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MA in Political Science at Government Degree College, Dumariaganj
Siddharthnagar, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Government Degree College, Dumariaganj Siddharthnagar?
This Political Science program at Government Degree College, Siddharthnagar, focuses on a comprehensive understanding of governance, public policy, and societal dynamics. It integrates ancient and modern political thought with contemporary Indian and international relations, aligning with the National Education Policy 2020. This program addresses the significant demand for skilled professionals in India''''s public sector, academia, and civil society, offering a robust foundation for analytical and administrative roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a Bachelor''''s degree in Political Science, History, Sociology, or related fields, aspiring to careers in civil services, journalism, or academia. It also caters to working professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of political processes or enhance their qualifications for public administration. Individuals passionate about public policy, social justice, and international affairs will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths within India, including roles in the Indian Civil Services (UPSC, UPPSC), state administration, political analysis, journalism, teaching, research positions in think tanks, and leadership roles in non-governmental organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from 3-5 LPA, with experienced professionals and civil servants earning 8-20+ LPA. The program equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills essential for navigating complex socio-political landscapes.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Political Theories and Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational political theories from both Indian and Western traditions. Actively participate in class discussions and form study groups to clarify complex concepts. This builds a strong analytical base crucial for advanced studies and competitive exams like UPSC/UPPSC.
Tools & Resources
NCERT Political Science textbooks (Class 11, 12), Standard Political Theory texts (e.g., O.P. Gauba, Andrew Heywood), Online academic resources and journals
Career Connection
Develops critical thinking and analytical skills, essential for civil services, policy analysis, and academic research.
Develop Strong Research and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on the Research Methodology course to learn proper academic writing, referencing, and basic research techniques. Practice writing essays, reports, and short research papers on contemporary political issues. Attend workshops on academic integrity and effective communication.
Tools & Resources
Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab), Mendeley/Zotero for citation management, University library resources
Career Connection
Crucial for writing competitive exam essays, research reports in think tanks, and academic publications.
Engage with Current Affairs and Public Debates- (Semester 1-2)
Cultivate a daily habit of reading national newspapers (e.g., The Hindu, The Indian Express) and following reputable news analysis. Participate in college debates, seminars, and discussions on current political and social issues. This enhances general knowledge and informed opinion, vital for public service exams and informed citizenship.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu/Indian Express e-papers, PRS Legislative Research (for policy updates), Rajya Sabha TV/Lok Sabha TV debates
Career Connection
Improves general awareness, interview skills for civil services, and provides context for journalism and policy roles.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Mini-Projects or Policy Analysis- (Semester 3)
Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios by conducting mini-projects on local governance issues, public policy analysis, or social movements. Collaborate with peers or faculty on small research initiatives to gain practical experience in data collection and interpretation.
Tools & Resources
Local government reports, NGO publications, NITI Aayog policy documents
Career Connection
Enhances problem-solving skills, quantitative/qualitative analysis, and makes resumes stand out for policy-oriented roles.
Seek Internships with Local Organizations/Administration- (Semester 3)
Actively look for short-term internships with local NGOs, district administration offices, or political organizations during semester breaks. Even unpaid internships offer invaluable exposure to the practical functioning of governance and social work in India.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Networking with faculty, Online platforms for NGO internships
Career Connection
Provides practical exposure, networking opportunities, and a clearer understanding of career paths in public service and development.
Specialize in an Area of Interest and Build Expertise- (Semester 3)
Based on electives chosen and personal interest, dive deeper into a specific sub-field like International Relations, Public Administration, or Indian Politics. Read advanced books, attend webinars, and write analytical pieces to build expertise. This specialization can guide your dissertation and future career focus.
Tools & Resources
Foreign Policy Research Institute articles, Observer Research Foundation publications, Online courses (NPTEL, Coursera)
Career Connection
Creates a distinct profile for job applications in specialized think tanks, academic roles, or policy advocacy groups.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Preparation for Civil Services and Competitive Exams- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to preparing for UPSC Civil Services Exam (CSE) or State Public Service Commission (UPPSC) exams. Focus on Political Science as an optional subject, practice answer writing, and take mock tests. Join a study circle or coaching if feasible, leveraging the strong foundation built during the MA.
