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M-A-PUBLIC-ADMINISTRATION in General at Central University of Kerala
Kasaragod, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is General at Central University of Kerala Kasaragod?
This M.A. Public Administration program at Central University of Kerala offers a robust understanding of governance, public policy, and administrative systems. It equips students with essential analytical and managerial skills for effective public service, directly addressing India''''s complex administrative challenges from local governance to national policy formulation, preparing them for impactful roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any bachelor''''s degree seeking entry into various government services, NGOs, or policy think tanks. It also suits working professionals aiming to enhance their understanding of public management principles or career changers transitioning into roles focused on public service delivery and social impact within India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect diverse career paths in civil services (UPSC/PSC), state administration, development organizations, and international agencies within India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities lie in policy analysis, project management, public relations, and administrative roles across both public and non-profit sectors.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Administrative Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a strong grasp of foundational theories in public administration and governance. Focus on understanding the historical evolution, philosophical underpinnings, and comparative approaches to public management, including seminal Indian administrative thought.
Tools & Resources
Textbooks by authors like M.P. Sharma, R.K. Arora, Nicholas Henry, Engaging in departmental seminars and guest lectures, Forming study groups to discuss complex theoretical concepts
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for analytical roles in government think tanks, policy research, and for excelling in civil service examinations by providing comprehensive and nuanced answers.
Develop Research and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate practical skills in research methodology, data collection, and basic analysis. Focus on understanding different research designs, sampling techniques, and ethical considerations relevant for public policy research and administrative studies.
Tools & Resources
Basic statistical software (e.g., MS Excel, open-source R for self-learning), Reading academic journals on public policy and administration, Participating in small-scale departmental research assignments and surveys
Career Connection
Essential for roles in policy analysis, program evaluation, and data-driven decision-making within government agencies and NGOs, enabling evidence-based recommendations and effective problem-solving.
Engage with Current Administrative Issues- (Semester 1-2)
Stay updated on contemporary administrative challenges, reforms, and governance initiatives in India. Regularly read reputable newspapers, policy briefs, and government reports to understand practical applications of theoretical concepts and current trends.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Livemint for news and analysis, PRS Legislative Research, NITI Aayog reports, Yojana/Kurukshetra magazines, Following debates on public administration issues on Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV
Career Connection
This practice develops a contextual understanding vital for interviews in government and public sector, and for contributing relevant insights and solutions in administrative and policy-making roles.
Intermediate Stage
Strategic Elective Specialization- (Semester 3)
Carefully select elective courses (one in Semester 3 and two in Semester 4) that align with specific career aspirations, such as rural development, urban governance, e-governance, or disaster management. Deepen expertise in a chosen sub-field of public administration.
Tools & Resources
Consulting departmental faculty for guidance on elective choices and career alignment, Exploring online courses from platforms like NPTEL or Coursera/edX related to chosen specialization areas, Analyzing case studies relevant to the elected subject to gain practical insights
Career Connection
Specialization enhances your profile for targeted roles in specific government departments, NGOs, or consultancies focused on that particular area, making you a more valuable and competitive candidate in the Indian job market.
Participate in Policy Debates and Workshops- (Semester 3)
Actively engage in departmental debates, seminars, and external workshops on public policy and governance issues. This hones critical thinking, public speaking, and communication skills while fostering a broader understanding of diverse perspectives.
Tools & Resources
University departmental events and lecture series, Attending local policy forums and think tank seminars (if feasible), Participating in online webinars from reputed policy research organizations and NGOs
Career Connection
Builds confidence for public speaking, sharpens analytical arguments, and creates professional networks which are vital for policy advocacy, public relations, and leadership roles in public service.
Initiate Professional Networking- (Semester 3)
Begin connecting with professionals working in various government sectors, NGOs, and international development agencies. Utilize professional networking platforms, alumni networks, and university career fairs to build meaningful contacts for future opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional connections and industry insights, University alumni portal for mentorship and career guidance, Attending public lectures by guest speakers and industry experts
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and potential job referrals, giving you a crucial edge in the competitive Indian public and social sector job market.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Execute a robust dissertation or project work on a relevant public administration topic. This showcases independent research capability, problem-solving skills, and the practical application of learned theories to real-world administrative challenges.
