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BA-HONS-POLITICAL-SCIENCE in General at Dyal Singh Evening College
Delhi, Delhi
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About the Specialization
What is General at Dyal Singh Evening College Delhi?
This BA (Hons) Political Science program at Dyal Singh Evening College, following the University of Delhi''''s UGCF 2022, offers a comprehensive exploration of political systems, theories, and processes. It extensively covers Indian and global politics, equipping students with critical analytical skills and a deep understanding of governance. The program is highly relevant in India''''s dynamic socio-political landscape, preparing graduates for diverse roles in public service, policy, and research.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from diverse academic backgrounds who possess a keen interest in governance, public policy, and international affairs. It also suits individuals aspiring for careers in civil services, journalism, law, and social work. A foundational understanding of civics and current events, coupled with strong reading and analytical abilities, would greatly benefit prospective students aiming for intellectual and impactful careers.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect promising career paths in India, including civil services (UPSC, State PSCs), political analysis, policy research, journalism, law, and diplomacy. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 LPA, with significant growth potential up to INR 10-15 LPA or more with experience and advanced degrees. The program lays a strong foundation for higher studies in political science, international relations, public administration, and other social sciences.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational political theories, concepts, and terminologies in Semesters 1-2. Engage actively in classroom discussions and seek clarification on complex ideas. This builds a robust intellectual base crucial for advanced studies and analytical depth in various fields.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), DU''''s e-resources and library, Online political theory lectures (e.g., NPTEL), Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong conceptual understanding is vital for competitive exams like UPSC and for roles in policy analysis or political journalism, enabling articulate and informed commentary.
Develop Academic Writing & Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, argumentation, and basic research skills from the outset. Practice structuring arguments, citing sources correctly, and summarizing complex information. Participate in college debates and essay competitions to hone these abilities effectively.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Mendeley (for citation management), University writing centers, Online academic writing tutorials
Career Connection
These skills are indispensable for any career involving research, reporting, policy drafting, or academic pursuits, making graduates highly valuable in various professional settings across India.
Stay Updated with Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of regular news consumption and critical analysis of national and international political developments. Link theoretical concepts learned in class to real-world events. Engage in discussions on contemporary issues with faculty and peers for deeper understanding.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Livemint, PRS Legislative Research (for policy updates), Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates
Career Connection
Essential for civil services, journalism, think tanks, and any role requiring informed decision-making and understanding of socio-political dynamics in India.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Practical Application & Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Seek internships with NGOs, political consultancies, media houses, or Members of Parliament/Legislative Assemblies. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world issues like policy analysis, campaign management, or community development. This practical exposure clarifies career interests and builds experience.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, Youth for Policy, NGO websites, LinkedIn for networking
Career Connection
Direct experience offers invaluable insights, builds a professional network, and significantly enhances resume strength for placements in advocacy, policy, or public relations.
Specialize through Electives and Projects- (Semester 3-5)
Strategically choose Discipline Specific Electives (DSEs) that align with your long-term career goals or areas of deep interest. Undertake research projects, dissertations, or term papers on these specialized topics to develop expertise and a portfolio of work, guided by faculty mentors.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals (e.g., Economic & Political Weekly), DU research databases, Faculty mentorship, Public policy reports
Career Connection
Specialization makes you a more attractive candidate for niche roles in research institutions, policy think tanks, or international organizations focusing on specific areas like international relations or human rights.
Participate in Model UN & Debates- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in Model United Nations (MUNs), debates, and parliamentary style discussions. This significantly improves public speaking, negotiation, and diplomatic skills, alongside deepening understanding of global issues and international relations, fostering critical thinking.
