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MASTER-OF-ARTS in Political Science at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Mahavidyalaya, Purwa Sujan
Auraiya, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Mahavidyalaya, Purwa Sujan Auraiya?
This Political Science program at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Mahavidyalaya, Auraiya, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and governance, with a strong emphasis on the Indian context. It delves into historical thought, comparative analysis, international relations, and public administration, preparing students for critical roles in academia, government, and civil society. The program is designed to meet the evolving demands for skilled political analysts and policy makers in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences, especially political science, seeking to deepen their theoretical and practical understanding of governance and public policy. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in civil services, journalism, research, or advocacy, providing a robust academic foundation. Professionals looking to enhance their analytical and policy formulation skills will also find significant value.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in government ministries, think tanks, academic institutions, NGOs, and media houses. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. Opportunities include policy analysts, researchers, civil servants, journalists, and educators, contributing to nation-building and informed public discourse in various Indian organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on thoroughly understanding core political theories, historical thoughts (Indian and Western), and comparative political systems. Engage actively in lectures, read prescribed texts meticulously, and form study groups to discuss complex ideas and foundational principles.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science books (Class 11, 12), Standard MA Political Science textbooks, Online academic journals (JSTOR, Shodhganga), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A solid theoretical base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and NET/JRF, and provides the analytical framework for future policy roles in India.
Develop Critical Reading and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Practice synthesizing information from multiple sources and articulating arguments clearly. Write concise essays and research papers on contemporary political issues, seeking feedback from professors. Attend workshops on academic writing and citation to improve scholarly communication.
Tools & Resources
Online grammar checkers, Academic writing guides, University''''s writing center (if available), Feedback from faculty
Career Connection
Essential for research positions, journalism, policy drafting, and effective communication in any professional setting within the Indian context.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read leading national newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express), magazines (e.g., Frontline, Yojana), and reputable online news portals. Connect current events with the political theories and systems learned in class to gain a contextual understanding.
Tools & Resources
Daily newspapers, News apps, Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV discussions, PRS Legislative Research website
Career Connection
Indispensable for civil services examinations, media roles, and becoming an informed citizen and policy contributor in India.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Specialization-Specific Research- (Semester 3)
Choose elective papers wisely, aligning with your career interests (e.g., International Relations, Public Administration, Human Rights). Undertake mini-research projects or extended essays on topics within your chosen specialization, applying learned methodologies and analytical frameworks.
Tools & Resources
Research methodology textbooks, Academic databases (JSTOR, Shodhganga), Departmental research guides, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Builds expertise in a niche area, critical for roles in think tanks, specialized government departments, and PhD pursuits in India.
Network with Academics and Professionals- (Semester 3-4)
Attend webinars, seminars, and guest lectures organized by the department or university. Actively participate and ask questions. Connect with faculty members, alumni, and guest speakers to gain insights into various career paths and industry trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations, University alumni network events, Department-specific seminars
Career Connection
Opens doors to internship opportunities, mentorship, and future job prospects in government, academia, and civil society organizations in India.
Prepare for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 3-4)
Begin focused preparation for target competitive exams (UPSC CSE, State PSCs, UGC NET/JRF) by solving previous year''''s papers and joining relevant study circles or coaching if desired. Integrate syllabus topics with exam patterns to maximize effectiveness.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Mock tests, Standard guidebooks for competitive exams, Online coaching platforms, Peer study groups
Career Connection
Directly impacts success in securing prestigious government jobs and research fellowships, a primary goal for many MA Political Science graduates in India.
Advanced Stage
Execute a High-Quality Dissertation/Project- (Semester 4)
Select a compelling research topic, conduct thorough literature review, apply appropriate research methodology, and produce a well-structured, original dissertation or project report. Seek continuous guidance from your supervisor for academic rigor and quality.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (if needed), Reference management tools (Zotero, Mendeley), University library''''s research support, Supervisor''''s expertise
Career Connection
Showcases independent research capability, a key skill for advanced academic pursuits, policy analysis, and research-oriented roles in Indian think tanks.
Develop Interview and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Practice mock interviews for civil services, academic positions, or NGO roles. Prepare presentations on your research or policy analysis, focusing on clarity, coherence, and impactful delivery to effectively communicate complex ideas.
Tools & Resources
Career services cell (if available), Online resources for interview preparation, Public speaking clubs, Peer feedback sessions
Career Connection
Crucial for converting academic achievements into professional opportunities, especially in competitive job markets like civil services and academia in India.
Explore Internship and Placement Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Actively search and apply for internships in government departments, NGOs, think tanks, or media houses relevant to your specialization. Leverage university placement cells and professional networks for job openings to gain practical experience.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Internship portals (Internshala), Company/Organization websites, Professional networking events
Career Connection
Provides practical experience, enhances resume, and often leads to pre-placement offers or direct employment post-graduation, fostering a smooth transition to the workforce in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Graduation in any discipline, preferably with Political Science as a subject, from a recognized university with minimum aggregate marks (typically 45-50% as per university norms).
