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MASTER-OF-ARTS in Political Science at Gayatri P.G. College
Jalore, Rajasthan
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Gayatri P.G. College Jalore?
This Political Science program at Gayatri Post Graduate College, Jalore, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political theories, systems, and governance with a strong emphasis on the Indian context. It delves into the historical evolution of political thought, contemporary international relations, and the intricate dynamics of public administration in India. The curriculum is designed to equip students with analytical skills essential for careers in research, civil services, policy analysis, and journalism, addressing the growing demand for politically informed professionals in India''''s dynamic socio-political landscape.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with an interest in governance, public policy, and international affairs, particularly those aspiring for civil services or academic research. It also suits working professionals in NGOs, media, or government sectors seeking to deepen their theoretical and practical understanding of political processes. Individuals passionate about contributing to policy-making or pursuing a career in political analysis will find this specialization highly relevant, requiring a keen interest in current affairs and critical thinking.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state civil services, policy research organizations, journalism, think tanks, and academic institutions. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more in policy advocacy or administrative roles. The strong theoretical foundation and emphasis on research methodology prepare students for advanced studies and leadership positions in Indian governmental and non-governmental organizations, fostering informed participation in democratic processes.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational Western and Indian political thoughts. Create concept maps for key philosophers and their ideas, linking them to contemporary issues. Actively participate in class discussions to clarify complex theories and perspectives. This forms the bedrock for advanced studies and critical analysis.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), Online lecture series (e.g., NPTEL, Swayam courses on Political Science), Discussion forums
Career Connection
Strong theoretical understanding is crucial for civil services exams, academic research, and policy analysis, enabling a nuanced approach to real-world political problems.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, critical analysis, and proper citation techniques. Practice writing structured arguments based on evidence. Begin familiarizing yourself with academic databases and research methodologies introduced in the curriculum. Seek feedback on your writing from professors and peers regularly.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Grammarly/QuillBot for writing improvement, Online guides for academic writing and citation styles
Career Connection
Essential for pursuing higher education (Ph.D.), working in think tanks, policy research, and any role requiring articulate and evidence-based communication.
Engage with Current Affairs and Indian Politics- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbooks, regularly read leading national newspapers, political magazines, and credible online news sources to connect theoretical concepts with current events in India. Participate in college debates or discussions on contemporary political issues to develop informed opinions and public speaking skills.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Economic and Political Weekly, PRS Legislative Research for policy briefs
Career Connection
Indispensable for civil services aspirants, journalists, and policy analysts who need to understand the practical application of political science in India''''s dynamic environment.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini Research Projects/Dissertations- (Semester 3)
Apply research methodology knowledge by initiating small-scale research projects, perhaps on local governance issues or state politics in Rajasthan. This hands-on experience in data collection, analysis, and report writing is invaluable. Consult faculty members for guidance on topics and execution.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for basic data analysis (if applicable), SurveyMonkey/Google Forms for data collection, JNVU research guidelines
Career Connection
Builds practical research skills highly valued in think tanks, NGOs, and for higher academic pursuits, providing a competitive edge in the Indian job market.
Participate in National Level Debates and Model UN- (Semester 3)
Actively seek opportunities to participate in inter-college debates, Model United Nations (MUN) conferences, or quiz competitions focused on political science and international relations. This enhances public speaking, negotiation, and critical thinking skills, exposing students to diverse viewpoints.
Tools & Resources
College debate society, MUN conferences listings, Online resources on international relations and diplomacy
Career Connection
Develops essential soft skills for roles in diplomacy, advocacy, international organizations, and public relations within India and globally.
Explore Indian Administrative System through Internships- (Semester 3)
Look for short-term internships with local government bodies, NGOs working in policy advocacy, or electoral campaign teams. This provides direct exposure to the functioning of Indian administration and political processes at the grassroots level, offering practical insights not found in textbooks.
Tools & Resources
Local government offices (Collectorate, Municipal Corporation), NGOs in Jalore/Rajasthan, Volunteer India portals
Career Connection
Gains practical experience crucial for careers in civil services, public administration, and social work, enhancing understanding of ground realities in India.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 4)
For those aspiring for civil services, dedicate significant time to UPSC/RPSC preparation. Integrate syllabus topics with exam patterns, practice answer writing, and join study groups. Focus on current affairs specific to Indian governance and policy, and take mock tests regularly.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/RPSC previous year papers, Coaching institutes (online/offline), Current affairs magazines and websites
Career Connection
Directly prepares students for highly competitive government jobs in India, offering a clear career trajectory into administrative and policy-making roles.
Network with Alumni and Political Science Professionals- (Semester 4)
Actively connect with college alumni working in government, academia, or NGOs through LinkedIn or college events. Attend seminars, workshops, and guest lectures to interact with seasoned professionals. These connections can provide mentorship, internship leads, and career advice relevant to the Indian context.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, College alumni network portal, Departmental seminars and workshops
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, internships, and job opportunities in various sectors, crucial for navigating the professional landscape in India.
Specialize in Elective Areas and Develop a Portfolio- (Semester 4)
Deep dive into your chosen elective areas (e.g., Human Rights, Public Policy) through independent study and projects. Develop a portfolio of your best research papers, policy briefs, or articles. This showcases your expertise and readiness for specialized roles or advanced research in specific areas of political science.
