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BACHELOR-OF-ARTS-HONOURS in Political Science at Bokaro Steel City College
Bokaro, Jharkhand
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Bokaro Steel City College Bokaro?
This Political Science program at Bokaro Steel City College, affiliated with BBMKU, offers a systematic study of governance, public policies, political systems, and international relations. It provides a robust understanding of Indian politics, comparative governments, and global political dynamics, preparing students for diverse roles in public service, research, and non-profit sectors in India. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from 10+2 who are passionate about understanding societal structures, power dynamics, and civic engagement. It also suits individuals aspiring for civil services, journalism, policy analysis, or academic careers, requiring a strong foundation in political theory and its practical applications. Prior interest in social sciences is beneficial for aspiring students.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers in civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), political analysis, journalism, public policy think tanks, NGOs, and research. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential in government and corporate social responsibility roles within Indian organizations. It also serves as a strong foundation for postgraduate studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Conceptual Foundation- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core theories like liberty, equality, and justice from CC-1. Utilize online resources like Polity by M. Laxmikanth for Indian Politics and standard textbooks for global concepts. This strong base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC, which test conceptual clarity.
Tools & Resources
M. Laxmikanth''''s Indian Polity, Standard political theory textbooks, Online academic encyclopedias
Career Connection
Essential for understanding complex policy issues and performing well in competitive examinations for civil services or research roles.
Develop Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on understanding different perspectives on political phenomena. Read newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), current affairs magazines, and join college debate clubs. This enhances analytical abilities, vital for essay writing and logical reasoning in future academic and professional pursuits.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Frontline magazine, College debate societies
Career Connection
Improves analytical and communication skills, critical for journalism, policy analysis, and civil service interviews.
Participate in Academic Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with peers to discuss complex political theories and current events. Utilize platforms like Telegram or WhatsApp groups for daily news analysis. This improves communication skills and broadens understanding, preparing students for group discussions and interviews.
Tools & Resources
Study groups, Telegram/WhatsApp for current affairs discussions, College seminars
Career Connection
Enhances collaborative learning and communication, beneficial for group-based work and interview scenarios in various sectors.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Public Policy and Administration- (Semester 3-4)
Deep dive into Public Administration (CC-6) and Research Methodology (CC-10). Seek out local government offices (Panchayat, Municipality) for short informal observations or informational interviews to understand administrative processes. This practical insight is invaluable for roles in public administration and policy analysis.
Tools & Resources
Public Administration textbooks, Local government offices for observation, Online policy reports
Career Connection
Provides practical understanding of governance, preparing for roles in civil administration, policy implementation, and NGOs.
Explore Global and Comparative Politics- (Semester 3-4)
Use online platforms like Council on Foreign Relations or Brookings India to keep abreast of international relations (CC-7) and global politics (CC-9). Participate in model UN simulations or mock parliamentary sessions organized by the college to understand diplomatic nuances. This broadens career horizons in international organizations or diplomacy.
Tools & Resources
Council on Foreign Relations, Brookings India, Model UN clubs, College parliamentary debates
Career Connection
Develops a global perspective, useful for careers in international relations, diplomacy, or global NGOs.
Enhance Research and Writing Capabilities- (Semester 3-4)
Actively apply the concepts from Research Methodology (CC-10) by undertaking small research projects or term papers. Utilize academic databases like JSTOR (if college provides access) or Google Scholar for literature review. Strong research skills are essential for higher studies, academic writing, and policy drafting.
Tools & Resources
Google Scholar, JSTOR (if available), Research paper guidelines, Data analysis software (basic)
Career Connection
Crucial for academic pursuits, policy analysis, research roles, and producing well-structured reports in any professional setting.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Indian Political Context for Competitive Exams- (Semester 5-6)
For DSE courses like State Politics in India and Electoral Politics in India, connect theoretical knowledge with current events and case studies from India. Solve previous year''''s UPSC/State PSC papers related to Political Science and General Studies. This direct application greatly aids preparation for civil service examinations.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PSC previous year papers, Current affairs magazines, Online news portals, Indian Constitution books
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for highly sought-after government jobs in India, including administrative and public service roles.
Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 5-6)
Attend guest lectures, seminars, and workshops organized by the department or university. Connect with alumni working in relevant fields (e.g., journalism, NGOs, government). Use LinkedIn to identify and connect with professionals. Mentorship can provide guidance on career paths and job opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network, Departmental events, Mentorship programs
Career Connection
Opens doors to internships, job opportunities, and invaluable career guidance from experienced professionals in the field.
Develop Specialized Expertise and Portfolio- (Semester 5-6)
Based on DSE choices (e.g., Human Rights, Foreign Policy), develop a specialized knowledge base. Consider writing a blog or contributing articles to college magazines on these topics. Participate in internships, even short-term unpaid ones with NGOs or local political bodies, to gain practical experience and build a resume/portfolio for placements.
