.png&w=1920&q=75)
BA in Political Science at Government Degree College, Dumariaganj
Siddharthnagar, Uttar Pradesh
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Government Degree College, Dumariaganj Siddharthnagar?
This Political Science program at Government Degree College, Siddharthnagar, provides a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and contemporary issues. It delves into Indian political thought, constitutional development, international relations, and public administration, equipping students with critical analytical skills. The program meets the growing demand for informed citizens and skilled professionals in public service and policy analysis in India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a keen interest in governance, public affairs, and societal dynamics. It caters to individuals aspiring for careers in civil services, journalism, social work, or non-governmental organizations in India. Students seeking advanced studies in political science or public policy will also find a strong foundational base, preparing them for higher academic pursuits.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates can expect rewarding career paths in the Indian public sector, including civil services (UPSC, UPPSC), state administration, and local governance bodies. Opportunities also exist in think tanks, research institutions, media houses, and advocacy groups. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-6 lakhs annually, with significant growth potential in policy analysis and community development roles within Indian companies and NGOs.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand fundamental concepts of political theory, Indian constitution, and national movement. Utilize college library resources and online platforms like e-Pathshala for supplementary material and historical context. Engage in group discussions to clarify complex ideas and develop a strong conceptual base.
Tools & Resources
College Library, e-Pathshala (UGC), NCERT textbooks (Class XI-XII)
Career Connection
A strong foundation is crucial for competitive exams like UPSC and UPPSC, where conceptual clarity in polity and history forms a significant part of the syllabus. It also enhances analytical writing skills.
Develop Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on improving essay writing, argumentation, and basic research methodology. Actively participate in academic assignments, seek feedback from professors, and practice structuring arguments logically. Attend workshops on academic writing if available through the college or university to hone these essential skills early on.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Purdue OWL (online writing lab), College workshops
Career Connection
Effective communication and research skills are vital for policy analysis, journalism, and academic pursuits. They are highly valued in roles requiring report writing and persuasive arguments.
Stay Informed on Current Affairs- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly read reputable newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, Indian Express) and watch national news analyses. Discuss contemporary political developments with peers and faculty to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world events. This practice is indispensable for a political science student.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, PRS Legislative Research (for policy updates)
Career Connection
Current affairs knowledge is a cornerstone for civil services exams, media careers, and becoming an informed citizen. It fuels critical thinking and analytical abilities for policy-related roles.
Intermediate Stage
Engage in Practical Research and Data Analysis- (Semester 3-5)
Actively participate in the practical/skill enhancement courses focused on data analysis. Learn basic statistical tools and survey methods. Consider undertaking a small-scale research project under faculty guidance, perhaps on a local political issue, to gain hands-on experience in data collection and interpretation.
Tools & Resources
Microsoft Excel (for basic data analysis), SurveyMonkey (for survey design), College research labs/computer facilities
Career Connection
Skills in data analysis are increasingly important for policy research, election analysis, and governmental roles. This makes graduates more competitive for research assistant positions and think tanks.
Participate in Debates and Model Parliament Sessions- (Semester 3-5)
Join college debate clubs or participate in Model United Nations (MUN) or Model Parliament simulations. This helps in developing public speaking, negotiation, and critical thinking skills, while gaining a deeper understanding of parliamentary procedures and international diplomacy. Seek out inter-college competitions.
Tools & Resources
College debate societies, MUN/Model Parliament events, Online resources on parliamentary procedures
Career Connection
These experiences are invaluable for careers in law, public advocacy, diplomacy, and political communication. They build confidence and persuasive communication abilities essential in public life.
Seek Internships with NGOs or Local Government- (Semester 3-5)
Look for short-term internships with non-governmental organizations working on social or political issues, or with local government bodies (Panchayats, Municipal Corporations). This exposure provides practical insights into governance, policy implementation, and community engagement, offering real-world application of classroom learning.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell (if available), Online internship portals (Internshala), Local NGO contacts
Career Connection
Internships offer practical experience, networking opportunities, and a clear understanding of potential career paths in public service, social work, and development sectors in India.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 6)
For those aspiring for civil services, dedicate significant time to preparing for UPSC/UPPSC exams. This includes extensive revision of Political Science optional papers, general studies, and regular practice of mock tests. Join study groups and consider coaching if deemed necessary, focusing on strategic preparation for the Indian administrative landscape.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/UPPSC previous year papers, Standard reference books (Laxmikanth for Polity), Online test series platforms
Career Connection
Directly targets top-tier administrative and diplomatic careers in India, offering high-impact roles in governance and policy-making.
