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M-A in Political Science at Babu Fateh Bahadur Singh Degree College
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Babu Fateh Bahadur Singh Degree College Prayagraj?
This Political Science program at Babu Fateh Bahadur Singh Degree College, affiliated with Prof. Rajendra Singh University, Prayagraj, focuses on developing a deep understanding of political theories, Indian governance, and international relations. It emphasizes critical analysis of contemporary political issues in the Indian context, preparing students for roles in public administration, policy research, and media, where informed socio-political insights are crucial.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences, particularly Political Science, seeking entry into civil services, academia, or policy-making. It also benefits working professionals like journalists, researchers, or government employees aiming to deepen their analytical skills and advance their careers in the rapidly evolving political landscape of India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles as civil servants (UPSC, state PSCs), policy analysts in think tanks, journalists, political consultants, or academics. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, potentially growing significantly with experience, especially in government and policy roles within India''''s dynamic political ecosystem.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Foundational Political Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate significant time to understanding core political theories (Western, Indian, Comparative) and concepts. Form study groups to discuss complex ideas, engage in debates, and articulate arguments clearly. Focus on historical context and contemporary relevance.
Tools & Resources
University library, Economic and Political Weekly (journal), NPTEL/Swayam courses on Political Science, Peer discussion forums
Career Connection
Strong theoretical grounding is essential for analytical roles in public administration, policy research, and journalism, enabling nuanced understanding of political events and policies.
Develop Strong Research & Academic Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in workshops on academic writing, referencing styles, and basic research methodologies offered by the department or university. Practice writing essays, literature reviews, and short research papers on current political topics.
Tools & Resources
Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Grammarly, JSTOR, Google Scholar, University writing center support
Career Connection
Proficiency in research and writing is crucial for any analytical role, civil services examinations (essay writing), think tank positions, and academic pursuits.
Engage with Current Affairs and Indian Polity- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly follow national and international news from credible sources, with a special focus on Indian political developments and governmental policies. Participate in college debates, seminars, and quizzes related to current affairs.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express (newspapers), Frontline (magazine), Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV, Government policy documents, Political blogs by Indian experts
Career Connection
A strong grasp of current affairs and Indian polity is indispensable for civil services, journalism, policy advocacy, and informed public discourse, enhancing interview performance.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Policy Analysis and Case Studies- (Semester 3)
Apply theoretical knowledge to analyze real-world policy issues in India, focusing on their formulation, implementation, and impact. Conduct mini-case studies on specific policies or political events, identifying key actors and outcomes.
Tools & Resources
Government of India ministry websites, NITI Aayog reports, PRS Legislative Research, Policy briefs from Indian think tanks, Newspaper editorials
Career Connection
Essential for roles in policy analysis, think tanks, NGOs, and government where understanding policy cycles and their effects is paramount.
Build Professional Network and Seek Internships- (Semester 3)
Attend webinars, conferences, and public lectures by prominent political scientists, bureaucrats, and policy practitioners. Actively seek internships with NGOs, political organizations, media houses, or government departments during breaks.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University career services, IPSA India chapter, NGO directories, Internshala, Let''''s Intern
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to mentorship, future job opportunities, and provides practical exposure, making students more competitive for placements in public service and research.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 3)
Begin focused preparation for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, State PSCs, UGC NET, or other relevant entrance tests for government or academic roles. Integrate exam preparation with coursework.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Coaching institute materials (if opted), Online test series, Reference books on Indian polity, Current affairs compilations
Career Connection
Direct preparation for these exams significantly increases chances of securing coveted government jobs or academic positions, a primary aspiration for many Political Science graduates in India.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
Select a research topic of significant political relevance, especially concerning India. Conduct thorough primary and secondary research, apply appropriate methodologies, and aim for an impactful and well-written dissertation. Seek regular faculty mentorship.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for data analysis (if quantitative), Interview techniques, Official government data portals, Specialized academic databases, Library resources
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases independent research capability, critical thinking, and analytical rigor, making it a valuable asset for research positions, higher studies (Ph.D.), and advanced policy roles.
Develop Communication and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Practice presenting research findings, policy briefs, and arguments clearly and concisely. Participate in mock interviews for jobs and civil services, focusing on articulating complex political concepts effectively to diverse audiences.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International clubs, Departmental seminars, Online public speaking courses, Feedback sessions with faculty and peers, TED talks for inspiration
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for all professional roles, especially in public-facing positions, policy advocacy, media, and interviews for competitive examinations.
