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BA in Political Science at Dayanand Subhash National Post Graduate College
Unnao, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Dayanand Subhash National Post Graduate College Unnao?
This Political Science program at Dayanand Subhash National Post Graduate College focuses on equipping students with a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and governance structures. It delves into Indian and Western political thought, public administration, and international relations, preparing students for roles in public service, policy analysis, and research within the dynamic Indian socio-political landscape. The program aligns with national educational policies to foster critical thinking and civic engagement.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a keen interest in current affairs, public policy, and social justice, seeking entry into civil services or political analysis roles in India. It also suits individuals aiming to pursue higher studies in political science, law, or public administration, providing a strong academic foundation. Students aspiring for roles in non-governmental organizations, advocacy, media, or journalism will also find this curriculum highly beneficial for their career goals.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), political consultancy, public relations, and journalism. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience, especially in government and policy roles. The program enhances analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills, which are crucial for navigating complex social issues and contributing to nation-building initiatives and societal betterment.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with foundational political theories and constitutional concepts by regularly attending lectures, reading prescribed texts thoroughly, and participating in classroom discussions. Focus on understanding the historical context of Indian political thought and constitutional development.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science books (Class XI & XII), Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, D.D. Basu), College library resources, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid grasp of fundamentals is essential for cracking competitive exams like UPSC and State PSCs, which form the bedrock of many public service careers in India.
Develop Effective Study Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Establish a consistent study routine, including regular revision of notes, creating summaries, and practicing answer writing for theoretical papers. Prioritize understanding over rote learning to build analytical skills and improve retention.
Tools & Resources
Personalized study timetable, Flashcards for key terms, Previous year question papers, Mentorship from senior students or faculty
Career Connection
Efficient study habits ensure academic excellence, leading to higher grades which can be crucial for postgraduate admissions and showcasing discipline to potential employers.
Engage with Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Stay updated with daily national and international political developments, government policies, and socio-economic issues through reliable news sources. Relate current events to the theoretical concepts learned in class to enhance contextual understanding.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express newspapers, PRS Legislative Research website, Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates, Online news portals like Livemint
Career Connection
Awareness of current affairs is indispensable for civil services, journalism, policy analysis, and effective participation in public discourse, offering a competitive edge in various fields.
Intermediate Stage
Participate in Debates and Discussions- (Semester 3-4)
Actively join college debates, extempore competitions, and discussion forums on contemporary political issues. This hones public speaking, critical argumentation, and analytical skills, crucial for competitive exams and professional roles requiring strong communication.
Tools & Resources
College debating society, Inter-college competitions, Model Parliament sessions (if organized), Online platforms for reasoned political discourse
Career Connection
Strong communication and argumentative skills are highly valued in advocacy, law, journalism, and administrative roles, enabling effective articulation of ideas and influence.
Undertake Mini-Research Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Collaborate with peers or faculty on small research projects related to local governance, policy implementation, or social issues in Unnao or Uttar Pradesh. This introduces basic research methodologies, data collection, and field study techniques.
Tools & Resources
Basic research methodology guides, Access to local government reports (if available), Faculty guidance, Survey tools (e.g., Google Forms)
Career Connection
Practical research experience enhances analytical capabilities and problem-solving skills, making graduates attractive for roles in policy think tanks, NGOs, and research-oriented positions.
Explore Government Schemes and Policies- (Semester 3-4)
Deep dive into major Indian government schemes, public policies, and their impact. Understand the administrative machinery behind their implementation, linking classroom knowledge of public administration to real-world scenarios and policy analysis.
Tools & Resources
Official government websites (e.g., NITI Aayog, Ministry of Rural Development), Government annual reports, Public policy analysis journals
Career Connection
In-depth knowledge of public policy is directly applicable for civil services, policy analysis roles, and work with NGOs focusing on social development and advocacy.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Civil Services/Higher Education- (Semester 5-6)
Begin focused preparation for civil services examinations (UPSC, State PSCs) or entrance exams for postgraduate studies (MA Political Science, Law). This includes in-depth study, mock tests, and optional subject preparation tailored to career goals.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated coaching institutes (if opting), UPSC/PSC previous year question papers, Online test series, Mentors (faculty, alumni in civil services)
Career Connection
Targeted preparation in the final year significantly improves chances of securing prestigious positions in the Indian administrative machinery or gaining admission to top universities for advanced degrees.
Undertake Internships/Fieldwork- (Semester 5-6)
Seek internships with local political organizations, NGOs working on social issues, government departments, or media houses. This provides invaluable practical exposure, networking opportunities, and a glimpse into professional work environments.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell (if available), Online internship platforms (e.g., Internshala), Direct outreach to NGOs/MLAs'''' offices, Guidance from faculty
Career Connection
Internships offer practical skills, build professional networks, and can often lead to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations, boosting employability upon graduation.
Develop Specialization through Electives and Dissertation- (Semester 5-6)
Choose elective papers wisely based on career interests (e.g., International Relations, Research Methodology) and dedicate significant effort to the final year project/dissertation. This allows for deeper dives into specific areas of political science, showcasing expertise.
Tools & Resources
Specialized academic journals, University library digital resources, Faculty advisors for dissertation, Academic databases
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and a well-executed dissertation showcase expertise, which is beneficial for academic careers, research roles, and for differentiating oneself in a competitive job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) in any stream from a recognized board, as per university and college admission norms for BA programs.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 148 (Total BA Degree credits as per NEP 2020. Political Science Major subjects contribute 32 credits out of this total.) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PS-101 | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Core (Major) | 4 | Rise of Indian Nationalism, Constitutional Development (1773-1935), Constituent Assembly and its Working, Preamble, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union and State Governments, Emergency Provisions |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PS-201 | Indian Political Thought | Core (Major) | 4 | Ancient Indian Thinkers (Manu, Kautilya), Medieval Indian Thinkers (Barani, Abul Fazl), Modern Indian Thinkers (Ram Mohan Roy, Dayanand Saraswati), Gokhale, Tilak, Gandhi, Nehru, Ambedkar, M.N. Roy, Jayaprakash Narayan, Integral Humanism |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PS-301 | Comparative Government & Politics | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics (Traditional, Modern), Constitutions of UK, USA, China, Switzerland, Electoral Systems, Political Parties, Pressure Groups, Federalism vs Unitary Systems, Rule of Law |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PS-401 | Public Administration | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope and Importance of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy, Leadership, Decision-making, Personnel Administration (Recruitment, Training, Promotion), Financial Administration (Budgeting, Audit), Accountability |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PS-501 | Principles of Political Science | Core (Major) | 4 | Political Science: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Methods, Theories of State, Sovereignty, Law, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Duties, Citizenship, Democracy, Dictatorship, Political Culture |
| BA-PS-502 | International Relations | Elective (Major) | 4 | International Relations: Meaning, Nature, Scope, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War, Post-Cold War Era, Globalization, United Nations, Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN, EU), Disarmament, Arms Control, International Terrorism |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA-PS-601 | Western Political Thought | Core (Major) | 4 | Ancient Greek Thinkers (Plato, Aristotle), Machiavelli, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau, Bentham, J.S. Mill, Hegel, Karl Marx, Lenin, Mao, Contemporary Western Political Thinkers |
| BA-PS-602 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Elective/Project (Major) | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Political Science Research, Research Design, Formulation of Hypothesis, Methods of Data Collection (Survey, Interview, Observation), Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing, Ethical Issues in Research |