Tools & Resources
Previous year question papers, Reputable coaching institute materials (if chosen), Online test series
Career Connection
Directly targets highly sought-after administrative and public service positions in India.
Undertake a Comprehensive Dissertation/Research Project- (Semester 4)
Engage deeply with your final dissertation or major research project. Choose a topic that aligns with your career aspirations or area of specialization. Work closely with your supervisor, conduct thorough research, and present original insights. This project showcases your advanced research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Research journals (e.g., Economic and Political Weekly), Statistical data from government agencies, University library databases
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced analytical, research, and problem-solving skills, crucial for academic positions, policy research, and think tanks.
Develop Professional Networking and Communication Skills- (Semester 4)
Actively network with faculty, alumni, and guest speakers in the field of political science and public administration. Participate in seminars, conferences, and workshops to hone your presentation and communication skills. Prepare a strong resume highlighting your academic achievements and practical experiences.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn for professional networking, Toastmasters (for public speaking), Career counseling services
Career Connection
Opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and professional growth in various sectors, including media, advocacy, and education.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- No eligibility criteria specified
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLS-101 | Ancient Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Nature and Characteristics of Ancient Indian Political Thought, Sources of Ancient Indian Political Thought, Concept of Statecraft, Law and Justice, Dharma, Danda, and Saptanga Theory, Key thinkers: Kautilya, Manu, Shukra |
| POLS-102 | Modern Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Machiavelli: Statecraft and Morality, Hobbes, Locke, Rousseau: Social Contract Theories, J.S. Mill: Liberty and Representative Government, Hegel: Dialectics and State, Marx and Gramsci: Class, Power, and Hegemony |
| POLS-103 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Making of the Indian Constitution, Preamble, Fundamental Rights, Duties, and Directive Principles, Union and State Executive, Legislature, Judiciary, Federalism in India and Challenges, Local Self-Government (Panchayati Raj and Urban Bodies) |
| POLS-104 | Public Administration (Management Function of Government) | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Public Administration, Evolution and Approaches to Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Principles of Management, Bureaucracy and its Role in Governance, Financial and Personnel Administration |
| POLS-105 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Research, Scientific Method and Research Design, Types of Research: Qualitative and Quantitative, Methods of Data Collection and Sampling, Data Analysis and Report Writing |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLS-201 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Political Sociology, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Political Culture and Political Socialization, Political Participation, Elites, and Pressure Groups, Role of Political Parties and Social Movements |
| POLS-202 | International Relations: Theory and Practice | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of International Relations, Major Theories: Realism, Liberalism, Marxism, Feminism, Cold War and Post-Cold War Developments, Globalisation and its Impact on IR, Role of International Organizations (UN, WTO, EU, SAARC) |
| POLS-203 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Comparative Politics, Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems: UK, USA, China (Case Studies), Federalism and Constitutionalism, Political Parties and Electoral Systems |
| POLS-204 | Human Rights | Core | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Generations of Human Rights, Human Rights in India: Constitutional Provisions, National Human Rights Commission and International Bodies |
| POLS-205 | Disaster Management | Core | 4 | Meaning and Types of Disasters (Natural and Man-made), Disaster Cycle: Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, Recovery, Risk Assessment and Vulnerability Analysis, Role of Government and NGOs in Disaster Management, Case Studies of Disasters in India |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLS-301 | Contemporary Political Ideologies | Core | 4 | Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Marxism, Feminism and Environmentalism, Post-Modernism and its Critiques, Nationalism and Fascism, Global Justice and Human Rights |
