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BA in Political Science at Government Degree College, Jakkhini, Varanasi
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Government Degree College, Jakkhini, Varanasi Varanasi?
This Political Science program at Government Degree College, Varanasi, focuses on providing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, governance, and international relations. Rooted in the National Education Policy 2020, it emphasizes critical thinking and analytical skills essential for navigating complex socio-political landscapes in India and globally. The curriculum is designed to foster an informed citizenry and future leaders, aligning with the evolving demands in public service and policy analysis.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh 10+2 graduates with a keen interest in public affairs, governance, history, and social dynamics. It attracts aspirants preparing for civil services examinations in India, individuals passionate about advocacy and social change, and those seeking careers in journalism, policy research, or academia. Students desiring a strong foundation in political theory and practical application to Indian political scenarios will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in central and state government services (UPSC, UPPSC), political analysis, journalism, public relations, and non-governmental organizations. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 2.5 Lakhs to 4.5 Lakhs annually, with significant growth trajectories for experienced professionals in policy-making, strategic communications, and international relations. The program also serves as an excellent foundation for pursuing advanced studies in Political Science or related fields.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Mastering Core Concepts and Indian Constitution- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand foundational political theories, the Indian Constitution, and the national movement. Use textbooks, supplementary readings, and online resources like parliamentary debates archives or PRS Legislative Research for deeper insights. Engage in group discussions to clarify concepts and prepare for competitive exams early.
Tools & Resources
Laxmikanth''''s Indian Polity, NCERT Political Science textbooks, PRSindia.org, All India Radio News
Career Connection
A strong foundation in these areas is crucial for success in civil services exams (UPSC/UPPSC) and a clear understanding of India''''s political landscape, essential for roles in governance and public policy.
Developing Critical Analysis and Writing Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on developing strong analytical and essay writing skills by regularly practicing answer writing for exams and participating in debates. Read editorials from leading Indian newspapers like ''''The Hindu'''' or ''''Indian Express'''' daily to understand current affairs and diverse perspectives. Learn to structure arguments effectively.
Tools & Resources
Newspaper editorials (The Hindu, Indian Express), Essay writing guides, Peer review groups
Career Connection
These skills are invaluable for civil services mains exams, policy analysis roles, journalism, and any profession requiring clear communication and logical reasoning.
Engaging with Local Governance and Current Events- (Semester 1-2)
Actively follow local and national political developments through credible news sources. Consider visiting local government bodies like Panchayats or Municipal Corporations (if feasible) to observe their functioning. Participate in college-level awareness campaigns or mock parliamentary sessions.
Tools & Resources
Reputable news channels and websites, Local government websites, College debate societies
Career Connection
Understanding real-world governance and current affairs provides practical context, enhancing problem-solving abilities and preparing for interviews in public service or media roles.
Intermediate Stage
Exploring Public Administration and Policy Making- (Semester 3-5)
Delve deeper into Public Administration principles and the policy-making process in India. Identify specific public policies (e.g., NEP, MGNREGA) and analyze their formulation, implementation, and impact. Consider undertaking a mini-project or review paper on a policy relevant to Uttar Pradesh.
Tools & Resources
NITI Aayog reports, Ministry websites, Public Administration journals, Academic research papers
Career Connection
This provides specialized knowledge for roles in government administration, policy analysis, and program management, particularly for state-level opportunities.
Networking and Attending Webinars/Seminars- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek out and participate in webinars, seminars, and workshops on political science, international relations, or public policy, often hosted by Indian universities, think tanks, or NGOs. Network with faculty, guest speakers, and peers to gain diverse perspectives and identify potential mentors.
Tools & Resources
Think tank websites (ORF, CPR), University department seminar announcements, LinkedIn
Career Connection
Building professional connections and staying updated on contemporary issues can open doors to internships, research opportunities, and provide insights into various career paths beyond academics.
Developing Research Aptitude and Data Literacy- (Semester 3-5)
Start understanding basic research methodology principles. Practice collecting and analyzing political data, even small datasets from electoral outcomes or demographic trends. Familiarize yourself with government reports and statistical data released by organizations like the Election Commission of India or NSSO.
Tools & Resources
Excel/Google Sheets, Election Commission of India website, NSSO reports, Introductory research methods books
Career Connection
Research skills are vital for academic pursuits, think tank roles, and for evidence-based policy analysis, enhancing problem-solving and critical thinking capacities.
Advanced Stage
Intensive Civil Services Exam Preparation- (Semester 6)
For those aspiring for civil services, dedicate focused effort to comprehensive preparation for UPSC/UPPSC examinations, including optional subjects. Join study groups, take mock tests, and work on time management for extensive syllabus coverage and revision.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/UPPSC previous year papers, Standard reference books for optional subjects, Online test series, Coaching institute materials (if chosen)
Career Connection
Directly targets top administrative roles in India, offering a structured path towards a highly sought-after career.
Undertaking a Research Project or Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Actively engage with the Research Methodology coursework and propose a relevant research topic, potentially with a local or regional focus. Work closely with faculty mentors to conduct a small-scale research project or dissertation, applying learned methodologies to real political phenomena.
Tools & Resources
Academic databases, Statistical software (if applicable), University library resources, Faculty guidance
Career Connection
This provides hands-on research experience, essential for higher studies (MA/PhD), roles in research organizations, or policy advocacy, demonstrating independent analytical capabilities.
