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MA in Public Administration at Government College for Women, Ambala City

Government College for Women, Ambala City stands as a premier institution located in Ambala, Haryana, dedicated to women's education. Established in 1957 and affiliated with Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra, it offers a diverse range of 14 undergraduate and postgraduate programs across 21 departments, fostering academic excellence.

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Ambala, Haryana

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About the Specialization

What is Public Administration at Government College for Women, Ambala City Ambala?

This MA Public Administration program at Government College for Women, Ambala City, focuses on equipping students with comprehensive knowledge of governance, public policy, and administrative processes essential for effective public service. It critically examines the structure and functioning of government at central, state, and local levels within the Indian context, preparing graduates for key roles in public management. The program emphasizes the evolving demands of administration in a developing nation.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for fresh graduates from any discipline seeking entry into public service, non-governmental organizations, or research. It also suits working professionals aiming to enhance their understanding of public policy and administration for career advancement within government or social sectors. Individuals with a keen interest in societal development, governance reforms, and public welfare, and those from backgrounds in political science, history, or economics, will find this program particularly rewarding.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India''''s vast public sector, including central and state civil services (UPSC, HPSC), municipal corporations, and various government departments. Roles can range from policy analysis and program management to administrative officers. Entry-level salaries typically start from INR 3-6 lakhs per annum, with significant growth potential up to INR 10-15 lakhs or more for experienced professionals. The curriculum also aligns with requirements for administrative and social development roles.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)

Focus on thoroughly understanding core theories of public administration, Indian administration, and research methods. Regularly review course material, participate in class discussions, and form study groups to clarify complex concepts. Attend guest lectures by retired civil servants or academicians.

Tools & Resources

University library resources, recommended textbooks, online academic journals (JSTOR, EPW), departmental seminars, peer study groups

Career Connection

A solid theoretical base is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC/HPSC and provides the framework for effective policy analysis and administrative decision-making in future roles.

Enhance Analytical and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)

Actively engage with the ''''Research Methods'''' course, focusing on practical application. Practice data collection techniques, basic statistical analysis, and structured report writing. Read current affairs extensively to connect theory with real-world administrative challenges in India.

Tools & Resources

MS Office for data analysis and report writing, current newspapers (The Hindu, Indian Express), government reports (NITI Aayog, Ministry documents), research methodology textbooks

Career Connection

Develops critical thinking and research capabilities, essential for policy research, program evaluation, and evidence-based decision-making in government and NGOs.

Develop Basic Computer Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)

Leverage the ''''Introduction to Computer Applications'''' course to gain hands-on experience with productivity software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and e-governance concepts. Practice creating professional documents, managing data, and preparing presentations, which are fundamental skills for any modern administrative role.

Tools & Resources

Microsoft Office Suite, online tutorials (YouTube, NPTEL for basic IT), practical lab sessions

Career Connection

Essential for daily administrative tasks, data management, report preparation, and interacting with digital government platforms, enhancing efficiency in any public sector job.

Intermediate Stage

Dive Deep into Policy & Governance Mechanisms- (Semester 3)

Systematically analyze case studies related to Urban/Rural Local Governance and chosen electives (e.g., Social Welfare, Health, Disaster Management) within the Indian context. Understand how policies are framed, implemented, and impact citizens. Look for opportunities to visit local governance institutions to observe their functioning.

Tools & Resources

Case study repositories, government policy documents, reports from planning commissions, local administration websites, departmental field trips

Career Connection

Develops practical understanding of governance challenges and solutions, highly relevant for roles in urban/rural development, social welfare programs, and disaster management.

Network and Seek Mentorship- (Semester 3)

Proactively connect with alumni, faculty, and professionals working in public administration. Attend webinars or workshops featuring civil servants or policy experts. Seek mentorship to gain insights into career paths and skill development.

Tools & Resources

LinkedIn, alumni networks, career guidance cells, departmental guest lectures, public policy think tank events

Career Connection

Builds professional connections that can lead to internship opportunities, valuable career advice, and potential job referrals in the public and social sectors.

Enhance Professional Communication- (Semester 3)

Focus on refining written and oral communication skills through presentations, report writing, and engaging in policy debates. Learn to articulate complex policy ideas clearly and concisely, an indispensable skill for public servants.

Tools & Resources

College debate clubs, academic writing workshops, peer feedback, practice presenting policy briefs, mock interviews

Career Connection

Strong communication is critical for public interface, drafting official documents, presenting proposals, and leadership roles in administration.

Advanced Stage

Undertake a Substantial Research Project/Dissertation- (Semester 4)

If opting for the Project Work/Dissertation (PA-406), choose a relevant public administration problem in India, conduct thorough research, analyze data, and present findings professionally. This demonstrates specialized knowledge and research capability.

Tools & Resources

Academic databases, survey tools, statistical software (if applicable), university research guidelines, faculty mentorship, plagiarism checkers

Career Connection

Showcases independent research ability, critical for policy analysis, research roles, and adds significant weight to your resume for higher studies or specialized positions.

Prepare Rigorously for Competitive Exams/Placements- (Semester 4)

Identify target competitive exams (UPSC, HPSC, SSC) or specific roles in NGOs/public sector. Start dedicated preparation, including aptitude, general knowledge, and public administration specific topics. Attend placement workshops and mock interviews.

