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B-A in Political Science at Devi Singh Smarak Mahavidyalaya, Rajnauli Sirsi, Sant Kabir Nagar
Sant Kabir Nagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Devi Singh Smarak Mahavidyalaya, Rajnauli Sirsi, Sant Kabir Nagar Sant Kabir Nagar?
This Political Science program at Devi Singh Smarak Mahavidyalaya focuses on understanding governmental structures, political processes, and ideologies both within India and globally. It offers a comprehensive study of political theory, comparative politics, public administration, and international relations. The curriculum, aligned with NEP 2020, aims to equip students with critical thinking skills essential for analyzing complex political issues relevant to the Indian socio-political landscape and its dynamic global role. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing students for various career paths.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from diverse academic backgrounds who possess a keen interest in public affairs, social justice, and governance. It attracts students aspiring for careers in civil services, journalism, law, teaching, and non-governmental organizations. Individuals looking to develop strong analytical and communication skills, with a passion for understanding political systems and contributing to societal development in India, will find this program highly beneficial and engaging.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding career paths in various sectors within India. Common roles include civil servant (UPSC, State PSC), policy analyst, journalist, social worker, researcher, and educator. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 LPA to 5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The program also provides a strong foundation for higher studies in political science, public administration, law, or international relations, fostering intellectual growth and leadership in Indian contexts.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Understanding- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with foundational political theories and Indian constitutional history by attending all lectures, participating in discussions, and clarifying doubts with faculty regularly. Utilize the college library for recommended readings and official government publications to deepen understanding of core concepts. Form study groups with peers to discuss complex topics and prepare for internal assessments, ensuring a solid base for future semesters.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, textbooks, NCERT Political Science books, Government of India official websites, peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong conceptual understanding is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and State PSC, and for building a career in policy analysis or research.
Develop Effective Communication and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, report preparation, and presentation skills through regular practice and faculty feedback. Participate in college debates, essay competitions, and mock parliamentary sessions. Reading newspaper editorials and political analyses daily will enhance articulation and critical thinking necessary for academic and professional success in India.
Tools & Resources
English and Hindi newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express, Dainik Jagran), debate clubs, college cultural societies, online grammar tools
Career Connection
Excellent communication skills are indispensable for roles in journalism, public relations, civil services, and advocacy.
Engage with Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a daily habit of reading national newspapers and following reputable news channels to stay updated on Indian and global political developments. Discuss current events in class and with peers to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world scenarios. This practice is vital for competitive exams and for developing an informed perspective on societal issues.
Tools & Resources
Reputable newspapers, news apps (e.g., The Hindu, BBC News), current affairs magazines (e.g., Pratiyogita Darpan), Lok Sabha TV, Rajya Sabha TV
Career Connection
Current affairs knowledge is central to civil service exams, journalism, policy analysis, and any role requiring informed decision-making.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical Research Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in the project/practical components of each major paper. Choose topics that allow for fieldwork, data collection (surveys, interviews), and detailed analysis, especially focusing on local governance, public administration issues, or comparative political studies within the Indian context. Seek guidance from professors to refine research methodologies and improve report writing.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (basic Excel), survey tools (Google Forms), college research resources, faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Develops research aptitude critical for policy research, academic careers, and data-driven roles in NGOs or government bodies.
Seek Internships with NGOs or Government Bodies- (Semester 3-5)
Look for internship opportunities during summer breaks with local NGOs, political parties, social work organizations, or district administration offices. Even short-term engagements provide invaluable practical exposure to how political science concepts are applied in real-world governance and social action within India. Network with professionals in these sectors.
Tools & Resources
Local NGO directories, college career cell (if available), online internship platforms (e.g., Internshala), personal networking
Career Connection
Gains real-world experience, builds professional networks, and helps clarify career interests in public service or advocacy.
Participate in Public Speaking and Debates- (Semester 3-5)
Hone public speaking and argumentation skills by actively participating in inter-college debates, elocution contests, and seminars focused on political or social issues. These activities build confidence, refine persuasive communication, and deepen understanding of diverse viewpoints, skills highly valued in Indian civil services, law, and media.
Tools & Resources
Debate societies, college events, public speaking workshops, YouTube tutorials on public speaking
Career Connection
Essential for leadership roles, civil services interviews, legal professions, and media careers where clear articulation is key.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services/Competitive Exam Preparation- (Semester 6)
Begin focused preparation for competitive exams like UPSC Civil Services, State Public Service Commissions (UPPSC), or other government job exams. Dedicate specific hours daily to studying General Studies, Political Science optional subjects, and practicing essay writing. Join mock test series and coaching programs if feasible, leveraging the theoretical base built during the BA program.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/UPPSC recommended books, previous year question papers, online coaching platforms, test series providers, study circles
Career Connection
Directly targets high-demand government jobs, offering stable and impactful career paths in India.
