for advanced studies.
Tools & Resources
University Library Resources, JSTOR (through institutional access), Standard textbooks like O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical grounding is essential for competitive exams (UPSC Civil Services, State PCS) where conceptual clarity in Political Science is tested rigorously.
Develop Effective Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to the Research Methodology course. Practice formulating research questions, reviewing literature, and structuring arguments. Participate in departmental seminars and workshops on academic writing and citation to hone your skills. Start early by writing short analytical essays on contemporary political issues.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL, Grammarly, Mendeley (for citation management), University writing center if available
Career Connection
These skills are invaluable for careers in policy analysis, journalism, academia, and think tanks, where clear, evidence-based communication is paramount for influencing public discourse.
Engage with Current Affairs and Public Discourse- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read reputable Indian newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), magazines, and online portals focusing on political analysis. Follow debates on national and international issues, connecting them to your theoretical knowledge. Participate in college debate clubs or mock parliaments to articulate your views effectively.
Tools & Resources
Newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), Magazines (Frontline, Economic and Political Weekly), Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates, Online news portals
Career Connection
Staying updated is critical for competitive exams, media roles, and any career requiring an understanding of real-world political developments and their implications in India.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical Policy Analysis- (Semester 3)
Apply theoretical frameworks from Public Administration and Indian Political System to analyze real-world policy issues in India. Choose a specific government policy (e.g., NEP implementation, Smart Cities Mission, rural development schemes) and critically evaluate its formulation, implementation, and impact. Look for opportunities to write policy briefs.
Tools & Resources
NITI Aayog reports, Ministry websites (Govt. of India), Academic journals focusing on Indian public policy, Case studies on public administration
Career Connection
This prepares you for roles in policy analysis, public affairs, and governance consultancy, offering a tangible portfolio of work relevant to Indian public service.
Explore Interdisciplinary Perspectives- (Semester 3)
While specializing, seek connections with other disciplines like Economics, Sociology, and Law. Attend guest lectures, workshops, or online courses that offer interdisciplinary insights into Political Science. Understanding economic policies or sociological factors influencing political behavior enriches your analytical capabilities.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, SWAYAM platform, Open Yale Courses (Political Science), Books on political economy or political sociology
Career Connection
An interdisciplinary approach is highly valued in modern policy-making and research, broadening career horizons beyond traditional political science roles into think tanks or international organizations working in India.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 3)
Connect with faculty members for deeper insights and guidance on your interests. Attend webinars or conferences (even online) to interact with scholars and practitioners in Political Science. Identify mentors who can guide your academic and career trajectory, particularly those with experience in the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Political Science Association), University alumni network, Departmental events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, research collaborations, and informs career choices, providing critical insights into various sectors in India where political science graduates thrive.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation/Project Excellence- (Semester 4)
Treat your Dissertation/Project Work as a capstone experience. Choose a topic that genuinely interests you and has relevance to contemporary Indian politics or international relations. Dedicate significant time to rigorous research, data collection (if applicable), and insightful analysis. Aim for a publishable quality output.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (R, SPSS basics if data-intensive), Reference managers (Zotero), Academic supervisors, Online databases for research papers
Career Connection
A strong dissertation can be a powerful credential for higher studies (PhD), research roles, or even entry into specialized policy advisory positions in India. It demonstrates independent research capability.
Prepare Systematically for Competitive Exams- (Semester 4)
If civil services are your goal, integrate exam preparation into your final semester. Focus on general studies, current affairs, and optional subject preparation. Take mock tests, join study circles, and stay updated on exam patterns. Leverage your MA syllabus knowledge directly for the political science optional paper.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PCS previous year papers, Online coaching platforms, Test series, Government publications like India Year Book
Career Connection
Directly links academic knowledge to career aspirations in the highly competitive Indian civil services, maximizing the value of your MA degree for public administration roles.
Develop Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Participate in every opportunity to present your work, whether it''''s class presentations, seminar talks, or mock interviews. Practice articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely. Develop skills in public speaking and visual aids to effectively convey your research and analysis to diverse audiences.