Tools & Resources
Utilizing research databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar, Shodhganga), Leveraging statistical software (e.g., R, SPSS) for data analysis if required, Working closely with faculty supervisors for expert guidance and feedback
Career Connection
A high-quality dissertation is a strong portfolio piece for policy research roles, higher studies, and demonstrates the ability to handle complex projects, which is critical for mid-level administrative and project management positions.
Systematic Preparation for Civil Service & Competitive Exams- (Semester 4)
Systematically prepare for competitive examinations like UPSC Civil Services, State Public Service Commissions, and other government recruitment exams. Integrate program syllabus topics with exam-specific preparation to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Tools & Resources
Online coaching platforms (e.g., Unacademy, Byju''''s for UPSC preparation), Solving previous year''''s question papers and taking mock tests regularly, Staying updated with current affairs magazines and government publications
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for prestigious administrative roles in India, offering significant public impact, career stability, and leadership opportunities within the government machinery.
Focus on Internship and Placement Readiness- (Semester 4)
Actively seek and undertake internships in government departments, NGOs, or development organizations to gain invaluable practical experience. Simultaneously, refine resume building, cover letter writing, and interview skills with university career services.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell for guidance and opportunities, Leading job portals (Naukri.com, Internshala, LinkedIn Jobs), Participating in mock interviews and career counseling sessions
Career Connection
Internships provide critical real-world exposure and often lead to pre-placement offers or direct job opportunities, significantly boosting employability immediately after graduation in the Indian public sector and social development domain.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Any candidate who has passed any Bachelor’s Degree Examination (except BFA, LLB & B.Sc. AHS) of this University or any other University recognized by the UGC/AIU, with not less than 50% marks or equivalent grade in aggregate for General/OBC candidates and 45% marks or equivalent grade in aggregate for SC/ST candidates, is eligible for admission.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA1001 | Theories of Public Administration | Core | 4 | Evolution of Public Administration, Classical Approaches to Public Administration, Human Relations and Behaviouralism, New Public Administration and Public Choice Approach, New Public Management and Post-Modern Public Administration, Governance |
| PA1002 | Administrative Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Administrative Thinkers (Kautilya, Plato, Aristotle), Western Administrative Thinkers (Machiavelli, Woodrow Wilson), Indian Administrative Thinkers (M.K. Gandhi, Ambedkar, Nehru), Socialist and Marxist Administrative Thought, Humanistic and Democratic Administrative Thinkers (Mary Parker Follett, Chester I. Barnard) |
| PA1003 | Research Methods and Techniques | Core | 4 | Social Science Research: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Research Design: Types, Hypothesis, Variables, Methods of Data Collection (Primary, Secondary), Sampling: Types, Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing |
| PA1004 | Public Systems Management | Core | 4 | Introduction to Public Systems, Organisational Structure and Design, Decision Making and Communication, Leadership, Motivation and Morale, Conflict Management and Change Management, Productivity in Public Systems |
| PA1005 | Optional Course I (Generic Elective Slot) | Elective | 4 | Students choose one optional course from the pool offered by the Department of Public Administration., Specific courses and their topics are detailed in the ''''Elective (Program Pool)'''' entries within the Semester 4 section. |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA2001 | Indian Administration | Core | 4 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Constitutional Framework of Indian Administration, Central Administration (President, PM, Cabinet Secretariat), State Administration (Governor, CM, Chief Secretary), District Administration and Local Self-Government, Public Sector Undertakings and Regulatory Bodies |
| PA2002 | Public Policy | Core | 4 | Public Policy: Nature, Scope, Importance, The Policy Process (Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation), Models of Public Policy Analysis, Role of State and Non-State Actors in Policy Making, Challenges in Policy Implementation, Good Governance and Policy Reforms |
| PA2003 | Financial Administration | Core | 4 | Budgeting: Principles and Process, Public Expenditure and Public Revenue, Fiscal Policy and Financial Management, Financial Control: Legislative and Executive, Audit: Role of CAG, Taxation and Public Debt Management |
| PA2004 | Human Resource Management | Core | 4 | Introduction to HRM: Concepts and Functions, Human Resource Planning and Recruitment, Training and Development, Performance Appraisal and Promotion, Compensation Management and Welfare, Grievance Redressal and Discipline |
