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M-A in Political Science at Government Girls College, Sehore
Sehore, Madhya Pradesh
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About the Specialization
What is Political Science at Government Girls College, Sehore Sehore?
This M.A. Political Science program at Government Girls College, Sehore, focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of political systems, theories, and governance. It is designed to equip students with analytical skills to critically examine Indian politics, international relations, and public administration. In the Indian context, a robust understanding of political science is crucial for engaging with policymaking, social development, and navigating complex societal challenges.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates with a background in social sciences or humanities seeking entry into public service, academia, or journalism. It also suits working professionals, such as teachers or civil servants, looking to deepen their understanding of political processes or enhance their analytical capabilities. Individuals passionate about societal issues and governance will find this specialization enriching.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including roles in civil services (UPSC/PSC), think tanks, NGOs, media, and academic institutions. Entry-level salaries might range from INR 3-6 lakhs annually, with significant growth potential for experienced professionals. The analytical and research skills acquired are highly valued in various sectors, contributing to roles in policy analysis and social research.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Foundational Knowledge with Current Affairs Integration- (Semester 1-2)
Consistently read newspapers like The Hindu or Indian Express, and magazines like Frontline. Connect theoretical concepts learned in Modern Western Political Thought or Indian Government and Politics to ongoing national and international events. Actively participate in classroom discussions to strengthen comprehension.
Tools & Resources
The Hindu, Indian Express, Frontline magazine, PRS Legislative Research for policy updates
Career Connection
Essential for civil services exams, journalism, and think tank roles that require strong analytical and contextual understanding.
Develop Strong Academic Writing and Research Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on structuring essays, presenting arguments logically, and correctly citing sources. Utilize college library resources and online academic databases. Seek feedback from professors on assignments to refine writing style and research methodology.
Tools & Resources
College library resources, Academic journals, Mendeley/Zotero for citation management
Career Connection
Crucial for academic careers, policy analysis, research roles, and producing well-structured reports in any professional setting.
Engage in Peer Learning and Study Groups- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups with classmates to discuss complex theories, debate current political issues, and prepare for exams. Teach concepts to each other to solidify understanding and identify knowledge gaps. This fosters a collaborative learning environment.
Tools & Resources
College common rooms, Online collaboration tools (e.g., Google Meet for discussions)
Career Connection
Enhances communication, teamwork, and critical thinking skills, valuable for group projects and professional collaboration.
Intermediate Stage
Undertake Practical Fieldwork or Internship- (Semester 3 (during breaks or part-time))
Seek internships with local NGOs, political parties, government departments (e.g., District Collectorate), or research organizations. Apply theoretical knowledge from Public Administration and Indian Government & Politics to real-world scenarios. Document experiences and challenges faced.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Local NGO/government contacts, Internshala
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical exposure, builds a professional network, and strengthens CV for future job applications, especially in advocacy, public service, and development sectors.
Specialize through Elective Choices and Project Work- (Semester 3-4)
Strategically choose electives like Human Rights or International Law based on long-term career interests. For the Dissertation/Project, select a topic that aligns with your specialization and conduct thorough research, demonstrating independent analytical capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Academic mentors, Research databases, Statistical software (if applicable)
Career Connection
Develops expertise in a niche area, making you a more attractive candidate for specialized roles in think tanks, international organizations, or academia.
Participate in Seminars, Workshops, and Debates- (Semester 3-4)
Actively attend and present papers at departmental seminars or college-level conferences on political science topics. Engage in debates and model UN simulations to sharpen communication, negotiation, and critical thinking skills. This broadens perspectives beyond the classroom.
Tools & Resources
College notice boards for event announcements, Debate clubs, Model UN societies
Career Connection
Enhances public speaking, presentation skills, and confidence, crucial for roles in diplomacy, advocacy, media, and academia.
Advanced Stage
Prepare Rigorously for Civil Services or Research Entrance Exams- (Semester 4)
Focus on comprehensive revision of all core political science subjects, practice essay writing, and stay updated on current affairs. Join coaching classes or study groups dedicated to competitive exam preparation, utilizing mock tests and previous year''''s papers.