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Project- (Semester 6)
For the final semester, select a dissertation or major project topic that allows for an in-depth exploration of a contemporary political issue, public policy challenge, or a comparative study relevant to India. This should be a culmination of all learned research and analytical skills, demonstrating critical thinking and independent work. Seek strong faculty mentorship for this capstone project.
Tools & Resources
Research journals, academic databases, library resources, statistical analysis tools, faculty advisors
Career Connection
Showcases advanced research capabilities, crucial for postgraduate studies, research positions, and think tanks.
Network and Career Counseling- (Semester 6)
Actively network with alumni, guest lecturers, and professionals in fields of interest (e.g., journalism, law, civil services, NGOs). Attend career counseling sessions offered by the college or external agencies to understand diverse career paths post-BA in Political Science. Tailor your resume and prepare for interviews, focusing on showcasing analytical and communication strengths.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, alumni networks, career fairs, college placement cell (if available), professional associations
Career Connection
Facilitates informed career choices, opens doors to mentorship, and provides practical guidance for job applications and interviews.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Intermediate (10+2) pass from any recognized board
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: Approx. 148 (as per NEP 2020 guidelines for a 3-year BA program, with 48 credits dedicated to Major Political Science subjects) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25% (for theory papers), External: 75% (for theory papers)
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL101T | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development (1885-1950) | Core (Major) | 4 | Rise of Indian Nationalism, Constitutional Reforms (1909-1935), Gandhi''''s Political Thought and Role, Partition of India, Making of the Indian Constitution |
| POL101P | Project/Practical on Indian National Movement | Practical (Major) | 2 | Fieldwork on local political history, Case studies on constitutional development, Report writing and presentation, Analysis of historical political events |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL102T | Indian Political Thought | Core (Major) | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Kautilya, Manu), Medieval Indian Political Thought, Modern Indian Thinkers (Gandhi, Nehru), Ambedkar''''s Social and Political Philosophy, Cultural Nationalism and Socialism |
| POL102P | Project/Practical on Indian Political Thought | Practical (Major) | 2 | Critical analysis of political ideologies, Debate on contemporary relevance of thinkers, Research on specific political concepts, Presentation of thought schools |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL203T | Comparative Government and Politics | Core (Major) | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutions of UK, USA, China, Switzerland, Electoral Systems and Political Parties, Federalism and Unitary Systems, Political Culture and Socialization |
| POL203P | Project/Practical on Comparative Government | Practical (Major) | 2 | Comparative study of political institutions, Analysis of democratic processes, Report on governmental structures, Presentation on political system variations |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL204T | Public Administration | Core (Major) | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy and its Role, Personnel and Financial Administration, Role of Administration in Policy Making |
| POL204P | Project/Practical on Public Administration | Practical (Major) | 2 | Case studies of administrative reforms, Role-playing in public service scenarios, Research on governance challenges, Presentation on administrative models |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL305T | Western Political Thought | Core (Major) | 4 | Plato and Aristotle''''s Philosophy, Machiavelli''''s Political Realism, Social Contract Theorists (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), Utilitarianism (Bentham, J.S. Mill), Marxist Theory and Socialism |
| POL305P | Project/Practical on Western Political Thought | Practical (Major) | 2 | Comparative analysis of Western thinkers, Debates on classical political ideas, Research on influence of Western thought, Presentation on contemporary relevance |
| POL306T | Theories of International Relations | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Realism and Liberalism in IR, Marxism and Constructivism, Cold War Era and Post-Cold War Developments, Role of United Nations and Regional Organizations, Disarmament and Arms Control |
| POL306P | Project/Practical on Theories of International Relations | Practical (DSE) | 2 | Case studies of international conflicts, Analysis of global governance challenges, Research on foreign policy of major powers, Debate on international issues |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POL308T | Principles of Political Science | Core (Major) | 4 | Concept of State and Sovereignty, Rights, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Democracy: Theories and Practice, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Citizenship and Civil Society |
| POL308P | Project/Practical on Principles of Political Science | Practical (Major) | 2 | Critical evaluation of political concepts, Application of principles to real-world scenarios, Research on governance and rights, Presentation on political ideologies |
| POL309T | Indian Administration | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Union and State Administration, District Administration and Local Governance (Panchayati Raj), Public Sector Undertakings, E-governance and Administrative Reforms |
| POL309P | Project/Practical on Indian Administration | Practical (DSE) | 2 | Field visits to local administrative bodies, Case studies of public policy implementation, Report on administrative efficiency, Presentation on e-governance initiatives |
