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M-A in Political Science at Girls Degree College, Bilgram
Hardoi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Girls Degree College, Bilgram Hardoi?
This Political Science program at Girls Degree College, Hardoi, offers an in-depth understanding of political theories, governance, international relations, and public policy. The curriculum is meticulously designed to equip students with critical analytical and research skills, crucial for navigating India''''s complex socio-political landscape. It provides a robust foundation for understanding democratic processes, policy-making, and global political dynamics, highly relevant to current challenges and opportunities in the Indian context.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates passionate about public affairs, governance, and social justice, seeking entry into civil services, policy analysis, or academic research within India. It also suits working professionals aiming to enhance their understanding of political dynamics, or career changers aspiring to contribute to public life, non-governmental organizations, or media organizations, particularly those focusing on Indian public discourse.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including prestigious civil services (IAS, PCS), policy research and advocacy, journalism, political consulting, and teaching roles. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs annually, with substantial growth potential up to INR 10-15 lakhs or more for experienced professionals in public administration, policy formulation, or leadership roles within Indian organizations and think tanks.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Theories and Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Diligently focus on foundational texts of Indian and Western political thought, public administration, and international relations. Create detailed notes, concept maps, and participate actively in classroom discussions and weekly quizzes to solidify theoretical understanding. Emphasize critical reading of primary and secondary sources.
Tools & Resources
Classic political texts (e.g., Kautilya, Plato, Machiavelli), University library resources, Peer study groups, eGyanKosh (for related content)
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is indispensable for excelling in UPSC/PCS civil services examinations, academic pursuits, and advanced policy analysis roles.
Develop Analytical Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly practice academic essay writing and critical analysis. Submit assignments on time, seeking constructive feedback from professors to refine argumentation, evidence-based reasoning, and presentation. Focus on structured writing that articulates clear arguments on complex political topics.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing guides, Online grammar and citation tools, College writing center (if available), Faculty feedback sessions
Career Connection
Essential for competitive examinations (especially essay papers), drafting policy briefs, journalism, and publishing research in academic journals.
Engage with Current Affairs and Public Discourse- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of daily reading of leading Indian newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and reputable news magazines. Actively follow public policy discussions on platforms like PRS Legislative Research and participate in college debates and discussions to connect theoretical knowledge with contemporary political developments in India and globally.
Tools & Resources
National dailies, PRS Legislative Research reports, Lok Sabha/Rajya Sabha TV, Current affairs magazines, College debate clubs
Career Connection
Crucial for civil services preparation, informed political commentary, and effective participation in policy advocacy and public service roles.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Guided Research Projects- (Semester 3)
Proactively identify and choose a research topic aligned with your academic interests in Indian politics, governance, or international affairs, serving as a preparatory step for your final dissertation. Work closely with faculty mentors, conduct preliminary primary or secondary research, and present your findings effectively.
Tools & Resources
University library databases, J-STOR, Google Scholar, Government reports (e.g., NITI Aayog), Statistical data portals (e.g., MOSPI)
Career Connection
Develops independent research capabilities, vital for academic careers, policy analysis roles in think tanks, and evidence-based decision-making in public administration.
Seek Public Service and NGO Internships- (Semester 3)
Actively search for and undertake internships during semester breaks with local non-governmental organizations focused on social or political issues, government departments (e.g., District Collectorate, Block Development Office), or political consulting firms in India to gain practical exposure to governance and public administration at the grassroots level.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, LinkedIn, NGO search platforms (e.g., GuideStar India), Direct applications to relevant local government offices
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical experience, builds professional networks within the public service sector, and significantly enhances your resume for placements or higher studies.
Strategic Elective Choices and Specialized Skill Development- (Semester 3)
Carefully select Open and Discipline Specific Elective courses that directly align with your long-term career aspirations (e.g., Public Policy, International Political Economy). Complement your coursework with online certifications or workshops to build specialized skills such as advanced data analysis, policy modeling, or digital political marketing.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses, Coursera/edX platforms, Official government data portals for practical application, Software for statistical analysis (e.g., R, SPSS)
Career Connection
Deepens your expertise in chosen sub-fields, making you a more attractive and competitive candidate for specialized roles in research, policy analysis, advocacy, and election management.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services and NET/JRF Preparation- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to rigorous preparation for competitive examinations like UPSC Civil Services, State Public Service Commissions (PCS), or UGC NET/JRF for academic and research careers. Join coaching classes, solve extensive sets of previous year''''s papers, and participate in mock tests, leveraging the comprehensive knowledge gained throughout the program.
Tools & Resources
Reputable coaching institutes, Online test series platforms, Standard reference books for civil services and NET, University faculty for specialized guidance
Career Connection
Directly targets highly sought-after government positions (IAS, IPS, IFS) and academic/research roles, which are premier career paths in India for Political Science graduates.
Refine Dissertation and Viva-Voce Presentation- (Semester 4)
Focus on completing a high-quality, original dissertation, ensuring meticulous research, clear and coherent argumentation, and proper academic citation. Practice presenting your research findings effectively for the viva-voce examination and potentially for academic conferences, emphasizing clarity and confidence.
