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B-A in Political Science at Basdev Singh Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Tarwai, Meja
Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Basdev Singh Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Tarwai, Meja Prayagraj?
This Political Science program at Basdev Singh Mahila Mahavidyalaya focuses on understanding governance, political systems, international relations, and public administration. It equips students with critical analytical skills to comprehend India''''s complex political landscape and its global interactions, preparing them for roles in civil services, journalism, and social work. The curriculum aligns with the New Education Policy 2020, emphasizing a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to political studies.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from diverse academic backgrounds interested in public affairs, policy analysis, and social change. It also caters to individuals aspiring for civil services examinations (UPSC, UPPSC), those looking to pursue higher studies in political science or public administration, and aspiring journalists or social activists keen on understanding governmental processes and societal structures.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding careers in Indian civil services, legislative research, journalism, public relations, and NGOs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 Lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in policy-making or advocacy roles. The analytical and research skills acquired are highly valued across various sectors, enabling strong growth trajectories within Indian organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Core in Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus diligently on understanding foundational theories of state, sovereignty, liberty, and justice. Participate actively in classroom discussions and read extensively beyond textbooks to grasp diverse perspectives on key political ideas.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science textbooks (Class XI-XII), Standard reference books like O.P. Gauba, Local college library resources, Online academic journals
Career Connection
A robust conceptual base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and for advanced studies, providing the vocabulary and framework for complex analyses in public policy and governance.
Develop Academic Reading and Note-Taking Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice critical reading of academic articles and political commentaries. Develop effective note-taking strategies like the Cornell method or mind mapping to summarize key arguments and debates, enhancing information retention and recall.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar via university access), Reputable Indian news analysis portals (The Hindu, Indian Express opinion pages), Online note-taking applications
Career Connection
These skills are essential for research, policy analysis, and any role requiring efficient information synthesis, critical evaluation, and analytical writing in government or media.
Engage in Peer Learning and Discussion Forums- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex political theories and current affairs. Organize informal debates or presentations on controversial topics to sharpen argumentative skills and gain confidence in expressing well-reasoned opinions.
Tools & Resources
College common rooms and study areas, Online group chats (WhatsApp, Telegram), University-organized discussion forums
Career Connection
Enhances communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills, which are highly valuable in collaborative work environments, group discussions for placements, and civil services interviews.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Internships with NGOs or Local Governance- (Semester 3-4 (during vacations))
Actively seek out internships with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) focused on advocacy, local self-governance bodies (Panchayats, Municipal Corporations), or political research organizations to gain practical field exposure and experience.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell guidance, Online platforms like Internshala for relevant opportunities, Local government websites and NGO directories in Uttar Pradesh
Career Connection
Provides invaluable real-world experience, helps in networking with professionals, and often leads to initial career opportunities in the social sector, public policy, or grassroots development roles.
Master Comparative Analysis and Case Studies- (Semester 3-5)
Focus on applying theoretical knowledge to real-world political systems and contemporary issues. Analyze different forms of government, electoral systems, and policy outcomes in various countries, including an in-depth study of India''''s democratic processes.
Tools & Resources
Comparative politics textbooks and research papers, Detailed analyses of country-specific political systems, Documentaries and reputable news analyses on global governance
Career Connection
Develops skills crucial for policy analysis, international relations, journalism, and research roles that require understanding diverse political, social, and economic contexts.
Participate in Debates, Model UN, and Essay Competitions- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in intra-college and inter-college debates, Model United Nations (MUN) simulations, and essay writing competitions on socio-political issues. This hones public speaking, negotiation, and persuasive writing abilities.
Tools & Resources
College cultural and academic clubs, University events and festivals, Online guides and resources for MUN procedures
Career Connection
Boosts confidence, leadership qualities, and communication skills, which are highly regarded in civil services interviews, diplomatic careers, and public-facing roles in media and advocacy.
Advanced Stage
Comprehensive Preparation for Civil Services/Postgraduate Exams- (Semester 6)
Dedicate substantial time to preparing for competitive examinations like UPSC CSE, State PSCs (UPPSC), or entrance exams for M.A. Political Science/Public Administration programs. This involves extensive revision of the syllabus, current affairs, and regular mock tests.
Tools & Resources
Reputable coaching institutes (online/offline), Previous year question papers and solution guides, Current affairs magazines (Yojana, Kurukshetra), online test series platforms
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for highly sought-after government positions or academic careers, offering a clear and structured path to career progression within India''''s public and academic sectors.
Undertake an Independent Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Choose a research topic of interest within Political Science, conduct primary and secondary research diligently, and write a well-structured dissertation or project report under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
Tools & Resources
University library and digital archives, Academic databases for research papers, Faculty mentors for guidance and feedback
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced research capabilities, critical thinking, and independent work ethics, which are invaluable for academic roles, think tanks, policy research institutions, and higher education pursuits.
Network with Alumni and Professionals- (Semester 6 and beyond)
Actively connect with college alumni who are working in government, academia, media, or NGOs. Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to interact with experts and build a valuable professional network in your chosen field.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn professional networking platform, College alumni associations and events, University career fairs and departmental guest lecture series
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internship leads, and job opportunities, providing crucial insights into various career paths and current industry demands within the Indian political and social landscape.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 from a recognized board
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Credits not specified
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030101T | Introduction to Political Science | Major Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, State and Sovereignty, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights and Duties, Citizenship |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030201T | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Major Core | 4 | Rise of Indian Nationalism, Gandhian Movements, Making of the Indian Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights & Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Federalism in India |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030301T | Comparative Government and Politics | Major Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutions of UK, USA, China, Electoral Systems, Political Parties, Pressure Groups, Bureaucracy |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030401T | Public Administration | Major Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy, Financial Administration, Personnel Administration, Good Governance |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030501T | Indian Political Thought | Major Core | 4 | Kautilya''''s Arthashastra, Manu''''s Political Ideas, Raja Ram Mohan Roy, M.K. Gandhi''''s Political Philosophy, B.R. Ambedkar''''s Social Justice, M.N. Roy''''s Radical Humanism |
| A030502T | International Relations | Major Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations: Structure and Role, Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN, EU), Disarmament and Arms Control, Global Issues (Terrorism, Environment, Human Rights) |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A030601T | Western Political Thought | Major Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State, Aristotle''''s Political Philosophy, Machiavelli''''s Realism, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau''''s Social Contract, J.S. Mill''''s Liberty, Karl Marx''''s Communism |
| A030602T | Research Methodology in Political Science | Major Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Research, Research Design and Types, Data Collection Methods (Primary/Secondary), Quantitative and Qualitative Research, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethics in Political Research |