Tools & Resources
PowerPoint/Google Slides, Canva (for visual aids), Toastmasters (if available), Peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
Strong communication is crucial for roles in journalism, teaching, public relations, and even civil service interviews, ensuring you can effectively influence and inform in an Indian professional setting.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation in Political Science or any other discipline from a recognized University.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: Calculated to be 80 credits (20 credits per semester) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (as per general NEP guidelines for PRSU), External: 75% (as per general NEP guidelines for PRSU)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPSC-101 | Modern Western Political Thought | Core | 5 | Plato: Justice and Ideal State, Aristotle: Citizen and Constitution, Machiavelli: Statecraft and Morality, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract Theories, Mill: Liberty and Representative Government |
| PPSC-102 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 5 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Manu, Kautilya), Medieval Indian Political Thought (Barani, Abul Fazal), Modern Indian Political Thought (Gandhi, Ambedkar), Nehru: Socialism and Democracy, Tagore, Aurobindo: Nationalism and Humanism |
| PPSC-103 | Political Theory | Core | 5 | Nature and Scope of Political Theory, Concepts: State, Sovereignty, Power, Authority, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Democracy: Theories and Models, Ideologies: Liberalism, Socialism, Nationalism |
| PPSC-104 | Public Administration | Core | 5 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy and its Challenges, Public Policy: Formulation and Implementation, Good Governance and E-governance |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPSC-201 | Comparative Politics | Core | 5 | Nature, Scope and Methods of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics (Systems, Structural-Functional), Political Culture and Political Socialization, Constitutionalism and Democratic Transitions, Role of Political Parties and Interest Groups |
| PPSC-202 | International Relations | Core | 5 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism, Marxism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Developments, Globalization and International Political Economy, International Organizations (UN, WTO, IMF), Disarmament, Arms Control and Nuclear Proliferation |
| PPSC-203 | Research Methodology | Core | 5 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Research, Research Design and Hypothesis Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling Techniques and Data Analysis, Report Writing and Ethical Issues in Research |
| PPSC-204 | Modern Indian Political System | Core | 5 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Federalism in India: Challenges and Dynamics, Political Parties and Electoral Process, Local Self-Government (Panchayati Raj and Urban Bodies), Caste, Religion, Language in Indian Politics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPSC-301 | Contemporary Political Theory | Core | 5 | Post-modernism and Post-structuralism, Feminist Political Thought, Green Political Theory, Multiculturalism and Identity Politics, Critical Theory and Deliberative Democracy |
| PPSC-302 | Human Rights | Core | 5 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), International Covenants on Human Rights, Human Rights in India (NHRC, SHRC), Challenges to Human Rights in the Globalized World |
| PPSC-303 (E1) | India''''s Foreign Policy | Elective | 5 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement: Evolution and Relevance, India''''s Relations with Major Powers (US, Russia, China), Regional Cooperation (SAARC, BIMSTEC), India in Global Governance |
| PPSC-304 (E2) | Politics of Environment | Elective | 5 | Environmentalism: Theories and Movements, Global Environmental Issues (Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss), International Environmental Regimes and Agreements, Environmental Policy in India, Sustainable Development and Environmental Justice |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPSC-401 | Political Economy | Core | 5 | Classical Political Economy (Adam Smith, Ricardo), Marxian Political Economy, Keynesian and Neo-liberal Approaches, Globalization and its Impact on Developing Countries, India''''s Economic Reforms and their Political Implications |
| PPSC-402 | Governance and Public Policy in India | Core | 5 | Concept of Governance and Good Governance, Role of State, Market and Civil Society, Public Policy Process: Agenda Setting, Implementation, Evaluation, Social Sector Policies (Education, Health, Poverty Alleviation), Corruption, Accountability and Transparency Initiatives |
| PPSC-403 (E3) | Gender and Politics | Elective | 5 | Feminist Theories and Patriarchy, Gender and Political Participation, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender and Development, Gender Justice and Law in India |
| PPSC-404 | Dissertation / Project Work | Project | 5 | Problem Identification and Research Question Formulation, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Thesis Writing and Presentation |