Exploring Career Alternatives and Skill Diversification- (Semester 6)
Beyond civil services, research diverse career paths like journalism, political consulting, social work, or international organizations. Develop soft skills like public speaking, negotiation, and cross-cultural communication. Seek guidance from alumni or career counselors for exploring postgraduate options in India or abroad.
Tools & Resources
Career counseling services, Alumni network, Online courses for soft skills, Job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn)
Career Connection
Broadens career horizons, making graduates adaptable to various sectors and equipped for roles requiring strong communication, analytical thinking, and leadership.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 (Intermediate) pass from a recognized board, as per Government Degree College, Varanasi admission criteria.
Duration: 3 years / 6 semesters
Credits: Minimum 120 credits for full BA program (64 credits specifically for Political Science Major) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-101 | Indian National Movement and Constitutional Development | Core Major | 4 | Genesis of Indian Nationalism, Constitutional Reforms (1773-1935), Constituent Assembly and its working, Preamble, Fundamental Rights & Duties, Directive Principles, Federalism, Emergency Provisions, Judicial Review |
| CC-102 | Fundamentals of Political Science | Core Major | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Political Science, Theories of State and Sovereignty, Power, Authority, Legitimacy, Concepts of Liberty, Equality, Justice, Rights, Democracy and its forms, Political Parties |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-201 | Indian Government and Politics | Core Major | 4 | Nature of Indian Politics, Party System and Electoral System in India, Role of Pressure Groups, Parliament (Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha), President, Prime Minister, Judiciary, State Politics and regionalism |
| CC-202 | Major Political Systems | Core Major | 4 | Concepts of Comparative Politics, British Political System (Parliament, Monarchy, PM), American Political System (President, Congress, Judiciary), Chinese Political System (Communist Party, Legislature), Swiss Political System (Direct Democracy, Executive) |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-301 | Principles of Public Administration | Core Major | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Bureaucracy, Decision Making, Leadership, Communication, Public Policy: formulation, implementation, evaluation, Accountability and Control in Public Administration |
| CC-302 | Western Political Thought (Ancient & Medieval) | Core Major | 4 | Plato: Justice, Ideal State, Philosopher King, Aristotle: State, Citizenship, Classification of Governments, St. Augustine: Two Cities, Church and State, Machiavelli: The Prince, Statecraft, Morality and Politics, Hobbes: Social Contract, Sovereignty, Leviathan, Locke: Natural Rights, Limited Government, Property |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-401 | International Relations | Core Major | 4 | Theories of International Relations (Realism, Liberalism), Cold War, Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), United Nations: Organs, Role, Reforms, Disarmament, Arms Control, Human Rights, International Law, Regional Organizations (SAARC, ASEAN) |
| CC-402 | Modern Western Political Thought | Core Major | 4 | Rousseau: General Will, Social Contract, J.S. Mill: Liberty, Representative Government, Karl Marx: Historical Materialism, Class Struggle, Revolution, Gramsci: Hegemony, State and Civil Society, Hannah Arendt: Totalitarianism, Banality of Evil |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-501 | Indian Political Thought | Core Major | 4 | Kautilya: Arthashastra, Statecraft, Manu: Social Order, Dharma, Raja Ram Mohan Roy: Reforms, Modernity, Gandhi: Swaraj, Satyagraha, Non-violence, Ambedkar: Social Justice, State Socialism, Dalit Rights, Nehru: Democracy, Secularism, Non-alignment |
| CC-502 | Human Rights: Theory and Practice | Core Major | 4 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), Human Rights in India (NHRC, SHRC), Rights of Women, Children, Minorities, Environmental Rights, International Humanitarian Law |
| DSE-503 | Public Policy in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Meaning, Nature, Scope of Public Policy, Policy Cycle: Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Types of Public Policies in India, Welfare, Economic, Environmental Policies, Challenges in Policy Making and Implementation |
| DSE-504 | Governance in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Concept of Good Governance and E-Governance, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, Decentralization and Local Self-Government, Role of Civil Society and NGOs, Transparency, Accountability, Right to Information (RTI) |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CC-601 | Comparative Political Analysis | Core Major | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Culture, Political Socialization, Political Development, Modernization Theories, Regime Types: Democracy, Authoritarianism, Electoral Systems, Federalism, Unitary Systems |
| CC-602 | Research Methodology in Political Science | Core Major | 4 | Meaning and Significance of Research in Political Science, Research Design, Types of Research, Data Collection Methods (Survey, Interview, Observation), Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis (Qualitative, Quantitative), Report Writing, Ethical Considerations in Research |
| DSE-603 | Contemporary Political Issues in India | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Caste Politics, Communalism, Regionalism, Terrorism, Naxalism, Insurgency, Corruption, Electoral Reforms, Environmental Movements, Identity Politics, Challenges to Indian Democracy |
| DSE-604 | Geo-politics and Strategic Studies | Discipline Specific Elective | 4 | Meaning and Theories of Geopolitics, Security Concepts: National, Human, Environmental, Nuclear Proliferation, Terrorism, Energy Security, Climate Change and Geopolitics, India''''s Foreign Policy, Role of Major Powers |
