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BACHELOR-OF-ARTS in Social Science at Government First Grade College, Vijayanagar
Bengaluru, Karnataka
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About the Specialization
What is Social Science at Government First Grade College, Vijayanagar Bengaluru?
This Social Science program at Government First Grade College, Bengaluru Urban, focuses on understanding human society, its development, structures, and interactions through disciplines like History, Economics, and Political Science. The curriculum provides a strong analytical foundation relevant to India''''s diverse social and economic landscape, preparing students for careers requiring critical thinking and problem-solving. This holistic approach makes graduates highly adaptable to various public and private sector roles.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates seeking entry into civil services, social work, journalism, or research roles. It also suits individuals passionate about understanding societal dynamics and contributing to public policy. Prerequisite backgrounds typically include a strong interest in humanities and social studies from their 10+2 education, coupled with an aptitude for analytical reasoning and extensive reading.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths in government agencies, NGOs, research institutions, and media houses. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3 LPA to 6 LPA, with significant growth trajectories in public policy, development, and administrative services. Professional certifications in areas like data analytics or project management can further enhance career prospects within Indian organizations.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Foundational Knowledge- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in lectures, complete all assigned readings, and create detailed notes for core subjects like History, Economics, and Political Science. Focus on understanding key concepts and theories rather than rote memorization. Form study groups to discuss complex topics and clarify doubts with peers.
Tools & Resources
NCERT textbooks, Standard reference books (e.g., Bipan Chandra for History, Mankiw for Economics), Online academic journals (JSTOR, ResearchGate via college library access)
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for cracking competitive exams (UPSC, KPSC) and for advanced studies. It builds analytical skills essential for future policy analysis or research roles.
Enhance English and Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Utilize the compulsory English language courses to improve written and verbal communication. Practice essay writing, participate in debates, and engage in public speaking. Read English newspapers and magazines (The Hindu, Indian Express) daily to build vocabulary and general knowledge.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Toastmasters (if available nearby or online clubs), Newspaper editorial sections, Spoken English classes
Career Connection
Effective communication is paramount for almost every career path, especially in civil services, journalism, corporate communication, and academia. Strong writing skills are vital for report generation and policy briefs.
Develop Critical Thinking and Research Aptitude- (Semester 1-2)
Question assumptions, analyze arguments from multiple perspectives, and start developing basic research skills. For assignments, learn to gather information from credible sources, evaluate their reliability, and synthesize findings. Attend introductory workshops on research methodology.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Google Scholar, Reputable news analysis platforms, Tutorials on academic writing
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for social science research, policy analysis, journalism, and any role requiring informed decision-making. Early exposure helps in choosing thesis topics later.
Intermediate Stage
Seek Practical Application through Internships- (Semester 3-5)
Actively look for short-term internships with NGOs, local government bodies, or research organizations during semester breaks. Focus on gaining hands-on experience in areas like data collection, project assistance, or community outreach, even if unpaid initially.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Online platforms like Internshala, LetsIntern, Networking with faculty and alumni
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable real-world experience, build a professional network, and often lead to pre-placement offers or strong references crucial for placements in India''''s competitive job market.
Engage in Interdisciplinary Projects and Debates- (Semester 3-5)
Collaborate with students from different specializations (e.g., Sociology, Psychology, Public Administration) on projects or participate in inter-departmental debates. This broadens perspectives and enhances problem-solving skills, mirroring real-world challenges.
Tools & Resources
College clubs and societies, Inter-collegiate competitions, Online collaborative tools (Google Docs, Microsoft Teams)
Career Connection
Interdisciplinary exposure is highly valued in fields like public policy, urban planning, and development studies, where multifaceted issues require diverse approaches. It also improves teamwork skills.
Build a Strong Profile for Competitive Exams- (Semester 3-5)
If aiming for civil services, start systematic preparation early. This includes reading current affairs extensively, practicing essay writing, and taking mock tests. Join dedicated study circles or coaching if feasible, ensuring it complements academic studies.
Tools & Resources
Vision IAS, Drishti IAS (online resources, magazines), Current affairs apps (Inshorts), Previous year question papers
Career Connection
Early and consistent preparation significantly increases chances of success in highly competitive Indian civil service examinations (UPSC, KPSC), leading to prestigious government roles.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Independent Research or Dissertation- (Semester 6)
Work closely with a faculty mentor to identify a research topic of interest within your specialization. Conduct thorough literature reviews, collect and analyze data, and write a comprehensive dissertation. This demonstrates advanced analytical and research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Statistical software (SPSS, R if applicable), Research databases (ProQuest, EBSCO), Academic writing guides
Career Connection
A well-executed research project enhances your resume for postgraduate studies (MA, PhD) and positions in research organizations, policy think tanks, and data analysis roles.
