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B-A in Political Science at Divya Kripal Mahavidyalaya
Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Divya Kripal Mahavidyalaya Hardoi?
This Political Science program at Divya Kripal Mahavidyalaya, affiliated with CSJMU, focuses on understanding governance, public policy, international relations, and political thought. It equips students with critical analytical skills essential for informed civic engagement and public service. The curriculum integrates Indian political dynamics with global perspectives, reflecting the evolving demands of administration and civil society in India''''s democratic landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates aspiring for careers in civil services, journalism, law, or public administration within India. It also suits individuals interested in contributing to political analysis, research, or advocacy within Indian NGOs and think tanks. Students with a keen interest in national and international affairs, societal structures, and policy-making will find this program deeply engaging and rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in UPSC, State PSCs, media houses, advocacy groups, and academic research institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in government and non-profit sectors. The program provides a strong foundation for advanced studies in law, public policy, or international relations, fostering intellectual growth and leadership.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on building a strong foundation in Indian Constitution, political thinkers, and basic theories. Regularly attend lectures, take detailed notes, and engage in classroom discussions. Form study groups to clarify concepts and practice explaining complex ideas to peers, enhancing understanding of fundamental principles.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science books (Class XI & XII), Laxmikant''''s Indian Polity (for foundational understanding), University Library resources, Class notes
Career Connection
A solid conceptual base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and State PSCs, providing the bedrock for advanced studies and analytical thinking required in civil services or research.
Developing Critical Reading and Analysis Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate the habit of reading national newspapers daily (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and reputable political magazines. Practice summarizing articles, identifying main arguments, and critiquing different viewpoints. Engage with official government reports and policy documents to understand practical applications of political theories.
Tools & Resources
Leading English newspapers, EPW (Economic and Political Weekly), Press Information Bureau (PIB) website
Career Connection
These skills are invaluable for journalism, policy analysis, and legal professions, enabling graduates to interpret complex information and articulate informed opinions, which are vital for public communication and policy discourse.
Participating in College Debates and Seminars- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in departmental debates, quizzes, and seminars related to current political issues and theoretical discussions. Present papers or lead discussions to hone public speaking, argumentation, and presentation skills. This builds confidence and provides a platform to apply classroom knowledge.
Tools & Resources
College debate club, Departmental academic events, Online public speaking tutorials (e.g., YouTube channels)
Career Connection
Strong communication and presentation skills are highly sought after in media, diplomacy, advocacy, and any leadership role, enhancing employability and professional growth in a diverse range of fields.
Intermediate Stage
Engaging in Fieldwork and Surveys- (Semester 3-5)
Seek opportunities to participate in local political campaigns, community development projects, or surveys conducted by faculty or local NGOs. This provides hands-on experience in understanding grassroots politics, public opinion, and the implementation challenges of policies in the Indian context. Document observations rigorously.
Tools & Resources
Local NGOs, College faculty research projects, Survey tools (Google Forms, basic data analysis software like Excel)
Career Connection
Practical exposure is critical for roles in political consulting, social work, and development sectors, offering real-world insights that are highly valued by employers looking for practical problem-solvers.
Specializing in Elective Areas and Research- (Semester 3-5)
Choose elective subjects that align with specific career interests, such as international relations, public policy, or human rights. Conduct small-scale research projects or term papers on contemporary political issues under faculty guidance, focusing on Indian case studies. This deepens expertise and builds a research portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Research databases (JSTOR, Shodhganga), Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Specialized knowledge and research experience are essential for higher studies, academic careers, think tanks, and roles requiring in-depth policy analysis, positioning students as experts in their chosen sub-fields.
