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MA in Public Policy at CHRIST (Deemed to be University)
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Public Policy at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) Bengaluru?
This MA Public Policy program at CHRIST (Deemed to be University) focuses on developing critical analytical skills for policy formulation, implementation, and evaluation. It addresses India''''s unique socio-economic and political landscape, preparing graduates to navigate complex policy challenges. The program''''s interdisciplinary approach and emphasis on practical application set it apart, responding directly to the growing demand for skilled policy professionals in the Indian public, private, and non-profit sectors.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from diverse backgrounds such as Political Science, Economics, Law, and Social Sciences seeking entry into policy-related careers. It also caters to working professionals in government, NGOs, or corporate social responsibility roles looking to upskill and deepen their understanding of policy processes. Career changers transitioning into the social impact or public service domains will find the comprehensive curriculum highly beneficial, requiring a foundational interest in governance and societal issues.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in government agencies, think tanks, international organizations, NGOs, and corporate policy divisions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more (INR 10-20 lakhs+). Growth trajectories often lead to roles as policy analysts, consultants, program managers, and advocacy specialists, contributing to significant societal change within Indian and global contexts.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Theoretical Core through Active Reading- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate regular time to deeply engage with foundational texts in public policy, economics, and governance. Actively read by summarizing chapters, identifying key arguments, and connecting concepts across subjects. Participate actively in classroom discussions and form study groups to debate complex policy theories.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, J-STOR, Google Scholar, Moodle/LMS discussion forums, peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical understanding is crucial for effective policy analysis, enabling you to frame problems and evaluate solutions based on established knowledge, a critical skill for entry-level policy analyst roles.
Develop Foundational Research & Data Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention in Research Methods and Data Analysis courses. Practice applying learned statistical concepts using software like R or Stata for basic data manipulation and visualization. Seek opportunities to assist faculty with small research tasks to gain hands-on experience in data collection and preliminary analysis.
Tools & Resources
R Studio, Stata (if available), Excel, online tutorials for statistical software, faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Proficiency in basic research and data analysis is a non-negotiable skill for any policy role, allowing you to interpret evidence and contribute to data-driven decision-making processes from the outset.
Network with Peers and Faculty for Diverse Perspectives- (Semester 1-2)
Engage with your diverse cohort, understanding their varied academic and professional backgrounds. Participate in departmental seminars, guest lectures, and workshops to interact with faculty beyond regular classes. Build relationships that foster academic support and expose you to different policy perspectives.
Tools & Resources
Departmental events, guest speaker series, social gatherings with classmates, faculty office hours
Career Connection
A strong professional network within academia and among peers can lead to collaborative projects, knowledge sharing, and future career opportunities, particularly important in a field that thrives on interdisciplinary collaboration.
Intermediate Stage
Pursue Meaningful Internships with Policy Organizations- (Semester 3 (during/after))
Actively seek out and secure internships with government bodies, policy think tanks, NGOs, or international organizations working in India. Focus on gaining practical exposure to policy research, advocacy, or program implementation. Document your experiences, learn from mentors, and contribute tangibly to projects.
Tools & Resources
University career services, LinkedIn, personal networks, organization websites for internship postings
Career Connection
Internships are crucial for gaining real-world experience, building a professional network, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong referrals, significantly boosting your employability.
Specialize through Electives and Applied Projects- (Semester 3)
Strategically choose electives that align with your emerging policy interests (e.g., Health, Urban, Environment). Deepen your knowledge in these areas through independent research, participation in relevant workshops, and undertaking applied projects or case studies related to your chosen specialization.
Tools & Resources
Elective course materials, specialized journals, professional associations for chosen policy areas
Career Connection
Specializing allows you to develop expertise in a niche area, making you a more attractive candidate for specific policy roles and enabling you to contribute to targeted policy solutions.
Enhance Communication and Advocacy Skills- (Semester 3)
Actively practice written and oral communication through policy briefs, presentations, and debates in coursework. Join student clubs focused on public speaking or current affairs. Learn to articulate complex policy ideas clearly and persuasively, tailoring messages to different audiences, including policymakers and the public.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters (if available), debate clubs, writing workshops, feedback from faculty and peers
Career Connection
Effective communication and advocacy are vital for influencing policy outcomes, essential for roles in public relations, advocacy, and government liaison, directly impacting your ability to drive change.
Advanced Stage
Master Dissertation for In-depth Policy Research- (Semester 4)
Treat your dissertation as a capstone project to demonstrate advanced policy analysis skills. Choose a policy issue of personal interest and conduct rigorous, original research. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor, refine your arguments, and produce a high-quality academic work that showcases your expertise.