| PA2005 | Optional Course II (Generic Elective Slot) | Elective | 4 | Students choose one optional course from the pool offered by the Department of Public Administration., Specific courses and their topics are detailed in the ''''Elective (Program Pool)'''' entries within the Semester 4 section. |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA3001 | Ethics and Values in Public Administration | Core | 4 | Ethics and Morality: Concepts and Importance, Ethical Dilemmas in Public Service, Public Service Values and Administrative Ethics, Accountability, Transparency and Citizen Charter, Administrative Corruption and Measures to Combat It, Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics |
| PA3002 | Public Grievance Redressal | Core | 4 | Grievance: Meaning, Causes, Types, Grievance Redressal Mechanisms in India, Ombudsman, Lokpal and Lokayukta, Right to Information Act, 2005, E-governance and Grievance Redressal, Citizen Charters and Public Service Delivery |
| PA3003 | Development Administration | Core | 4 | Development: Concepts, Theories and Approaches, Role of Administration in Development, Planning and Development in India, Rural and Urban Development Programmes, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Participatory Development |
| PAE SEM3 CHOICE | Elective Course I (Student Choice for Semester 3) | Elective | 4 | Students choose one elective course from the program''''s pool of electives (PAE001-PAE008)., Refer to the ''''Elective (Program Pool)'''' entries within the Semester 4 section for detailed course content of each option. |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA4001 | Dissertation/Project Work | Core (Project) | 8 | Research Proposal Formulation, Literature Review and Research Design, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing and Documentation, Presentation and Viva Voce, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| PAE SEM4 CHOICE 1 | Elective Course II (Student Choice for Semester 4) | Elective | 4 | Students choose one elective course from the program''''s pool of electives (PAE001-PAE008)., Refer to the ''''Elective (Program Pool)'''' entries below for detailed course content of each option. |
| PAE SEM4 CHOICE 2 | Elective Course III (Student Choice for Semester 4) | Elective | 4 | Students choose one elective course from the program''''s pool of electives (PAE001-PAE008)., Refer to the ''''Elective (Program Pool)'''' entries below for detailed course content of each option. |
| PAE001 | Rural Development Administration (Elective Program Pool Detail) | Elective (Program Pool) | 4 | Rural Development: Concepts, Theories and Approaches, Rural Poverty and Unemployment, Rural Development Programmes in India, Panchayati Raj Institutions and Rural Governance, Rural Administration: Structure and Functions |
| PAE002 | Urban Governance (Elective Program Pool Detail) | Elective (Program Pool) | 4 | Urbanization Trends and Challenges in India, Urban Governance: Concepts and Frameworks, Urban Local Bodies: Structure and Functions, Urban Planning and Development, Smart Cities Mission and Urban Poverty Alleviation |
| PAE003 | Disaster Management (Elective Program Pool Detail) | Elective (Program Pool) | 4 | Disaster: Concepts, Types and Impacts, Disaster Management Cycle: Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, Recovery, Institutional Framework for Disaster Management in India, Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment, Role of Government, NGOs and Community in Disaster Management |
| PAE004 | E-Governance (Elective Program Pool Detail) | Elective (Program Pool) | 4 | E-Governance: Concepts, Scope and Models, Digital India Programme and E-Governance Initiatives, E-Governance Infrastructure and Technologies, Challenges and Opportunities in E-Governance, Ethics, Security and Privacy in E-Governance |
| PAE005 | Social Welfare Administration (Elective Program Pool Detail) | Elective (Program Pool) | 4 | Social Welfare: Concepts, Objectives and Principles, Social Problems in India and Welfare Measures, Social Security and Social Justice, Welfare Programmes for Vulnerable Sections, Role of Government and NGOs in Social Welfare Administration |
| PAE006 | Non-Governmental Organisations (Elective Program Pool Detail) | Elective (Program Pool) | 4 | NGOs: Concept, Typology and Role in Development, Growth and Evolution of NGOs in India, Legal and Regulatory Framework for NGOs, NGO-Government Interface and Partnership, Funding, Accountability and Challenges of NGOs |
| PAE007 | Management of Public Enterprises (Elective Program Pool Detail) | Elective (Program Pool) | 4 | Public Enterprises: Concepts, Types and Objectives, Role of Public Enterprises in Indian Economy, Autonomy and Accountability of Public Enterprises, Performance Evaluation and Management, Privatization, Disinvestment and Reforms in PEs |
| PAE008 | International Relations and Organisation (Elective Program Pool Detail) | Elective (Program Pool) | 4 | International Relations: Theories and Perspectives, Evolution of International Relations (Cold War, Post-Cold War), Major International Organizations (UN, WTO, IMF, WB), Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN, EU), India''''s Foreign Policy: Principles and Objectives |
