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MA in Political Science at Brahma Ramdeo Baba Devanand Post Graduate College
Deoria, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Brahma Ramdeo Baba Devanand Post Graduate College Deoria?
This MA Political Science program at Brahma Ramdeo Baba Devanand Post Graduate College, affiliated with DDU Gorakhpur University, provides a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and governance, both nationally and globally. It delves into Indian political thought, international relations, public administration, and contemporary political issues. The curriculum is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills, crucial for navigating the complex political landscape in India and beyond, responding to the growing demand for informed public discourse and policy analysis.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in any discipline who possess a keen interest in politics, public policy, and international affairs. It also suits working professionals, including those in government services, NGOs, or media, seeking to deepen their theoretical knowledge and analytical capabilities. Aspiring civil servants, researchers, and educators will find the curriculum particularly beneficial, providing a robust foundation for advanced studies and career progression in related fields.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state government services, political consultancies, research institutions, and academic positions. Opportunities exist in policy analysis, social work, journalism, and advocacy within NGOs. Entry-level salaries for MA Political Science graduates in India can range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals in government or policy roles, often exceeding INR 10 LPA. The program also prepares for NET/JRF and UPSC examinations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational Indian and Western political thoughts, as they form the bedrock of advanced studies. Create concept maps and summaries for thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, Gandhi, and Ambedkar. Engage in regular discussions with peers to clarify complex ideas and perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks on political theory, Online academic journals (JSTOR, EPW), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for cracking competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, state PSCs, and for analytical roles in policy research or academia, where conceptual clarity is highly valued.
Develop Academic Writing & Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, argumentation, and basic research skills. Pay attention to academic conventions, referencing styles, and constructing logical arguments. Start small research projects or review articles to gain practical experience, especially through the Research Methodology course.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Mendeley for referencing, University library resources, Academic writing workshops
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic writing is essential for dissertations, publications, and for roles in policy brief writing, journalism, and research, enhancing your professional communication ability.
Engage with Current Affairs Critically- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond newspaper headlines, analyze political events and policy decisions through the lens of learned theories. Participate in college debates, seminars, and current affairs discussions. Formulate reasoned opinions on national and international political developments.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express, The Wire, Frontline, Rajya Sabha TV (Sansad TV) debates
Career Connection
This practice builds critical thinking and analytical abilities, indispensable for competitive exams, policy analysis roles, and staying informed for effective civic engagement.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Elective Specializations Strategically- (Semester 3-4)
Select elective courses in semesters 3 and 4 that align with your career interests (e.g., Public Administration for civil services, International Organizations for diplomacy, Environmental Politics for NGOs). Deep dive into these chosen areas through additional readings and projects.
Tools & Resources
Subject-specific books, Lectures by guest faculty, Industry reports related to your chosen elective
Career Connection
Strategic elective choices allow for specialization, making you a more attractive candidate for specific job profiles in government, non-profits, or international bodies that require focused expertise.
Undertake Mini Research Projects or Internships- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek opportunities for short-term research projects with faculty or consider internships with local NGOs, government departments, or political consulting firms. This practical exposure helps apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios and build a professional network.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online internship portals (Internshala), Faculty connections
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable work experience, clarify career goals, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong professional references, significantly boosting employability.
Participate in Academic Conferences/Workshops- (Semester 3-4)
Attend and present papers at student conferences or workshops organized by the university or other institutions. This helps in networking, refining presentation skills, and receiving feedback on your research ideas, exposing you to diverse academic perspectives.
Tools & Resources
University event calendars, Academic society notifications, Presentation software (PowerPoint)
Career Connection
Such participation enhances your academic profile, which is beneficial for higher studies (PhD) and research-oriented roles, while also developing public speaking and networking abilities.
Advanced Stage
Excel in Dissertation/Project Work- (Semester 4)
View your Semester 4 Dissertation as a capstone project. Choose a topic of genuine interest, conduct thorough research, and present original insights. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor and aim for a high-quality academic output.
Tools & Resources
University research guidelines, Statistical software (if applicable), Literature review databases
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation showcases your independent research capabilities, critical thinking, and subject mastery, making you highly valuable for research, policy analysis, and academic roles.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 4 onwards)
If aiming for civil services or academia, dedicate structured time to preparing for specific competitive exams like UPSC, State PSCs, or NET/JRF. Utilize MA Political Science knowledge, practice previous year papers, and consider joining coaching classes if beneficial.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC official websites, NET/JRF syllabus and past papers, Online test series platforms
Career Connection
Targeted preparation for competitive exams directly leads to entry into esteemed government services or academic positions, offering stable and impactful career paths in India.