Network Professionally and Attend Seminars- (Semester 6)
Attend academic seminars, workshops, and conferences relevant to social sciences, even virtually. Connect with professors, industry experts, and alumni. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to build a professional network, seeking mentorship and career advice.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Professional associations (e.g., Indian Sociological Society), College alumni network events
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to job opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship crucial for career progression in India. It keeps you updated on industry trends and allows for informed career decisions.
Prepare for Post-Graduation and Career Entry- (Semester 6)
Finalize your career path (e.g., higher education, civil services, corporate, NGO). Prepare strong CVs and cover letters, practice interview skills, and take relevant entrance exams (e.g., NET, SET, specific university entrance tests). Seek guidance from career counselors.
Tools & Resources
College career guidance cell, Mock interview platforms, Online courses on professional development
Career Connection
Strategic preparation ensures a smooth transition from academics to the professional world, optimizing your chances for securing desired placements or admissions to top Indian and international universities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Pass in Pre-University Course (PUC) / 10+2 examination or equivalent with any optional subjects.
Duration: 6 Semesters (3 years)
Credits: Typically 140-150 credits for a full BA program Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG101 | Language English I | Compulsory Language | 4 | Communicative English, Grammar and Usage, Reading Comprehension, Writing Skills, Introduction to Literary Forms |
| BAKAN101 | Language Kannada I (or other MIL) | Compulsory Language (Modern Indian Language - MIL) | 4 | Kannada Sahitya Charitre, Gadyabhaga, Padyabhaga, Vyakaran, Rachana |
| BAHIS101 | History I: History of India (Earliest Times to 1206 AD) | Core Optional | 4 | Pre-History and Indus Valley Civilization, Vedic and Mahajanapadas Period, Mauryan and Post-Mauryan Age, Gupta and Post-Gupta Period, Early Medieval South India |
| BAECO101 | Economics I: Principles of Microeconomics | Core Optional | 4 | Introduction to Economics, Consumer Behaviour and Demand, Production and Costs, Market Structures, Factor Pricing |
| BAPOL101 | Political Science I: Introduction to Political Theory | Core Optional | 4 | Nature and Scope of Political Science, Key Concepts: State, Nation, Power, Theories of Justice and Equality, Rights and Liberty, Forms of Government |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG201 | Language English II | Compulsory Language | 4 | Advanced Grammar, Creative Writing, Literary Appreciation, Public Speaking Skills, Reading Longer Texts |
| BAKAN201 | Language Kannada II (or other MIL) | Compulsory Language (MIL) | 4 | Adhunika Kannada Sahitya, Vachanagal, Keertanegalu, Janapada Sahitya, Patra Lekhana |
| BAHIS201 | History II: History of India (1206 AD to 1707 AD) | Core Optional | 4 | Delhi Sultanate, Vijayanagara and Bahamani Kingdoms, Bhakti and Sufi Movements, Mughal Empire (Founding to Akbar), Mughal Empire (Jahangir to Aurangzeb) |
| BAECO201 | Economics II: Principles of Macroeconomics | Core Optional | 4 | National Income Accounting, Theories of Employment and Income, Money and Banking, Inflation and Deflation, Fiscal and Monetary Policy |
| BAPOL201 | Political Science II: Indian Government and Politics | Core Optional | 4 | Constituent Assembly and Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Union Executive and Legislature, State Executive and Legislature, Local Self-Government |
| AECC201 | Environmental Studies | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Environmental Pollution, Natural Resources, Sustainable Development, Environmental Ethics |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG301 | Language English III | Compulsory Language | 4 | Communication Skills, Report Writing, Effective Presentations, Group Discussions, Professional Correspondence |
| BAKAN301 | Language Kannada III (or other MIL) | Compulsory Language (MIL) | 4 | Kannada Vyakaran, Bhashantar, Upanyasa Lekhana, Patrikodyama, Vimarsha Sahitya |
| BAHIS301 | History III: Modern India (1707 AD to 1947 AD) | Core Optional | 4 | Decline of Mughal Empire, Rise of Regional Powers, British Expansion in India, Revolt of 1857, Indian National Movement |
| BAECO301 | Economics III: Indian Economy | Core Optional | 4 | Structure of Indian Economy, Agriculture and Industry in India, Poverty, Unemployment, Inequality, Economic Reforms since 1991, Indian Economic Planning |