Tools & Resources
UPSC/PSC previous year papers, Online test series, Coaching institutes for civil services, Online GK/Current Affairs platforms
Career Connection
Directly targets high-demand government jobs (IAS, IPS, State PSCs) and entrance to PhD programs, offering stable and impactful career paths.
Build a Professional Network- (Semester 4)
Connect with alumni, professors, and professionals in the political science field through LinkedIn, university events, or conferences. Attend guest lectures and workshops to meet experts and gain insights into career opportunities and industry trends.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Alumni association events, Professional conferences and workshops
Career Connection
Opens doors to mentorship, job referrals, and collaborative projects, significantly aiding in career progression and securing desirable positions.
Refine Dissertation and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant time to crafting a high-quality dissertation, ensuring robust methodology and clear argumentation. Practice presenting your research findings effectively to academic audiences, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and responding to critiques.
Tools & Resources
Academic supervisor guidance, Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint), Departmental seminars for practice
Career Connection
Showcases independent research capability and critical thinking, essential for academic roles, research positions, and high-level policy analysis jobs.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor''''s Degree with Political Science as a subject or any other equivalent degree from a recognized University.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 68 (Inferred based on 16 papers + 1 dissertation, 4 credits each) Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-PS-101 | Modern Western Political Thought | Core | 4 | Liberalism, Marxism, Democracy, Justice, Sovereignty, Rights, State theories |
| MA-PS-102 | Public Administration | Core | 4 | Administrative Theories, Bureaucracy, Personnel Administration, Financial Administration, Good Governance, E-governance |
| MA-PS-103 | Indian Government and Politics | Core | 4 | Constitutional Development, Federalism, Union Executive, Parliament, Judiciary, Party System, Electoral Reforms |
| MA-PS-104 | International Relations | Core | 4 | Theories of IR, Cold War, Non-Alignment, UN, Regional Organizations, International Law, Disarmament |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-PS-201 | Contemporary Political Thought | Core | 4 | Post-modernism, Feminism, Environmentalism, Dalit thought, Globalization, Human Rights |
| MA-PS-202 | Indian Political Thought | Core | 4 | Ancient Indian Political Thought, Medieval Indian Political Thought, Modern Indian Thinkers (Gandhi, Ambedkar, Nehru) |
| MA-PS-203 | Comparative Politics | Core | 4 | Approaches to Comparative Politics, Political Systems (USA, UK, China), Electoral Systems, Political Culture |
| MA-PS-204 | Research Methodology | Core | 4 | Research Design, Data Collection, Sampling, Data Analysis, Report Writing, SPSS |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-PS-301 | Political Sociology | Core | 4 | Political Culture, Political Socialization, Elites, Pressure Groups, Political Participation, Revolutions |
| MA-PS-302 | Human Rights | Elective (Example: Students choose 2 from a list of 4 options) | 4 | Concept of Human Rights, Universal Declaration, International Covenants, Human Rights in India, NHRC |
| MA-PS-303 | Development Administration | Elective (Example: Students choose 2 from a list of 4 options) | 4 | Concept of Development, Theories of Development, Planning, Bureaucracy & Development, Rural Development |
| MA-PS-DIS | Project/Dissertation | Core/Compulsory | 4 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review, Methodology, Data Collection, Analysis, Thesis Writing |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MA-PS-401 | International Law and Organization | Elective (Option: Students choose any two from P401-P404) | 4 | International Legal System, Sources of International Law, Role of ICJ, UN System, International Organizations |
| MA-PS-402 | Foreign Policy of India | Elective (Option: Students choose any two from P401-P404) | 4 | Determinants of India''''s Foreign Policy, Non-Alignment, Relations with Major Powers, South Asia, Economic Diplomacy |
| MA-PS-403 | Local Self-Government in India | Elective (Option: Students choose any two from P401-P404) | 4 | Panchayati Raj Institutions, Urban Local Bodies, Constitutional Amendments, Functions, Finances, Challenges |
| MA-PS-404 | Public Policy and Governance in India | Elective (Option: Students choose any two from P401-P404) | 4 | Policy Formulation, Implementation, Evaluation, Good Governance, E-governance, Right to Information |
