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BA in Political Science at Government College for Women, Ambala City
Ambala, Haryana
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Government College for Women, Ambala City Ambala?
This Political Science program at Government College for Women, Ambala City, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, governance, and international relations. It delves into Indian and Western political thought, public administration, and the dynamics of global politics, preparing students for diverse roles in public service, research, and non-profit sectors within the Indian context. The curriculum emphasizes analytical thinking and a critical perspective on political phenomena.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, policy analysis, journalism, or academia. It also caters to individuals passionate about societal issues, public policy, and governance, who aspire to contribute meaningfully to India''''s democratic landscape. Students with a strong interest in history, sociology, and current affairs will find this specialization particularly engaging and rewarding, providing a solid foundation for advanced studies.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue India-specific career paths in UPSC, state civil services, political consulting, parliamentary research, media, and NGOs. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 Lakhs per annum, with significant growth trajectories in government and private policy-driven roles. The program aligns with skills required for competitive exams, offering a strong base for professional certifications in public policy and governance studies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to deeply understand foundational political theories, concepts of state, justice, and liberty. Utilize textbooks, reference books, and academic journals to build a strong theoretical base. Engage in classroom discussions and seek clarification from faculty regularly.
Tools & Resources
Standard textbooks (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), JSTOR (through library access), Academic reference books
Career Connection
A strong theoretical foundation is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and for advanced studies, enabling nuanced policy analysis and informed public discourse.
Develop Effective Study Habits- (Semester 1-2)
Implement a disciplined study schedule, focusing on active reading, note-taking, and regular revisions. Form small study groups to discuss complex topics and prepare for internal assessments collaboratively. Practice essay writing and analytical responses to improve articulation.
Tools & Resources
Cornell Note-taking system, Study group platforms (WhatsApp, Google Meet), Past university question papers
Career Connection
Effective study habits not only ensure academic excellence but also cultivate discipline and time management skills vital for professional roles and competitive examinations.
Engage with Current Affairs and News Analysis- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read reputable newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and watch insightful news debates. Connect classroom theories with contemporary political developments in India and globally. Maintain a journal of current events and their analytical interpretations.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express e-paper subscriptions, PRS Legislative Research (PRSIndia.org), Rajya Sabha TV/Sansad TV debates
Career Connection
Staying updated with current affairs is indispensable for civil services aspirants, journalists, and policy analysts, providing real-world context to academic learning.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Research-Based Projects and Presentations- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in departmental research projects or propose independent research topics. Focus on developing strong research methodology, data collection, and presentation skills. Collaborate with peers on interdisciplinary projects if opportunities arise.
Tools & Resources
University library resources, Google Scholar, Microsoft PowerPoint/Google Slides, Mendeley/Zotero for citation management
Career Connection
These skills are essential for academic research, think tanks, and policy analysis roles, enhancing critical inquiry and effective communication, valued in both private and public sectors.
Seek Internships and Field Exposure- (Semester 3-5)
Look for internships with local NGOs, political organizations, or government departments (e.g., Panchayati Raj, District Administration). This provides practical exposure to governance, public policy implementation, and grassroots political processes in India. Document learnings thoroughly.
Tools & Resources
Internshala, NGO websites (e.g., Pratham, Barefoot College), College career cell for local opportunities
Career Connection
Internships offer invaluable practical experience, build professional networks, and often lead to pre-placement offers or crucial recommendations for future career opportunities in public service or advocacy.
Participate in Debates, Model UN, and Extempore- (Semester 3-5)
Engage in extra-curricular activities like debates, Model United Nations (MUN), and extempore speaking competitions. These platforms hone public speaking, negotiation, and diplomatic skills, crucial for roles requiring strong communication and analytical advocacy.
Tools & Resources
College debate clubs, Inter-college competitions, Online resources for speech and debate techniques
Career Connection
Strong communication and advocacy skills are highly sought after in civil services interviews, media, public relations, and diplomatic services, significantly boosting employability.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Competitive Examinations- (Semester 6)
For those aspiring for UPSC/State PSC exams, dedicate significant time to syllabus-specific preparation, including optional subjects. Join coaching classes or study groups focused on these exams. Practice mock tests and answer writing regularly under timed conditions.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/State PSC official websites for syllabus, Reputable coaching institutes (e.g., Vision IAS, Drishti IAS), Online test series platforms
Career Connection
Directly targets entry into prestigious civil service roles, offering a clear pathway to high-impact government positions and leadership in public administration.
Build a Professional Network and Mentorship- (Semester 6)
Attend seminars, workshops, and alumni meet-ups to connect with professionals in political science, public administration, and related fields. Seek mentorship from faculty or experienced professionals to guide career decisions and job search strategies.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences/webinars, Alumni association events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, internships, and valuable career advice, helping graduates navigate the job market more effectively and find suitable roles.
Develop Specialized Analytical and Writing Skills- (Semester 6)
Focus on advanced academic writing for policy briefs, research papers, and analytical essays. Take up certificate courses in data analysis for social sciences or public policy. This enhances the ability to present complex political ideas clearly and effectively.
Tools & Resources
Online courses on policy analysis (e.g., NPTEL, Coursera), Grammarly, Specialized political science journals
Career Connection
Highly developed analytical and writing skills are critical for roles in policy research, journalism, legislative assistance, and international organizations, distinguishing candidates in a competitive job market.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 in any stream from a recognized board (as per Kurukshetra University norms)
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: 132 (for a 3-year BA Regular Degree as per KUK NEP) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-CC-101 | Understanding Political Theory | Core | 4 | What is Political Theory, Theories of State, Concept of Liberty, Concept of Equality, Concept of Justice, Rights and Citizenship |
| POLSC-CC-102 | Indian Government and Politics-I | Core | 4 | Making of Indian Constitution, Salient Features of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive and Legislature, Judiciary in India |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-CC-201 | Western Political Thought-I | Core | 4 | Plato''''s Ideal State, Aristotle''''s Classification of Governments, Machiavelli''''s Prince, Hobbes'''' Social Contract Theory, Locke''''s Natural Rights, Rousseau''''s General Will |
| POLSC-CC-202 | Indian Government and Politics-II | Core | 4 | State Executive and Legislature, Local Self-Government, Electoral System in India, Party System in India, Caste and Politics, Religion and Politics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-CC-301 | Comparative Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Constitutionalism, Federalism, Political Parties and Pressure Groups, Comparative Study of Constitutions |
| POLSC-CC-302 | Public Administration-I | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Public Administration, New Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Bureaucracy, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-CC-401 | Western Political Thought-II | Core | 4 | Bentham''''s Utilitarianism, J.S. Mill on Liberty and Representative Government, Hegel''''s Philosophy of State, Marx''''s Historical Materialism, Gramsci''''s Hegemony, Hannah Arendt''''s Totalitarianism |
| POLSC-CC-402 | Public Administration-II | Core | 4 | Development Administration, Good Governance, E-Governance, Role of Civil Society, Accountability and Control, Public Policy |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-DSE-501 | International Relations | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Meaning and Approaches to IR, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, International Political Economy, United Nations, Regional Organizations, Non-State Actors |
| POLSC-DSE-502 | Political Process in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Nature of Indian State, Challenges to Nation Building, Social Movements in India, Regionalism, Politics of Development, Panchayati Raj Institutions |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLSC-DSE-601 | Global Politics | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Globalization and its Impact, Global Environmental Issues, Human Rights, International Terrorism, Global Governance, Changing World Order |
| POLSC-DSE-602 | Indian Foreign Policy | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement, India''''s Relations with Major Powers, India and its Neighbors, India in Global Institutions, Economic Diplomacy |