Tools & Resources
Academic writing software (e.g., Mendeley for referencing), Presentation tools (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Mock viva sessions with peers and mentors, University guidelines for dissertation submission
Career Connection
Essential for academic and research careers, demonstrating advanced analytical thinking, independent research capabilities, and effective scholarly communication.
Strategic Networking and Career Counselling- (Semester 4)
Actively participate in webinars, seminars, and alumni networking events focused on career opportunities in political science, public administration, and international relations. Seek personalized guidance from faculty mentors and career counsellors on resume building, interview preparation, and exploring diverse career paths in India, including those in think tanks, media houses, or international organizations.
Tools & Resources
College career counselling cell, LinkedIn for professional networking, Professional associations related to political science, Alumni network platforms
Career Connection
Facilitates direct access to placement opportunities, provides critical insights into industry trends and expectations, and supports strategic career planning and transition into professional life.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s degree from any recognized University in any discipline.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 64 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-PS-C-101 | Ancient Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Sources of Ancient Indian Political Thought, Brahmanic and Buddhist Traditions, Kautilya''''s Arthashastra, State and Sovereignty, Dharma and Danda |
| MA-PS-C-102 | Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli and the State, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau (Social Contract), Bentham and Mill (Utilitarianism), Marx and Dialectical Materialism |
| MA-PS-C-103 | Modern Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Raja Ram Mohan Roy (Reformism), Swami Dayanand Saraswati (Social Reform), Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi (Satyagraha, Swaraj), B.R. Ambedkar (Social Justice, State Socialism) |
| MA-PS-AECC-101 | Research Methodology | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course (AECC) | 2 | Meaning and Nature of Research, Types of Research, Research Design and Hypothesis, Data Collection Methods, Report Writing and Citation Styles |
| MA-PS-VEC-101 | Ethics and Human Values | Value Added Course (VEC) | 2 | Ethics, Morality, Values, Human Values and Society, Professional Ethics, Environmental Ethics, Social Responsibility |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-PS-C-201 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning and Nature of Public Administration, Classical Theories of Organization, Bureaucracy and its Critiques, Financial Administration, Personnel Administration, Good Governance |
| MA-PS-C-202 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Approaches to International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Power, Security and Deterrence, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, United Nations and International Organizations, Foreign Policy Analysis |
| MA-PS-C-203 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Political Systems and Regimes, Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems and Political Parties, Globalization and Comparative Politics |
| MA-PS-SEC-201 | Political Communication | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Nature of Political Communication, Media and Politics, Propaganda and Public Opinion, Political Campaigns and Electioneering, Social Media in Politics |
| MA-PS-VEC-202 | Gender and Society | Value Added Course (VEC) | 2 | Gender Concepts and Identities, Patriarchy and Feminism, Women''''s Movements in India, Gender Equality and Justice, Policies for Women Empowerment |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-PS-C-301 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Development and Features, Federalism in India, Parliament, Judiciary, and Executive, Political Parties and Electoral Politics, Pressure Groups and Social Movements |
| MA-PS-C-302 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, National Human Rights Commission, International Human Rights Law and Mechanisms |
| MA-PS-OE-301 | Development and Administration (Example Open Elective) | Open Elective (OE) | 4 | Theories of Development, Planning in India, Rural and Urban Development, Decentralization and Local Governance, Sustainable Development Goals |
| MA-PS-SEC-302 | Data Analysis in Political Science | Skill Enhancement Course (SEC) | 2 | Introduction to Data and Statistics, Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, Basic Statistical Tools (Mean, Median, Mode), Survey Research and Sampling, Data Interpretation and Presentation |
| MA-PS-P-301 | Research Project / Dissertation (Part 1) | Project | 2 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review and Gap Analysis, Formulating Research Questions, Developing a Research Design, Ethical Considerations in Research |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-PS-C-401 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Culture and Socialization, Political Elites and Leadership, Political Participation and Alienation, Social Movements and Revolution, State and Society Relationship |
| MA-PS-DSE-401 | Public Policy Analysis in India | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Public Policy Concepts and Models, Policy Formulation and Implementation, Policy Evaluation and Analysis, Role of State and Non-State Actors in Policy, Case Studies of Indian Policies |
| MA-PS-DSE-402 | International Political Economy | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Theories of International Political Economy (IPE), Global Trade and Finance, International Financial Institutions (IMF, World Bank), Globalization and Development, North-South Divide and Global Governance |
| MA-PS-OE-402 | Environment Politics (Example Open Elective) | Open Elective (OE) | 4 | Environmental Movements and Activism, Climate Change Politics and Policy, Global Environmental Governance, Sustainable Development Strategies, Environmental Justice and Equity |
| MA-PS-DSE-P-401 | Dissertation / Viva-Voce (Part 2) | Dissertation | 4 | Advanced Research Methodology, Independent Study and Critical Analysis, Thesis Writing and Structuring, Presentation and Defense of Research, Contribution to Knowledge |