Explore Specialized Areas & Higher Education- (Semester 4)
Delve deeper into a specific sub-field of Political Science that aligns with career interests, such as international security, environmental politics, or electoral studies. Research Ph.D. opportunities or specialized certifications relevant to the chosen path.
Tools & Resources
University career counselors, Faculty advisors, Online course platforms for niche subjects, University admission portals for Ph.D. programs, Professional body websites
Career Connection
Specialization can lead to expert roles in research organizations, international agencies, or academia. Pursuing higher education opens pathways to advanced research and teaching careers.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation (B.A.) in any discipline with Political Science as a subject (as per college website)
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC 101 | Political Theory | Core | 4 | Nature & Significance of Political Theory, Approaches to Political Theory, State and Sovereignty, Justice, Liberty, Equality, Rights, Democracy and Citizenship |
| PSC 102 | Indian Government & Politics | Core | 4 | Making of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights & Duties, DPSP, Union Executive and Parliament, Judiciary in India, Federalism, Electoral System, Parties |
| PSC 103 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature & Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political System, Culture, Socialization, Elites, Legislatures, Executives, Judiciaries, Party Systems and Pressure Groups |
| PSC 104 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature & Scope of Public Administration, Evolution & Approaches to Public Administration, Scientific Management, Bureaucracy, Decision Making & Leadership, Communication and Motivation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC 201 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Bentham and J.S. Mill, Hegel and Marx, Gramsci and Modern Thinkers |
| PSC 202 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Meaning & Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations, Cold War & Post-Cold War Era, Foreign Policy & Diplomacy, United Nations & Regional Organizations |
| PSC 203 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Meaning & Scope of Research, Types of Research & Research Design, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Case Study), Sampling Techniques & Data Analysis, Report Writing & Ethics in Research |
| PSC 204 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Nature of State Politics in India, Regionalism, Caste & Politics, Language & Politics, Religion & Politics, Coalition Politics & Electoral Reforms, Panchayati Raj & Urban Local Governance |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC 301 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Swami Dayanand, Dadabhai Naoroji, M.G. Ranade, Tilak, M.K. Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, M.N. Roy and Jawaharlal Nehru, Jayaprakash Narayan, Ram Manohar Lohia |
| PSC 302 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept of Human Rights & UDHR, Human Rights in India & NHRC, Role of NGOs in Human Rights, Women''''s Rights & Child Rights, Environmental Rights & Contemporary Issues |
| PSC 303 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement, India & Major Powers (USA, Russia, China), India & Neighboring Countries, India & UNO, Disarmament, Economic Diplomacy |
| PSC 304A | Administration and Management of Public Sector Undertaking in India | Elective | 4 | Role of PSUs in Indian Economy, Types and Management of PSUs, Autonomy, Accountability & Control, Public Policy & PSU Performance, Disinvestment and Privatization |
| PSC 304B | Peace & Conflict Resolution | Elective | 4 | Concept of Peace & Causes of Conflict, Theories of Conflict & Conflict Management, Negotiation and Mediation, Diplomacy & Conflict Transformation, Post-Conflict Reconstruction & Peace-building |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PSC 401 | Theory of International Politics | Core | 4 | Realism and Neo-Realism, Liberalism and Neo-Liberalism, Marxism and Constructivism, Feminism and Post-Modernism, Dependency Theory & World Systems Theory |
| PSC 402 | Local Government & Administration in India | Core | 4 | Evolution of Local Government in India, 73rd & 74th Constitutional Amendments, Panchayati Raj Institutions (Rural LG), Urban Local Government (Municipalities), Local Government Finances & Administration |
| PSC 403A | Contemporary Political Analysis | Elective | 4 | Post-Modernism and Globalization, Environmentalism & Green Politics, Identity Politics & New Social Movements, Technology, Media & Politics, Civil Society & Democracy |
| PSC 403B | Good Governance | Elective | 4 | Concept & Principles of Good Governance, Citizen-Centric Administration, Transparency & Accountability, E-Governance & Right to Information, Role of Civil Society in Governance |
| PSC 404 | Project/Dissertation / Viva-voce | Project | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review & Research Design, Data Collection & Analysis, Dissertation Writing & Presentation, Viva-voce Examination |