Tools & Resources
Specialized journals and books, Open access research repositories, Personal academic blog/portfolio site
Career Connection
Prepares for specialized roles in advocacy, international organizations, or academic research, demonstrating expertise and readiness for specific career paths in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree in any discipline from a recognized University with minimum required marks (as per JNVU norms). Preference is often given to candidates with Political Science as a subject at the graduation level.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS101 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Education, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Revolution, Machiavelli: Statecraft, Morality, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract, Mill: Liberty, Representative Government, Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle |
| MAPS102 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought: Dharma, Danda, State, Kautilya: Saptanga Theory, Mandala Theory, Medieval Indian Political Thought: Barani, Abul Fazal, Modern Indian Political Thought: Raja Ram Mohan Roy, Gokhale, Gandhi: Satyagraha, Swaraj, Sarvodaya, Ambedkar: Social Justice, Annihilation of Caste |
| MAPS103 | Modern Political Analysis | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Political Science, Approaches to Political Analysis: Traditional, Behavioral, Post-Behavioral, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Political Systems: Inputs, Outputs, Feedback, Political Culture and Socialization, Political Development and Modernization |
| MAPS104 | Public Administration: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization: Classical, Human Relations, Principles of Organization: Hierarchy, Span of Control, Leadership, Motivation, Communication, Budgeting and Financial Administration, Accountability and Control in Administration |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS201 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics: Systems, Structural-Functional, Constitutionalism and Forms of Government, Electoral Systems and Political Parties, Pressure Groups and Interest Articulation, Developed and Developing Political Systems |
| MAPS202 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement: Evolution and Relevance, India''''s Relations with Major Powers: US, Russia, China, India''''s Relations with Neighbors: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, India and Regional Organizations: SAARC, ASEAN, BIMSTEC, India''''s Stand on Global Issues: Disarmament, Environment |
| MAPS203 | International Politics | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of International Politics, Realist and Idealist Approaches to International Relations, Concept of Power in International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Globalization and its Impact, International Organizations: UN, WTO, IMF |
| MAPS204 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core | 4 | Meaning and Significance of Research, Types of Research: Pure, Applied, Empirical, Research Design: Formulation of Hypothesis, Methods of Data Collection: Survey, Interview, Observation, Sampling Techniques: Probability and Non-Probability, Data Analysis and Report Writing |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS301 | Theory of International Relations | Core | 4 | Realism and Neo-Realism, Liberalism and Neo-Liberalism, Constructivism, Marxist and Critical Approaches, Feminist Perspectives on IR, Post-structuralism and Post-colonialism |
| MAPS302 | Indian Administration | Core | 4 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Union Executive and State Executive, Central and State Secretariat, Public Sector Undertakings, District Administration, Local Governance: Panchayati Raj, Urban Local Bodies |
| MAPS303A | Political Sociology | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Political Sociology, Political Socialization and Culture, Elites and Masses, Social Movements and Political Change, Caste, Class, Religion and Politics in India, State and Civil Society |
| MAPS303B | Global Environmental Politics | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Concepts: Environment, Ecology, Sustainable Development, International Environmental Regimes and Institutions, Climate Change and Global Warming, Biodiversity and Conservation, Environmental Movements and Activism, India''''s Environmental Policy and Challenges |
| MAPS304A | Human Rights and Social Justice | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission, Social Justice: Meaning and Dimensions, Policies for Vulnerable Groups in India |
| MAPS304B | Public Policy | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Public Policy, Models of Public Policy Formulation, Policy Implementation and Evaluation, Role of State and Non-State Actors in Policy Making, Policy Analysis Tools and Techniques, Case Studies of Public Policy in India |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAPS401 | Contemporary Political Ideologies | Core | 4 | Liberalism: Classical and Modern, Conservatism, Socialism, Marxism, Feminism: Liberal, Radical, Socialist, Environmentalism, Multiculturalism, Nationalism and Globalization, Postmodernism and its Critique |
| MAPS402 | State Politics in India | Core | 4 | Framework of State Politics in India, Role of Governor and Chief Minister, State Legislature and Judiciary, Political Economy of States, Regional Parties and Coalitions, Inter-State Disputes and Cooperation |
| MAPS403A | Gandhi and Contemporary World | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Gandhian Philosophy: Truth, Non-violence, Satyagraha, Gandhi''''s Economic and Social Ideas, Relevance of Gandhi in Modern World, Gandhian Model of Development, Gandhi and Environmentalism, Critiques of Gandhian Thought |
| MAPS403B | Regionalism, Federalism and Good Governance | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Concept of Regionalism and its Manifestations, Federalism: Theories and Practices, Indian Federalism: Challenges and Dynamics, Good Governance: Principles and Dimensions, E-governance and Public Service Delivery, Citizen Charters and Right to Information |
| MAPS404A | Women and Political Process | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Gender and Politics: Key Concepts, Women''''s Movements in India, Political Participation of Women, Reservation for Women in Local Bodies, Challenges to Women''''s Political Empowerment, Gender Mainstreaming in Policy |
| MAPS404B | India and Regional Co-operation | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Regionalism in South Asia, SAARC: Structure, Objectives, Challenges, BIMSTEC, IORA, BBIN initiatives, India''''s Look East/Act East Policy, Economic and Security Cooperation, Challenges and Prospects of Regional Cooperation |