Build a Professional Network- (Throughout the program, intensifying in Semester 4)
Actively connect with faculty, alumni, guest speakers, and professionals in fields related to political science. Attend networking events, use platforms like LinkedIn, and maintain cordial professional relationships. A strong network can provide mentorship and career opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Professional associations related to political science
Career Connection
Networking is vital for discovering job opportunities, gaining industry insights, and securing referrals or mentorships, significantly enhancing your career prospects in a competitive Indian job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (Implied from 25+75 mark distribution), External: 775% (Implied from 25+75 mark distribution)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLS 101 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 6 | Ancient Indian Political Thought, Kautilya''''s Arthashastra, Medieval Indian Political Thought, Raja Rammohan Roy and Liberalism, Gandhi''''s Political Ideas, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and Social Justice |
| POLS 102 | Western Political Thought | Core | 6 | Plato''''s Ideal State, Aristotle''''s Politics, Machiavelli''''s Realism, Hobbes'''' Social Contract, Locke''''s Liberalism, Rousseau''''s General Will |
| POLS 103 | Theory of International Relations | Core | 6 | Realism and Liberalism, Marxist Approaches, Feminist Theories of IR, Neo-realism and Neo-liberalism, Constructivism, Post-structuralism and Critical Theories |
| POLS 104 | Research Methodology | Core | 6 | Meaning and Scope of Research, Research Design Types, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLS 201 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core | 6 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems and Regimes, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Political Parties and Party Systems, Electoral Systems and Behavior |
| POLS 202 | Public Administration | Core | 6 | Evolution of Public Administration, Classical Theories of Administration, Bureaucracy and its Critiques, Decision Making in Administration, Financial Administration, Public Policy Analysis |
| POLS 203 | International Law | Core | 6 | Nature and Basis of International Law, Sources of International Law, Recognition of States and Governments, State Responsibility, Human Rights Law, International Criminal Law |
| POLS 204 | Human Rights: Theory and Practice | Core | 6 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, International Covenants on Human Rights, Role of NGOs and Civil Society, Challenges to Human Rights Protection |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLS 301 | State Politics in India | Core | 6 | Nature of Indian Federalism, Regionalism and Separatist Movements, Language Politics in India, Caste, Class, and Politics, Political Economy of States, Coalition Governments and Regional Parties |
| POLS 302 | Indian Administration | Core | 6 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Union and State Administration, Public Sector Undertakings, Local Government and Panchayati Raj, Police Administration and Law Order, Administrative Reforms |
| POLS 303 | Politics of Developing Countries | Core | 6 | Theories of Development and Underdevelopment, Colonialism and Post-Colonialism, Political Elites and Social Change, Military in Politics, Challenges of Nation-Building, The Global South and New International Order |
| POLS 304 (A) | Political Sociology | Elective | 6 | Political Culture and Socialization, Political Participation and Movements, Power, Elites, and State, Caste, Class, and Gender in Politics, Civil Society and State, Ideologies and Public Opinion |
| POLS 304 (B) | Decentralization and Local Governance | Elective | 6 | Democratic Decentralization Concepts, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, Grassroots Democracy, Local Planning and Development, Challenges of Local Governance |
| POLS 304 (C) | International Organizations | Elective | 6 | Evolution of International Organizations, The United Nations System, Regional Organizations (EU, ASEAN, SAARC), Peacekeeping and Conflict Resolution, Global Governance and Challenges, Role of Non-State Actors |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLS 401 | Contemporary Political Theory | Core | 6 | Post-modernism and Post-structuralism, Communitarianism and Multiculturalism, Deliberative Democracy, Theories of Justice (Rawls, Nozick), Rights Theories and Citizenship, Globalization and its Political Implications |
| POLS 402 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 6 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement, India and Major Global Powers, India''''s Relations with Neighbors, Economic Diplomacy and Global Trade, Nuclear Policy and Security Concerns |
| POLS 403 (A) | Geo-Politics | Elective | 6 | Geopolitical Theories and Concepts, World Order and Power Shifts, Energy Security and Resource Politics, Maritime Security and Naval Power, Regional Conflicts and Crises, Rise of Asia and its Geopolitical Impact |
| POLS 403 (B) | Conflict Resolution and Peace Building | Elective | 6 | Nature and Causes of Conflict, Conflict Management Strategies, Peacekeeping Operations, Peacebuilding and Reconciliation, Diplomacy and Negotiation, Role of International Actors |
| POLS 403 (C) | Environmental Politics | Elective | 6 | Environmental Movements and Activism, Politics of Climate Change, Sustainable Development Goals, Environmental Justice, International Environmental Regimes, Green Governance and Policy |
| POLS 404 | Dissertation/Project Work | Core | 6 | Research Topic Selection and Formulation, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Research |