Develop Specialization through Electives and Dissertations- (Semester 6)
Choose elective subjects strategically based on career interests (e.g., Public Administration for civil services, International Relations for diplomacy). If an honors track is available, undertake a dissertation on a specialized topic, conducting in-depth research to become an expert in a niche area of political science.
Tools & Resources
Academic journals, Research databases (JSTOR, Shodhganga), Faculty mentors
Career Connection
Specialization enhances employability in specific roles like policy analysts, area studies experts, or researchers. A strong dissertation can be a stepping stone to post-graduate studies and academic careers.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 6)
Attend university seminars, webinars, and conferences related to political science and public policy. Connect with faculty, alumni, and guest speakers. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to network with professionals in desired fields, seeking mentorship and advice for career transitions and opportunities in the Indian job market.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional conferences (e.g., IPSA India), Alumni network events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, job opportunities, and collaborations. It provides insights into industry trends and helps in career progression in public service, advocacy, and research organizations.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 passed from any recognized board
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Approx. 120-132 for full BA (36 credits specified for Political Science major subjects) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLE 101 | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Core Major | 4 | Indian National Movement (1885-1947), Making of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union Executive, Parliament, Judiciary, State Executive and Legislature |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLE 102 | Political Theory | Core Major | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Theory, Concept of State and Sovereignty, Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights and Citizenship, Democracy and its Theories, Power and Authority |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLE 201 | Indian Political Thought | Core Major | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought (Manu, Kautilya), Medieval Indian Political Thought (Barani, Abul Fazal), Modern Indian Political Thought (Ram Mohan Roy, Gandhi), Ambedkar, Savarkar, Lohia, Integral Humanism (Deendayal Upadhyaya) |
| POLE 202 | Data Analysis for Political Research | Skill Enhancement / Practical | 2 | Introduction to Social Science Research, Methods of Data Collection (Survey, Observation), Data Presentation and Interpretation, Basic Statistical Analysis, Report Writing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLE 203 | International Relations | Core Major | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Relations, Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, Non-Alignment Movement, Foreign Policy of India, International Organizations (UN, SAARC, ASEAN) |
| POLE 204 | Political Parties and Pressure Groups | Skill Enhancement / Practical | 2 | Meaning and Types of Political Parties, Party Systems (One-party, Bi-party, Multi-party), Role of Pressure Groups, Electoral System in India, Public Opinion and its Measurement |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLE 301A | Western Political Thought | Major Elective (Choice 1 of 3 provided in syllabus) | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Revolution, Machiavelli: Statecraft, Morality, Locke: Natural Rights, Social Contract, Rousseau: General Will, Popular Sovereignty, Marx: Class Struggle, Historical Materialism |
| POLE 302A | Public Administration | Major Elective (Choice 1 of 3 provided in syllabus) | 4 | Meaning, Scope, and Evolution of Public Administration, Theories of Administration (Scientific Management, Human Relations), Bureaucracy and its Role, Financial Administration (Budgeting, Audit), Personnel Administration (Recruitment, Training), Good Governance and E-governance |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLE 303A | Indian Foreign Policy | Major Elective (Choice 1 of 3 provided in syllabus) | 4 | Determinants of Indian Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement and its Relevance, India''''s Relations with Neighbors (Pakistan, China, Nepal), India and Major Powers (USA, Russia, EU), India''''s Role in International Organizations, Economic Diplomacy and Global Challenges |
| POLE 304A | Comparative Politics | Major Elective (Choice 1 of 3 provided in syllabus) | 4 | Meaning, Nature and Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics (Systems, Structural-Functional), Constitutions and Constitutionalism, Electoral Systems (FPTP, Proportional Representation), Political Culture and Socialization, Comparative Political Regimes (Democracy, Authoritarianism) |