Tools & Resources

Coaching institutes (if desired), online test series, previous year question papers, career counseling cell, mock interview sessions

Career Connection

Direct preparation for entry into desired public service roles or securing placements in relevant organizations, maximizing post-graduation opportunities.

Build a Professional Portfolio & Online Presence- (Semester 4)

Compile key academic projects, research papers, and achievements into a portfolio. Create a professional LinkedIn profile highlighting skills, academic achievements, and career aspirations, connecting with public administration professionals and organizations.

Tools & Resources

LinkedIn, online portfolio platforms (e.g., Google Sites, basic website builders), resume building tools

Career Connection

A strong professional presence aids in networking, job applications, and demonstrating your capabilities to potential employers in the competitive job market.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • Bachelor''''s degree with at least 45% marks in aggregate as per Kurukshetra University rules.

Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)

Credits: 80 Credits

Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
PA-101Administrative TheoryCore4Nature of Public Administration, Classical and Neo-Classical Approaches, Human Relations Approach, Behavioral Approach, Systems Approach, Decision Making and Leadership
PA-102Indian AdministrationCore4Evolution of Indian Administration, Constitutional Framework, Central Administration, State Administration, District Administration, Public Sector Undertakings, Civil Services in India
PA-103Public Personnel AdministrationCore4Nature and Scope of Personnel Administration, Recruitment and Training, Promotion and Performance Appraisal, Pay and Service Conditions, Employee Employer Relations, Administrative Ethics
PA-104Research Methods in Public AdministrationCore4Meaning and Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Ethics in Research
PA-105Introduction to Computer ApplicationsCore (Theory & Practical)4Introduction to Computers and Operating Systems, MS-Word for Document Preparation, MS-Excel for Data Management, MS-PowerPoint for Presentations, Internet and E-governance Concepts

Semester 2

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
PA-201Comparative Public AdministrationCore4Nature and Scope of CPA, Approaches to Comparative Administration, Bureaucracy and Development Administration, Administrative Systems in Developed Countries (e.g., UK, USA), Administrative Systems in Developing Countries (e.g., India), Globalization and Administration
PA-202Development AdministrationCore4Meaning and Nature of Development Administration, Bureaucracy and Development, Planning Process in India, Rural Development Programs, Urban Development Programs, Poverty Alleviation and Role of NGOs
PA-203Public PolicyCore4Nature and Scope of Public Policy, Policy Formulation Process, Policy Implementation, Policy Evaluation, Models of Public Policy, Role of Actors in Policy Making
PA-204Financial AdministrationCore4Nature and Scope of Financial Administration, Budgeting Process, Financial Control Mechanisms, Accounts and Audit, Taxation and Fiscal Policy, Public Debt Management
PA-205Human Rights and Public AdministrationCore4Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in Indian Context, Role of National Human Rights Commission, Role of Public Administration in Human Rights Protection, International Conventions on Human Rights

Semester 3

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
PA-301Urban Local GovernmentCore4Evolution of Urban Local Government, 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils, Urban Development Authorities, Problems of Urban Governance
PA-302Rural Local GovernmentCore4Evolution of Rural Local Government, 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, Zila Parishad, Rural Development Programs and Challenges
PA-303Social Welfare AdministrationDiscipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Concept of Social Welfare and Social Justice, Welfare State and its Functions, Administration of Social Welfare Programs, Role of Government and Non-Governmental Organizations, Policies for Vulnerable Sections, Challenges in Social Welfare
PA-304Health AdministrationDiscipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Concept of Public Health, Health Policy in India, Health Care Delivery System, National Health Missions, Role of WHO and International Health Agencies, Challenges in Health Administration
PA-305Disaster ManagementDiscipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Concept and Types of Disasters, Disaster Management Cycle, Mitigation and Preparedness, Response and Recovery, National Disaster Management Authority, Community Based Disaster Management
OE-1Open Elective (from other departments)Open Elective4

Semester 4

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
PA-401Public Grievance Redressal and RTICore4Mechanisms of Grievance Redressal, Right to Information (RTI) Act 2005, Lokpal and Lokayukta, Consumer Protection Act, E-governance for Grievance Redressal, Citizen Charters
PA-402Human Resource ManagementCore4Nature and Scope of HRM, HR Planning and Job Analysis, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Management, Industrial Relations
PA-403E-governanceDiscipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Concept and Models of E-governance, E-governance Applications and Services, Digital India Initiatives, Challenges in E-governance Implementation, E-democracy and Citizen Participation, ICTs for Development
PA-404Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and DevelopmentDiscipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Role and Significance of NGOs, Types and Functions of NGOs, Funding and Sustainability of NGOs, Challenges Faced by NGOs, Government-NGO Interface, Community Participation and Empowerment
PA-405Ethics in Public AdministrationDiscipline Specific Elective (DSE)4Concept of Administrative Ethics, Accountability and Transparency, Code of Conduct for Public Servants, Corruption and its Manifestations, Ethical Dilemmas in Administration, Whistleblowing and Protective Mechanisms
PA-406Project Work / DissertationProject / Elective4Identification of Research Problem, Literature Review, Research Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Research
OE-2Open Elective (from other departments)Open Elective4
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