Networking with Alumni and Professionals- (Semester 3-5)
Attend alumni meets, career fairs, and webinars featuring political scientists, civil servants, and public policy experts. Initiate conversations, seek mentorship, and understand diverse career trajectories within India. This builds valuable professional networks and offers insights into industry expectations.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni association, Career guidance cell events
Career Connection
Networking is vital for uncovering internship opportunities, gaining industry insights, and securing placements in competitive fields like civil services, media, and political advisory, leveraging connections for career advancement.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 6-8)
Begin rigorous and structured preparation for civil services (UPSC CSE) or State PSC exams. Enroll in mock test series, practice essay writing, and stay updated on current affairs comprehensively. Focus on General Studies papers, integrating political science knowledge, and hone interview skills with targeted practice.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated coaching institutes (if feasible), Online test series platforms (e.g., Vision IAS, Drishti IAS), Current affairs magazines and websites
Career Connection
Directly targets highly sought-after government positions in India, offering stable and impactful career paths in administration, policing, and various public services, fulfilling aspirations for public contribution.
Undertaking a Major Research Project or Dissertation- (Semester 6-8)
Complete a substantial research project or dissertation on a significant political science topic, preferably with an Indian context, under expert supervision. This involves extensive literature review, data collection (if applicable), analysis, and academic writing. Aim for original insights and rigorous methodology.
Tools & Resources
Plagiarism checkers, Referencing software (e.g., Mendeley), Statistical tools (if quantitative research, like SPSS basics)
Career Connection
A strong dissertation showcases advanced research capabilities, critical thinking, and independent academic work, which are highly valued for postgraduate studies, research roles, and policy development positions.
Securing Internships and Placement Preparation- (Semester 6-8)
Actively seek internships with political organizations, think tanks, media houses, or government departments during breaks. Update resume, practice interview techniques, and develop a professional online presence. Attend campus placement drives or participate in off-campus recruitment processes specifically for relevant sectors.
Tools & Resources
Internship portals (e.g., Internshala, LinkedIn), Career Services cell, Resume builders and interview guides
Career Connection
Internships provide crucial work experience and often lead to pre-placement offers. Effective placement preparation ensures a smooth transition into the professional world, securing desired roles in the public, private, or non-profit sectors in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) pass from a recognized board or equivalent examination.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters) for Bachelor''''s Degree, with an option for 4 years (8 semesters) for Bachelor''''s Degree (Honours with Research), as per NEP 2020 guidelines.
Credits: Total credits for a 3-year B.A. degree typically range from 120 to 132 credits as per NEP 2020. Political Science Major subjects specifically contribute 32 credits. Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-I | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 4 | Approaches to study Indian Nationalism, Rise and Growth of Nationalism in India, Constitutional Development (1773-1935), Constituent Assembly and making of Indian Constitution, Salient Features of Indian Constitution |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-II | Indian Political Thinkers | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 4 | Kautilya''''s theory of State, M.K. Gandhi''''s Swaraj and Satyagraha, Jawaharlal Nehru''''s Democratic Socialism, B.R. Ambedkar''''s Social Justice, V.D. Savarkar''''s Hindutva |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-III | Political Theory | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Concept of State and its origin, Sovereignty and its types, Theories of Rights, Liberty, and Equality, Concept of Justice and its dimensions |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-IV | Public Administration | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 4 | Nature, Scope, and Significance of Public Administration, Theories of Organization (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Concept of Leadership, Decision Making, Personnel Administration (Recruitment, Training), Financial Administration and Accountability |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-V | Western Political Thought | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle''''s Classification of Constitutions, Machiavelli''''s Realism and Statecraft, Locke''''s Social Contract and Natural Rights, Rousseau''''s General Will and Popular Sovereignty, J.S. Mill''''s Liberty and Representative Government |
| DSC-VI | International Relations | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism, Marxism), Major Debates: Cold War, End of Cold War, New World Order, Role of United Nations in Global Governance, Disarmament, Arms Control, and Global Security |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-VII | Comparative Politics | Core (Discipline Specific Core) | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Electoral Systems and Party Systems, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Comparative Study of Select Political Systems (e.g., UK, USA, China) |
| DSE | India''''s Foreign Policy | Elective (Discipline Specific Elective) | 4 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement and its relevance, India''''s Relations with Neighbors (Pakistan, China, Nepal), India and Global Institutions (UN, WTO, BRICS), Economic Diplomacy and contemporary challenges |