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGPS-101 | ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL INDIAN POLITICAL THOUGHT | Core | 4 | Concept of Dharma and Danda, Kautilya''''s Saptanga Theory, Manusmriti''''s Social and Political Ideas, Sukra''''s Raja Dharma, Raja Ram Mohan Roy''''s Liberalism |
| PGPS-102 | WESTERN POLITICAL THOUGHT | Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State and Justice, Aristotle''''s Theory of State and Citizenship, Machiavelli''''s Realism, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau''''s Social Contract, Marx''''s Historical Materialism |
| PGPS-103 | COMPARATIVE POLITICAL ANALYSIS | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political System and its Functions, Political Culture and Socialization, Electoral Systems and Parties, Federalism and Unitary Systems |
| PGPS-104 | INDIAN GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS | Core | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles, President, Prime Minister and Cabinet, Parliament and Judiciary, Federalism and Centre-State Relations |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGPS-201 | MODERN POLITICAL THEORY | Core | 4 | Liberalism and its Variants, Socialism and Marxism, Feminist Political Thought, Postmodernism and Deliberative Democracy, Concepts of Rights, Liberty, Equality |
| PGPS-202 | INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS | Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations and International Law, Non-Alignment Movement and Disarmament, Globalization and Regional Organizations |
| PGPS-203 | PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization and Bureaucracy, Financial Administration and Budgeting, Personnel Administration and Training, E-governance and Public Policy |
| PGPS-204 | RESEARCH METHODOLOGY IN POLITICAL SCIENCE | Core | 4 | Scientific Method and Research Design, Data Collection Techniques, Sampling Methods and Hypothesis Formulation, Qualitative and Quantitative Methods, Report Writing and Citation |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGPS-301 | HUMAN RIGHTS | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, Role of NGOs in Human Rights |
| PGPS-302 | INDIA’S FOREIGN POLICY | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment and its Relevance, Relations with Neighboring Countries, India and Major Global Powers, India''''s Role in UN and Economic Diplomacy |
| PGPS-303 (DSE) | DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION (Discipline Specific Elective - Option A) | Elective | 4 | Concept and Approaches to Development, Bureaucracy and Development, Planning Commission and NITI Aayog, Rural and Urban Development Programs, Role of NGOs in Development |
| PGPS-303 (DSE) | POLITICAL SOCIOLOGY (Discipline Specific Elective - Option B) | Elective | 4 | Political Socialization and Culture, Political Participation and Elites, Caste, Class, Gender, Religion in Politics, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Social Movements and Political Change |
| PGPS-303 (DSE) | GENDER AND POLITICS (Discipline Specific Elective - Option C) | Elective | 4 | Patriarchy and Feminist Theories, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender Inequality and Representation, Violence Against Women and State Responses, Gender Budgeting and Policy Making |
| PGPS-304 (DSE) | LOCAL GOVERNANCE IN INDIA (Discipline Specific Elective - Option A) | Elective | 4 | Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendments, Functions, Finances and Autonomy, Grassroots Democracy and Development |
| PGPS-304 (DSE) | REGIONALISM AND FEDERALISM IN INDIA (Discipline Specific Elective - Option B) | Elective | 4 | Theories of Federalism, Indian Federal System and its Dynamics, Centre-State Relations, Regional Parties and Autonomy Demands, Inter-State Conflicts and Cooperation |
| PGPS-304 (DSE) | PEACE AND CONFLICT STUDIES (Discipline Specific Elective - Option C) | Elective | 4 | Concept of Peace and Conflict Resolution, Causes and Dynamics of Conflict, Peacekeeping and Peacemaking, Disarmament and Arms Control, Human Security and Conflict Transformation |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGPS-401 | CONTEMPORARY POLITICAL THEORY | Core | 4 | John Rawls'''' Theory of Justice, Nozick''''s Entitlement Theory, Communitarianism and Multiculturalism, Green Political Theory, Globalization, State, and Sovereignty |
| PGPS-402 | DEMOCRATIC DECENTRALIZATION AND GOOD GOVERNANCE | Core | 4 | Concept of Decentralization and Good Governance, Transparency and Accountability, Right to Information (RTI), Lokpal and Lokayukta, E-governance and Citizen Charter |
| PGPS-403 (DSE) | ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS (Discipline Specific Elective - Option A) | Elective | 4 | Environmental Movements in India, Sustainable Development Goals, Climate Change and Global Governance, International Environmental Regimes, India''''s Environmental Policy and Laws |
| PGPS-403 (DSE) | POLITICAL PSYCHOLOGY (Discipline Specific Elective - Option B) | Elective | 4 | Political Attitudes and Beliefs, Political Personality and Leadership, Political Decision Making, Propaganda and Public Opinion, Political Communication and Behavior |
| PGPS-403 (DSE) | ETHICS AND POLITICS (Discipline Specific Elective - Option C) | Elective | 4 | Political Obligation and Justice, Rights, Liberty, and Equality, Morality in Public Life, Public Ethics and Corruption, Ethical Dilemmas in Governance |
| PGPS-404 | PROJECT/DISSERTATION/VIVA-VOCE | Project | 4 | Research Topic Selection, Literature Review and Methodology, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Dissertation/Project Report Writing, Viva-Voce Examination |
