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MA in Political Science at DAV College, Chandigarh
Chandigarh, Chandigarh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at DAV College, Chandigarh Chandigarh?
This Political Science program at Dayanand Anglo-Vedic College, Chandigarh, provides an in-depth understanding of political theories, systems, and global affairs. The program focuses on analytical skills and critical thinking relevant to India''''s dynamic political landscape, offering a nuanced perspective on governance, public policy, and international relations crucial for national development and foreign policy analysis.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Social Sciences or Humanities who aspire to careers in civil services, journalism, public policy, or research. It also suits working professionals from NGOs or government sectors seeking to enhance their theoretical foundation and analytical capabilities in political dynamics.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in India, including civil services (UPSC/State PCS), political consulting, policy analysis, journalism, or academic research. Entry-level salaries range from INR 3-6 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program aligns with skills required for think tanks and advocacy groups.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Core Conceptual Clarity- (Semester 1)
Focus on mastering fundamental political theories and concepts from Political Theory I and International Politics I. Utilize classic texts and engage in peer discussions to solidify understanding.
Tools & Resources
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, NCERT Political Science textbooks, Classic political texts (Plato, Aristotle)
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and for advanced policy analysis roles.
Develop Analytical Reading Habits- (Semester 1)
Cultivate a habit of reading daily newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express) and reputable political magazines/journals. Analyze current events through the lens of political theories learned.
Tools & Resources
Subscriptions to leading Indian newspapers, Economic & Political Weekly (EPW)
Career Connection
Essential for journalism, policy research, and general awareness required for civil services examinations.
Engage in Academic Discussions- (Semester 1)
Actively participate in classroom debates, seminars, and departmental events. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and exchange perspectives on Indian and comparative political systems.
Tools & Resources
Departmental seminars, College debate clubs, Online forums for political science discussions
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, critical thinking, and collaborative skills vital for leadership and advocacy roles.
Intermediate Stage
Strengthen Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 2-3)
Focus on developing strong academic writing by critically analyzing complex political issues, particularly in Indian and International Politics. Learn to structure arguments and cite sources effectively.
Tools & Resources
Reference management software (Zotero, Mendeley), University writing center resources, Academic journals in Political Science
Career Connection
Essential for academic pursuits, policy report writing, and research roles in think tanks and NGOs.
Explore Elective Specializations- (Semester 3)
Carefully choose optional papers based on career interests (e.g., Human Rights for advocacy, Research Methodology for academia). Delve deeper into the chosen field beyond the curriculum.
Tools & Resources
Syllabus details of electives, Faculty consultation, Online courses on specific topics (Coursera, NPTEL)
Career Connection
Allows for specialized knowledge building, leading to niche roles in NGOs, international organizations, or specialized government departments.
Internship or Project Work- (After Semester 2 / During Semester 3 break)
Seek opportunities for internships with NGOs, political consulting firms, government bodies, or research organizations during semester breaks. This provides practical exposure to the application of political science.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online internship portals (Internshala), Networking with alumni
Career Connection
Offers real-world experience, helps build a professional network, and can lead to pre-placement offers in relevant fields.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 4)
For those aspiring to UPSC/State PCS, dedicate significant time to integrated study, mock tests, and current affairs revision. Connect syllabus topics directly to exam requirements.
Tools & Resources
Coaching institute materials, Previous year question papers, Online test series, Government publications
Career Connection
Directly targets high-impact administrative and policy-making roles in the Indian government.
Dissertation/Research Project- (Semester 4)
Undertake a substantial research project or dissertation on a topic of personal interest, applying learned methodologies and theories. This showcases independent research capability.
Tools & Resources
Academic advisors, University library, Research databases (JSTOR, Academia.edu)
Career Connection
Crucial for those pursuing M.Phil/Ph.D. or research roles, demonstrating deep subject expertise and analytical rigor.