| BAPOL301 | Political Science III: Public Administration | Core Optional | 4 | Meaning and Scope of Public Administration, Theories of Organization, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Good Governance |
| SEC301 | Skill Enhancement Course I | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Communication Skills for Workplace, Basic Data Analysis, Digital Literacy, Event Management, Ethical Hacking |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAENG401 | Language English IV | Compulsory Language | 4 | Introduction to Literary Criticism, World Literature, Advanced Essay Writing, Research Methodology Basics, Review Writing |
| BAKAN401 | Language Kannada IV (or other MIL) | Compulsory Language (MIL) | 4 | Drushya Kavya, Shravya Kavya, Sanskriti mattu Ithihasa, Karnataka Ekarana, Pradesheeya Sahitya |
| BAHIS401 | History IV: Cultural History of India | Core Optional | 4 | Art and Architecture (Ancient), Art and Architecture (Medieval), Indian Philosophy and Religion, Education and Literature, Science and Technology in Ancient India |
| BAECO401 | Economics IV: Development Economics | Core Optional | 4 | Theories of Economic Development, Poverty and Income Distribution, Population and Human Capital, Role of State and Market in Development, International Trade and Development |
| BAPOL401 | Political Science IV: International Relations | Core Optional | 4 | Theories of International Relations, Cold War and Post-Cold War Era, International Organizations (UN, WTO), India''''s Foreign Policy, Contemporary Global Issues |
| AECC401 | Indian Constitution | Ability Enhancement Compulsory Course | 2 | Preamble and Features of Indian Constitution, Fundamental Rights and Duties, Directive Principles of State Policy, Union and State Governments, Constitutional Amendments |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAHIS501 | History V: World History (1453 AD to 1870 AD) | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Renaissance and Reformation, Age of Exploration, Rise of Nation States, Enlightenment and Revolutions, Industrial Revolution |
| BAECO501 | Economics V: Mathematical Economics | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Basic Algebra and Calculus, Utility Maximization, Cost Minimization, Market Equilibrium, Input-Output Analysis |
| BAPOL501 | Political Science V: Western Political Thought | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Plato and Aristotle, Machiavelli and Hobbes, Locke and Rousseau, Bentham and J.S. Mill, Marx and Gramsci |
| DSE501 | Discipline Specific Elective I (e.g., History of Karnataka) | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Ancient Karnataka Dynasties, Medieval Karnataka Kingdoms, Wodeyars of Mysore, Freedom Movement in Karnataka, Unification of Karnataka |
| SEC501 | Skill Enhancement Course II | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Research Paper Writing, SPSS for Social Sciences, NGO Management, Content Writing, Digital Marketing Fundamentals |
| GE501 | Generic Elective I (e.g., Introduction to Sociology) | Generic Elective | 3 | Sociological Perspectives, Culture and Society, Social Stratification, Family and Marriage, Social Change |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAHIS601 | History VI: World History (1870 AD to 2000 AD) | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Imperialism and Colonialism, World War I and II, Cold War and Decolonization, Emergence of New World Order, Globalization |
| BAECO601 | Economics VI: Quantitative Techniques for Economic Analysis | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Statistical Methods, Probability and Distributions, Correlation and Regression, Index Numbers, Time Series Analysis |
| BAPOL601 | Political Science VI: Modern Political Ideologies | Discipline Specific Core | 4 | Liberalism and Conservatism, Socialism and Marxism, Feminism and Environmentalism, Nationalism and Fascism, Postmodernism |
| DSE601 | Discipline Specific Elective II (e.g., Human Rights) | Discipline Specific Elective | 3 | Concept and Evolution of Human Rights, Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Human Rights in India, Role of NGOs in Human Rights, Contemporary Human Rights Issues |
| SEC601 | Skill Enhancement Course III | Skill Enhancement Course | 2 | Basic Journalism, Disaster Management, Entrepreneurship Skills, Project Management Basics, Cyber Security Awareness |
| GE601 | Generic Elective II (e.g., Rural Development) | Generic Elective | 3 | Concept of Rural Development, Rural Economy in India, Rural Poverty and Employment, Panchayati Raj Institutions, Rural Development Programs in India |