Tools & Resources
Personal blog platforms, College publications, NGOs and political organizations for internships
Career Connection
Showcases practical skills and specialized knowledge, enhancing employability for roles requiring specific expertise in political science sub-fields.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 pass from a recognized board with minimum 45% marks (General University Requirement)
Duration: 6 semesters / 3 years
Credits: 140 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-1 | Understanding Political Theory | Core | 6 | What is Political Theory?, Approaches to Political Theory, Concept of Liberty, Concept of Equality, Concept of Justice, Rights and Citizenship |
| CC-2 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 6 | Approaches to Study Indian Politics, Constitutional Development, Fundamental Rights & Duties, DPSP, Structure of Government (Union & State), Indian Federalism, Party System in India |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Basic Concepts of Environment, Natural Resources, Ecosystems, Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Social Issues and Environment |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective (choose from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-3 | Political Theory - Concepts and Debates | Core | 6 | Concept of Power and State, Sovereignty and Democracy, Modern Political Ideologies (Liberalism, Socialism, Marxism), Feminism, Environmentalism |
| CC-4 | Political Processes in India | Core | 6 | Party System and Pressure Groups, Electoral Process, Regionalism in Indian Politics, Caste, Religion, and Language in Politics, Panchayati Raj Institutions |
| AECC-2 | English Communication | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Introduction to Communication, Types of Communication, Barriers to Communication, Listening and Reading Skills, Writing Skills (Reports, Emails) |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective (choose from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-5 | Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 6 | What is Comparative Politics?, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutions & Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems, Party Systems, Federalism |
| CC-6 | Public Administration | Core | 6 | Introduction to Public Administration, Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy, Decision Making and Leadership, Public Policy, Role of Administration in Developing Societies |
| CC-7 | Perspectives on International Relations | Core | 6 | Understanding International Relations (IR), Theories of IR (Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Feminism), Cold War and Non-Alignment Movement, Globalisation |
| SEC-1 | Understanding Legal Rights | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Sources and Classification of Law, Constitution of India, Human Rights, Criminal Justice System, Consumer Protection |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective (choose from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-8 | Political Philosophy: Western and Indian | Core | 6 | Plato (Justice), Aristotle (Polity), Machiavelli (Prince), Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau (Social Contract), Gandhi (Swaraj), Ambedkar (Social Justice), Kautilya (Statecraft) |
| CC-9 | Global Politics | Core | 6 | State and Sovereignty in a Globalized World, Global Actors (UN, WTO, IMF), Global Commons (Environment, Cyber), Global Environmental Issues, Terrorism, Human Rights, Disarmament |
| CC-10 | Research Methodology | Core | 6 | Meaning and Objectives of Research, Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling and Data Analysis, Report Writing |
| SEC-2 | Conflict and Peace Building | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Understanding Conflict, Types and Causes of Conflict, Peace Processes and Conflict Resolution, Role of International Organizations in Peace Building |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective (choose from other disciplines) | Generic Elective | 6 |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-11 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 6 | Rammohan Roy, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Dayananda Saraswati, Vivekananda, Rabindranath Tagore, M.K. Gandhi, B.R. Ambedkar, M.N. Roy, Jawaharlal Nehru |
| CC-12 | Classical Western Political Philosophy | Core | 6 | Plato (Republic), Aristotle (Politics), Machiavelli (The Prince), Hobbes (Leviathan), Locke (Two Treatises), Rousseau (Social Contract) |
| DSE-1 | State Politics in India (Elective Option) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Regional Political Parties, Political Mobilization, Development Politics, Centre-State Relations, Caste and Ethnicity in State Politics |
| DSE-2 | Indian Foreign Policy (Elective Option) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, India''''s Relations with Major Powers, India and its Neighbours, Look East Policy, Economic Diplomacy |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-13 | Modern Western Political Philosophy | Core | 6 | Bentham (Utilitarianism), J.S. Mill (Liberty, Representative Government), Hegel (State), Marx (Historical Materialism, Class Struggle), Gramsci (Hegemony) |
| CC-14 | Women, Power and Politics | Core | 6 | Patriarchy and Gender in Politics, Feminist Theories (Liberal, Radical, Marxist, Socialist), Women''''s Movement in India, Political Participation of Women |
| DSE-3 | Local Government in India (Elective Option) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Evolution of Local Government, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Rural Local Bodies (Panchayats), Urban Local Bodies (Municipalities), Finances and Challenges |
| DSE-4 | Electoral Politics in India (Elective Option) | Discipline Specific Elective | 6 | Electoral System in India, Election Commission, Role of Money & Muscle Power, Media in Elections, Electoral Reforms |
