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BA in Political Science at Chaudhary Mahadev Prasad Mahavidyalaya
Unnao, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Chaudhary Mahadev Prasad Mahavidyalaya Unnao?
This Political Science program at Chaudhary Mahadev Prasad Mahavidyalaya focuses on equipping students with a profound understanding of political systems, theories, and international relations. It delves into Indian governance, public administration, and the evolution of political thought, preparing graduates for civic leadership and informed participation in India''''s dynamic democracy. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking and analytical skills essential for public service and policy analysis.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into government services (UPSC, UPPSC), aspiring journalists, policy researchers, or those interested in social work and community development. It also suits individuals passionate about understanding socio-political dynamics, governance, and international affairs. Students from arts, commerce, or science streams who demonstrate an aptitude for humanities and critical analysis are well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including civil services, political consulting, journalism, think tanks, and non-profit organizations. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential in administrative and policy-making roles. The program also lays a strong foundation for higher studies like MA in Political Science, Public Administration, or Law, enhancing career trajectories in academia and specialized fields.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time in semesters 1-2 to thoroughly grasp core concepts of Indian politics, constitutional development, and basic political theories. Focus on understanding historical contexts and key terminology. Regular revision and concept mapping are crucial for long-term retention.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science books (Class XI & XII), Laxmikanth''''s Indian Polity, Online academic lectures
Career Connection
A solid foundation is indispensable for competitive exams like UPSC and state PSCs, where fundamental knowledge of Indian polity and history is heavily tested. It also helps in analytical roles in research.
Cultivate Effective Reading and Note-Taking- (Semester 1-2)
Develop a habit of reading newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express) daily to connect theoretical knowledge with current affairs. Practice active note-taking, summarizing key arguments and policy implications. Join a peer study group to discuss readings.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express e-papers, Evernote/OneNote for digital notes, Library resources for academic journals
Career Connection
Enhances analytical skills, improves general knowledge for interviews, and aids in essay writing for competitive examinations. Essential for roles in journalism, public relations, and content creation.
Participate in Debates and Discussions- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage in college debates, elocution competitions, and departmental seminars. This builds confidence, refines articulation skills, and exposes students to diverse viewpoints on political issues. It also helps in understanding multiple perspectives.
Tools & Resources
College debate club, Public speaking workshops, Online forums for political discourse
Career Connection
Develops persuasive communication, critical thinking, and public speaking abilities, vital for careers in law, advocacy, political campaigning, and civil services interviews.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Local Governance Immersion- (Semester 3-4)
In semesters 3-4, engage in short-term internships or observation projects with local Panchayati Raj institutions, municipal corporations, or local NGOs. Understand the practical implementation of public administration and policy at the grassroots level in India.
Tools & Resources
Local government offices, Community development NGOs, University career services for internship leads
Career Connection
Provides real-world exposure to governance challenges and policy execution, making students more attractive for roles in local administration, social work, and development sector organizations.
Specialize in a Sub-Field of Political Science- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond core subjects, identify an area of interest (e.g., International Relations, Human Rights, Public Policy) and delve deeper. Read specialized books, research papers, and follow news related to that field. This can be refined in preparation for electives in later semesters.
Tools & Resources
JSTOR, ResearchGate for academic papers, Specialized books from university library, Online courses (NPTEL, Coursera)
Career Connection
Develops expertise for niche roles in research, diplomacy, or advocacy groups. Essential for pursuing higher education in specific sub-disciplines.
Network with Alumni and Academics- (Semester 4-5)
Attend departmental alumni talks, university-level seminars, and guest lectures. Proactively connect with faculty members and alumni working in relevant fields. These interactions can provide mentorship, career insights, and potential opportunities.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni meet-ups, Departmental faculty office hours
Career Connection
Opens doors to internships, research projects, and job referrals. Valuable for gaining insights into various career paths within political science in India.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 5-6)
In semesters 5-6, begin focused preparation for UPSC Civil Services or state PSC examinations. This includes dedicated study of General Studies papers, choosing Political Science as an optional, and practicing answer writing and mock tests.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC previous year papers, Standard coaching materials, Online test series platforms
Career Connection
Directly targets one of the most prestigious career paths for Political Science graduates in India, leading to roles in IAS, IPS, IFS, and various state administrative services.
Undertake a Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Work on a substantial research project or dissertation under faculty guidance on a topic of interest within Political Science. This will hone research methodologies, critical analysis, and academic writing skills, which are crucial for higher studies and research careers.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, Statistical software (if applicable), Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Prepares students for academic and research roles, think tanks, and advanced degrees. Demonstrates analytical rigor to potential employers and academic institutions.
Build a Professional Portfolio and Resume- (Semester 6)
Compile all academic achievements, project work, internship experiences, and extra-curricular participation into a well-structured resume. Develop a LinkedIn profile highlighting skills and interests relevant to political science careers. Attend career fairs and placement workshops.
Tools & Resources
Resume builders (online tools), LinkedIn learning for profile optimization, College placement cell
Career Connection
Maximizes chances for successful placements, internships, and admissions to postgraduate programs by presenting a polished and comprehensive profile to prospective employers and universities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Intermediate (10+2) pass from a recognized board.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 132 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A050101T | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Major Core | 4 | Emergence of Indian Nationalism, Major Phases of National Movement, Constitutional Development (1773-1935), Making of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Union and State Executive |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A050201T | Indian Government and Politics | Major Core | 4 | Salient Features of Indian Political System, Preamble and Citizenship, Electoral System and Party Politics, Role of Pressure Groups, Local Self-Government (Panchayati Raj), Challenges to Indian Democracy |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A050301T | Public Administration | Major Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Bureaucracy, Good Governance |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A050401T | Political Theory | Major Core | 4 | Approaches to Political Theory, Concepts of State and Sovereignty, Rights, Liberty and Equality, Justice and Democracy, Power and Authority, Legitimacy |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A050501T | Western Political Thought | Major Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle''''s State and Citizenship, Machiavelli''''s Realism and Morality, Hobbes and Locke''''s Social Contract Theories, Rousseau''''s General Will, J.S. Mill on Liberty and Representative Government |
| A050502T | International Relations | Major Elective (Sample Choice) | 4 | Meaning and Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), United Nations and Global Governance, International Terrorism and its Challenges, Disarmament and Arms Control, Human Rights in International Politics |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A050601T | Indian Political Thinkers | Major Core | 4 | Kautilya''''s Arthashastra, Gandhi''''s Political Philosophy, Nehru''''s Secularism and Socialism, Ambedkar''''s Vision of Social Justice, M.N. Roy''''s Radical Humanism, Jayaprakash Narayan''''s Total Revolution |
| A050602T | Human Rights | Major Elective (Sample Choice) | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in Indian Constitution, National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Role of NGOs in Human Rights Advocacy, Rights of Vulnerable Groups (Women, Minorities) |