Tools & Resources
College debate societies, Local MUN conferences, Online resources on MUN procedures
Career Connection
Crucial for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, corporate communications, and any role requiring persuasive communication and conflict resolution abilities.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services/Career Exam Preparation- (Semester 6)
Begin intensive preparation for civil services or other relevant competitive exams (e.g., law entrance, journalism entrance) during the final year. Focus on general studies, optional subject mastery, and current affairs revision. Consider joining coaching institutes or dedicated study groups for structured preparation.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PSC study materials, Test series, Online coaching platforms, Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Directly targets high-demand government jobs and prestigious positions, offering a structured path to a secure and impactful career in India''''s public sector.
Networking and Alumni Engagement- (Semester 6)
Actively build and nurture a professional network by attending college alumni events, industry seminars, and workshops. Connect with alumni in desired career fields for mentorship and insights into job opportunities and market trends, leveraging the college community effectively.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni association networks, Professional conferences
Career Connection
Networking is paramount for job referrals, mentorship, and uncovering hidden job markets, significantly improving placement prospects and career guidance in India.
Refine Resume/CV and Interview Skills- (Semester 6)
Meticulously craft and refine your resume/CV, highlighting academic achievements, internships, projects, and skill development. Practice mock interviews, focusing on behavioral questions, political awareness, and articulation of ideas. Seek feedback from career counselors to improve.
Tools & Resources
College career services, Online resume builders, Mock interview platforms, YouTube tutorials on interview skills
Career Connection
Crucial for converting interview opportunities into job offers across all sectors, ensuring you present your best professional self to potential employers effectively.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 (or equivalent) from a recognized board. Admission is based on the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) score as per University of Delhi guidelines for undergraduate programs.
Duration: 3 years (6 semesters)
Credits: 106 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-1 | Understanding Political Theory | Core | 4 | What is Politics: Theorizing the Political, Approaches to Political Theory: Normative, Empirical, Contemporary, Key Concepts: Rights, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Philosophical Foundations of Political Thought |
| DSC-2 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Approaches to Studying Indian Politics, Constitutional Framework: Making of the Constitution, Fundamental Rights, Directive Principles, Organs of Government: Legislature, Executive, Judiciary, Federalism and Decentralization: Union-State Relations, Local Self-Government, Political Parties and Electoral Process |
| AECC-1 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Introduction to Environmental Studies and Ecosystems, Natural Resources: Renewable and Non-renewable, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Pollution: Types, Causes, Effects, Control Measures, Human Communities and the Environment |
| VAC-1 | Constitutional Values & Fundamental Duties | Value Addition Course | 2 | The Constitution of India: Preamble, Salient Features, Constitutional Values: Sovereignty, Socialism, Secularism, Democracy, Republic, Fundamental Duties: Significance and Enforcement, Equality, Liberty, Justice: Constitutional Provisions |
| GE-1 | Generic Elective 1 (from disciplines other than Political Science) | Generic Elective | 4 | Subject to choice from a pool of interdisciplinary electives offered by other departments |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-3 | Political Theory: Concepts and Debates | Core | 4 | Power: Concept and Dimensions, Citizenship: Theories and Practices, Democracy: Theories, Forms, Challenges, Civil Society: Role and Debates, State: Theories of the State, Sovereignty |
