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MA in Political Science at Gokhale Memorial Girls' College
Kolkata, West Bengal
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Gokhale Memorial Girls' College Kolkata?
This MA in Political Science program at Gokhale Memorial Girls'''' College, affiliated with the University of Calcutta, delves into advanced political theories, international relations, public policy, and governance. It provides a comprehensive understanding of global and Indian political landscapes. The program aims to equip students with critical analytical skills, crucial for navigating the complex demands of public service and academia in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor''''s graduates in Political Science or related fields seeking deeper knowledge and research capabilities. It caters to those aspiring for careers in civil services, policy analysis, journalism, or academic research within India. Mid-career professionals looking to enhance their analytical skills for NGOs, think tanks, or government roles can also greatly benefit.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including civil services (UPSC/PSC), policy research, strategic analysis, and teaching. Entry-level salaries range from INR 4-7 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The rigorous curriculum aligns with requirements for PhD admissions and provides a strong foundation for various professional certifications in governance and public affairs.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Theories- (Semester 1-2)
Thoroughly grasp foundational political theories from both Western and Indian thought. Engage actively in classroom discussions and form study groups to debate complex concepts, ensuring a strong theoretical base for advanced courses.
Tools & Resources
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy, JSTOR, University library resources, Peer study groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is essential for analytical roles in policy research and civil services, enabling informed decision-making and critical evaluation of political phenomena.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on honing academic writing, citation, and basic research methodology. Utilize college workshops on research design and participate in departmental seminars to present preliminary ideas and receive feedback.
Tools & Resources
MLA/APA style guides, Zotero/Mendeley for citation management, Grammarly, College writing centre
Career Connection
Proficiency in academic writing and research is vital for any role requiring reports, policy briefs, or scholarly articles, directly impacting effectiveness in policy, media, and academia.
Engage with Current Affairs and Indian Politics- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a habit of daily reading of reputed national newspapers, academic journals focused on Indian politics, and following credible news analyses. Relate classroom concepts to real-world political developments in India.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Economic and Political Weekly (EPW), Frontline
Career Connection
An up-to-date understanding of Indian politics and current affairs is indispensable for civil services examinations, journalism, and effective policy advocacy, enhancing immediate employability.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical Research Projects- (Semester 3)
Actively seek opportunities for short-term research projects, either individually or with faculty, focusing on specific policy issues or political phenomena in India. Apply learned research methodologies to real-world data collection and analysis.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R for quantitative data, NVivo for qualitative data, Access to government reports and databases
Career Connection
Hands-on research experience demonstrates practical application of knowledge, making candidates more competitive for research roles in think tanks, NGOs, and government bodies.
Pursue Internships or Volunteer with NGOs/Think Tanks- (Semester 3)
Secure internships with political consulting firms, NGOs working in governance or human rights, or academic think tanks. This provides invaluable exposure to the practical aspects of policy implementation and advocacy in India.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, Youth4Work, Connect with college placement cell and faculty networks
Career Connection
Internships offer direct industry exposure, build professional networks, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting career prospects in the public and non-profit sectors.
Participate in Debates and Model United Nations (MUNs)- (Semester 3)
Engage in inter-college debates, elocution competitions, and Model United Nations conferences. These activities refine public speaking, negotiation, and critical thinking skills, crucial for diplomatic and advocacy careers.
Tools & Resources
College debate societies, MUN conferences across Kolkata/India, Online diplomatic resources
Career Connection
Strong communication and negotiation skills developed through these activities are highly valued in diplomatic services, international organizations, and leadership roles in Indian companies.
Advanced Stage
Specialize through Electives and Dissertation- (Semester 4)
Choose electives strategically based on career interests and dedicate substantial effort to the dissertation. This allows for deep specialization in a chosen sub-field of Political Science, showcasing expertise.
Tools & Resources
Faculty mentors, Specialized academic journals, University of Calcutta research guidelines
Career Connection
Deep specialization makes you an expert in a niche, opening doors to specific research, policy advisory, or academic positions that require focused knowledge and analytical depth.
Prepare Rigorously for Civil Services/NET/JRF- (Semester 4)
If aspiring for civil services or academia, begin focused preparation during this stage. Join coaching classes, solve previous year''''s papers, and participate in mock interviews tailored for UPSC, PSC, or NET/JRF examinations.