Professional Networking and Career Planning- (Semester 4)
Attend seminars, workshops, and alumni meet-ups. Refine resume/CV, practice interview skills, and strategize for specific job roles or higher education applications post-graduation.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College career services office, Industry-specific events
Career Connection
Facilitates job placements, opens doors to mentorship, and helps define long-term career trajectories in public service, media, or international organizations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree (B.A./B.Sc./B.Com.) from Panjab University or any other recognized university with 45% marks in aggregate, or 45% marks in Political Science for B.A. Hons. students.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL-101 | Political Theory (I) | Core | 4 | Concepts: Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Power, Approaches to Political Theory, Theories of State and Sovereignty, Democracy: Theories and Practice, Ideologies: Liberalism, Socialism, Conservatism |
| POL-102 | Comparative Political Systems (I) | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political System of UK (Constitutional Monarchy, Party System), Political System of USA (Presidential System, Federalism), Political System of Switzerland (Direct Democracy, Plural Executive), Political System of China (Communist Party Rule) |
| POL-103 | Indian Political System (I) | Core | 4 | Colonial Legacy and Nationalist Movement, Making of the Indian Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Union Executive (President, PM, Council of Ministers), Union Legislature (Parliament, Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha), Judiciary (Supreme Court, High Courts, Judicial Review) |
| POL-104 | International Politics (I) | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Politics, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism, Marxism), Key Concepts: Power, National Interest, Security, Balance of Power, Cold War and Post-Cold War Developments, Actors in International Relations (States, MNCs, NGOs) |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL-201 | Political Theory (II) | Core | 4 | Theories of Democracy (Participatory, Deliberative), Theories of Justice (Rawls, Nozick), Concept of Civil Society, Multiculturalism and Identity Politics, Post-colonialism and Subaltern Studies |
| POL-202 | Comparative Political Systems (II) | Core | 4 | Political System of France (Semi-Presidential), Political System of Germany (Parliamentary Federal Republic), Political System of Japan (Parliamentary System, Bureaucracy), Political System of South Africa (Transition to Democracy), Developing World Politics: State and Society |
| POL-203 | Indian Political System (II) | Core | 4 | State Executive (Governor, CM, Council of Ministers), State Legislature (Vidhan Sabha, Vidhan Parishad), Centre-State Relations (Legislative, Administrative, Financial), Local Self-Government (Panchayati Raj, Urban Local Bodies), Election Commission and Electoral Reforms |
| POL-204 | International Politics (II) | Core | 4 | New International Economic Order, Globalization and its Impact, Regionalism (SAARC, ASEAN, EU), Disarmament and Arms Control, Environmental Politics, Human Rights in IR |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL-301 | Western Political Thought (I) | Core | 4 | Plato (Ideal State, Justice, Philosopher King), Aristotle (State, Constitution, Citizenship), Machiavelli (Realism, Statecraft), Hobbes (Social Contract, Absolutism), Locke (Natural Rights, Limited Government) |
| POL-302 | Public Administration (I) | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Classical Theories: Scientific Management, Bureaucracy, Human Relations Approach, Decision-Making Theories, Public Policy (Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation) |
| POL-303 | Indian Administration (I) | Core | 4 | Evolution of Indian Administration (Mughal, British), Constitutional Framework of Indian Administration, Central Administration (Cabinet Secretariat, PMO, Ministries), Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), Administrative Reforms in India |
| POL-304 | Optional Paper (Group-A: Choose one) | Elective | 4 | Example: Human Rights (Concept, UDHR, Human Rights in India, International Institutions), Example: Research Methodology (Meaning, Research Design, Data Collection, Sampling, Report Writing), Example: Local Self-Government (Panchayati Raj, Urban Local Bodies, Decentralization) |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL-401 | Western Political Thought (II) | Core | 4 | Rousseau (General Will, Social Contract), Bentham (Utilitarianism), J.S. Mill (Liberty, Representative Government), Hegel (Idealism, State), Marx (Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Alienation) |
| POL-402 | Public Administration (II) | Core | 4 | Development Administration, New Public Administration, New Public Management, Good Governance and E-governance, Role of Civil Society in Administration |
| POL-403 | Indian Administration (II) | Core | 4 | State and District Administration (Divisional Commissioner, DC/Collector), Financial Administration (Budget, Audit, NITI Aayog), Personnel Administration (Recruitment, Training, Ethics, Morale), Public Grievance Redressal Mechanisms (Ombudsman, Lokpal), Role of Bureaucracy in Development |
| POL-404 | Optional Paper (Group-B: Choose one) | Elective | 4 | Example: Political Sociology (Political Culture, Socialization, Elites, Caste and Politics), Example: Indian Foreign Policy (Determinants, Non-Alignment, India and Neighbors, Major Powers), Example: Human Rights and International Law (International Human Rights Law, Refugee Law, Humanitarian Law) |