| DSC-4 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Public Administration as a Discipline: Meaning, Scope, Significance, Classical Approach: Taylor, Weber, Fayol, New Public Administration and New Public Management, Public Policy: Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Governance and Good Governance |
| AECC-2 | English Language (or MIL) | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 4 | Reading Comprehension and Analysis, Critical Thinking and Argumentation, Writing Skills: Essay, Report, Summary, Grammar and Vocabulary for Academic Writing, Communication Strategies |
| VAC-2 | Ethics and Culture | Value Addition Course | 2 | Understanding Ethics: Concepts and Theories, Values in Indian Culture and Society, Ethical Dilemmas and Moral Reasoning, Cultural Diversity and Pluralism, Role of Culture in Shaping Values |
| GE-2 | Generic Elective 2 (from disciplines other than Political Science) | Generic Elective | 4 | Subject to choice from a pool of interdisciplinary electives offered by other departments |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-5 | Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Legislature: Functions, Types, Debates, Executive and Judiciary: Role and Powers, Electoral Systems: Majoritarian, Proportional Representation |
| DSC-6 | Introduction to International Relations | Core | 4 | Theories of International Relations: Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Cold War and Post-Cold War Developments, International Economic Relations: Globalization, Bretton Woods Institutions, Global Challenges: Terrorism, Climate Change, Poverty |
| DSC-7 | Political Processes and Institutions in India | Core | 4 | Parties and Party Systems in India, Elections and Electoral Reforms, Social Movements: Peasant, Environmental, Women''''s Movements, Regionalism, Caste, Religion and Politics, Interest Groups and Pressure Politics |
| SEC-1-A | Legislative Practices and Procedures | Skill Enhancement Course (Option A) | 3 | Law Making Process in India, Parliament and State Legislatures: Structure and Functions, Budgetary Process and Financial Control, Parliamentary Oversight and Accountability |
| SEC-1-B | Public Opinion and Survey Research | Skill Enhancement Course (Option B) | 3 | Understanding Public Opinion: Theories and Measurement, Survey Research: Design, Questionnaire, Sampling, Data Collection and Analysis Techniques, Interpreting Survey Results and Report Writing |
| GE-3 | Generic Elective 3 (from disciplines other than Political Science) | Generic Elective | 4 | Subject to choice from a pool of interdisciplinary electives offered by other departments |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-8 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Key Themes and Approaches in Modern Indian Political Thought, Rammohan Roy: Liberalism and Social Reform, V.D. Savarkar: Hindutva, Mahatma Gandhi: Swaraj, Satyagraha, Sarvodaya, B.R. Ambedkar: Social Justice, Annihilation of Caste, Jawaharlal Nehru: Secularism, Democracy, Socialism, M.N. Roy: Radical Humanism |
| DSC-9 | Global Politics | Core | 4 | Globalization: Debates and Dimensions, Global Environmental Politics: Climate Change, Sustainable Development, Global Justice: Theories and Issues, Human Rights: Universalism vs. Cultural Relativism, International Terrorism and Non-State Actors |
| DSC-10 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Social Science Research: Nature and Significance, Research Design: Types and Components, Qualitative and Quantitative Research Methods, Data Collection Techniques: Interview, Observation, Survey, Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Ethics in Research |
| SEC-2-A | Conflict and Peace Building | Skill Enhancement Course (Option A) | 3 | Understanding Conflict: Causes and Dynamics, Theories of Peace: Negative and Positive Peace, Conflict Resolution Strategies: Negotiation, Mediation, Peacebuilding: Processes and Challenges |
| SEC-2-B | Understanding Governance | Skill Enhancement Course (Option B) | 3 | Concepts of Governance and Good Governance, Citizen-Centric Administration: Transparency, Accountability, Local Governance and Decentralization, E-Governance and Participatory Governance |
| GE-4 | Generic Elective 4 (from disciplines other than Political Science) | Generic Elective | 4 | Subject to choice from a pool of interdisciplinary electives offered by other departments |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-11 | Classical Political Philosophy | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Justice, Machiavelli: Virtu, Fortuna, Statecraft, Hobbes: Social Contract, Sovereign, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty |
| DSC-12 | International Law | Core | 4 | Nature and Basis of International Law, Sources of International Law: Treaties, Customs, State Recognition and State Succession, State Jurisdiction and Immunities, Law of the Sea, Air and Outer Space, International Criminal Law and Human Rights Law |
| DSE-1-A | India’s Foreign Policy | Discipline Specific Elective (Option A) | 4 | Determinants of India’s Foreign Policy: Historical, Domestic, Geopolitical, India and Major Global Powers (USA, Russia, China), India and Multilateral Institutions (UN, WTO, BRICS), India’s Neighbourhood Policy: SAARC, Act East Policy |
| DSE-1-B | Human Rights in a Comparative Perspective | Discipline Specific Elective (Option B) | 4 | Understanding Human Rights: Concept and Evolution, Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Covenants, Human Rights Regimes: Regional and International, Human Rights in India: Institutions and Challenges |
| DSE-1-C | Women, Power and Politics | Discipline Specific Elective (Option C) | 4 | Patriarchy, Sex and Gender, Feminist Theories: Liberal, Socialist, Radical, Women’s Movements in India and Globally, Women in Political Participation and Decision Making |
| DSE-2-A | Indian Political Thought-II | Discipline Specific Elective (Option A) | 4 | Kautilya: Arthashastra, Statecraft, Muhammad Iqbal: Community, Nationalism, M.A. Jinnah: Two-Nation Theory, Ram Manohar Lohia: Socialism, Decentralization, Jaiprakash Narayan: Total Revolution, Deendayal Upadhyaya: Integral Humanism |
| DSE-2-B | Democracy and Development in India | Discipline Specific Elective (Option B) | 4 | Theories of Development: Rostow, Dependency, Development Models in India: Planning, Liberalization, Challenges of Development: Poverty, Inequality, Environmental Degradation, Democratic Decentralization: Panchayati Raj Institutions |
| DSE-2-C | Law, Rights and Justice | Discipline Specific Elective (Option C) | 4 | Rule of Law and Constitutionalism, Human Rights: Categories and Protections, Justice: Procedural and Substantive, Legal Aid and Access to Justice, Social Justice: Affirmative Action |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DSC-13 | Modern Political Philosophy | Core | 4 | J.S. Mill: Liberty, Utilitarianism, G.W.F. Hegel: State, Spirit, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Antonio Gramsci: Hegemony, Passive Revolution, Hannah Arendt: Action, Public Sphere, John Rawls: Justice as Fairness, Veil of Ignorance |
| DSC-14 | Global Environmental Politics | Core | 4 | Environmentalism: Debates and Movements, Climate Change: Causes, Impacts, Policies, Biodiversity Conservation: Global Efforts, Global Environmental Governance: Institutions and Challenges, Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 21 |
| DSE-3-A | India’s Security Policy | Discipline Specific Elective (Option A) | 4 | National Security: Concepts and Dimensions, Geo-politics and Strategic Culture, India’s Nuclear Policy and Defence Planning, Internal Security Challenges: Insurgency, Terrorism, Maritime Security and Border Management |
| DSE-3-B | Politics of Globalisation | Discipline Specific Elective (Option B) | 4 | Theories of Globalization: Hyperglobalist, Skeptical, Impact of Globalization on State Sovereignty, Global Governance and International Organizations, Resistance to Globalization: Anti-globalization Movements |
| DSE-3-C | Dilemmas in Comparative Politics | Discipline Specific Elective (Option C) | 4 | Authoritarianism and Transitions to Democracy, Democracy: Types, Consolidation, Crises, Nationalism and Self-determination, Ethnic Conflict and State Responses, Political Economy of Development |
| DSE-4-A | Politics of South Asia | Discipline Specific Elective (Option A) | 4 | Regional Cooperation and SAARC, Conflicts and Peacebuilding in South Asia, Democracy and Authoritarianism in South Asian States, Geo-political Significance of South Asia, Major Political Developments in Key South Asian Countries |
| DSE-4-B | Feminist Theory | Discipline Specific Elective (Option B) | 4 | Waves of Feminism: First, Second, Third Wave, Liberal, Marxist, Radical, Postmodern Feminist Theories, Intersectionality and Feminist Critique, Gender and Power in Society and Politics |
| DSE-4-C | The United Nations and Global Conflicts | Discipline Specific Elective (Option C) | 4 | UN Structure and Functions: General Assembly, Security Council, UN Peacekeeping Operations and Conflict Prevention, Role of UN in Global Security and Human Rights, Challenges to UN Effectiveness and Reforms |
