

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


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 Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA-101 | Administrative Theory | Core | 4 | Nature of Public Administration, Classical and Neo-Classical Approaches, Human Relations Approach, Behavioral Approach, Systems Approach, Decision Making and Leadership |
| PA-102 | Indian Administration | Core | 4 | Evolution of Indian Administration, Constitutional Framework, Central Administration, State Administration, District Administration, Public Sector Undertakings, Civil Services in India |
| PA-103 | Public Personnel Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Personnel Administration, Recruitment and Training, Promotion and Performance Appraisal, Pay and Service Conditions, Employee Employer Relations, Administrative Ethics |
| PA-104 | Research Methods in Public Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning and Types of Research, Research Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
| PA-105 | Introduction to Computer Applications | Core (Theory & Practical) | 4 | Introduction 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 Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA-201 | Comparative Public Administration | Core | 4 | Nature 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-202 | Development Administration | Core | 4 | Meaning 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-203 | Public Policy | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Public Policy, Policy Formulation Process, Policy Implementation, Policy Evaluation, Models of Public Policy, Role of Actors in Policy Making |
| PA-204 | Financial Administration | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Financial Administration, Budgeting Process, Financial Control Mechanisms, Accounts and Audit, Taxation and Fiscal Policy, Public Debt Management |
| PA-205 | Human Rights and Public Administration | Core | 4 | Concept 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 Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA-301 | Urban Local Government | Core | 4 | Evolution of Urban Local Government, 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, Municipal Corporations, Municipal Councils, Urban Development Authorities, Problems of Urban Governance |
| PA-302 | Rural Local Government | Core | 4 | Evolution of Rural Local Government, 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat, Panchayat Samiti, Zila Parishad, Rural Development Programs and Challenges |
| PA-303 | Social Welfare Administration | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Concept 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-304 | Health Administration | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Concept 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-305 | Disaster Management | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Concept and Types of Disasters, Disaster Management Cycle, Mitigation and Preparedness, Response and Recovery, National Disaster Management Authority, Community Based Disaster Management |
| OE-1 | Open Elective (from other departments) | Open Elective | 4 |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA-401 | Public Grievance Redressal and RTI | Core | 4 | Mechanisms of Grievance Redressal, Right to Information (RTI) Act 2005, Lokpal and Lokayukta, Consumer Protection Act, E-governance for Grievance Redressal, Citizen Charters |
| PA-402 | Human Resource Management | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of HRM, HR Planning and Job Analysis, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Management, Industrial Relations |
| PA-403 | E-governance | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Concept 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-404 | Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) and Development | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Role 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-405 | Ethics in Public Administration | Discipline Specific Elective (DSE) | 4 | Concept 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-406 | Project Work / Dissertation | Project / Elective | 4 | Identification of Research Problem, Literature Review, Research Methodology and Data Collection, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| OE-2 | Open Elective (from other departments) | Open Elective | 4 |