| POLS-302 | India''''s Foreign Policy | Core | 4 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment Movement and its Relevance, India and its Neighbors (Pakistan, China, Bangladesh), India and Major Global Powers (USA, Russia, EU), India''''s Role in International Organizations |
| POLS-303 | Theories of State | Core | 4 | Origin and Evolution of the State, Theories of State: Divine, Social Contract, Marxist, Pluralist, Feminist Theories of State, Nature of the Modern State, Concept of Sovereignty and its Challenges |
| POLS-304 | Local Government and Politics in India | Core | 4 | Evolution of Local Self-Government in India, 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts, Structure and Functions of Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies: Municipalities and Corporations, Finance, Administration, and Challenges of Local Governance |
| POLS-305 (A) | Elective: Indian Nationalism | Elective | 4 | Approaches to Studying Nationalism, Colonialism and the Rise of Indian Nationalism, Gandhian and Nehruvian Nationalism, Partition and Post-Independence Challenges, Contemporary Debates on Indian Nationalism |
| POLS-305 (B) | Elective: Global Politics of Climate Change | Elective | 4 | Climate Change Science and Impacts, International Climate Regimes: UNFCCC, Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement and Nationally Determined Contributions, Climate Justice and Equity Debates, Role of Developing Countries in Climate Action |
| POLS-305 (C) | Elective: Women and Political Process in India | Elective | 4 | Patriarchy, Gender, and Politics, Women''''s Movement in India, Political Participation of Women, Reservation for Women in Panchayats and Legislatures, Challenges and Prospects for Women''''s Political Empowerment |
| POLS-305 (D) | Elective: India and Central Asia | Elective | 4 | Geopolitical Significance of Central Asia, India''''s Strategic and Economic Interests in the Region, Connectivity Projects: Chabahar Port, INSTC, Cultural and Historical Ties, Bilateral Relations with Central Asian Republics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| POLS-401 | International Law | Core | 4 | Nature, Sources, and Subjects of International Law, State Recognition, State Succession, and Intervention, Law of Treaties, Peaceful Settlement of International Disputes, International Criminal Law and Human Rights Law |
| POLS-402 | Indian Political Thought (Modern) | Core | 4 | Ram Mohan Roy and Dayanand Saraswati: Social Reform, Vivekanand: Spiritual Nationalism, Gokhale and Tilak: Early Nationalists, Gandhi: Satyagraha and Swaraj, Nehru: Modernization and Secularism, Ambedkar: Social Justice and Dalit Rights, Savarkar, M.N. Roy, Jayaprakash Narayan, Lohia |
| POLS-403 | Public Policy and Governance | Core | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Public Policy, Public Policy Cycle: Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Models of Public Policy Analysis, Concept of Good Governance and E-Governance, Right to Information (RTI) and Citizen''''s Charter |
| POLS-404 | Strategic Studies | Core | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Strategic Studies, National Security: Concepts and Challenges, Geopolitics and Geo-economics, Nuclear Deterrence, Arms Control, Disarmament, Terrorism, Asymmetric Warfare, India''''s Strategic Culture |
| POLS-405 (A) | Elective: Politics of Environment | Elective | 4 | Environmental Movements and Green Politics, Environmental Governance: Local to Global, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), International Environmental Regimes, Climate Change Politics and Policy |
| POLS-405 (B) | Elective: North-East India: Politics and Society | Elective | 4 | Historical Context of North-East India, Ethnic Conflicts and Insurgency, Migration and Demographic Changes, Development Challenges and Opportunities, India''''s Look East/Act East Policy and the Region |
| POLS-405 (C) | Elective: Peace and Conflict Studies | Elective | 4 | Theories of Conflict and Violence, Conflict Resolution and Transformation, Peacebuilding and Peacemaking Strategies, Role of International Actors in Conflict Management, Case Studies of Conflicts and Peace Processes |
| POLS-405 (D) | Elective: Democracy and Development in India | Elective | 4 | Models of Development and their Relevance to India, Role of State, Market, and Civil Society in Development, Poverty, Inequality, and Social Justice, Decentralization and Local Development, Human Development Index and India''''s Progress |