Tools & Resources
Research supervisor, academic databases, statistical software, academic writing guides
Career Connection
A well-executed dissertation serves as a strong portfolio piece, demonstrating your capacity for independent, rigorous research and critical thinking, which is highly valued by employers and for future academic pursuits.
Develop Professional Online Presence and Network- (Semester 4)
Cultivate a professional LinkedIn profile showcasing your skills, experiences, and academic achievements. Connect with faculty, alumni, guest speakers, and professionals in the public policy field. Engage in relevant discussions and share insightful articles to build your personal brand as a policy expert.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, professional networking events, alumni meetups
Career Connection
A robust professional network and online presence are instrumental for job search, mentorship, and staying updated on industry trends, providing direct pathways to career opportunities and professional growth.
Strategize for Placements and Career Entry- (Semester 4)
Begin placement preparation early by attending career workshops, mock interviews, and resume-building sessions. Identify target organizations and roles, tailoring your applications accordingly. Leverage your internship experiences and dissertation findings to highlight your unique value proposition to potential employers.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, career counseling, online job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn Jobs), interview preparation resources
Career Connection
Proactive and strategic placement preparation maximizes your chances of securing desirable employment upon graduation, ensuring a smooth transition from academia to a rewarding career in public policy.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates who have passed any Bachelor’s Degree examination with 50% marks (45% for Karnataka candidates) and passed PUC/10+2 with a minimum of 40% marks are eligible to apply.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 78 Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPP111 | Core Paper 1: Public Policy: Concepts and Theories | Core | 4 | Public Policy Meaning and Scope, Policy Cycle, Theories of Policy Making, Models of Public Policy, Policy Analysis Frameworks |
| MPP112 | Core Paper 2: Research Methods and Data Analysis | Core | 4 | Research Design, Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Data Collection Methods, Statistical Analysis, Report Writing |
| MPP113 | Core Paper 3: Public Administration and Governance | Core | 4 | Public Administration Theories, Bureaucracy, Governance Models, Public Accountability, E-governance, Good Governance Principles |
| MPP114 | Core Paper 4: Indian Political System and Policy Making | Core | 4 | Indian Constitution, Federalism, Legislature and Executive, Judicial System, Political Economy of India, Policy Processes in India |
| MPP115 | Core Paper 5: Development Theories and Praxis | Core | 4 | Theories of Development, Sustainable Development Goals, Poverty and Inequality, Social Inclusion, Human Development, Global Development Challenges |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPP211 | Core Paper 6: Public Economics and Finance | Core | 4 | Public Finance, Taxation, Budgeting, Fiscal Policy, Public Expenditure, Cost-Benefit Analysis |
| MPP212 | Core Paper 7: Ethics and Public Policy | Core | 4 | Ethical Theories, Public Service Ethics, Corruption, Accountability, Transparency, Values in Policy Making |
| MPP213 | Core Paper 8: Law, Policy and Human Rights | Core | 4 | Legal Frameworks, Constitutional Law, Human Rights, Social Justice, Law and Governance, Public Interest Litigation |
| MPP214 | Core Paper 9: Public Policy in Global Context | Core | 4 | International Relations, Global Governance, International Organizations, Foreign Policy Analysis, Transnational Policy Issues, Diplomacy |
| MPP2EL1 | Elective 1 | Elective | 4 | Choose one of the following: |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPP311 | Core Paper 10: Policy Implementation and Evaluation | Core | 4 | Policy Implementation Models, Implementation Challenges, Policy Monitoring, Program Evaluation Methods, Impact Assessment, Policy Learning |
| MPP312 | Core Paper 11: Public Policy Communication | Core | 4 | Communication Theories, Stakeholder Engagement, Media Relations, Advocacy Campaigns, Policy Briefs, Strategic Communication |
| MPP313 | Core Paper 12: E-Governance and Digital Policy | Core | 4 | E-governance Frameworks, Digital Transformation, Cyber Security, Data Governance, Artificial Intelligence in Public Policy, Digital Divide |
| MPP3EL2 | Elective 2 | Elective | 4 | Choose one of the following: |
| MPP3IS | Internship | Project | 4 | Practical Policy Application, Organizational Analysis, Report Writing, Fieldwork, Professional Skill Development, Research Project |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MPP411 | Core Paper 13: Policy Analysis and Decision Making | Core | 4 | Decision Making Models, Stakeholder Analysis, Risk Assessment, Policy Tools, Cost-Benefit Analysis, Multi-Criteria Analysis |
| MPP4EL3 | Elective 3 | Elective | 4 | Choose one of the following: |
| MPP4PR | Dissertation | Project | 10 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Collection, Data Analysis, Thesis Writing |