Tools & Resources
Dedicated coaching institutes in Kolkata, UPSC/NET/JRF past papers, Online preparation platforms
Career Connection
Targeted preparation is crucial for success in competitive exams, directly leading to coveted positions in Indian civil services, public sector undertakings, or university teaching and research.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 4)
Attend conferences, workshops, and guest lectures featuring prominent political scientists, policymakers, and government officials. Network with alumni and faculty to explore career opportunities and mentorship in India.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Political Science Association), Alumni meetups
Career Connection
A strong professional network provides access to job opportunities, industry insights, and mentorship, accelerating career progression and opening doors to influential roles in India''''s political and social spheres.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.A. (Honours) in Political Science from any UGC recognized University.
Duration: 4 semesters (2 years)
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CP 101 | Theories and Concepts of International Relations | Core | 5 | Approaches to International Relations (Realism, Liberalism, Marxism), Theories of War and Peace, Disarmament and Arms Control, Human Security and Humanitarian Intervention, Global Governance and International Organizations |
| CP 102 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 5 | Classical Indian Political Thought (Vedic, Buddhist), Kautilya''''s Arthashastra, Modern Indian Thinkers (Gandhi, Ambedkar), Nehru''''s Vision of India, Marxian Approaches to Indian Society |
| CP 103 | State and Society in India | Core | 5 | Colonialism and Nationalist Movement, Constitutionalism and Federalism in India, Class, Caste and Power Structure, Religious Minorities and Identity Politics, Regionalism and Language Politics |
| CP 104 | Public Administration in India | Core | 5 | Nature and Scope of Public Administration, Indian Bureaucracy and Civil Services, Administrative Reforms and Good Governance, Local Governance and Decentralization, Public Policy Formulation and Implementation |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CP 201 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core | 5 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, States, Regimes and Political Systems, Political Culture and Socialization, Electoral Systems and Political Parties, Democratization and Globalization |
| CP 202 | Western Political Thought | Core | 5 | Ancient Greek Thought (Plato, Aristotle), Medieval Political Thought (Machiavelli), Enlightenment Thinkers (Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau), Liberalism, Conservatism and Socialism, Marxism and Postmodernism |
| CP 203 | Research Methodology in Social Sciences | Core | 5 | Philosophy of Social Science Research, Research Design and Problem Formulation, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview, Observation), Quantitative and Qualitative Data Analysis, Research Ethics and Academic Writing |
| CP 204 | Human Rights | Core | 5 | Theories and Generations of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights Institutions in India, State, Civil Society and Human Rights, Gender Justice and Rights of Vulnerable Groups |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CP 301 | International Political Economy | Core | 5 | Theories of International Political Economy, Globalization and its Discontents, Development and Underdevelopment, International Financial Institutions (IMF, World Bank, WTO), Transnational Corporations and Global Production |
| CP 302 | Indian Foreign Policy | Core | 5 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment and Strategic Autonomy, India''''s Relations with Major Powers (US, Russia, China), India and Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN), India''''s Nuclear Policy and Security Doctrine |
| CP 303 | Global Climate Change: Politics and Governance | Elective | 5 | Science and Impacts of Climate Change, International Climate Regimes (UNFCCC, Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement), Climate Justice and Equity, India''''s Climate Policy and Adaptation Strategies, Role of State and Non-State Actors in Climate Governance |
| CP 304 | Gender and Politics | Elective | 5 | Feminist Theories and Approaches to Politics, Patriarchy, Power and Gender, Gender and Development Discourses, Women''''s Movements in India and Globally, Gender Mainstreaming and Public Policy |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CP 401 | International Law and Organizations | Core | 5 | Nature and Sources of International Law, State Sovereignty and Recognition, United Nations and its Organs, Regional Organizations (EU, AU, ASEAN), International Criminal Court and Human Rights Law |
| CP 402 | National Security of India | Elective | 5 | Concepts of National Security, Geopolitics and India''''s Strategic Environment, India''''s Nuclear Doctrine and Deterrence, Terrorism, Cyber Security and Internal Challenges, Border Management and Defence Policy |
| CP 403 | Politics of East and Southeast Asia | Elective | 5 | Rise of China and its Global Implications, ASEAN and Regional Integration, US-China Rivalry in the Indo-Pacific, Democracy and Authoritarianism in Asia, Regional Security Challenges and Cooperation |
| P 404 | Dissertation/Project | Project | 5 | Research Proposal Development, Literature Review and Theoretical Framework, Methodology and Data Analysis, Thesis Writing and Presentation, Viva Voce Examination |
